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Scorpius Syndrome #0.5
Scorpius Rising
A scientist reunites with her soldier ex-husband to combat a deadly plague in the
New York Times
best-selling author's romantic adventure novella.
Microbiologist Nora Medina knows something is wrong when she gets yanked off a Hawaiian beach and onto her ex-husband's government jet. Her marriage to Deacan Devlin McDougall had taught her plenty about adrenaline, and something more than their unfinished business that has brought the maddeningly sexy Scot back into her life.
As a soldier of fortune, Deke has seen just about everything. But the terrifying bacterium sneaking through the highest halls of power isn't his kind of battle. All he can do is keep close to his brilliant, fiery ex-wife and fight like hell to keep her safe. Because if he lets her get sucked down by the horror that's coming, he'll never get another chance at her heart.
Contains mature themes.
Microbiologist Nora Medina knows something is wrong when she gets yanked off a Hawaiian beach and onto her ex-husband's government jet. Her marriage to Deacan Devlin McDougall had taught her plenty about adrenaline, and something more than their unfinished business that has brought the maddeningly sexy Scot back into her life.
As a soldier of fortune, Deke has seen just about everything. But the terrifying bacterium sneaking through the highest halls of power isn't his kind of battle. All he can do is keep close to his brilliant, fiery ex-wife and fight like hell to keep her safe. Because if he lets her get sucked down by the horror that's coming, he'll never get another chance at her heart.
Contains mature themes.
Audible Audio
First published November 29, 2016
313 people are currently reading
1131 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Zanetti
120 books10.1k followersNew York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than seventy novels and novellas, which have been translated into several languages, with millions of copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus starred reviews, favorable Washington Post and New York Times Book Reviews, and been included in Amazon best books of the year.
Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.
Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
September 25, 2017
This is the prequel to the first book which I read last year and gave 5-stars to. I'm surprised I loved it so much, but hey, it all depends on our reading moods at the time, right?
So, this is where we learn the start of the end-of-the-world. It's alien bacteria that's going to kill us all, not evil robot overlords as we all assume.
I'm a little disappointed. I wanted to see where this was going...
Anyway, we have Mr. I Work for the President and Can Do Whatever the Fuck I Want (talk about a long job title. His business card is a billboard.), and Ms. Scientist working to save the world together. Now, aside from trying to stop this deadly contagion, they are also using this time to figure out what went wrong with their marriage and decide if they want to give it another go. There is no better time and place to work on relationship issues than at the CDC while humanity is coming to an end. I might finally tell my husband about how I've always hated his favorite shirt once Trump launches that first nuke that you know he's itching to launch.
It will be the right time.
So the book was okay, but there is something slightly unbelievable about it. If you can unplug your brain and just enjoy the smutty ride, you will probably like it.
Two more things:
There are definitely continuity problems between this one and the first one. Like how Lynn's heart turns blue.
Second - go watch Guardians of the Galaxy 2!
So, this is where we learn the start of the end-of-the-world. It's alien bacteria that's going to kill us all, not evil robot overlords as we all assume.
I'm a little disappointed. I wanted to see where this was going...
Anyway, we have Mr. I Work for the President and Can Do Whatever the Fuck I Want (talk about a long job title. His business card is a billboard.), and Ms. Scientist working to save the world together. Now, aside from trying to stop this deadly contagion, they are also using this time to figure out what went wrong with their marriage and decide if they want to give it another go. There is no better time and place to work on relationship issues than at the CDC while humanity is coming to an end. I might finally tell my husband about how I've always hated his favorite shirt once Trump launches that first nuke that you know he's itching to launch.
It will be the right time.
So the book was okay, but there is something slightly unbelievable about it. If you can unplug your brain and just enjoy the smutty ride, you will probably like it.
Two more things:
There are definitely continuity problems between this one and the first one. Like how Lynn's heart turns blue.
Second - go watch Guardians of the Galaxy 2!
November 29, 2016
I hate this author's works with passion, the same passion and strength her heroines totally lack. I've given her more than one chance, closer to the dozen I think, and with just one exception I hated all her books.
[Yes, that's on me.]
I had hopes on Scorpius Rising as I had liked book 1, but it seems that was the outlier (and I thought we were getting closer... dumb me).
Why did I hate this novella? Mainly for the same reasons I hated all her other books: a dumb as fuck heroine (who should be intelligent but really isn't), a pretty awful depiction of women as spineless, worthless-except-with-a-man, sex-driven dolls. They lack conviction in anything and move around worse than a flag in a storm.
You are a liberist, antimilitary, antigovernment type to the point of refusing to work for them.
Your ex kidnaps you and forces you to work for the G (with the added bonus they'll make a weapon out of your research) and what will you do? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. At all. Because hey we want sex, we stop thinking when there's sex involved, didn't you know?
As often the case with this author I find the holes in the story pretty awfully glaring:
-a guy with no title except adviser can order the kidnapping of many scientists, grab their labs for weeks and move them to an other state.
-a scientist with a genius ID in a lab with the maximum hazard risk while the world is risking destruction flirts with the silly blond and infects himself...(and no one thinks to take away his permissions...)
-an other infected scientist begs on her presumed deathbed the heroine to marry the so called hero. And she agrees for the sake of it.
All of these so the story can move forward on the author's say so. But it's totally illogical to me.
Why do you get to create some characters and their backstories, when you could easily fit their story in a religious setting where there's the silly little woman that doesn't really understand and needs to be guided... snort.
I know I was going to despise this novella from the first pages when it was clear the plot and the setting where going to be just a backdrop of no importance and the only focus was the sexy times. But then when a group of soldiers kidnaps you in your bikini and your only reaction is getting your pant wets because your ex is there...you know there's not going to be anyone home.
[Yes, that's on me.]
I had hopes on Scorpius Rising as I had liked book 1, but it seems that was the outlier (and I thought we were getting closer... dumb me).
Why did I hate this novella? Mainly for the same reasons I hated all her other books: a dumb as fuck heroine (who should be intelligent but really isn't), a pretty awful depiction of women as spineless, worthless-except-with-a-man, sex-driven dolls. They lack conviction in anything and move around worse than a flag in a storm.
You are a liberist, antimilitary, antigovernment type to the point of refusing to work for them.
Your ex kidnaps you and forces you to work for the G (with the added bonus they'll make a weapon out of your research) and what will you do? Nothing. Absolutely nothing. At all. Because hey we want sex, we stop thinking when there's sex involved, didn't you know?
As often the case with this author I find the holes in the story pretty awfully glaring:
-a guy with no title except adviser can order the kidnapping of many scientists, grab their labs for weeks and move them to an other state.
-a scientist with a genius ID in a lab with the maximum hazard risk while the world is risking destruction flirts with the silly blond and infects himself...(and no one thinks to take away his permissions...)
-an other infected scientist begs on her presumed deathbed the heroine to marry the so called hero. And she agrees for the sake of it.
All of these so the story can move forward on the author's say so. But it's totally illogical to me.
Why do you get to create some characters and their backstories, when you could easily fit their story in a religious setting where there's the silly little woman that doesn't really understand and needs to be guided... snort.
I know I was going to despise this novella from the first pages when it was clear the plot and the setting where going to be just a backdrop of no importance and the only focus was the sexy times. But then when a group of soldiers kidnaps you in your bikini and your only reaction is getting your pant wets because your ex is there...you know there's not going to be anyone home.
September 19, 2017
Read in August 2016
I'll make this short:
The world is facing a pandemic, bacteria from space have taken a piggyback ride on a meteor and infect humans. These humans either die, go crazy and/or have heightened intelligence. Nora is a scientist and specialized in bacteria. Her ex-husband Deacan kidnaps her under the order of the government to research this looming pandemic.
* I had a bit of a tough time connecting with the characters, Nora was a bit boring. Deke was allright, I suppose but...
*...he changes his mind like (hopefully) his underwear, the only thing he doesn't change his mind about is the heroine and his love for her. In the beginning he says he is a different man than he used to be. Within the span of a couple of weeks he decides, nope, can't be different, will always be a warrior.
* The heroine couldn't live with him being a warrior and angry all the time when she was young. Granted, a couple of years have gone by...but she has reservations in the beginning of the story and at the end she's totally fine with it.
* They go at it like rabbits while the bacteria is spreading amongst people and a villain is infecting people on purpose. Also, the heroine has a lot of reasons to not sleep with her ex-husband yet she loses half of her super-intelligent brain when he is around.
* The villain has three chances to infect the heroine yet she always escapes.
Given that this is a novella I can imagine it is hard to make the characters shine in such a complicated world. I did like the world building and the prospect of a post apocalyptic world so I really look forward to reading the first full novel in this series. The writing is fluent and it does make you want to read on. Rebecca Zanetti definitely has talent!
September 17, 2017
This is one wild ride! The beginning of the series and I’ve just got to say Rebecca Zanetti has got one strange, wonderful imagination.
Nora and Deacan were married as teens, divorced in their twenties and are now reunited when a bacteria that causes chaos is discovered. As they each perform their jobs in an effort to protect the country, they face the reasons for their failed marriage.
Nora is a strong and independent heroine, able to hold her own again Deacan’s domineering ways. He managed to win me over completely when he finally relented to the person he truly is rather than the man he thought he should be.
Filled with so much action, suspense and heat, I loved every moment of this novella. And let me just say, the villain of this story is one I’ll remember for a long time to come.
Dual POV
HEA without an epilogue - the story continues with the next couple
Safety – Nora tried to live with someone for a short time and that is all that is mentioned regarding her or Deacan’s romantic relationships during their time apart.
Possible Trigger – rape but not on the page
Nora and Deacan were married as teens, divorced in their twenties and are now reunited when a bacteria that causes chaos is discovered. As they each perform their jobs in an effort to protect the country, they face the reasons for their failed marriage.
Nora is a strong and independent heroine, able to hold her own again Deacan’s domineering ways. He managed to win me over completely when he finally relented to the person he truly is rather than the man he thought he should be.
Filled with so much action, suspense and heat, I loved every moment of this novella. And let me just say, the villain of this story is one I’ll remember for a long time to come.
Dual POV
HEA without an epilogue - the story continues with the next couple
Safety – Nora tried to live with someone for a short time and that is all that is mentioned regarding her or Deacan’s romantic relationships during their time apart.
Possible Trigger – rape but not on the page
April 5, 2022
Initial Thoughts
This was a really good introduction to the series. I was a bit in shock at how this illness was spread and was eager to see what Nora and Deacan would be able to do. I liked this pair together and thought that they had a lot of chemistry. I listened to the audiobook and thought that Arika Rapson did a great job with the narration. I am looking forward to reading more of the series very soon.
Book Source: Library
Full review to be posted soon.
This was a really good introduction to the series. I was a bit in shock at how this illness was spread and was eager to see what Nora and Deacan would be able to do. I liked this pair together and thought that they had a lot of chemistry. I listened to the audiobook and thought that Arika Rapson did a great job with the narration. I am looking forward to reading more of the series very soon.
Book Source: Library
Full review to be posted soon.
September 17, 2017
This had the feel of The Walking Dead to me. Which is a compliment. I love that tv series and to find a book series that is just as entertaining is a bonus. It's not exactly like the show. It has huge differences, but boils down to a bacteria (not a virus) spreading that either kills or changes the mental functions of the victims. I really like seeing it start at the beginning and watch how it spirals out of control.
In the mist of all this chaos is the second chance love story of Deacon and Nora. Nora is a scientist. Deacon is military. He is part of a secret branch employed by the President. Deacon and Nora were married 8 years prior. They are soulmates but they were young and Nora didn't know how to deal with Deacons anger after his tour of duty. It ended in divorce and they stayed away from each other until 2 months before the bacteria invasion.
Deacon contacted Nora to meet with her. He's older and has dealt with his demons. Now he wants Nora back. Before she could decide, Deacon had her extracted to help find a cure for the Scorpius Syndrome. Deacon takes advantage of the close proximity to win Nora back.
This ends on a happily for now ending. The bacteria has spread and there is no containing it. They are racing to create a cure and fight off those infected. I look forward to the next one in the series!
In the mist of all this chaos is the second chance love story of Deacon and Nora. Nora is a scientist. Deacon is military. He is part of a secret branch employed by the President. Deacon and Nora were married 8 years prior. They are soulmates but they were young and Nora didn't know how to deal with Deacons anger after his tour of duty. It ended in divorce and they stayed away from each other until 2 months before the bacteria invasion.
Deacon contacted Nora to meet with her. He's older and has dealt with his demons. Now he wants Nora back. Before she could decide, Deacon had her extracted to help find a cure for the Scorpius Syndrome. Deacon takes advantage of the close proximity to win Nora back.
This ends on a happily for now ending. The bacteria has spread and there is no containing it. They are racing to create a cure and fight off those infected. I look forward to the next one in the series!
August 22, 2018
Scorpius Rising by Rebecca Zanetti
A prequel to the Scorpius Syndrome series, this book introduces the virus that changes the world.
It’s Nora and Deke’s reuniting love story but be aware this is the very beginning of the series so lots of unresolved issues.
Strong dominating men and professional women work, play and love hard trying to save their piece of the remaining world.
The series: post apocalyptic romantic suspense.
A prequel to the Scorpius Syndrome series, this book introduces the virus that changes the world.
It’s Nora and Deke’s reuniting love story but be aware this is the very beginning of the series so lots of unresolved issues.
Strong dominating men and professional women work, play and love hard trying to save their piece of the remaining world.
The series: post apocalyptic romantic suspense.
December 11, 2016
Scorpius Syndrome was discovered, and it is on its way across the country infecting anyone it touches. Scorpius Rising tells the story of how the outbreak began including how Lynn Harmony came to be. Of course, the main story is Deacan and Nora’s HEA.
Second chance at love in the most unfortunate time. In the midst of an upcoming apocalypse, Deacan and Nora find their way to each other again. They were married and divorced but their feelings for each other never changed. This pandemic, as disastrous as it is, will bring a second chance of what should’ve been.
To be honest, I was afraid this prequel would not do Mercury Rising (The Scorpius Syndrome #1) any justice. That book just about blew my mind and if this prequel blew it, I would’ve been really disappointed. But Zanetti did not disappoint, not in the least. Scorpius Rising did its job following book one in its non-stop action, suspense and post-apocalyptic intrigue. And that’s just icing on the cake. The world building are character build up are equally amazing not to mention the sweet reunion between Deacan and Nora. Hands down, to Zanetti for a job well done.
Reviewed by Angela
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February 22, 2022
This was too short. Zanetti presents the history of a disease and how it began to spread. We are introduced to MC’s who have a deep history and connection and are trying to save the world from this deadly disease.
The story was interesting. Even though I predicted what was going to happen, I was still on the edge of my seat. But in the blink of an eye, the story is over. I thought ‘that’s okay, I’ll continue with book 1.’ But it’s about the other scientist. Not that I’m not interested in her story, but I wanted to see where things were going to go with Nora and this delicious highlander, Deacan.
For those beginning this series, I have yet to read book 1, but it’s apparent that book 0.5 is very important to the series. I strongly suggest beginning with this one.
The story was interesting. Even though I predicted what was going to happen, I was still on the edge of my seat. But in the blink of an eye, the story is over. I thought ‘that’s okay, I’ll continue with book 1.’ But it’s about the other scientist. Not that I’m not interested in her story, but I wanted to see where things were going to go with Nora and this delicious highlander, Deacan.
For those beginning this series, I have yet to read book 1, but it’s apparent that book 0.5 is very important to the series. I strongly suggest beginning with this one.
April 25, 2023
Scorpious Rising is the prequel novella to the "Scorpius Syndrome" series. And I am not sure how I missed out on this one but I am so happy I got to this one. I do wish that I had read this one first before starting the series and its a perfect lesson to READ THE NOVELLAS haha I am definitely going to make an effort to be better about this in the future .
I highly recommend reading this one first before starting the series. I really loved seeing the background information and how Lynne was infected with the "blue" and in this novella is where we see the beginnings of the Scorpius infection. This is also a second chance romance. Our couple in question, was once married, but had some issues and you definitely get the feeling from this that it just wasn't the best timing and they were too young to truly make it work. They both needed the years of maturity. But we see them years later, more mature in age and experience, both settled in their career and able to communicate more honestly. And now they are in a forced proximity situation and reconnect with each other. Absolutely loved seeing how we see the beginnings of the virus and also seeing their romance and the friendship that develops between Nora and Lynne. Reading this novella made me realize how much I love this series and to get back to it and SOON!!
Overall I had a blast with this novella and if you like dystopian romances, then I highly recommend this one!
I highly recommend reading this one first before starting the series. I really loved seeing the background information and how Lynne was infected with the "blue" and in this novella is where we see the beginnings of the Scorpius infection. This is also a second chance romance. Our couple in question, was once married, but had some issues and you definitely get the feeling from this that it just wasn't the best timing and they were too young to truly make it work. They both needed the years of maturity. But we see them years later, more mature in age and experience, both settled in their career and able to communicate more honestly. And now they are in a forced proximity situation and reconnect with each other. Absolutely loved seeing how we see the beginnings of the virus and also seeing their romance and the friendship that develops between Nora and Lynne. Reading this novella made me realize how much I love this series and to get back to it and SOON!!
Overall I had a blast with this novella and if you like dystopian romances, then I highly recommend this one!
December 16, 2016
I’ve always wanted the complete backstory of how the Scorpius pandemic began and Ms. Zanetti came through. She gives us not only a play by play of where the pandemic stemmed from, but how it spread so quickly and how Lynne ended up with a blue heart. Since Ms. Z is obviously an over achiever, she also gave us a nice, hot, romance while she was at it. Deke is the founder and leader of the Brigade, Nora is Lynne’s best friend and both are talked about by Lynne in the previously written books of the series. This is their story.
I’m not a huge second chance romance fan, especially if it’s one with a previously divorced couple, but Deacon alone made this worth stepping out of my comfort zone. Truly, how can you go wrong with a guy who is practically a modern day highland warrior complete with the sexy brogue to go with it? Really all he was missing was the kilt (which does not mean I was not imagining him in one while I was reading- just a small little wardrobe change I decided was desperately needed). His one purpose in life was to protect and he was very good at it, proven by becoming the President’s confidant and protector.
Nora is Lynne’s (Mercury Striking) best friend. A private sector microbiologist, she and her team are pulled in to help Lynne find a cure for the new bacterium that has been unleashed on the United States. I liked Nora, but, she was a bit too naïve in some of her beliefs especially against what Deacon stood for as a soldier. She grew on me as things progressed but she never completely won me over.
What did win me over was the almost electric pull between Nora and Deacon, and once they started getting it on… goodness me it was hot.
I enjoyed Scorpius Rising, especially the action and suspense aspects of it. With this being a prequel, it had an almost Titanic movie feel to it. You just know that iceberg is coming and it’s not going to end well.
As much as I loved the book, the HFN (relationship wise) ending had me searching for Deke and Nora’s names in the other books in the series to make sure I hadn’t forgotten something. Although together, their story is not complete and I want it now!
Rating: 4 Impatient Stars
For this review and more, check out EDGy Reviews
I’m not a huge second chance romance fan, especially if it’s one with a previously divorced couple, but Deacon alone made this worth stepping out of my comfort zone. Truly, how can you go wrong with a guy who is practically a modern day highland warrior complete with the sexy brogue to go with it? Really all he was missing was the kilt (which does not mean I was not imagining him in one while I was reading- just a small little wardrobe change I decided was desperately needed). His one purpose in life was to protect and he was very good at it, proven by becoming the President’s confidant and protector.
Nora is Lynne’s (Mercury Striking) best friend. A private sector microbiologist, she and her team are pulled in to help Lynne find a cure for the new bacterium that has been unleashed on the United States. I liked Nora, but, she was a bit too naïve in some of her beliefs especially against what Deacon stood for as a soldier. She grew on me as things progressed but she never completely won me over.
What did win me over was the almost electric pull between Nora and Deacon, and once they started getting it on… goodness me it was hot.
I enjoyed Scorpius Rising, especially the action and suspense aspects of it. With this being a prequel, it had an almost Titanic movie feel to it. You just know that iceberg is coming and it’s not going to end well.
As much as I loved the book, the HFN (relationship wise) ending had me searching for Deke and Nora’s names in the other books in the series to make sure I hadn’t forgotten something. Although together, their story is not complete and I want it now!
Rating: 4 Impatient Stars
For this review and more, check out EDGy Reviews
August 1, 2017
Rebecca Zanetti nuff said.
September 25, 2017
4 stars
November 18, 2016
4 stars
This is a prequel novella to The Scorpius Syndrome series. I read it as part of the compilation On the Hunt, but it's now deservedly available as its own ebook.
A meteor has crashed into earth, bringing with it a highly infectious bacteria that kills most of its victims, but leaves the survivors either with enhanced abilities or and / completely stripped of their humanity. Nora is a brilliant microbiologist who is bought in by the government to work with the CDC to try and find a cure. And coming to collect her is none other than her hot, military-man ex-husband, Deacon.
Nora and Deke had a mad love when they were younger and married when they were just 18 before their different lives and their hot-headedness tore them apart. Now it’s 8 years later and they have both grown up and have realized that what they had was the once-in-a-lifetime connection that people rarely find. And while Nora is determined to do her job and go home, Deke is determined to win back his girl.
This novella is fast-paced, exciting, romantic and super sexy. Nora and Deke’s chemistry is absolutely sizzling, and there’s a great mix of sexy time and swoony romance as they find their way back to each other. All while faced with death and horrifying violence as they battle to keep the bacteria under control while they find a cure. But betrayal and sabotage may cause the end of the world as they know it.
It’s a great start to a new series that I’m really excited to dive into. Rebecca Zanetti does suspenseful, action-packed romance so well and with a brilliant set-up, I can’t wait to go on with the story of Nora’s best friend and fellow microbiologist, Lynne.
4 stars.
This is a prequel novella to The Scorpius Syndrome series. I read it as part of the compilation On the Hunt, but it's now deservedly available as its own ebook.
A meteor has crashed into earth, bringing with it a highly infectious bacteria that kills most of its victims, but leaves the survivors either with enhanced abilities or and / completely stripped of their humanity. Nora is a brilliant microbiologist who is bought in by the government to work with the CDC to try and find a cure. And coming to collect her is none other than her hot, military-man ex-husband, Deacon.
Nora and Deke had a mad love when they were younger and married when they were just 18 before their different lives and their hot-headedness tore them apart. Now it’s 8 years later and they have both grown up and have realized that what they had was the once-in-a-lifetime connection that people rarely find. And while Nora is determined to do her job and go home, Deke is determined to win back his girl.
This novella is fast-paced, exciting, romantic and super sexy. Nora and Deke’s chemistry is absolutely sizzling, and there’s a great mix of sexy time and swoony romance as they find their way back to each other. All while faced with death and horrifying violence as they battle to keep the bacteria under control while they find a cure. But betrayal and sabotage may cause the end of the world as they know it.
It’s a great start to a new series that I’m really excited to dive into. Rebecca Zanetti does suspenseful, action-packed romance so well and with a brilliant set-up, I can’t wait to go on with the story of Nora’s best friend and fellow microbiologist, Lynne.
4 stars.
December 23, 2016
This short story was fantastic! What a wonderful introduction to this world, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
July 5, 2020
Honestly, I thought this was pretty bad. The plot has too many holes in it. The heroine is spineless and the hero is a neanderthal jerk. (I can handle an alpha a-hole hero in a paranormal romance, where being a werewolf or vampire or sea monster explains away the assholeness. But in a plain old human, he just feels abusive.) The sex wasn't sexy, being of the no foreplay, "he pounded/hammered/slammed into her" sort. The science was handwavey. And the whole thing just felt ridiculous. But hey, I do an alphabet challenge every year and I always struggle to find a Z-author. Now I have.
April 5, 2020
Romance wasn't great and didn't like the main characters together but the pandemic was interesting enough to try the next one in the series.
July 12, 2025
Purchase Amazon July 2, 2019
It was okay. A bit slow and jumpy. Could have been great, but was written in a kind of lackadaisical manner. Lacked intensity.
I was a bit disappointed.
I may read the next book in this series later, but she has other series I want to explore first.
It was okay. A bit slow and jumpy. Could have been great, but was written in a kind of lackadaisical manner. Lacked intensity.
I was a bit disappointed.
I may read the next book in this series later, but she has other series I want to explore first.
April 29, 2017
Review originally posted at RabidReads.ca.
So after reading the first book, I got a great tip from Sophia at Delighted Reader to go back and tackle the prequel. So that is exactly what I did. I’m so glad for it too. It was great to see how we got to where the world is now being infested with these people who are zombies, but not quite the same.
So in this story, we have Lynne Harmony, who is the heroine of the first book. But this is a story about her best friend and fellow microbiologist, Nora Medina. Nora is pulled away from her vacation. She quickly recognizes the voice that tells her “Get your ass in here” as on the plane. His Scottish accent was hard to miss. It was her ex-husband, Deacon McDougall. Deke wants her help to try to find a cure before they have to tell the world what is going around.
There’s a few things going on in this book besides the second chance romance between Nora and Deke. We learn how this infection is started. We also learn how Lynne gets her infamous blue heart. There is also the story of how the infection spread so quickly and why the government wasn’t able to keep it contained.
While all of that was going on, we do have the story of Deke and Nora coming back together. The issue between them was that Deke had a hard time coming back from the military. He was very demanding. While he has come to terms with being a civilian again, he is still pretty demanding. But he has also learned from his mistakes. He is a little less demanding. I think Nora also learned that some of his demands come from the right place, he just wants to keep her safe. He is still demanding, but in the situation they are in at this time, he has to work even harder to keep her safe. The world is much more dangerous now.
I really loved this story. I also loved Deke. I liked Nora. I really hope that we get to see more of them in future books. I know they were mentioned in book one, but Lynne didn’t know for sure where they were at. I should also mention that the relationship between Nora and Lynne was a great one too. Bring on the next book in the series.
So after reading the first book, I got a great tip from Sophia at Delighted Reader to go back and tackle the prequel. So that is exactly what I did. I’m so glad for it too. It was great to see how we got to where the world is now being infested with these people who are zombies, but not quite the same.
So in this story, we have Lynne Harmony, who is the heroine of the first book. But this is a story about her best friend and fellow microbiologist, Nora Medina. Nora is pulled away from her vacation. She quickly recognizes the voice that tells her “Get your ass in here” as on the plane. His Scottish accent was hard to miss. It was her ex-husband, Deacon McDougall. Deke wants her help to try to find a cure before they have to tell the world what is going around.
There’s a few things going on in this book besides the second chance romance between Nora and Deke. We learn how this infection is started. We also learn how Lynne gets her infamous blue heart. There is also the story of how the infection spread so quickly and why the government wasn’t able to keep it contained.
While all of that was going on, we do have the story of Deke and Nora coming back together. The issue between them was that Deke had a hard time coming back from the military. He was very demanding. While he has come to terms with being a civilian again, he is still pretty demanding. But he has also learned from his mistakes. He is a little less demanding. I think Nora also learned that some of his demands come from the right place, he just wants to keep her safe. He is still demanding, but in the situation they are in at this time, he has to work even harder to keep her safe. The world is much more dangerous now.
I really loved this story. I also loved Deke. I liked Nora. I really hope that we get to see more of them in future books. I know they were mentioned in book one, but Lynne didn’t know for sure where they were at. I should also mention that the relationship between Nora and Lynne was a great one too. Bring on the next book in the series.
However, I learned a long time ago that there are two types of people in this world.”
Deke turned for the door. “Do tell.”
“The kind who believes the ends justify the means, and the other kind.”
“Who are they?” Deke paused before opening the door and glancing at the older man.
“People who live the life they want because there are people out there, like us, making sure the ends justify the means.” Wisdom, right or wrong, lit George’s eyes. “For now, we claim the luxury of having two kinds of people.” He opened the door and clapped Deke on the back. “If we don’t get a handle on this infection, only one type of person will remain.”
A chill sliced into Deke’s temple. “Which one?”
“Survivors.”
Nora rolled her eyes and leaned closer to peer through the microscope lens. “You’re looking for a biological killer. Worry about my love life later.”
“Aha,” Lynne said, peering to look into a different microscope. “You said love. You luuuuv him.”
“Shut up,” Nora said without heat. “You’re one of the most respected scientists in your field, and you sound like you’re in junior high.”
Lynne snorted, the sound emerging tinny from the helmet. “Talk about protesting too much.” She paused and reached for another slide. “I have to tell you, when he dipped into that brogue of his, I almost orgasmed.”
Lynne’s eyelids fluttered open. “We’ve forgotten that living and surviving are two different things. They require different skills.” She shut her eyes again and curled onto her side. Her voice, slight and whispery, continued. “Your Scot, dark as he may be, is a survivor. Don’t let go of him.” She fell into sleep.
April 25, 2017
I have to admit I have a very complicated relationship with Rebecca Zannetti's writing. One that is quite similar to my relationship with Kristen Ashley. It is one of those were you KNOW that they are unhealthy and not quite right, but nevertheless you keep coming back. Hoping they will change for you so you can walk into the sunset and forever eat lasagna together.
In this book ... is a whole lot stupidity. Like, seriously. Another one of her characters who should be extremely intelligent, turns out to be everything but smart. I am going to ignore the OTT alpha hero, this one didn't feel as bad as the vampires in her Dark Protectors series. Ignore that and focus on all the other points that make me cringe ... how Zach, the super genius, got infected with a bacteria that could possibly wipe out humanity because of flirting. How completely out of character her friend Lynne acted, when shit got real. How absolutely stupid the heroine acted at the end. How ... ah fuck that. Fuck logic and brains, create more fake drama.
I am getting angry just thinking about it. Because I really really like the premise of this series. DYSTOPIAN ROMANCE?! Hell yeah! Gimme more of that shit. They are quiet rare on my shelves. Good this one explains only the beginning, but nevertheless I was intrigued.
And I liked a lot more about this novella, the writing is decent, the story stupid but entertaining and did I already mention dystopian feeling? But the problem is there are too many stupid points to just ignore them. I am a sucker for this trash and I am never ashamed by anything I read, be it erotic, be it cheesy, be it romance. But Zanetti's books are hard to defend for me. Because half of them I know I am going to enjoy, the other half I gritt my teeth, pray to the lasagna god for patience and fight back the anger. My heart wants to give this book a 2-star rating, but my mind tells me to be fair. Because I keep coming back, I keep reading and keep being angry about lost potential. So I am going with 2,75 Stars.
And nonetheless I know I am not gonna quit this relationship. I know I will finish this series, after it I will probably need a spa weekend to relax, but I will power through and enjoy it, roll my eyes and loose my nerves and probably a few brain cells.
In this book ... is a whole lot stupidity. Like, seriously. Another one of her characters who should be extremely intelligent, turns out to be everything but smart. I am going to ignore the OTT alpha hero, this one didn't feel as bad as the vampires in her Dark Protectors series. Ignore that and focus on all the other points that make me cringe ... how Zach, the super genius, got infected with a bacteria that could possibly wipe out humanity because of flirting. How completely out of character her friend Lynne acted, when shit got real. How absolutely stupid the heroine acted at the end. How ... ah fuck that. Fuck logic and brains, create more fake drama.
I am getting angry just thinking about it. Because I really really like the premise of this series. DYSTOPIAN ROMANCE?! Hell yeah! Gimme more of that shit. They are quiet rare on my shelves. Good this one explains only the beginning, but nevertheless I was intrigued.
And I liked a lot more about this novella, the writing is decent, the story stupid but entertaining and did I already mention dystopian feeling? But the problem is there are too many stupid points to just ignore them. I am a sucker for this trash and I am never ashamed by anything I read, be it erotic, be it cheesy, be it romance. But Zanetti's books are hard to defend for me. Because half of them I know I am going to enjoy, the other half I gritt my teeth, pray to the lasagna god for patience and fight back the anger. My heart wants to give this book a 2-star rating, but my mind tells me to be fair. Because I keep coming back, I keep reading and keep being angry about lost potential. So I am going with 2,75 Stars.
And nonetheless I know I am not gonna quit this relationship. I know I will finish this series, after it I will probably need a spa weekend to relax, but I will power through and enjoy it, roll my eyes and loose my nerves and probably a few brain cells.
May 30, 2016
Read as part of the On The Hunt anthology...
I came back to pick up on this novella because I was about to start Mercury Striking, the first full length book in Zanetti’s new “Scorpius Syndrome” series. I wanted to know Lynne’s background and function in the series before I started her story.
This was about the very beginning of the pandemic, and told about where it came from and how it spread. Nora Medina is a brilliant microbiologist, while her ex-husband Deacan McDougall works for the shadowy government branch investigating the bacteria and its spread. I rather liked this story, the dystopian nature of what is to come when Scorpius spreads through the population I find quite intriguing. I think I'm going to enjoy the series and looking forward to the next book.
On a personal front, Deacan is sorry that he let Nora divorce him, and is looking for a second chance with her. Their steamy times were sizzling; and the light D/s nature of their bedroom antics shed light on Deacan's needs without being overwhelming. A lot was packed into this ss. I've not been the hugest fan of Zanetti's work, but I think this dystopian series may be right up my alley.
I came back to pick up on this novella because I was about to start Mercury Striking, the first full length book in Zanetti’s new “Scorpius Syndrome” series. I wanted to know Lynne’s background and function in the series before I started her story.
This was about the very beginning of the pandemic, and told about where it came from and how it spread. Nora Medina is a brilliant microbiologist, while her ex-husband Deacan McDougall works for the shadowy government branch investigating the bacteria and its spread. I rather liked this story, the dystopian nature of what is to come when Scorpius spreads through the population I find quite intriguing. I think I'm going to enjoy the series and looking forward to the next book.
On a personal front, Deacan is sorry that he let Nora divorce him, and is looking for a second chance with her. Their steamy times were sizzling; and the light D/s nature of their bedroom antics shed light on Deacan's needs without being overwhelming. A lot was packed into this ss. I've not been the hugest fan of Zanetti's work, but I think this dystopian series may be right up my alley.
September 16, 2016
4 stars
This was a very good story. Nora and Deacan are both likable characters and the story had a good balance of action and romance. Nora and Deacan met at 16 and fell in love. They married young but his military career and her distrust of the government made things difficult and they divorced. They couldn't forget each other though and when the Scorpius disease starts they're brought back together. It's not an easy reunion but they do come back together in the end. The story is a bit open ended because of the infection that's spreading around the world but the romance solidly ends with a HEA. :)
* note - I listened to this in audio format in the On the Hunt anthology and the narrator did a pretty good job.
This was a very good story. Nora and Deacan are both likable characters and the story had a good balance of action and romance. Nora and Deacan met at 16 and fell in love. They married young but his military career and her distrust of the government made things difficult and they divorced. They couldn't forget each other though and when the Scorpius disease starts they're brought back together. It's not an easy reunion but they do come back together in the end. The story is a bit open ended because of the infection that's spreading around the world but the romance solidly ends with a HEA. :)
* note - I listened to this in audio format in the On the Hunt anthology and the narrator did a pretty good job.
July 30, 2016
I read this story in the On The Hunt anthology. Having already read the first book, Mercury Striking, I already knew some of the events which would take place in this story. Even so, it was still interesting to read how this bacteria all began, the events which led to it being spread and the beginning of the end. I really enjoyed reading Deacan and Nora’s story. A couple, who married young and fell apart, are reunited in order to cure this new disease. This story kept the intensity up the entire read and I hope we can revisit Nora and Deke later in the series to see how they have gotten on with their new mission.
February 6, 2017
I had great hopes for this book but it didn't live up to its expectations. This felt more like a filler story. Nora seemed like a pushover and Deacon came out very domineering. All in all it wasn't a necessary read everything in this was gleaned from the first book(which was great btw). I have read the next books in the series and am liking where its going.
April 25, 2017
Read as part of the anthology On The Hunt! Awesome first installment to RZ's new apocalyptic drama series. So much action packed into this novella. Do not miss this to enhance the nuances and back story to the Scorpious Syndrome. 5 solid stars
March 4, 2017
Interesting start for a new series. Looking forward to the next book. Thanks to Carmen for my present!
April 26, 2019
**SPOILERS ahead - if you haven't read 'Mercury Striking', please beware**
This is the prequel to the Scorpius Syndrome series and after having read the first book, I was curious about two things: How did the whole disaster with the virus start and who are Nora and Declan?
This is a short story which featured Nora and Declan and it started right after the virus started and only a few people were infected. The first president was still alive and Bret was an a$$hat but not yet a psychopath and we get to see how Lynne got the blue heart. It was really interesting to see how optimistic all were at the beginning - until the virus spread and more people were infected and the body count rose and they had to admit that they cannot contain the virus.
In whole the story was very well written and interesting but what bothered me was the stupidity of Nora after the Zach disaster started. She was attacked twice in her own lab and nobody, not even the alpha military man Declan, had the sense of giving her a weapon!! Hello?! Somebody with a deadly virus who runs around town raping, attacking and in general just spreading a deadly virus and nobody thought about arming the untrained women in the lab??? That made me really angry, especially after Lynne was infected and then the whole Bobbi disaster. Sorry, but how could Declan NOT think of arming Nora?
Zack was mentioned in the next book as well and I wonder just like Declan if this will bite them in the behind later on that they left him alive and only contained him. Question is: WHO contains him now and where? If he is in Bret's hands, nobody knows what that psycho is doing with him. Same goes for the vials with the green virus. I'm really curious how this series is going to end.
I love the overall story with this virus which is killing of humanity. I still want to know if the virus spread to other countries or if they are save. It's very interesting how the virus alters the brain of those who live after being infected. Cannot wait to read the next books. Interesting storyline and stupid but nice people (mostly).
This is the prequel to the Scorpius Syndrome series and after having read the first book, I was curious about two things: How did the whole disaster with the virus start and who are Nora and Declan?
This is a short story which featured Nora and Declan and it started right after the virus started and only a few people were infected. The first president was still alive and Bret was an a$$hat but not yet a psychopath and we get to see how Lynne got the blue heart. It was really interesting to see how optimistic all were at the beginning - until the virus spread and more people were infected and the body count rose and they had to admit that they cannot contain the virus.
In whole the story was very well written and interesting but what bothered me was the stupidity of Nora after the Zach disaster started. She was attacked twice in her own lab and nobody, not even the alpha military man Declan, had the sense of giving her a weapon!! Hello?! Somebody with a deadly virus who runs around town raping, attacking and in general just spreading a deadly virus and nobody thought about arming the untrained women in the lab??? That made me really angry, especially after Lynne was infected and then the whole Bobbi disaster. Sorry, but how could Declan NOT think of arming Nora?
Zack was mentioned in the next book as well and I wonder just like Declan if this will bite them in the behind later on that they left him alive and only contained him. Question is: WHO contains him now and where? If he is in Bret's hands, nobody knows what that psycho is doing with him. Same goes for the vials with the green virus. I'm really curious how this series is going to end.
I love the overall story with this virus which is killing of humanity. I still want to know if the virus spread to other countries or if they are save. It's very interesting how the virus alters the brain of those who live after being infected. Cannot wait to read the next books. Interesting storyline and stupid but nice people (mostly).
August 19, 2017
3.75 stars
I love RZ, love her books. But this one was by not one of my favorites. I know it was meant to be an "extra" story, to fill in some gaps about the emerging plague of the Scorpius Bacteria, as well as give us some information about Zach, Bret, Nora and Deke, but it just fell flat. There was so much implied with Nora and Deke. I was left wanting to know more about their past relationship, wanting to know more about his rage, their whirlwind, romance and early marriage, and yet we weren't. I also wish we were given a bit more foreshadowing into Bret's behavior. We know he gets Scorpius and turns into a brilliant, calculating ripper. But even just a bit of an "asshole" moment would have been appreciated. We also know from previous books that Lynn wasn't as into him as she appeared to be in this book, so I found that a little odd. I just wanted more from this book. Deacon was built up to be this big alpha with a temper and I feel like he really should have had one big explosion. Maybe he will in the coming books, who knows? But I was left a little unsatisfied with this book. Will I continue reading the series? You bet your ass I will, every author has an "off" book. And overall I love RZ's books and her style of writing. I also need to know what happens to the characters I've fallen in love with. And they sure as hell better catch Zach and put that bastard down for good!
I love RZ, love her books. But this one was by not one of my favorites. I know it was meant to be an "extra" story, to fill in some gaps about the emerging plague of the Scorpius Bacteria, as well as give us some information about Zach, Bret, Nora and Deke, but it just fell flat. There was so much implied with Nora and Deke. I was left wanting to know more about their past relationship, wanting to know more about his rage, their whirlwind, romance and early marriage, and yet we weren't. I also wish we were given a bit more foreshadowing into Bret's behavior. We know he gets Scorpius and turns into a brilliant, calculating ripper. But even just a bit of an "asshole" moment would have been appreciated. We also know from previous books that Lynn wasn't as into him as she appeared to be in this book, so I found that a little odd. I just wanted more from this book. Deacon was built up to be this big alpha with a temper and I feel like he really should have had one big explosion. Maybe he will in the coming books, who knows? But I was left a little unsatisfied with this book. Will I continue reading the series? You bet your ass I will, every author has an "off" book. And overall I love RZ's books and her style of writing. I also need to know what happens to the characters I've fallen in love with. And they sure as hell better catch Zach and put that bastard down for good!
January 31, 2018
Full disclosure: I don't take direction well. This is why I have to take a deep breath sometimes when I read Ms. Zanetti's books. Her alpha males spend a fair amount of time telling the heroine what to do and are always protectors and possessive. While I love her books, I'm more of a beta male kind of woman.
Scorpius Rising does a really good job of explaining how the pandemic started. It explains how Lynne's heart became blue and sets up the Brigade. We've only heard about it so far, but I'm sure it will be important soon.
Ms. Zanetti's books are fun (other than the Dark Protectors series - I think the men cross the line into alpha-hole) and this one is too.
Scorpius Rising does a really good job of explaining how the pandemic started. It explains how Lynne's heart became blue and sets up the Brigade. We've only heard about it so far, but I'm sure it will be important soon.
Ms. Zanetti's books are fun (other than the Dark Protectors series - I think the men cross the line into alpha-hole) and this one is too.
June 4, 2021
Very good writing. I found this romance/suspense novella of how a pandemic starts from outer space bacteria, really interesting. It's quite short and the first of a series, so I look forward to reading more. There are a lot of steamy sex scenes between the H/h, who are flung together to try and stop the bacteria spreading throughout the world. There were a few things that didn't make much sense to me, but this is fiction and was entertaining.
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