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Outbreak Escape #1
Swarm
John has a dead-end job, doesn't see enough of his friends, and struggles to find meaning in his life. These everyday concerns vanish on the night he’s jerked awake by screams.
Frenzied figures roam the streets. A helpless onlooker, John tells himself that this isn't like the films. This is real life, with real people.
He and his neighbours band together over a small supply of food. Tensions brew, and a difficult choice arises. Risk starvation, or attempt escape? Conflicted over the cause and scope of the apocalypse, the group struggles to work together.
At first John clings to logic. The zombies do not drink or eat. Organic matter cannot sustain itself under these conditions, but things grow more complicated as the behaviour of the infected makes a drastic and inexplicable change.
Frenzied figures roam the streets. A helpless onlooker, John tells himself that this isn't like the films. This is real life, with real people.
He and his neighbours band together over a small supply of food. Tensions brew, and a difficult choice arises. Risk starvation, or attempt escape? Conflicted over the cause and scope of the apocalypse, the group struggles to work together.
At first John clings to logic. The zombies do not drink or eat. Organic matter cannot sustain itself under these conditions, but things grow more complicated as the behaviour of the infected makes a drastic and inexplicable change.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2014
148 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 6, 2015
When the zombie apocalypse breaks out no one knows what is going on. People die because they assume it is an ordinary emergency - a fire in a club, a car accident, etc. Slowly, painfully, when the truth comes into sharp focus, groups of survivors hole up in their apartments and take stock. Swarm is the story of one small band of survivors.
There are many reasons why I shouldn't like this book. The main character, John, is generic and unmemorable. There are absurd parts of the story that make me shake my head. For example, despite the fact that the cell phones, TV, and the internet are down almost immediately, power remains online. Yes, although civilization has collapsed under the weight of the shambling undead, the lights remain on. For what feels like weeks and weeks. Long enough for the group to run out of food and have to find another place to hole up. And, fortunately, as the grocery store they hole up in still has power so there is lots of food there. Yeah. I didn't buy it.
All of that being said, I liked the book. It was fun. Not great fiction, but fun fiction. I enjoyed the book despite its flaws. I like zombie apocalypse books. I especially like the outbreak period; the period when everyone is trying to figure out what is going on and the other survivors are not yet the real enemy. Swarm did a good job there.
A solid three and a half brains rounded down to three because of the completely unbelievable parts.
There are many reasons why I shouldn't like this book. The main character, John, is generic and unmemorable. There are absurd parts of the story that make me shake my head. For example, despite the fact that the cell phones, TV, and the internet are down almost immediately, power remains online. Yes, although civilization has collapsed under the weight of the shambling undead, the lights remain on. For what feels like weeks and weeks. Long enough for the group to run out of food and have to find another place to hole up. And, fortunately, as the grocery store they hole up in still has power so there is lots of food there. Yeah. I didn't buy it.
All of that being said, I liked the book. It was fun. Not great fiction, but fun fiction. I enjoyed the book despite its flaws. I like zombie apocalypse books. I especially like the outbreak period; the period when everyone is trying to figure out what is going on and the other survivors are not yet the real enemy. Swarm did a good job there.
A solid three and a half brains rounded down to three because of the completely unbelievable parts.
July 24, 2016
(Downloaded for free from Amazon.co.uk)
This was an okay zombie story, although I did find it a little gruesome at the start.
John was an okay character, and he seemed to have courage to stand up and do what needed to be done, which was admirable.
The storyline in this was about people suddenly turning into zombies and attacking other people, and John and his friends trying to survive. We got a bit of action, and some difficult decisions to make, but I did find that the story dragged a bit for me.
The ending to this was a cliff-hanger.
6 out of 10
“He had changed. He wasn’t everyday John any longer.”
This was an okay zombie story, although I did find it a little gruesome at the start.
John was an okay character, and he seemed to have courage to stand up and do what needed to be done, which was admirable.
The storyline in this was about people suddenly turning into zombies and attacking other people, and John and his friends trying to survive. We got a bit of action, and some difficult decisions to make, but I did find that the story dragged a bit for me.
The ending to this was a cliff-hanger.
6 out of 10
July 25, 2014
* I receive a copy by author for my honest opinion.*
Though I'm not a huge fan of Zombie Apocalypse books, I was surprised how I became engrossed by this story. I devoured it (no pun intended) in a relatively short time. After reading it, my thought process was piqued. I kept asking myself a lot of questions: Would I be a survivor? Would I look back on my life to find wisdom? Would I do what was necessary to survive? The answer is "Yes".
This story has a lot of slang in it, so don't take it as typo's or grammar mistakes. The pace was evenly matched throughout the scenes, actions, and emotions of this story. Though the story was mainly told through John, I liked how the author gave the other characters depths: emotions, challenges, attitudes, beliefs, comrade in arms towards situations and others. These made the story more believable.
The story itself starts with action, then proceeds to the main plot of surviving with limited resources and know how. I felt the story could use some editing, but not enough to take your focus off the story.
It has great potential to become an amazing series. The author's writing ability is easy to read. My curiosity has me wondering what happened to begin this epidemic. I'll have to read this series to find the answers.
The book cover is child like. I've always felt the book cover needs to be eye catching, as well as, fitting with story.
I would recommend this book to all who love Zombies. Highly entertaining and thought provoking. Happy Reading!!
Though I'm not a huge fan of Zombie Apocalypse books, I was surprised how I became engrossed by this story. I devoured it (no pun intended) in a relatively short time. After reading it, my thought process was piqued. I kept asking myself a lot of questions: Would I be a survivor? Would I look back on my life to find wisdom? Would I do what was necessary to survive? The answer is "Yes".
This story has a lot of slang in it, so don't take it as typo's or grammar mistakes. The pace was evenly matched throughout the scenes, actions, and emotions of this story. Though the story was mainly told through John, I liked how the author gave the other characters depths: emotions, challenges, attitudes, beliefs, comrade in arms towards situations and others. These made the story more believable.
The story itself starts with action, then proceeds to the main plot of surviving with limited resources and know how. I felt the story could use some editing, but not enough to take your focus off the story.
It has great potential to become an amazing series. The author's writing ability is easy to read. My curiosity has me wondering what happened to begin this epidemic. I'll have to read this series to find the answers.
The book cover is child like. I've always felt the book cover needs to be eye catching, as well as, fitting with story.
I would recommend this book to all who love Zombies. Highly entertaining and thought provoking. Happy Reading!!
May 24, 2018
Actual rating - 3.5
April 3, 2016
Review copy kindly provided by author and GR friend Alex South.
This is the second zombie-themed novel I have read this year. It was dissimilar to World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War--and that's quite all right. This book reminded me more of The Day of the Triffids. After a catastrophe survived only by a handful of humans who seem to be the only ones in the area, life as we used to know it is reduced to the essentials, and humans must band together in order to ensure food, shelter and survival in the face of numerous unintelligent but relentless opponents.
The book does have the usual grisly and dystopian elements of zombie tales. But this is more than a mere thriller, despite the title. It is not just flesh-chomping carnage, although there's a fair amount of that in places. This novel explores how humans interact when forced to band together and cooperate. It shows how a group is only as strong as its weakest link. And it contains some very astute reflections on what is truly importanrt in life.
This is the second zombie-themed novel I have read this year. It was dissimilar to World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War--and that's quite all right. This book reminded me more of The Day of the Triffids. After a catastrophe survived only by a handful of humans who seem to be the only ones in the area, life as we used to know it is reduced to the essentials, and humans must band together in order to ensure food, shelter and survival in the face of numerous unintelligent but relentless opponents.
The book does have the usual grisly and dystopian elements of zombie tales. But this is more than a mere thriller, despite the title. It is not just flesh-chomping carnage, although there's a fair amount of that in places. This novel explores how humans interact when forced to band together and cooperate. It shows how a group is only as strong as its weakest link. And it contains some very astute reflections on what is truly importanrt in life.
February 20, 2017
This is a fast paced zombie thriller that starts off on a seemingly calm night out as all hell breaks loose and things rapidly turn from bad to worse as a virus/plague/infection runs rampant through the streets. The main focus of the book is how the survivers manage both with the events themselves and with each other as things don't get better and their hopes for rescue are dashed. All of the characters have a hinted at depth that is drip fed as the story continues giving the reader the feeling of being there with them as they learn about themselves and each other. Some of the characters are a little annoying, Suzy especially (found her immensely annoying I must admit...just wanted to grab her and shake her most of the time), but this would be true of any group of people (I'd be worried if all of the characters were likeable in all honesty). The worst bit of this entire book is the huge cliffhanger it gets left on (rather mean if you ask me Alex!!) but this just makes me want to grab hold of the next one all the more.
April 25, 2016
A fast paced read that plunged straight into the action.
The writing style certainly suited the genre, which delved a little deeper than a straightforward zombie novel, in that it demonstrated the thoughts and feelings of the main character, John, and issues dealing with the consequences of choices, for example.
It felt like it was aimed at a teenage audience but it did keep up (for the most part) the suspense quite well, even if it did wander sometimes.
Overall, a reasonable plot and good for its type.
The writing style certainly suited the genre, which delved a little deeper than a straightforward zombie novel, in that it demonstrated the thoughts and feelings of the main character, John, and issues dealing with the consequences of choices, for example.
It felt like it was aimed at a teenage audience but it did keep up (for the most part) the suspense quite well, even if it did wander sometimes.
Overall, a reasonable plot and good for its type.
May 15, 2015
Cliffhanger
If you're looking for an action packed book, this will not be the book for you. This book is about John and how he is handling the zombie apocalypse. He teams up with other survivors to find a safe place to stay. John is an angst ridden, depressed person, and his long mental rants get tiring very quickly. I will read the next book so I can find out if they find safety.
If you're looking for an action packed book, this will not be the book for you. This book is about John and how he is handling the zombie apocalypse. He teams up with other survivors to find a safe place to stay. John is an angst ridden, depressed person, and his long mental rants get tiring very quickly. I will read the next book so I can find out if they find safety.
May 30, 2015
Unbelievably bad. Poorly written, poor characterisation, and virtually no plot at all. I've tried to think of something positive to say, but there's just nothing.
May 14, 2017
It was an okay book. I wouldn't describe it as gruesome, as another reviewer has put. I thought it was quite tame really, not as gruesome as some other books I've read in this genre. The pace was pretty good in the beginning, then slowed down a bit when the characters got to the supermarket. I will probably try the next book in the series and hope it picks up a bit, in terms of excitement and action.
March 30, 2018
Quick read
I chose a three rating as I thought this book had potential.its the genre I enjoy but I found the writing as little childish and the plot as bit jumpy. Love the idea of a child hive brain with the zombies but I was disappointed as it was obviously written to be a series. Its does lead you into the characters well and you do really need to read the next book to gain any conclusion.sadly for me I wasn't that into the characters to warrent getting the next book.
I chose a three rating as I thought this book had potential.its the genre I enjoy but I found the writing as little childish and the plot as bit jumpy. Love the idea of a child hive brain with the zombies but I was disappointed as it was obviously written to be a series. Its does lead you into the characters well and you do really need to read the next book to gain any conclusion.sadly for me I wasn't that into the characters to warrent getting the next book.
September 9, 2020
This was a quick read. The story flowed like a film in a way; unfolding in one long narrative. I found the book interesting and the way it is written drags you along making it easy to read. The short chapters helps the story along and makes the reader move to the rhythm of the narrative. Recommended.
June 11, 2017
Amazing 😵😱😲😀😁😂😊☺
It had a great storyline and I liked how the book gave a short point of veiw from a zombie. I am a kid and I even liked this book. Five stars easily. Lots of funny parts too.
It had a great storyline and I liked how the book gave a short point of veiw from a zombie. I am a kid and I even liked this book. Five stars easily. Lots of funny parts too.
January 10, 2019
Different!
Does Swarm have a different kind of zombie story? Yes, it does. Does it have a different kind of energy? Yes, it does? Will l be looking forward to the next book? Yes, I will.
Does Swarm have a different kind of zombie story? Yes, it does. Does it have a different kind of energy? Yes, it does? Will l be looking forward to the next book? Yes, I will.
September 12, 2018
it was OK butDi did enjoy the book
January 8, 2022
Good but nothing new. Still an exciting story. Must read for a zombie lover.
July 29, 2014
*Note: This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review*
I am usually up for a well-written zombie apocalypse novel and Swarm did not disappoint. Some people don't read books about zombies simply because they believe the entire category to be overdone, but I do not believe that is the case. In fact, the well-covered topic forces authors to do something original with the general premise. Zombie novels are great because they are all so different and unique. Alex South created his own niche in the zombie world.
The cover:
There really isn't much to say about the cover. It looks like zombies, which is exactly what it is. The only comment I feel needs to be said is that Swarm isn't a comic book/ graphic novel. It's a legit book. For some reason, this cover makes it seem otherwise to me.
My review:
In one word, I would describe this book as contemplative. It focused less on the zombies and more of John's thoughts about the entire situation. The entire book took on a bit of a philosophical tone, but it did not overwhelm the plot line of the story at all. Alex South struck the perfect balance between being thoughtful and being exciting.
My thoughts on the characters, however, were conflicting. On one hand, I loved their relationships to each other. Laura and John were in love and understood that their love was more of a reaction to their situation than a result of true compatibility I thought that realization in particular was so rare to have in a novel. Also, Mary and Tyler had a very realistic relationship to each other, and both of their characters offset the other to make them more complex and interesting, as a result. However, I did have an issue. I was a bit unsatisfied by how much we knew about any of the characters. Their backstories rather didn't exist or only appeared when convenient to the plot. Even John, the main character, had an underdeveloped backstory. It's understandable why that happened. I can see that, perhaps, the point was that the zombie epidemic created a rift between the characters' past lives and current lives. A life with zombies and one without. But it caused me to have trouble imagining the characters throughout the first half of the book. Eventually, all of their personalities became distinct and it wasn't an issue anymore, but I still wished I knew a little bit more about them.
All of that said, Alex South did a great job of distinguishing the characters' patterns of speech. They didn't all sound the same. They had different quirks on how they spoke, which added to the book.
I would recommend Swarm if you typically like zombie apocalypse books. If you can't stand them, Swarm is probably not the book for you. If you can, it is a entertaining, speculative read that you will most likely enjoy.
Overall, I would give Swarm by Alex South a 4/5 rating.
*Note: This was the first book in a series.*
I am usually up for a well-written zombie apocalypse novel and Swarm did not disappoint. Some people don't read books about zombies simply because they believe the entire category to be overdone, but I do not believe that is the case. In fact, the well-covered topic forces authors to do something original with the general premise. Zombie novels are great because they are all so different and unique. Alex South created his own niche in the zombie world.
The cover:
There really isn't much to say about the cover. It looks like zombies, which is exactly what it is. The only comment I feel needs to be said is that Swarm isn't a comic book/ graphic novel. It's a legit book. For some reason, this cover makes it seem otherwise to me.
My review:
In one word, I would describe this book as contemplative. It focused less on the zombies and more of John's thoughts about the entire situation. The entire book took on a bit of a philosophical tone, but it did not overwhelm the plot line of the story at all. Alex South struck the perfect balance between being thoughtful and being exciting.
My thoughts on the characters, however, were conflicting. On one hand, I loved their relationships to each other. Laura and John were in love and understood that their love was more of a reaction to their situation than a result of true compatibility I thought that realization in particular was so rare to have in a novel. Also, Mary and Tyler had a very realistic relationship to each other, and both of their characters offset the other to make them more complex and interesting, as a result. However, I did have an issue. I was a bit unsatisfied by how much we knew about any of the characters. Their backstories rather didn't exist or only appeared when convenient to the plot. Even John, the main character, had an underdeveloped backstory. It's understandable why that happened. I can see that, perhaps, the point was that the zombie epidemic created a rift between the characters' past lives and current lives. A life with zombies and one without. But it caused me to have trouble imagining the characters throughout the first half of the book. Eventually, all of their personalities became distinct and it wasn't an issue anymore, but I still wished I knew a little bit more about them.
All of that said, Alex South did a great job of distinguishing the characters' patterns of speech. They didn't all sound the same. They had different quirks on how they spoke, which added to the book.
I would recommend Swarm if you typically like zombie apocalypse books. If you can't stand them, Swarm is probably not the book for you. If you can, it is a entertaining, speculative read that you will most likely enjoy.
Overall, I would give Swarm by Alex South a 4/5 rating.
*Note: This was the first book in a series.*
August 3, 2014
I received a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
Swarm was a unique journey into a zombie apocalypse and separates itself from other zombie stores by going witnessing characters who strive to retain their humanity in a world shrouded in darkness and uncertainty.
I am a fan of cataclysmic events, usually I like reading about ones that are more plausible but since the Walking Dead has come out, it has pulled me into this genre. Alex South's book, The Swarm does a fantastic job of delivering a story not only speaks to zombie lovers but also to evaluating the human condition. When people go about every day of their lives with certainty that every day when they get up out of bed, they will be surrounded by loved ones, have access to put hot food in their belly or have the freedom to go outside to enjoy a sunrise. In an instant can have their lives turned upside down in an event such as this. As a reader, a book like this not only helps cope to mentally prepare for uncertainty, it helps put one's life into perspective in what is really important.
Throughout this book, we see traces of character reflection which may not just make the reader think, but also identify with the characters. This drew me into the story and I continued to read it until the end. In this regard, the best part of this was not until the very end, I would hope we see more of that in future installments.
Throughout most of the book, it was the frenzy of survival. Characters, who face uncertainty from the leader of the group down to the most timid give into some of their most primitive instincts and must rely on them for survival.
I must also state, that this book is set in England, so some of the language may get a bit confusing to American readers. Not to worry, there is enough explanation in the book to make it pretty clear what is being referred to. Some of the other reviewers pointed out jargon, I did not pick upon that too much just more of making some dialect translations to understand that a "flat" is an apartment.
As the saying goes, you cannot judge a book by its cover, and that is very true. The cover does seem a bit superhero, comicbookish or perhaps a bit young-adultish, this book is not that. This book has a more serious tone and begins to start probing into the real life thoughts of a survivor.
All in all, I give this book a 4 out 5 stars. I applaud South's efforts in spinning this tale and continuing to push forward in expanding this tale into future installments.
Swarm was a unique journey into a zombie apocalypse and separates itself from other zombie stores by going witnessing characters who strive to retain their humanity in a world shrouded in darkness and uncertainty.
I am a fan of cataclysmic events, usually I like reading about ones that are more plausible but since the Walking Dead has come out, it has pulled me into this genre. Alex South's book, The Swarm does a fantastic job of delivering a story not only speaks to zombie lovers but also to evaluating the human condition. When people go about every day of their lives with certainty that every day when they get up out of bed, they will be surrounded by loved ones, have access to put hot food in their belly or have the freedom to go outside to enjoy a sunrise. In an instant can have their lives turned upside down in an event such as this. As a reader, a book like this not only helps cope to mentally prepare for uncertainty, it helps put one's life into perspective in what is really important.
Throughout this book, we see traces of character reflection which may not just make the reader think, but also identify with the characters. This drew me into the story and I continued to read it until the end. In this regard, the best part of this was not until the very end, I would hope we see more of that in future installments.
Throughout most of the book, it was the frenzy of survival. Characters, who face uncertainty from the leader of the group down to the most timid give into some of their most primitive instincts and must rely on them for survival.
I must also state, that this book is set in England, so some of the language may get a bit confusing to American readers. Not to worry, there is enough explanation in the book to make it pretty clear what is being referred to. Some of the other reviewers pointed out jargon, I did not pick upon that too much just more of making some dialect translations to understand that a "flat" is an apartment.
As the saying goes, you cannot judge a book by its cover, and that is very true. The cover does seem a bit superhero, comicbookish or perhaps a bit young-adultish, this book is not that. This book has a more serious tone and begins to start probing into the real life thoughts of a survivor.
All in all, I give this book a 4 out 5 stars. I applaud South's efforts in spinning this tale and continuing to push forward in expanding this tale into future installments.
September 8, 2015
Needs work
This could have been a fresh new perspective on the Zombie Apocalypse, but the lack of editing and re-reading by the author adds it to the slush pile.
It starts out with an excellent, exciting scene in a night bar as the infected appear. Pandemonium breaks out and many of the crowd are bitten or crushed to death. That’s the way to get a reader’s attention.
The second chapter laid out an excellent scene as the occupants of the apartment complex barricade themselves in. As the chapter progress we meet the main players, Josh, Duke, Dan, Mary, Laura, Suzy and Dreadlock. The story is being told by Josh who at first comes across as a boy of great confusion, but realizes life as he knew it was changing at a rapid pace. Instead of his character blossoming, as the story continues, it gets too bogged down with his perspective on the world and how it will never be the same again.
Being this is an apocalyptic tale, tell me something we don’t know.
The following chapters become long and laborious. Way too much telling and not enough showing.
Editing. It needs a thorough fleshing. I lost count how many sentences started with “now” or “suddenly.” A good editor would burn up a box of red ink striking them. There are a host of punctuation errors and sentences ending with prepositions or after thoughts. Again, a good editor would thresh them out.
I was truly baffled with the chapter, close to the end, that only dealt with everyone’s sexual preference. It added nothing to the story. Pure filler
Several chapters towards the end, 18 and 23 were nothing more than extraneous filler. They did nothing to advance the story. Very sad since Chapter 23 is the final one. Instead of it being a gang-buster, it falls into mediocrity as the Zombies break into their sanctuary of the grocery store. Way too much time is spent on John’s internal thoughts and loss of hope.
One last glaring item is how the power and water were still working. If the majority of the people have turned, who’s keeping the lights on and the taps working? Perhaps it’s discussed in book two.
Guess I’ll never know the answer since I’m not involved enough to get the second one.
One of the strong suits of the story is the action scenes. They are vivid, heart pounding and exciting! If the formula for those chapters could be incorporated into the rest of the work, it would be a gang buster!
As it is, three stars.
This could have been a fresh new perspective on the Zombie Apocalypse, but the lack of editing and re-reading by the author adds it to the slush pile.
It starts out with an excellent, exciting scene in a night bar as the infected appear. Pandemonium breaks out and many of the crowd are bitten or crushed to death. That’s the way to get a reader’s attention.
The second chapter laid out an excellent scene as the occupants of the apartment complex barricade themselves in. As the chapter progress we meet the main players, Josh, Duke, Dan, Mary, Laura, Suzy and Dreadlock. The story is being told by Josh who at first comes across as a boy of great confusion, but realizes life as he knew it was changing at a rapid pace. Instead of his character blossoming, as the story continues, it gets too bogged down with his perspective on the world and how it will never be the same again.
Being this is an apocalyptic tale, tell me something we don’t know.
The following chapters become long and laborious. Way too much telling and not enough showing.
Editing. It needs a thorough fleshing. I lost count how many sentences started with “now” or “suddenly.” A good editor would burn up a box of red ink striking them. There are a host of punctuation errors and sentences ending with prepositions or after thoughts. Again, a good editor would thresh them out.
I was truly baffled with the chapter, close to the end, that only dealt with everyone’s sexual preference. It added nothing to the story. Pure filler
Several chapters towards the end, 18 and 23 were nothing more than extraneous filler. They did nothing to advance the story. Very sad since Chapter 23 is the final one. Instead of it being a gang-buster, it falls into mediocrity as the Zombies break into their sanctuary of the grocery store. Way too much time is spent on John’s internal thoughts and loss of hope.
One last glaring item is how the power and water were still working. If the majority of the people have turned, who’s keeping the lights on and the taps working? Perhaps it’s discussed in book two.
Guess I’ll never know the answer since I’m not involved enough to get the second one.
One of the strong suits of the story is the action scenes. They are vivid, heart pounding and exciting! If the formula for those chapters could be incorporated into the rest of the work, it would be a gang buster!
As it is, three stars.
October 15, 2014
Swarm tells us the story of John, a regular guy who wakes up to screams and life as he knew it has ended. Zombies are closing in and he, along with the other survivers he comes across, will have to struggle to stay alive.
Positives:
- Large variety of characters, each with their own idiosyncrasies.
- John's thoughts are very believable. I can see myself thinking a lot of the same things he did. He and the others are just regular people, with plenty of flaws, and are not always the best human beings, especially when they feel their survival is at stake.
- The dialogues were very coloquial, the lack of proper grammar made the whole thing feel more real.
- Some scenes were truly enthralling; the suspense was gripping and the terror almost palpable.
- Very few typos.
Negatives:
- Even though it served to increase the feeling of hopelessness and despair, I thought the book was quite slow at times.
- I found the ending thoroughly disappointing. There is clearly going to be a sequel, but after such a build up I had expected something... more.
- The cover was just silly and I actually considered not reading the book because of it.
Conclusion:
I found it interesting that the author did not portray the main character as the leader of the group. I appreciated the care in depicting each character.
Despite all the positives, the opening lines about Phil were so good that the rest of the book almost did not live up to it. I would have liked to read more of how the zombies felt, now that would have been truly innovative. Maybe in the sequel.
In the end, it's a zombie book. Despite the ending, since the book felt so real and so brit (which was very refreshing), I will give it 4 stars.
Disclaimer: I have received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Positives:
- Large variety of characters, each with their own idiosyncrasies.
- John's thoughts are very believable. I can see myself thinking a lot of the same things he did. He and the others are just regular people, with plenty of flaws, and are not always the best human beings, especially when they feel their survival is at stake.
- The dialogues were very coloquial, the lack of proper grammar made the whole thing feel more real.
- Some scenes were truly enthralling; the suspense was gripping and the terror almost palpable.
- Very few typos.
Negatives:
- Even though it served to increase the feeling of hopelessness and despair, I thought the book was quite slow at times.
- I found the ending thoroughly disappointing. There is clearly going to be a sequel, but after such a build up I had expected something... more.
- The cover was just silly and I actually considered not reading the book because of it.
Conclusion:
I found it interesting that the author did not portray the main character as the leader of the group. I appreciated the care in depicting each character.
Despite all the positives, the opening lines about Phil were so good that the rest of the book almost did not live up to it. I would have liked to read more of how the zombies felt, now that would have been truly innovative. Maybe in the sequel.
In the end, it's a zombie book. Despite the ending, since the book felt so real and so brit (which was very refreshing), I will give it 4 stars.
Disclaimer: I have received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 13, 2014
I am a huge zombie fan and this was a good zombie apocalypse book. I enjoyed the beginning and how essentially three strangers became trapped with each other and once they realized their resources were depleting, decided they had to move on.
In most zombie novels, it involves a group of people moving from one location to another trying to find more supplies and safety. This novel did not disappoint. This is the fast paced action that gets your blood pumping as the fight scenes unfold before you and you never know who will die and who will make it to the next checkpoint alive.
A couple of unique things about this book in particular is after John and his trio meet up with another gang of people, they do not take in any other survivors, although they discuss it on a few occasions. Second, is the in-depth thoughts of John. I really liked this as it portrayed many of the things some of us would probably be thinking about at certain moments. Such as, 'I wonder what the zombies feel or think' etc.
The characters were enjoyable and well defined. I loved the uniqueness of the group that was banded together at the end of the world. Yes, this story is not based in the US and there is some different terminology, but that just adds all the more uniqueness and intrigue to the story line.
This book kept me turning the page, it was fast paced and did not disappoint! Can't wait to see what happens in the second one!
In most zombie novels, it involves a group of people moving from one location to another trying to find more supplies and safety. This novel did not disappoint. This is the fast paced action that gets your blood pumping as the fight scenes unfold before you and you never know who will die and who will make it to the next checkpoint alive.
A couple of unique things about this book in particular is after John and his trio meet up with another gang of people, they do not take in any other survivors, although they discuss it on a few occasions. Second, is the in-depth thoughts of John. I really liked this as it portrayed many of the things some of us would probably be thinking about at certain moments. Such as, 'I wonder what the zombies feel or think' etc.
The characters were enjoyable and well defined. I loved the uniqueness of the group that was banded together at the end of the world. Yes, this story is not based in the US and there is some different terminology, but that just adds all the more uniqueness and intrigue to the story line.
This book kept me turning the page, it was fast paced and did not disappoint! Can't wait to see what happens in the second one!
May 10, 2016
It all started in a nightclub bathroom...
One man went down, then two, then an entire club, soon the city, and beyond that...
John wakes up to a commotion, and witnesses a woman being bitten - no, ripped to shreds - out on the street below, by another man. When he calls 999 (911 in America, if you're not aware) he gets nothing but a busy tone. Odd.
That's when it hits. Zombies! Together with an eclectic group of neighbors, John realizes that humanity's worst fears have come true, and that the London he knew is no more. Can a ragtag group of survivors with little-to-no experience survive the disaster that looms just outside the supermarket windows?
All I have to say is: Holy mother of...!!!
This book started out immediately with a bang, and kept me going right up until its abrupt ending! I really connected with, and felt for each of the characters, and I was sad to see the fates that some of them ended in!
I received a free copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review, and I have to say, I think I got the better end of the bargain here! I love nothing better than a good zombie story, and I am truly looking forward to "sinking my teeth into" book 2 as soon as I get the chance!
One man went down, then two, then an entire club, soon the city, and beyond that...
John wakes up to a commotion, and witnesses a woman being bitten - no, ripped to shreds - out on the street below, by another man. When he calls 999 (911 in America, if you're not aware) he gets nothing but a busy tone. Odd.
That's when it hits. Zombies! Together with an eclectic group of neighbors, John realizes that humanity's worst fears have come true, and that the London he knew is no more. Can a ragtag group of survivors with little-to-no experience survive the disaster that looms just outside the supermarket windows?
All I have to say is: Holy mother of...!!!
This book started out immediately with a bang, and kept me going right up until its abrupt ending! I really connected with, and felt for each of the characters, and I was sad to see the fates that some of them ended in!
I received a free copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review, and I have to say, I think I got the better end of the bargain here! I love nothing better than a good zombie story, and I am truly looking forward to "sinking my teeth into" book 2 as soon as I get the chance!
December 10, 2015
Alex South's zombie novel, Swarm, is a fun read for fans of the zombie genre. Although it may have some predictable moments, Swarm is still a thrilling read and filled with the desired zombie gore and adventure. South does not waste anytime getting to the action. From the very first page, South drags the reader into an apocalyptic and terrifying reality that life as we once knew it, is now over.
The characters are developed fairly well, but in some cases could use a bit more background information. The story is typical of zombie novels, but if that is all you are looking for, this book will fulfill your needs. The protagonists face all the dangers of a zombie apocalypse such as, starvation, flesh eating hordes of fast moving zombies, and fellow survivors showcasing desperation. What else could you want??
Swarm is a great read for all zombie fans and I look forward to continuing this series and seeing how the characters transform and overcome the daunting and terrifying obstacles of a world now overwhelmed with zombies.
http://novelideareviews.blogspot.com/...
The characters are developed fairly well, but in some cases could use a bit more background information. The story is typical of zombie novels, but if that is all you are looking for, this book will fulfill your needs. The protagonists face all the dangers of a zombie apocalypse such as, starvation, flesh eating hordes of fast moving zombies, and fellow survivors showcasing desperation. What else could you want??
Swarm is a great read for all zombie fans and I look forward to continuing this series and seeing how the characters transform and overcome the daunting and terrifying obstacles of a world now overwhelmed with zombies.
http://novelideareviews.blogspot.com/...
June 20, 2015
The ultimate nightmare, the end of the world via zombie. To make matters worse, not that it gets much worse than being eaten by zombies, it all happens within a matter of days.
Paranoia is rampant among the survivors. Is there any way to know whether someone has been nibbled, bitten or infected?
Aside from full body inspections there is no way to be certain, which means the small groups of survivors have to trust their instincts when it comes to other survivors.
There needs to be more character and plot development if South intends to create more a fast paced and tastier morsel of literary flesh. The main character needs to stand out more from the others, especially because at the moment the healthy non-bitten characters are overshadowed by the flesh eating ones.
Perhaps filling in some of the blank holes would be a good idea. Where did it start, how did it start, who was the unfortunate patient zero? Is there a way to stop the zombie apocalypse?
Obviously or hopefully some of those questions will be answered in the next book in the series.
Paranoia is rampant among the survivors. Is there any way to know whether someone has been nibbled, bitten or infected?
Aside from full body inspections there is no way to be certain, which means the small groups of survivors have to trust their instincts when it comes to other survivors.
There needs to be more character and plot development if South intends to create more a fast paced and tastier morsel of literary flesh. The main character needs to stand out more from the others, especially because at the moment the healthy non-bitten characters are overshadowed by the flesh eating ones.
Perhaps filling in some of the blank holes would be a good idea. Where did it start, how did it start, who was the unfortunate patient zero? Is there a way to stop the zombie apocalypse?
Obviously or hopefully some of those questions will be answered in the next book in the series.
April 24, 2016
I’m a sucker for all things Zombie. I saw this book for FREE on Amazon Kindle, and just had to download it. Is it like every other Zombie book? Yes and no. Yes- as far as there are zombies, survivors, and the unknown. No- as far as the book isn’t action packed per se. The narrative focusses on John’s personal journey in dealing with an apocalyptic situation, and not the zombie outbreak itself.
I’m a scaredy cat, but I was never scared. Was I supposed to be? Maybe? Did I want to be? Yes! I read zombie books for the horror, however I did like that this book added a different level to the situation, and a more indepth look at survival thought processes. A little more character development wouldn’t go a miss, but I liked John; average joe, getting on with life, and then one day- BAM… zombie apocalypse. He is relatable to the masses.
I always take zombie novels with a pinch of salt, or tongue in cheek. I don’t read them to be awed, I read them for light-hearted, gruesome fun. This book offered that, and I was pleasantly surprised with the narrative.
I’m a scaredy cat, but I was never scared. Was I supposed to be? Maybe? Did I want to be? Yes! I read zombie books for the horror, however I did like that this book added a different level to the situation, and a more indepth look at survival thought processes. A little more character development wouldn’t go a miss, but I liked John; average joe, getting on with life, and then one day- BAM… zombie apocalypse. He is relatable to the masses.
I always take zombie novels with a pinch of salt, or tongue in cheek. I don’t read them to be awed, I read them for light-hearted, gruesome fun. This book offered that, and I was pleasantly surprised with the narrative.
August 2, 2014
I was given the opportunity to read "Swarm" by Alex South, in exchange for an honest review.
The opening of the story? Nicely done, gives the reader the hook needs to move forward with a zombie book. So very refreshing to show how he outbreak started, and give examples of people turning into zombies state of mind. Thank you Alex.
Making my way through the story, I couldn't help casting the characters into the actors on The Walking Dead (sorry, I am a fan). This book is definitely comparable to an episode, it is that well written. Which is my point, written well in a zombie filled market.
I loved the fact that despite the obstacles in a zombie apocalypse, people in this story, retained the humanity of working together as a family, transcending any and all racism out there.
Thank you Alex, for allowing me the chance to read your work.
May 14, 2015
Grabs you from the start.
The opening to Swarm by Alex South reminds me of Don of the Living Dead by Robert DeCoteau. Where do you think you will be on Z-Day? I sure hope I am not on the toilet. Anyway, the toilet is the only similarity between the books, not the person on the toilet or the location of the bathroom. To understand what I am talking about, you will have to read the book. But do not worry, this book will not disappoint you, Zombie fans. I feel the characters were realistically portrayed, which was refreshing. How many people’s first reaction is going to be to pick up a weapon and start fighting zombies? Not me, I would be staring at them like an idiot, trying to figure out what I was looking at. Anyway, if you are looking for an entertaining, page turning read, then Swarm is the book for you.
The opening to Swarm by Alex South reminds me of Don of the Living Dead by Robert DeCoteau. Where do you think you will be on Z-Day? I sure hope I am not on the toilet. Anyway, the toilet is the only similarity between the books, not the person on the toilet or the location of the bathroom. To understand what I am talking about, you will have to read the book. But do not worry, this book will not disappoint you, Zombie fans. I feel the characters were realistically portrayed, which was refreshing. How many people’s first reaction is going to be to pick up a weapon and start fighting zombies? Not me, I would be staring at them like an idiot, trying to figure out what I was looking at. Anyway, if you are looking for an entertaining, page turning read, then Swarm is the book for you.
January 18, 2016
An Exciting read, some areas of the book are a bit roughly written.
Overall the book was a very exciting read, it was good to see the first person perspective used in the zombie horror genre. 4 out of 5 as was a good read, but a bit roughly written in areas; such as an odd word missing. The odd rough area can be overlooked once you are engrossed in the story.
Nicely paced book which gathers momentum as you read. The characters were likeable and was refreshing to have a flawed main protagonist, someone who you wouldn't assume the hero type. Would have liked to have seen a bit more development in the characters but all together for a relatively short story the development was suitable enough to connect with the characters.
Recommended for fans of Zombie horror and look forward to reading this books sequel.
Overall the book was a very exciting read, it was good to see the first person perspective used in the zombie horror genre. 4 out of 5 as was a good read, but a bit roughly written in areas; such as an odd word missing. The odd rough area can be overlooked once you are engrossed in the story.
Nicely paced book which gathers momentum as you read. The characters were likeable and was refreshing to have a flawed main protagonist, someone who you wouldn't assume the hero type. Would have liked to have seen a bit more development in the characters but all together for a relatively short story the development was suitable enough to connect with the characters.
Recommended for fans of Zombie horror and look forward to reading this books sequel.
April 16, 2016
John lives a boring life which changes in an instant when zombies take over. Stuck with two of his neighbours, John tries to deal with depressing thoughts as they figure out their next move. They eventually meet up with more survivors and come up with a plan to find a safe haven, but will they make it?
John seems like a good character, nothing very remarkable about him, but he holds his own against the zombies. I think Dreadlocks was the most intriguing character, purely for his attitude towards what was happening. I think it could have been improved slightly with a little more gore and descriptions of the zombies. Since this is the first book in a series, I don't know how the rest will play out. An entertaining read, although nothing really new to the genre. I would recommend it to zombie fans.
John seems like a good character, nothing very remarkable about him, but he holds his own against the zombies. I think Dreadlocks was the most intriguing character, purely for his attitude towards what was happening. I think it could have been improved slightly with a little more gore and descriptions of the zombies. Since this is the first book in a series, I don't know how the rest will play out. An entertaining read, although nothing really new to the genre. I would recommend it to zombie fans.
May 3, 2016
This is a fairly typical zombie apocalypse in some ways. A small group of people are woken in the early hours of the morning to see people attacking each other in the street. They barricade their building against the horde of bloodthirsty zombies (infected people?) outside and settle down to wait for help. Of course, it doesn't come. They then have to decide whether to wait it out or seek a better shelter or other survivors.
This sort of thing has been seen before, but the book is well written, unlike a lot of zombie fiction out there. I liked the style of writing and there was some thought given to the descriptions and motivations of the characters. More importantly, it was fun to read and I wanted to see what happened next.
This is the first book in a series so the end of the book was clearly not the end of the story. I will definitely read the next book.
This sort of thing has been seen before, but the book is well written, unlike a lot of zombie fiction out there. I liked the style of writing and there was some thought given to the descriptions and motivations of the characters. More importantly, it was fun to read and I wanted to see what happened next.
This is the first book in a series so the end of the book was clearly not the end of the story. I will definitely read the next book.
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