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PARADISE: A Zombie Apocalypse Saga, Volume 1
A sudden outbreak at a military installation, followed by a media blackout, and the end of normalcy as you know it!
PARADISE thrusts you into a world at the onset of the zombie apocalypse. Survival horror at its most visceral, an experience that takes hold and doesn’t let go. Join the small group led by Christian and his brother as they navigate the savaged landscape in search of their haven. Loyalties are tested as survivors desperately search for loved ones and struggle to hold on to their humanity.
What will you do when your “normal” life is ripped away? Where will you go? How will you feed and protect your loved ones? Where will you be when the end begins?
PARADISE perfectly blends chilling tension, intense family dynamics, and the ever-present threat of something worse around every corner. If you enjoy The Walking Dead, World War Z, the works of Ambrose Bierce, Richard Matheson, and the films of George A. Romero, this is a series you can’t afford to miss!
PARADISE thrusts you into a world at the onset of the zombie apocalypse. Survival horror at its most visceral, an experience that takes hold and doesn’t let go. Join the small group led by Christian and his brother as they navigate the savaged landscape in search of their haven. Loyalties are tested as survivors desperately search for loved ones and struggle to hold on to their humanity.
What will you do when your “normal” life is ripped away? Where will you go? How will you feed and protect your loved ones? Where will you be when the end begins?
PARADISE perfectly blends chilling tension, intense family dynamics, and the ever-present threat of something worse around every corner. If you enjoy The Walking Dead, World War Z, the works of Ambrose Bierce, Richard Matheson, and the films of George A. Romero, this is a series you can’t afford to miss!
485 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2025
166 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Stracco
2 books130 followersMatthew M. Stracco has always had a passion for storytelling. He participated in the creation of several short films as writer and director with Horsemen Productions and later in a supporting role with Kill Switch Productions.
His literary works have appeared in The Mind Carpenter Literary Magazine, Weird New Jersey Magazine, and the Federal Manager Magazine.
The PARADISE Saga is his first foray into longform storytelling and world building. He currently lives somewhere in the Garden State but is ready to move to a more defendable location should the dead rise.
His literary works have appeared in The Mind Carpenter Literary Magazine, Weird New Jersey Magazine, and the Federal Manager Magazine.
The PARADISE Saga is his first foray into longform storytelling and world building. He currently lives somewhere in the Garden State but is ready to move to a more defendable location should the dead rise.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
May 6, 2025
Great read! Very much not my normal / go-to fantasy/sci-fi genre, but I had the opportunity to read it before publication and I thoroghly enjoyed it! The author does a superb job of bringing the reader into the story. It's been a while since I've felt fully immersed in a book, but with this storyline I saw it it all playing out in my mind's eye.
For anyone on the fence of reading suspense/horror, I really can't recommend this one enough.
For anyone on the fence of reading suspense/horror, I really can't recommend this one enough.
September 15, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book. I'm on my way to the second. The characters in this book were well-developed. I'm eager to know what happens to them all. I recommend this series.
dnfed
August 25, 2025DNF at 16%. Seemed pretty solid at first but quickly got tedious.
November 3, 2025
A great start to a new zombie apocalypse series!
PARADISE: A Zombie Apocalypse Saga, Volume 1 is a great start to a fast paced and unpredictable series. The book starts with a bit of a slow burn as the outbreak gets going, but takes off like a shot after a couple of chapters. Christian and Matt are a great pair if characters, working as foils for each other. The narrative quality is very high, but there are a couple of formatting issues that make certain scenes hard to follow. Beyond that, this is an excellent book that doesn't have anything else to criticize, it just needs another edit. 4/5 stars, zombie aficionados will love it! It would be a 5 star book with another edit....
PARADISE: A Zombie Apocalypse Saga, Volume 1 is a great start to a fast paced and unpredictable series. The book starts with a bit of a slow burn as the outbreak gets going, but takes off like a shot after a couple of chapters. Christian and Matt are a great pair if characters, working as foils for each other. The narrative quality is very high, but there are a couple of formatting issues that make certain scenes hard to follow. Beyond that, this is an excellent book that doesn't have anything else to criticize, it just needs another edit. 4/5 stars, zombie aficionados will love it! It would be a 5 star book with another edit....
December 13, 2025
DNF'd
Unfortunately the story was wasn't able to break through long list s of brand names instead of description, weird physical actions ( standing perfectly still except for a frantically waving right arm in the middle of an argument) and poor edits (sinched instead of cinched etc.. ).
I can see a lot of potential here, but honestly it reads more like a first draft than a finished novel. I really gave up when I realized I was so bored I was spending more time trying to figure out how to write an honest, but kind and constructive review than I did being entertained by the story. In the end I gave up and just resolved to put it down.
Unfortunately the story was wasn't able to break through long list s of brand names instead of description, weird physical actions ( standing perfectly still except for a frantically waving right arm in the middle of an argument) and poor edits (sinched instead of cinched etc.. ).
I can see a lot of potential here, but honestly it reads more like a first draft than a finished novel. I really gave up when I realized I was so bored I was spending more time trying to figure out how to write an honest, but kind and constructive review than I did being entertained by the story. In the end I gave up and just resolved to put it down.
January 16, 2026
Good storyline but product placement way over the top
Not sure if this was written for the average reader or more to pander to commercial endorsements. Garmin, Scorpion, Mossberg, H&K, etc.
The author should have spent more time on character development and way less on firearms, ammunition and firearm accessory and clothing info. Who cares if a character is wearing black Under Armour with silver pinstripes or if ammo is 26 or 76 grain, etc. Or what a "side saddle, ghost ring or reticle is used for.
For the average reader who are not firearm enthusiasts and just looking for an enjoyable zombie fiction read, it was way too much detail on things that did not more firmly define the characters and advance their storyline. Also alot characters brought in early made them tough to track.
It was a good first attempt by the author. He just needs some practice and an editor who can trim the fat.
Not sure if this was written for the average reader or more to pander to commercial endorsements. Garmin, Scorpion, Mossberg, H&K, etc.
The author should have spent more time on character development and way less on firearms, ammunition and firearm accessory and clothing info. Who cares if a character is wearing black Under Armour with silver pinstripes or if ammo is 26 or 76 grain, etc. Or what a "side saddle, ghost ring or reticle is used for.
For the average reader who are not firearm enthusiasts and just looking for an enjoyable zombie fiction read, it was way too much detail on things that did not more firmly define the characters and advance their storyline. Also alot characters brought in early made them tough to track.
It was a good first attempt by the author. He just needs some practice and an editor who can trim the fat.
September 11, 2025
September officially kicks off the time of year for scary stories and this one did not disappoint. Firstly, having younger siblings I immediately identified with the main characters. Honestly, there isn't anything I wouldn't do for my younger brothers, and that aspect of the story would have been enough to keep me engaged. The author is thorough. He describes how they secure the house in such vivid detail we could all take a lesson. Then there are the weapons, this guy has done his research, same for the first aid and emergency items. The chapters spent at the hospital were some of the most nerve racking of volume 1. I like the romance between the doctor and Paul, and was surprised when she didn't go with them. Finally most, not all of them reach their destination...but there is another volume to read. Don't miss it!
August 17, 2025
Am I prepared? I went into this thinking it was going to be a typical zombie story, the undead, panicked screaming survivors and lots of gore. What I didn't anticipate was the prepper angle. It made me wonder how prepared I am, if at all. A couple cans of soup, case of water, box of Band-Aids, flashlight with extra batteries sounds like a lot until I read volume 1. This book is intense. The author clearly did a lot of research into everything from firearms, to first aid, to survival food and so on. It brought a realism to the story. Sure there are zombies, but it's really about the characters trying to survive in dire unfamiliar circumstances. I enjoyed the characters and story and am looking forward to volume 2...after I purchase more supplies!
September 3, 2025
The first chapter hit me like a punch to the gut. It was fast, furious and full of zombie madness. I wasn't sure what characters I would take the rest of the journey with. The author did a good job of slowing the pace to lull me into a false sense of security. When volume 1 kicked into high gear I wasn't ready for it. The chapter where the two brothers clear out the upper floors of the hospital was crazy intense. The author does a great job describing everything about the world. I took a breath at the end of volume 1 but I can only imaging it's going to get more intense in volume 2. Before I start volume 2, I'm going to check my go bags... Recommended!
September 11, 2025
Read this on a recommendation of a friend...and glad I did. I love the visual story telling style. It was easy to visualize the characters. It was also helpful to picture the action taking place as the author describes it. I like how chaotic the action was. It gave the story a sense of realism. It wasn't obvious who was going to live or die, which raised the stakes throughout the story. The dream sequence was a unique way to open an early chapter. I also really like the female doctor. I hope she finds her way into volume 2. All said, I like zombies and farms, so this book was definitely for me. Looking forward to volume 2!
September 14, 2025
Nope. Poor grammar, poor storytelling, predictable in every possible way. Terrible writing and editing, especially with multiple dialogues occurring (hint: Make a space and denote new conversation with an * or something. Anything!)
I appreciate the author honoring his brother's memory, but find an editor, get decent Beta readers, understand who your characters truly are (because there are some major mood swings for the "good guys") and the ladies aren't repped well at all. In fact, it's mostly hysterical females circa 1970s.
If the author hadn't mentioned writing this in honor of his brother at the beginning, I would've stopped 10 pages in. I wish him better endeavors in the future.
I appreciate the author honoring his brother's memory, but find an editor, get decent Beta readers, understand who your characters truly are (because there are some major mood swings for the "good guys") and the ladies aren't repped well at all. In fact, it's mostly hysterical females circa 1970s.
If the author hadn't mentioned writing this in honor of his brother at the beginning, I would've stopped 10 pages in. I wish him better endeavors in the future.
September 15, 2025
I don't write a lot of posts, but there is a level of detail in this book that I found very practical. The author's two main characters are brothers and they along with their group of friends and family try to make sense of and survive a zombie outbreak. Not a new concept but the author details how the main characters have been prepping for something and when those chickens finally come home to roost so to speak they are ready or at least more ready than most. As a self described prepper, it made me take a serious look at what resources I have at my disposal. The book also gave me some ideas I look forward to implementing. A good fast read. Let's see how prepared they are in volume 2.
September 23, 2025
Intense characters and zombie terror!
This is my favorite time of the year to read horror novels. I like to check out new authors and this one did not disappoint. The first chapter is fast paced, intense and sets the table for what's to come. The interaction between the characters is intense. As I read, I wondered how would I act if I was thrown into a high stress situation with people I cared about. I appreciated the interactions and how the characters struggled to hold onto their humanity. The author does a good job at letting the narrative breath long enough to lull the reader into a false sense of security. I'm looking forward to where the story goes. More to follow!
This is my favorite time of the year to read horror novels. I like to check out new authors and this one did not disappoint. The first chapter is fast paced, intense and sets the table for what's to come. The interaction between the characters is intense. As I read, I wondered how would I act if I was thrown into a high stress situation with people I cared about. I appreciated the interactions and how the characters struggled to hold onto their humanity. The author does a good job at letting the narrative breath long enough to lull the reader into a false sense of security. I'm looking forward to where the story goes. More to follow!
July 4, 2025
A tale of love and loss…
I recently finished Paradise, volume 1. I liked the story, but I felt I’d missed something deeper. Instead of beginning volume 2 right away, I went back and re-read the beginning of volume 1. There it was in the forward and dedication. I can’t speak for the author, but when I finished volume 1 for the second time, I saw the story as a way to process the real-life loss of his brother. It made the story so much more impactful and elevated it, at least in my opinion beyond that of a simple zombie story. I’m looking forward to volume 2.
I recently finished Paradise, volume 1. I liked the story, but I felt I’d missed something deeper. Instead of beginning volume 2 right away, I went back and re-read the beginning of volume 1. There it was in the forward and dedication. I can’t speak for the author, but when I finished volume 1 for the second time, I saw the story as a way to process the real-life loss of his brother. It made the story so much more impactful and elevated it, at least in my opinion beyond that of a simple zombie story. I’m looking forward to volume 2.
September 8, 2025
Really appreciated how the author made a point to say in the forward that the story had no political slant. It allowed me to immerse myself into the story, and the story did not disappoint. My first thought, what if this wasn't a fiction story about zombies. What if this was a grid down, EMP attack, civil unrest, terrorist attack? Are my family and I ready for anything like that? It really made me think. I was all about the comradery between the main characters. Those are the kinds of capable people I want around me when SHTF. On to volume 2. Definitely give Paradise a read!
September 19, 2025
This book hits all the right notes for me. Firstly, zombies. The author does a great job at describing them in horrifying detail. I also prefer my zombies served up Romero style and the author does not disappoint. What would I do if there was a serious emergency? Exactly what the author describes, call my loved ones, fortify the homestead, shelter in place until we couldn't, then bug out with a destination. Kudos, for a well thought out plan. Looking forward to see where the story goes from here.
August 4, 2025
A friend recommended these books. Zombies are not my typical genre, but I decided to give it a chance. The author has a visual writing style that hooked me immediately. I enjoyed the comradery between the characters, especially the brothers. I was pleased to see that the female characters were not depicted as helpless and screaming. I particularly liked the Dr. Singer character. She is strong, capable and knows who she is. I hope she makes it to the next book. Now on to volume 2!
August 17, 2025
I love the sibling dynamic. The first chapter hooked me but when the author slowed the pace in chapter 2 and introduced the main characters I was in love. I have a younger brother, and I would do anything for him. It was an aspect of the story I truly identified with. The author has a very visual story telling style and it really brought the world of the story to life. My take away from the story, never miss an opportunity to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you. Now on to volume 2!
September 3, 2025
Zombies are my favorite genre of horror so it wasn't a stretch for me to dive into this series. I really like the detail. I don't know a lot about weapons but did some reading and the author really did his research. I also like the characters. They seem like my friends and it made me wonder how we would treat each other under such serious circumstances. This book worked for me on multiple levels. I can't wait to dig into volume 2!
September 4, 2025
Legit tension. It only took a few pages before the zombies arrived and let me tell you it got gory quick. I appreciated the next few chapters where the author slowed the pace and introduced you to the group of survivors. Once they decided to bug out the stakes were raised and tension was back on. The author did a good job to slow things down just enough to give you a false sense of security. I'm an avid reader and I really enjoyed this approach. Let's see what happens with the next book...
September 24, 2025
Solid first volume.
The author uses his visual storytelling style to present a complete picture of the world to readers. I appreciated this approach as it more fully immersed me in the story. The amount of detail throughout made me feel as though I was right there with the characters. This was especially effective when the setting became more claustrophobic as it did in chapter 20.
If you're a fan of zombie horror, I suggest you give this series a read. Cheers!
The author uses his visual storytelling style to present a complete picture of the world to readers. I appreciated this approach as it more fully immersed me in the story. The amount of detail throughout made me feel as though I was right there with the characters. This was especially effective when the setting became more claustrophobic as it did in chapter 20.
If you're a fan of zombie horror, I suggest you give this series a read. Cheers!
October 4, 2025
My kind of story
I've lived in NJ all of my life, so when I saw the picture of the author and Mick Foley on the Pandora's Box Facebook page I decided to give Paradise a read. Having lived through super storm sandy in 2012, the chaos described in the book rang true. The author does a great job putting you in the middle of the conflict. I'm excited for volume 2, but I've got to update my preps first...just in case...
I've lived in NJ all of my life, so when I saw the picture of the author and Mick Foley on the Pandora's Box Facebook page I decided to give Paradise a read. Having lived through super storm sandy in 2012, the chaos described in the book rang true. The author does a great job putting you in the middle of the conflict. I'm excited for volume 2, but I've got to update my preps first...just in case...
October 16, 2025
More than just a zombie story.
I love this time of year and I'm always on the hunt for a good horror story, especially from new authors. Despite the length of the book it was a quick intense read. I figured out quick there was a lot more happing in this story than just zombies. The author gives a lot of sub-text for any readers who are looking. I'm impressed also with the level of detail and I'm looking forward to the second book.
I love this time of year and I'm always on the hunt for a good horror story, especially from new authors. Despite the length of the book it was a quick intense read. I figured out quick there was a lot more happing in this story than just zombies. The author gives a lot of sub-text for any readers who are looking. I'm impressed also with the level of detail and I'm looking forward to the second book.
October 19, 2025
New Jersey undead
As a horror fan and lifelong resident of the garden state, I was excited for a series set in New Jersey. This series did not disappoint. The author gives significant time to how his characters have prepared and why. Having lived through super storm sandy in 2012 this hit home for me. The story and characters are well developed and the book gave me a lot of ideas on how best to prepare for what ever may lay ahead. Check this series out!
As a horror fan and lifelong resident of the garden state, I was excited for a series set in New Jersey. This series did not disappoint. The author gives significant time to how his characters have prepared and why. Having lived through super storm sandy in 2012 this hit home for me. The story and characters are well developed and the book gave me a lot of ideas on how best to prepare for what ever may lay ahead. Check this series out!
November 1, 2025
More than just a story of the undead.
I wasn't sure what exactly I was getting myself into when I opened this book, but after I read the forward and dedication I knew I wanted to see where the story went. I was pleasantly surprised to read the breath and scope of the story. There is so much more than just a story about zombies. This book has a lot of heart and there are clear love stories woven throughout. Don't miss this series!
I wasn't sure what exactly I was getting myself into when I opened this book, but after I read the forward and dedication I knew I wanted to see where the story went. I was pleasantly surprised to read the breath and scope of the story. There is so much more than just a story about zombies. This book has a lot of heart and there are clear love stories woven throughout. Don't miss this series!
November 10, 2025
Where will you be when the end begins?
I found this to be a realistic depiction of the chaos and uncertainty of the unknown. I lived through super storm sandy in 2012 and the garden state was a scary place without power, fuel and emergency services. I can only imagine what would happen over a sustained period of time. I'm going to check the generator and pantry before I read volume 2. Check this one out!
I found this to be a realistic depiction of the chaos and uncertainty of the unknown. I lived through super storm sandy in 2012 and the garden state was a scary place without power, fuel and emergency services. I can only imagine what would happen over a sustained period of time. I'm going to check the generator and pantry before I read volume 2. Check this one out!
September 3, 2025
George A. Romero would be proud. I really enjoyed this first book. There was no hero who showed up to save everyone at the last second, or who had all the answers. There was no coward who rose to the occasion. This was a group of friends and family forced into an impossible situation. They have to navigate this new savage world. I really enjoyed it.
September 4, 2025
I like anything horror, but it was the cover that caught my eye. It doesn't look like anything else in the genre. I really like the relationship between the siblings. I think it set the book apart from most other horror stories. I hope to see more from the females in the next volume. Good first book!
September 12, 2025
Great story! The cover design caught my eye, what a cool picture, that looks like a real place. The story starts off fast. It slows only briefly to introduce the characters and then picks right back up. I felt like I was in the house with them. When the garage door opened I felt like I was leaving with them. If you like zombies, give Paradise a read. Now on to volume 2!
September 16, 2025
Zombies, action and more zombies. I really enjoyed the story. The author does a good job portraying characters struggling to survive under unfamiliar circumstances. I found this approach very realistic. How would any of us act in such stressful circumstances, especially when we're trying to protect our loved ones? Good first volume. Looking forward to the next volume.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews