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The Duality Paradox

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In a world devastated by a virus that transforms people into monstrous creatures, Gallagher, an ex-military recluse, lives alone in a remote cabin. But when he stumbles upon Claire, a fierce and determined senator’s daughter running for her life, his solitary existence is shattered.

With danger closing in from all sides, Gallagher and Claire are forced to rely on each other. But survival isn’t just about facing the infected or other survivors; it’s about confronting the darkness within themselves. To make it through, they’ll need to master the duality of their natures, balancing cold survival instincts with the remnants of their humanity.

Among the ruins where trust can be fatal and love feels like a distant memory, Gallagher and Claire must form a bond strong enough to withstand the horrors outside and the shadows creeping in. As their connection deepens, so does their will to fight for something hope and a future that seems almost impossible to reach.

350 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 11, 2025

4 people are currently reading
45 people want to read

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C.A. Boldrini

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for jadynfrahm.
118 reviews6 followers
March 4, 2025
I had the honor reading this ARC book and wow the ending had me so surprised! This whole book had me wondering what was going to happen next. From the beginning to the end I was hooked. It had just the right amount of action happening at all the right moments and it wasn't over done. I really enjoyed the way the authors explained the setting and world in the whole book. I was able to picture it easily and feel like I was walking through the woods or in the cabin or on the farm. Same goes for the emotions of Claire, Gallagher and Joseph, they were so real and exactly how I would feel if I was in these situations. I am excited to see what will come next because that cliffhanger made me want more and pick up the next one right away!! I encourage everyone to read this!
Profile Image for Erica Bumgardner.
262 reviews20 followers
February 15, 2025
The Duality Paradox is a gripping post-apocalyptic story of what happens when humans are faced with surviving in a terrifying new world where danger lurks around every corner and humanity is hanging on by a thread.

At the heart of this world is Gallagher. I absolutely love Gallagher (I adore a good grumpy/broody man). He has his quiet, reclusive life upended when a dog and a girl unexpectedly enter it. The growing connection between Gallagher and Claire was beautifully written. I was so invested to see if they were able to learn to trust and love in a world where survival is everyone's top priority. Their bond is tested through a rollercoaster of events that makes things even more intense as we see just how much they can rely on one another in such an unstable world.

The side characters were fantastic additions to the story with each demonstrating how differently people responded to the world coming to end as they knew it. The range of personalities was amazing. Some you're rooting for and some you'll hate to love or love to hate, but they all play an integral role in bringing the story to life.

The world-building was incredible and I loved that we only knew as much as the characters did about what was happening in the world around them. This gave me a feeling of unease as I read. The atmosphere was eerie and surreal with the perfect blend of suspense and tension, especially when we experience the world outside the safety of Gallagher's cabin. I was always waiting for the other shoe to drop and it really had me wondering how I'd react to being thrust into their situations.

I highly recommend this compelling story about the strength of human connection and survival. I'm so ready for the next book!
Profile Image for Lynn Taylor.
Author 8 books12 followers
March 10, 2025
Not-your-average zombie apocalypse book. In fact, they're not technically zombies in the visual sense. Yes, they're lost souls who have transformed into a more monstrous side but their looks are more compared to aliens or monsters. Once infected, their bodies change into translucent skinned beasts with razor sharp claws and black pits for eyes.

The main male character finds the main female character and reluctantly takes her into his solitary home. You then are introduced to a third character who plays a bigger role throughout. Once you've learned some more backstroy of those three characters you then get to meet the villain of the story who is essentially thriving in this apocalyptic world.

Between the twists and turns is revenge, sabatoge, psychological struggles, and much more between these characters. All this is happening while they still face the danger of the monsters who would prefer to have them as dinner.
2 reviews
February 15, 2025
How amazing!!! I Beta read this book.
The storyline was great! I love a good post apocalyptic story.
When introduced to the characters you can actually visualize and hear them. The way the characters develop in the story shows great strength in the writing of style of both authors. There's not so much description that you lose interest. Some characters you aren't sure how to feel about them and that helps keep you from being able to predict the next move or how the story will end. There is so much action you won't get bored in fact I had trouble putting it down. All in all I recommend anyone that enjoys a good fantasy post apocalyptic book to read!
Profile Image for K.M. Gordon.
Author 3 books64 followers
February 25, 2025
⭐️ARC Review⭐️

I'd forgotten how much I love post-apocalyptic books until I read The Duality Paradox. The story was intriguing, the characters interesting and the tense scenes had me on the edge of my seat. I especially loved how the authors dove into the warring emotions of living in a post-apocalyptic world, good vs evil, helping others vs saving yourself at all cost. That was may favorite thing about this book.

And that cliffhanger... I'm excited to get to read what happens next!
Profile Image for Maddy.
66 reviews1 follower
March 1, 2025
Such a gripping book! I was stressed the whole time but in a good way🤣 I loved the dynamic between Claire and Gallagher, but the epilogue had me wanting to pull out my hair😩 I need book 2 ASAP. Such an intriguing and interesting read
Profile Image for Renee M DiGiulio.
Author 2 books5 followers
February 15, 2025
I beta read for this book and LOVED it. Such a great idea! I’m a huge fan of dystopian and apocalyptic books, this was up there with some of my favorites! I can’t wait for the second!
Profile Image for Panda .
27 reviews
February 19, 2025
ARC Review: The Duality Paradox by L.A. Boldrini & C.A. Boldrini

I received an ARC of The Duality Paradox from L.A. Boldrini & C.A. Boldrini via BookFunnel in exchange for an honest review.

This book offers a gritty, post-apocalyptic world filled with eerie monsters and intense survival moments. The creature designs were reminiscent of the classic alien films, which added to the tension and atmosphere. However, the writing style felt somewhat stilted, often reading as a list of actions rather than flowing prose. There were also moments where events were unnecessarily repeated, which slowed the pacing.

While the romance subplot was present, it lacked depth—I felt more of an emotional connection between Gallagher and the dog than between him and Claire. Additionally, the introduction of new characters sometimes felt abrupt rather than organic.

Trigger warning: There is a rape scene in the book that felt entirely unnecessary to the story.

Overall, the worldbuilding and monster designs were intriguing, but the execution left me wanting more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for KASSY.
53 reviews
March 2, 2025
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where monstrous creatures roam the earth and acid rain falls from the sky, this book depicts a desperate struggle for survival. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read this ARC. Unfortunately, I found myself unable to connect with the characters and felt the story lacked the depth I was hoping for.
Profile Image for Jessica Johnson.
104 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2025
A gripping post-apocalyptic thriller, The Duality Paradox masterfully blends action, survival, and deep psychological tension. Gallagher and Claire’s dynamic is compelling, their struggle for survival mirroring the internal battle between brutality and humanity. The world-building is immersive, painting a bleak yet hopeful landscape. While some moments lean heavily into introspection, slowing the pacing at times, the emotional depth and high-stakes tension keep the story engaging. A must-read for fans of character-driven dystopian fiction.
Profile Image for Jen Jen.
90 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2025
ARC Review for The Duality Paradox By C.A Boldrini and L.A Boldrini.

I received an ARC of The Duality Paradox from L.A. Boldrini & C.A. Boldrini via BookFunnel in exchange for an honest review.

This novel is of the dystopian variety. Alienistic monsters causing the spread of the "viral" contagion that took the world out is where the story takes place. Desolation and and overall loneliness plagues our two main characters Gallagher and Claire as they both fight their way through the now treacherous world around them. Claire, all alone with the exception of her dog Sasha comes across raiders who mean her harm. Or at least mean to use her for her bits and pieces. She escapes only to be nearly taken out by the elements. She lies bleeding and broken but is found by Gallagher. He swoops in, like the chivalrous ex military man that he is, and brings her back to health. Not fully trusting her, but not allowing himself to leave her to die either. Time passes and a long forgotten acquaintance appears and upsets the harmonious balance that these two create together.
The strangers ulterior motives ultimately follows the remainder of the story into a strange and downward spiral of epic proportions.
The "romance" of these two characters is fleeting and while mutual for both parties, comes far too late in this novel. The acquaintance and his ulterior motives and subsequent rape scene in this novel is extremely strange and off-putting. I do understand why he does what he does at the behest of his "master" , but the obsessive nature of the whole situation and "the game" of it all, just seems rushed and not fully explained. It seems like there could have been more to this story than there was. The end was very abrupt with a "one year later" epilogue. The finality of the book really could have used more and I was left feeling unfulfilled as a reader in this case.
27 reviews1 follower
February 15, 2025
As a fan of both sci-fi and zombie stories, with a soft spot for a good romance, I was eager to dive into this post-apocalyptic, zombie-esque tale. While it didn't completely knock my socks off, it offered some enjoyable elements.
The post-apocalyptic setting, while not entirely seamless, had moments of intriguing world-building. I appreciated the author's attempts to create a unique environment, and while some aspects of the natural world and the established rules could have used a bit more fleshing out, there were glimpses of a truly compelling landscape.
The romance, while fast-paced, offered a sweet escape amidst the grim backdrop. The connection between the main characters developed quickly, which, while perhaps not entirely believable, provided a welcome emotional core to the story. (And as someone who married a hopeless romantic in 2020, I can appreciate a whirlwind romance!)
The real highlight of the book, for me, was the strength of the side characters. They truly shone, adding depth and complexity to the narrative and making me invested in their individual journeys. They were the reason I kept turning the pages, and their presence elevated the overall reading experience. While the book had some areas that could have been stronger, the engaging side characters and the flashes of intriguing world-building made it an enjoyable read overall.
Profile Image for Cozy.moments3.
26 reviews1 follower
March 4, 2025
The Duality Paradox by C.A. Boldrini is one of those quiet, soul-deep books that sneaks up on you — the kind that feels like it’s wrapping around your heart without you even realizing. It’s not loud or fast. It’s slow, tender, and achingly human in a way that lingers beneath your skin.

This story holds so much weight in its simplicity. The grief, the longing, the constant ache of trying to hold onto someone who is already slipping through your fingers — it’s all written with this delicate honesty that makes every small moment feel heavy. What hit me the most was how it explores the impossibility of ever truly knowing someone — how love and loss can exist in the same breath, tangled together in ways that don’t always make sense.

The whole book feels like standing in the aftermath of something you don’t fully understand — still reaching out, still wanting more, even when you know there’s nothing left to hold onto.

If you’re someone who gets wrecked by stories that sit quietly in your chest and force you to feel everything all at once — this book will break you in the softest way possible.
Profile Image for Jenna Owens.
66 reviews
March 9, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this book and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.

The Duality Paradox is a fantastic post-apocalyptic story, that gives me major Fallout vibes. The world was affected by a devastating virus that has transformed people into monstrous creatures. There are two types of people in this book: the infected (“Others”) and the ones who are forced to continuing living in this new world.

Claire, is a fierce and determined Senator’s daughter who is running for her life, accompanied by her beloved dog, Sasha. Claire decided to leave her safe sanctuary, where Gallagher, an ex-military recluse, stumbles upon Claire and saves her life. Together, Claire and Gallagher develop a level of trust, and will do anything for the other.

The writing of the book was easy-to-read and jumps between different point-of-views. The way the novel was written allows you to get multiple perspectives from characters, and it helps piece together and make connections that wouldn’t have been possible if written in a different way. However, there were a few of plot holes that I felt were necessary to be filled in, but instead, neglected (?).

With that being said, The Duality Paradox was a quick and fun read that I really enjoyed. The book left on a major cliffhanger that I was NOT prepared for, and I am going to be eagering waiting for book two to be published – and hoping that some of the missing pieces from Book one is answered in the next book.
1 review
February 18, 2025
I stayed up way too late reading this and honestly, I couldn’t put it down. It’s not a love story, and that actually makes it feel way more real. Claire and Gallagher aren’t forced into romance. They’re just two people who have been alone for too long. If you're looking for just spice this isn't it, although there is a little. It’s more about understanding, survival, and feeling a connection to another person.

Gallagher is the definition of a reluctant hero. He doesn’t want to be in charge or save anyone, but when it comes down to it, he does what needs to be done. He’s tough, smart, and honestly a badass, but his character grows throughout. And then there’s Rourke. Easily my favorite character. He’s completely unhinged and somehow still the most captivating person in the book. Every time he showed up, I knew things were about to get bad.

The world-building is open ended. We only know as much as they do, which makes everything feel unpredictable and keeps you wanting more. If you’re into post-apocalyptic stories, this one is definitely worth reading.
Profile Image for Kristen  Moran.
165 reviews1 follower
March 8, 2025
This book had me intrigued, constantly wondering what would happen next in the post-apocalyptic novel. Between the others, Joseph, Raiders, and Rourke, you never knew what was going to happen next.

Claire and her dog Sasha, after losing the only human interaction they had left, traveled to find something else. Only for Sasha to find Gallager. He was living alone since the apocalypse happened. Sasha led him to the hurt Claire, where he took care of her.

After some events transpired, Claire left only to be kidnapped by Joseph and Rourke. Gallagher, wanting and needing to find her, went on the journey through the dangers of everything to save her from whatever harm may be happening to her.

This book was absolutely something amazing and I cannot wait for the next installment in this series!
Profile Image for Shelbi Lynn.
85 reviews2 followers
July 23, 2025
3.5 Stars rounded up ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️✨

Dystopian Zombie Apocalypse Horror-mance? Gimmmme. I binged this in a day!

I feel like the name The Duality Paradox implies a deeper meaning to the story….like the yin and yang of survival and love when all is lost.

The romance/connection could have gone deeper earlier in the story to really drive home the duality aspect. Some redundancy in the writing, but not enough to pull me out of the story. It was thrilling and kept me turning pages!

That said, the pacing was great and the creepy viral zombie creatures had me on edge the whole time. I. Was. Stressed. The ending was jarring in a way that felt intentional. Horror-esque stories usually end on a “wtf” feeling for me so I was ok with it! 🤣

Not a happy ride, but definitely an addictive one! Solid story and debut!
Profile Image for Kay Sparks.
14 reviews1 follower
February 22, 2025
I was given the amazing opportunity to receive a free ARC copy of this book for my honest review. The Duality Paradox immediately sets the post-apocalyptic scenery and the need to fight for survival right out of the gate! There is action, suspense and romance sprinkled throughout the entire story! The imagery throughout the world building is just phenomenal! You can truly visualize the characters and the different locations throughout the book.

This book is told through 3 character povs and is very easy to follow! The characters are relatable and you can easily emotionally engage with each of the characters.

I throughly enjoyed reading this book and will be recommending this to friends!
Profile Image for Daytana Latta.
35 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2025
OMG!!!! This was my first “paranormal” read! I am PRAYINGGGGGG for book 2!! This chokehold this book had me in, and I loved every single moment of this story. I am a dark romance freak, but Gallagher and Claire have me needing to dig deeper into the life of paranormal. This book is really well written and had me on edge so many times with the “what on earth is going to happen next”. It is a MAJOR cliffhanger! If you enjoy paranormal, thoughts of end of the world, what might happen when everything is literally being taken over by “Others”, and survival I HIGHLY recommend you take a dive into The Duality Paradox!!
Profile Image for Marina Peckham.
3 reviews
February 24, 2025
I will be not so patiently waiting for the next book.
I loved that this book made me FEEL. I loved characters. I hated characters. I laughed. I cried. I absolutely seethed.
I enjoyed that the romance aspect was more of a slow burn because it left more room for world building and getting to know the characters.
I’ve always been a fan of an apocalypse story, and it was nice to come across something different. I can’t wait to see what else the future holds for this story!

Disclaimer: there is one trigger warning that stood out to me. The beginning of the book does say viewer discretion, but I’m not sure that is enough. Needs a trigger warning.
Profile Image for Heidi Coffield .
3 reviews
February 24, 2025
I absolutely LOVED this book. I have never read a paranormal book before and let me tell you I think I just found a new genre to read. The second book needs to come out NOW!! There’s no many twists and turns in this book I felt like I never knew what was gonna happen next and I love that. It was very hard to put down when I had to do something. The character development throughout the book is good. You think you like
Someone them bam thought wrong. Cough cough Joseph. Either way definitely recommend!!! I throughly enjoyed it and can’t wait to see what happens next!
3 reviews
March 7, 2025
This was such a fun journey. The entire book was filled with a world that had ended and no idea of what was to come next. The creatures were absolutely ruthless, gave off “A Quiet Place” vibes for sure. Never knew when they would come back. Gallagher and Claire were easy to love and the addition of Sasha made my heart happy! The ending did feel a little rushed. The slow burn felt like it had no build up, it just happened and then ended. I still think the story has more to give, hopefully Gallagher does too!
Profile Image for Melissa.
177 reviews2 followers
March 13, 2025
Apocalypse, monsters, and humans all trying to survive in this new world.
Gallagher finds Clair hurt and blind after one of the acid rain storms. He takes her in and nurses her back to health when he gets a visit from an old acquaintance that starts a series of events that could destroy them all.
This does begin as soon as many other zombie apocalypse books do, add some spice, and a villain with an unexpected turn and you have yourself The Duality Paradox. I hope there is a second book? i need more closure lol
Profile Image for Allthebooks (Lynette).
342 reviews1 follower
March 31, 2025

I knew there would be somewhat of a cliffhanger going in, because I usually cliffys until all books are out. But then I read the intro chapters and it reeled me in. I was so invested in the outcome, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. A really gripping story with vivid imagery to satisfy your mind. The unexpected twist has me now hooked to read the next book in the series. I have so many questions now. Well played Boldrini duo.

I received an eARC of this book and this is a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Kimberly Callahan.
69 reviews
February 16, 2025
I didn't really know much going into this book. I was shocked on how quickly I escalated into each page. This was definitely a page turner for me. I loved it. I couldn't stop. Claire oh my that poor girl, what all happened to her.....Joe irked me......I just kept wanting more. Love, hate,torture dead....all in one gut wrenching apocalyptic world. Wow! I would definitely recommend this. 5 star for sure.
Profile Image for Viviana.
351 reviews
June 24, 2025
on my top5 for 2025

this is post apocalyptic era with zombies and to be honest is i was claire i wont have left my spot just because the person on the radio isnt there no more also i might be the only one but i liked Rourke he gave me negan from walking dead daddy vibes. and i know gallagher and claire build trust and understanding of eachother well he helps her get better byt rourke has some word that make me root for him. i cant wait for next book
Profile Image for Laetitia Aldin.
Author 6 books75 followers
February 21, 2025
I had the chance to be among the very first people to read this book and I loved every second of it!

The authors did a great job combining their different writing styles and giving each characters their unique personalities.
I was on the edge of my seat the whole time, and I don't think I've ever yelled at a cliffhanger this loudly.

Truly, a read worth your time!
Profile Image for Taylor Livingston.
10 reviews
February 23, 2025
*ARC review*

This is a post apocalyptic book where zombie like monsters have ravaged the world and people are doing their best to just survive. I did enjoy the book and look forward to seeing how the story progresses hopefully in the next book. I did struggle at first to connect to our main characters, but understood their dynamic more as the story went on. Overall it was an interesting read!
Profile Image for Jessica Ruh.
38 reviews
May 26, 2025
I’ll admit, I didn’t like the ending. But it is probably quite in line with the realistic nature of what a post-apocalyptic world might be like. And for that, I respect the ending. You won’t see it coming, not even with my commentary on it. It’s a great story. Dark and visually descriptive.
The best and worst of humanity, and all of the characters in between.
Profile Image for Victoria.
2 reviews
February 18, 2025
Oh man that ending! This book isn’t even out yet and I already can’t wait for the next one!
Normally I don’t like apocalyptic books but this one reeled me in. The story has so many unexpected turns, i absolutely loved it
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews

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