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Broken World #2
Shattered World
>Shattered World, the exciting sequel to Broken World, follows a group of survivors as they struggle to find safety in a world shattered by a devastating virus, and taken over by the walking dead...
Stranded in the middle of the Mojave Desert, surrounded by zombies, Vivian and Axl are sure they’re facing the end. The dead are closing in and the shelter they were promised is sealed tight. Just when they think they’ve run out of time, the doors are thrown open. Five years underground with all the provisions there for the taking. It’s almost too good to be true. With the promise of security, Vivian hopes she’ll finally able to deal with the loss of Emily, her growing feelings for Axl, and the terrifying new world they’re facing.
But their sense of security is soon shattered when they discover the shelter isn’t the utopia they thought it would be. It seems the company that built the shelter decided to solve their financial problems by selling off provisions, which means the group has to find a way to get supplies. Or face starvation.
And Vegas is the closest city.
With her feelings for Axl stronger than ever, Vivian volunteers to accompany him and a few others on a trip into one of the biggest tourist cities in the world. Vegas is overrun with zombies, but there are other survivors as well. Only not everyone they meet is a welcome sight. As the emotional baggage piles up, Vivian and Axl’s bond grows, but it doesn’t take long to realize that zombies aren’t the only thing they have to fear.
***Revised January 20, 2015 to fix minor editing issues.
Stranded in the middle of the Mojave Desert, surrounded by zombies, Vivian and Axl are sure they’re facing the end. The dead are closing in and the shelter they were promised is sealed tight. Just when they think they’ve run out of time, the doors are thrown open. Five years underground with all the provisions there for the taking. It’s almost too good to be true. With the promise of security, Vivian hopes she’ll finally able to deal with the loss of Emily, her growing feelings for Axl, and the terrifying new world they’re facing.
But their sense of security is soon shattered when they discover the shelter isn’t the utopia they thought it would be. It seems the company that built the shelter decided to solve their financial problems by selling off provisions, which means the group has to find a way to get supplies. Or face starvation.
And Vegas is the closest city.
With her feelings for Axl stronger than ever, Vivian volunteers to accompany him and a few others on a trip into one of the biggest tourist cities in the world. Vegas is overrun with zombies, but there are other survivors as well. Only not everyone they meet is a welcome sight. As the emotional baggage piles up, Vivian and Axl’s bond grows, but it doesn’t take long to realize that zombies aren’t the only thing they have to fear.
***Revised January 20, 2015 to fix minor editing issues.
237 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2014
519 people are currently reading
652 people want to read
About the author
Kate L. Mary
88 books794 followersI'm a mom of four, Air Force wife, and author of adult and young adult dystopian, post-apocalyptic, and science fiction. I love intense world building and character driven stories that feature strong female leads - as well as a side of romance - and any end of the world scenario. Zombies, aliens, a distant future where people have no clue how the world ended in the first place, you name it, I will create a story there!
Having lived in a lot of different places after more than a decade as an Air Force wife, I love setting my books in cities I've actually lived in to give them authenticity. I've resided in: Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, and Oklahoma but am currently back in my home state of Ohio where I live with my husband, four kids, two dogs, and three cats.
When I'm not writing, you can find me by my pool (in the summer), getting lost in some binge-worthy show or at a play with my husband, patronizing one of the great restaurants in my small town of Troy, Ohio with my family, or traveling. I want to see everything and make a point of visiting a new place every year!
Some of my favorite books are The Hunger Games, Pride and Prejudice, The Host, and The Stand. My favorite movies are Aliens, Jaws, Signs, Say Anything, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and The Greatest Showman.
Awards:
Outliers
Winner in the 2018 Kindle Books Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree
Finalist in the 2018 Wishing Shelf Book Awards For Adult Fiction
Top 10 Finalist in the Author Academy Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
Cover Finalist in the 2019 RONE Awards from InD'tale Magazine
When We Were Human
2015 Children's Moonbeam Awards Silver Medal winner for Young Adult Fantasy/Sci-Fi Fiction
2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner for Young Adult Science Fiction
Tribe of Daughters
Winner in the 2020 RONE Awards for Time Travel/Science Fiction
Bronze Medal Winner in the 2019 Readers' Favorite Book Awards for Science Fiction
Honorable Mention in the 2018 SPR Book Awards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateLMaryauthor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kate-...
Website: http://KateLMary.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombieautho...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Kate-L.-Mary/e...
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kate-L.-Mary...
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Having lived in a lot of different places after more than a decade as an Air Force wife, I love setting my books in cities I've actually lived in to give them authenticity. I've resided in: Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, California, and Oklahoma but am currently back in my home state of Ohio where I live with my husband, four kids, two dogs, and three cats.
When I'm not writing, you can find me by my pool (in the summer), getting lost in some binge-worthy show or at a play with my husband, patronizing one of the great restaurants in my small town of Troy, Ohio with my family, or traveling. I want to see everything and make a point of visiting a new place every year!
Some of my favorite books are The Hunger Games, Pride and Prejudice, The Host, and The Stand. My favorite movies are Aliens, Jaws, Signs, Say Anything, Everything Everywhere All At Once, and The Greatest Showman.
Awards:
Outliers
Winner in the 2018 Kindle Books Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree
Finalist in the 2018 Wishing Shelf Book Awards For Adult Fiction
Top 10 Finalist in the Author Academy Awards for Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction
Cover Finalist in the 2019 RONE Awards from InD'tale Magazine
When We Were Human
2015 Children's Moonbeam Awards Silver Medal winner for Young Adult Fantasy/Sci-Fi Fiction
2016 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner for Young Adult Science Fiction
Tribe of Daughters
Winner in the 2020 RONE Awards for Time Travel/Science Fiction
Bronze Medal Winner in the 2019 Readers' Favorite Book Awards for Science Fiction
Honorable Mention in the 2018 SPR Book Awards
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KateLMaryauthor
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kate-...
Website: http://KateLMary.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombieautho...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Kate-L.-Mary/e...
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kate-L.-Mary...
Newsletter: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
October 29, 2015
Living in a secure bunker designed to withstand a nuclear blast seems a pretty good deal when the Zombie Apocalypse breaks out. But what if the promised five years of food for fifty people turns out to be much less, and there's the same story with fuel and other necessities?
Facing a shortage of food, fuel and meds, Vivian and company find themselves planning and executing daring trips into nearby Las Vegas to secure food, fuel and medicine. In the city they find the supplies they are looking for, more survivors and, of course, an endless horde of zombies.
I really liked the first book in the series. This one not so much. First, the book ends in a classic cliff-hanger. Without going into the details, I find this to be a cheap shot. Yes, leave some things unresolved, but don't leave someone dangling off of a cliff - which is more or less what the author did. Next, the romance aspects of the story really began to overwhelm everything else. I was tired of the tension between Vivian and Axl. (I was especially tried reading about his "stormy" eyes). There were also some real implausible things that happened in the story - especially focused on one of the survivors they pick up in Vegas. I found myself shaking my head and saying "no freaking way." It more than stretched my willingness to believe. (I probably have a greater chance of being struck right now by lightning while at the same time a shark is eating me (I live in Ohio and it's October) than what happened.)
Two and a half stars rounded down to two. Some of the fun of this series went away. Zombies good, the rest meh.
Facing a shortage of food, fuel and meds, Vivian and company find themselves planning and executing daring trips into nearby Las Vegas to secure food, fuel and medicine. In the city they find the supplies they are looking for, more survivors and, of course, an endless horde of zombies.
I really liked the first book in the series. This one not so much. First, the book ends in a classic cliff-hanger. Without going into the details, I find this to be a cheap shot. Yes, leave some things unresolved, but don't leave someone dangling off of a cliff - which is more or less what the author did. Next, the romance aspects of the story really began to overwhelm everything else. I was tired of the tension between Vivian and Axl. (I was especially tried reading about his "stormy" eyes). There were also some real implausible things that happened in the story - especially focused on one of the survivors they pick up in Vegas. I found myself shaking my head and saying "no freaking way." It more than stretched my willingness to believe. (I probably have a greater chance of being struck right now by lightning while at the same time a shark is eating me (I live in Ohio and it's October) than what happened.)
Two and a half stars rounded down to two. Some of the fun of this series went away. Zombies good, the rest meh.
January 11, 2016
4.5 Trying to Survive Stars
Shattered World is book two of the Broken World series and Shattered World continues the story.
Shattered World picks up where Broken World left off and WHAT A CLIFFY! I’m just glad I didn’t have to wait for this book because let me tell you, I COULD.NOT.WAIT. I read Shattered World in one sitting and I’m so excited that my zombie book continues!
I really liked how Broken World was written, I felt like there was a lot of character build up, the author let me get a glimpse to all the players and we finally realize yes, there are ZOMBIES. YAY! I didn’t know what to expect going into Shattered World, it’s very hard to keep up with the pace with the story, BUT the author didn’t disappoint.
Shattered World is different, but has much depth and we get to know the characters on a different level. We also see new characters and I love it when the bad and good collide.
Vivian, the brothers and the group has found refuge within an underground compound. BUT it’s not all fun and games, there are still people to deal with right? I like the direction this book was going and the little break from the outside world was nice. This let me focus more on the characters and how they interact with each other, yes!
We get to see Vivian and Axl relationship progress. Vivian is very insecure as she shares a room with a hot movie actress. Axl still gives Vivian the hot and cold treatment, BUT it seems like he’s giving her more hot than cold and I seriously gobbled this up. I’ll be honest, Axl wasn’t my favorite character, BUT he really warmed up to me throughout the book.
As the group tries to get settled in, various problems arises and I LOVE how everything is handled, it’s like one problem after the next that needs to be solved and it keeps the pace, fresh, fast and moving forward.
Just like what I expected, HUGE cliffy in the end and yeah, I’m jumping to the next book to find out what happens next.
**READ on Kindle Unlimied
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZON
Shattered World is book two of the Broken World series and Shattered World continues the story.
Shattered World picks up where Broken World left off and WHAT A CLIFFY! I’m just glad I didn’t have to wait for this book because let me tell you, I COULD.NOT.WAIT. I read Shattered World in one sitting and I’m so excited that my zombie book continues!
I really liked how Broken World was written, I felt like there was a lot of character build up, the author let me get a glimpse to all the players and we finally realize yes, there are ZOMBIES. YAY! I didn’t know what to expect going into Shattered World, it’s very hard to keep up with the pace with the story, BUT the author didn’t disappoint.
Shattered World is different, but has much depth and we get to know the characters on a different level. We also see new characters and I love it when the bad and good collide.
Vivian, the brothers and the group has found refuge within an underground compound. BUT it’s not all fun and games, there are still people to deal with right? I like the direction this book was going and the little break from the outside world was nice. This let me focus more on the characters and how they interact with each other, yes!
We get to see Vivian and Axl relationship progress. Vivian is very insecure as she shares a room with a hot movie actress. Axl still gives Vivian the hot and cold treatment, BUT it seems like he’s giving her more hot than cold and I seriously gobbled this up. I’ll be honest, Axl wasn’t my favorite character, BUT he really warmed up to me throughout the book.
As the group tries to get settled in, various problems arises and I LOVE how everything is handled, it’s like one problem after the next that needs to be solved and it keeps the pace, fresh, fast and moving forward.
Just like what I expected, HUGE cliffy in the end and yeah, I’m jumping to the next book to find out what happens next.
**READ on Kindle Unlimied
REVIEW | AMAZON
AMAZON
June 29, 2022
Definitely not as good as the first one in this series. I was a little disappointed. This one felt all over the place. I thought it was going to get reigned in, but it felt like there was no clear vision on where this one was supposed go.
The author still put a lot of effort into the world building, but it wasn't as successful in this book for a few reason. First the repetition. It was painful. The author kept using the same words to describe the same thing. I feel that if you are a writer, you need to figure out a way to say things differently. The second thing was that the MC that I liked in the first book, was a little too self absorbed, annoying and unlike-able. That changed things for me. I spent a lot of time saying, "Ew." The last thing that I'll mention is some bizarre plot elements that didn't work. It is crazy how unbelievable some of this was. It sucked out some of the fun for me.
Some of the twists were well thought out and creative, but this book felt jumbled. So 3 stars.
The author still put a lot of effort into the world building, but it wasn't as successful in this book for a few reason. First the repetition. It was painful. The author kept using the same words to describe the same thing. I feel that if you are a writer, you need to figure out a way to say things differently. The second thing was that the MC that I liked in the first book, was a little too self absorbed, annoying and unlike-able. That changed things for me. I spent a lot of time saying, "Ew." The last thing that I'll mention is some bizarre plot elements that didn't work. It is crazy how unbelievable some of this was. It sucked out some of the fun for me.
Some of the twists were well thought out and creative, but this book felt jumbled. So 3 stars.
May 7, 2015
Another winner!
I'm so loving the characters in this! God, how I'm swooning over Axl. Angus, even though he is a grade A asshole is just the perfect comic relief!
On to the next!
I'm so loving the characters in this! God, how I'm swooning over Axl. Angus, even though he is a grade A asshole is just the perfect comic relief!
On to the next!
June 23, 2019
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
This was great! After loving the first book in this series, Broken World, I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. Once I started listening to this book, I didn't want to stop. This is one of those series that is just completely addicting. I feel like I become more investing in the welfare of the characters with each passing hour. I really had a great time with this book from beginning to end.
This book picks up right where the first book left off. This is a series that does need to be read in order since each book builds on the previous installments. It is a great series so you really want to be with the characters from the start anyway. This review will have spoilers from the previous book due to the ongoing nature of the story.
Vivian, Axl, and the rest of the group are in a dire situation as the story begins. They have brought the billionaire to his shelter in the desert but he is now refusing to let them in where it is safe. They are outside the compound, surrounded by zombies and preparing to fight for their lives when a well-known actress comes to their aid, allowing them in the shelter. It seems too good to be true. The nearly empty shelter is full of amenities and should be able to sustain the group for a long time. Of course, it does prove to have some pretty big problems.
My favorite part of the book was the developing relationships between the characters. Vivian and Axl are both great characters and I love how they are with each other. They really seem to be better in each other's company. Axl wants to protect Vivian but she is tough and can hold her own in most cases. They really make a great team and I love how much chemistry they have with each other. Hadley was a great addition to the cast. She is a down to earth Hollywood star who is more than willing to do her part and seems to fit in with the others surprising well.
This book had all of the excitement that I hoped for. It took a while for zombies to come into play in the first book in this series but this book starts out with some real zombie action and there is plenty to go around during the course of the story. I was really worried about how things would work out for the characters several times during the story. I thought the there were also a lot of more heartfelt moments in this installment. It really was a very well balanced book.
Hillary Huber did a fantastic job with this book. I think that she does a great job of bringing Vivian to life. She handles the fairly large cast of characters very well and the dialogue in the book flows very nicely. I thought she had a very pleasant reading voice and I had no problems listening to this book for hours at a time.
I would recommend this book to others. It is a very well done post-apocalyptic story with the perfect blend of action, great characters, and just enough romance. I cannot wait to read more of this amazing series!
I received a review copy of this audiobook from the author.
This was great! After loving the first book in this series, Broken World, I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. Once I started listening to this book, I didn't want to stop. This is one of those series that is just completely addicting. I feel like I become more investing in the welfare of the characters with each passing hour. I really had a great time with this book from beginning to end.
This book picks up right where the first book left off. This is a series that does need to be read in order since each book builds on the previous installments. It is a great series so you really want to be with the characters from the start anyway. This review will have spoilers from the previous book due to the ongoing nature of the story.
Vivian, Axl, and the rest of the group are in a dire situation as the story begins. They have brought the billionaire to his shelter in the desert but he is now refusing to let them in where it is safe. They are outside the compound, surrounded by zombies and preparing to fight for their lives when a well-known actress comes to their aid, allowing them in the shelter. It seems too good to be true. The nearly empty shelter is full of amenities and should be able to sustain the group for a long time. Of course, it does prove to have some pretty big problems.
My favorite part of the book was the developing relationships between the characters. Vivian and Axl are both great characters and I love how they are with each other. They really seem to be better in each other's company. Axl wants to protect Vivian but she is tough and can hold her own in most cases. They really make a great team and I love how much chemistry they have with each other. Hadley was a great addition to the cast. She is a down to earth Hollywood star who is more than willing to do her part and seems to fit in with the others surprising well.
This book had all of the excitement that I hoped for. It took a while for zombies to come into play in the first book in this series but this book starts out with some real zombie action and there is plenty to go around during the course of the story. I was really worried about how things would work out for the characters several times during the story. I thought the there were also a lot of more heartfelt moments in this installment. It really was a very well balanced book.
Hillary Huber did a fantastic job with this book. I think that she does a great job of bringing Vivian to life. She handles the fairly large cast of characters very well and the dialogue in the book flows very nicely. I thought she had a very pleasant reading voice and I had no problems listening to this book for hours at a time.
I would recommend this book to others. It is a very well done post-apocalyptic story with the perfect blend of action, great characters, and just enough romance. I cannot wait to read more of this amazing series!
I received a review copy of this audiobook from the author.
March 31, 2015
It's a quick read and a fair representation of the genre, but the writer has some quirks that I just couldn't ignore. All lips are "pursed," and the romantic interest has a mighty twitchy grin, for just two examples. These things occur on almost every page and made me want to either hire the author an editor or slap the one she currently has. I can't read the last of the trilogy due to this, though we are left on quite a cliffhanger by the end of this one.
January 12, 2015
4.5 stars
I liked this one better than the first book in the series, Broken World, because it had more of the author's own ideas in it and less that were obviously inspired by The Walking Dead. It was interesting to see how different personalities adapt to the new circumstances, all of which I felt was pretty realistic, especially in the way that every day worries still come to the fore - just things like, for instance, heroine Vivian's fear that her beloved Axl will fancy the former movie star who happens to be holed up with them!
Axl's a great character - Kate Mary doesn't say much to describe him but he really comes across, a sign of clever writing. I love the relationship between him and Vivian; you can feel the passion between them. I also like how Vivian softens towards his obnoxious brother, Angus, whose more positive characteristics start to shine through in this second book.
The only negative I can see in the book is the inclusion of a meeting with a person from one of the characters' pasts (I don't want to say any more), which I thought was completely unfeasible, far too much of a coincidence. It actually made me say, "Oh, come ON!" out loud! But I enjoyed this, it's jolly good and the tension really works - onto the third one!
I liked this one better than the first book in the series, Broken World, because it had more of the author's own ideas in it and less that were obviously inspired by The Walking Dead. It was interesting to see how different personalities adapt to the new circumstances, all of which I felt was pretty realistic, especially in the way that every day worries still come to the fore - just things like, for instance, heroine Vivian's fear that her beloved Axl will fancy the former movie star who happens to be holed up with them!
Axl's a great character - Kate Mary doesn't say much to describe him but he really comes across, a sign of clever writing. I love the relationship between him and Vivian; you can feel the passion between them. I also like how Vivian softens towards his obnoxious brother, Angus, whose more positive characteristics start to shine through in this second book.
The only negative I can see in the book is the inclusion of a meeting with a person from one of the characters' pasts (I don't want to say any more), which I thought was completely unfeasible, far too much of a coincidence. It actually made me say, "Oh, come ON!" out loud! But I enjoyed this, it's jolly good and the tension really works - onto the third one!
September 29, 2016
Oh my god I think I'm addicted to this series .... Not a single second of boredom ... Rushing through the pages to see whats gonna happen next !!! Love love Axl and Vivian !
October 31, 2014
Good idea, poor implementation....
I'll just hit a couple high points why this book falls short by discussing only the 2 main characters. Lots of spoilers ahead so read at your own discretion.
Main female character: Vivian comes across as an idiotic bimbo who looks like a big boobed, blonde barbie doll (at least thats how my mind pictures her). She is clumsy and constantly falls on her ass, losing her weapon if she even manages to have remembered to carry one in the first place. She constantly has to be rescued by others, is detrimental to the safety of others and is flat out unlikeable. If she were not such a lucky character she would have been dead in the first book. In the zombie apocalypse all she can think about is sex with or marrying our main male character Axl- and it is even more detrimental that she does this while surrounded by zombies. She makes horrible decisions and acts like a total immature imbicile. I really tried but could not come close to liking her. I actually kept hoping she would die in each subsequent chapter. Ended up skipping all the kissing and sex scenes when I was reading- too tripe, too instalove. Who would even consider making out with a guy who has just smeared black oozy goo (from zombie killing) all over his face? Vivian, that's who, without any concern of what happens when she ingests any of that, (gross and idiotic!) She also wears shorts to go scavenging in the city (dumb!) and has open crescent wounds on her palms from clenching her fists (cut your nails idiot and wear gloves before black goo gets in you!) and still volunteers to go into the city for another day of scavenging just because she can't bear to be without her new sex buddy (who she's only known for a week or so) for the day because she loves him so much (please note the dripping sarcasm). She reads like a codependant personalty disorder. Actually realized I was glad Angus slapped her in the first book (not why he slapped her just that someone got to)- wish he'd do it more because I really want to punch her, repeatedly, about the head and neck.
Axl: over protective male Thor like character. The most complex character of the book (very Daryl from Walking Dead and I don't even watch that show). Mostly likable except for his constant throwing himself into danger to rescue others even in situations where the person in danger is already beyond help. For example the doctor (Victor I think) who WANTS to die, throws himself into a zombie horde and is as good as dead- so instead of using the act as a distraction to escape, Axl follows him into the horde and miraculously survives without getting bit or scratched (I call bullsh*t). He gets shot (grazed) while in the horde since everyone else joined in to save him, and miraculously this wound isn't contaminated with oozy black zombie goo (which coats everything according to all the book descriptions). Once again I call bullsh*t. He frequently endangers everyone elses life by his stupid decisions and actions. He is the constant savior of Vivian the stupid because she is his bed buddy after all and being celibate in the start of the zombie apocalypse is just too much to ask of a man.
The list could go on and on....
One good point is the book does talk about safe sex.
If you want instalove, mostly flat uni-dimensional characters, lots of miraculous (and coincidental) situations, and situations survived by pure luck alone, general stupidity of all, and even more bad decisions, then this is the book series for you. If you have ever read or watched a zombie book, show, or movie that was well done, then this will fall far short of what it could have been.
I'll just hit a couple high points why this book falls short by discussing only the 2 main characters. Lots of spoilers ahead so read at your own discretion.
Main female character: Vivian comes across as an idiotic bimbo who looks like a big boobed, blonde barbie doll (at least thats how my mind pictures her). She is clumsy and constantly falls on her ass, losing her weapon if she even manages to have remembered to carry one in the first place. She constantly has to be rescued by others, is detrimental to the safety of others and is flat out unlikeable. If she were not such a lucky character she would have been dead in the first book. In the zombie apocalypse all she can think about is sex with or marrying our main male character Axl- and it is even more detrimental that she does this while surrounded by zombies. She makes horrible decisions and acts like a total immature imbicile. I really tried but could not come close to liking her. I actually kept hoping she would die in each subsequent chapter. Ended up skipping all the kissing and sex scenes when I was reading- too tripe, too instalove. Who would even consider making out with a guy who has just smeared black oozy goo (from zombie killing) all over his face? Vivian, that's who, without any concern of what happens when she ingests any of that, (gross and idiotic!) She also wears shorts to go scavenging in the city (dumb!) and has open crescent wounds on her palms from clenching her fists (cut your nails idiot and wear gloves before black goo gets in you!) and still volunteers to go into the city for another day of scavenging just because she can't bear to be without her new sex buddy (who she's only known for a week or so) for the day because she loves him so much (please note the dripping sarcasm). She reads like a codependant personalty disorder. Actually realized I was glad Angus slapped her in the first book (not why he slapped her just that someone got to)- wish he'd do it more because I really want to punch her, repeatedly, about the head and neck.
Axl: over protective male Thor like character. The most complex character of the book (very Daryl from Walking Dead and I don't even watch that show). Mostly likable except for his constant throwing himself into danger to rescue others even in situations where the person in danger is already beyond help. For example the doctor (Victor I think) who WANTS to die, throws himself into a zombie horde and is as good as dead- so instead of using the act as a distraction to escape, Axl follows him into the horde and miraculously survives without getting bit or scratched (I call bullsh*t). He gets shot (grazed) while in the horde since everyone else joined in to save him, and miraculously this wound isn't contaminated with oozy black zombie goo (which coats everything according to all the book descriptions). Once again I call bullsh*t. He frequently endangers everyone elses life by his stupid decisions and actions. He is the constant savior of Vivian the stupid because she is his bed buddy after all and being celibate in the start of the zombie apocalypse is just too much to ask of a man.
The list could go on and on....
One good point is the book does talk about safe sex.
If you want instalove, mostly flat uni-dimensional characters, lots of miraculous (and coincidental) situations, and situations survived by pure luck alone, general stupidity of all, and even more bad decisions, then this is the book series for you. If you have ever read or watched a zombie book, show, or movie that was well done, then this will fall far short of what it could have been.
April 26, 2016
Lots of zombie gore and black ooze seeping from decaying bodies in this follow up to Mary's "Broken World" series, a story that began almost as a tribute to the original Walking Dead characters but now seems to have taken a life of its own. The story follows Viviane, a 20-year-old former stripper, and Axl, redneck survivor, as they and their group gain refuge in the elitist survival underground bunker, only to discover that its not quite as equipped as it should have been. The characters are fun, particularly the former movie star Hadley, and Angus, the older and racist redneck brother.
The story is told from the first-person perspective of Viviane, which can be sometimes annoying when she's caught up in lust for Axl. Thankfully, V apparently has enough sense to shake it off when she realizes that being surrounded by hungry undead is probably something more important to think about.
I really liked the introduction of . Although the odds of this woman surviving the ZA, and Viviane and Axl running into her in a casino in Vegas are astronomically small (powerball, anyone?), her introduction as a new character will do much to further the narrative.
I really hate that this is the second time the author ends a series book on a cliffhanger. Note to authors around the world: if your story is smart and engaging, readers will continue reading your stories because of those very elements. Ending your story on a cliffhanger so the reader just has to get the next book is annoying and can often backfire from its intended purpose. Just saying.
The story is told from the first-person perspective of Viviane, which can be sometimes annoying when she's caught up in lust for Axl. Thankfully, V apparently has enough sense to shake it off when she realizes that being surrounded by hungry undead is probably something more important to think about.
I really liked the introduction of . Although the odds of this woman surviving the ZA, and Viviane and Axl running into her in a casino in Vegas are astronomically small (powerball, anyone?), her introduction as a new character will do much to further the narrative.
I really hate that this is the second time the author ends a series book on a cliffhanger. Note to authors around the world: if your story is smart and engaging, readers will continue reading your stories because of those very elements. Ending your story on a cliffhanger so the reader just has to get the next book is annoying and can often backfire from its intended purpose. Just saying.
October 21, 2019
I just can't do it! The story could be good (the writing is). I just can't stand the main character. I thought the second book might improve her or write her off. No book three for me....
February 10, 2025
Okay I didn’t enjoy this one as much 🫠 How many times do we have to hear about the FMC’s plastic surgery and former job?! I feel like it just makes the story feel very unserious. Maybe that’s a me thing. Also I was all for the romance, but now it’s annoying.
Overall, I didn’t love it. Not sure if I’ll continue, but definitely need a break
Overall, I didn’t love it. Not sure if I’ll continue, but definitely need a break
October 8, 2014
This review and many others can be found on my blog - Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Well, book #2 in this series definitely did not let me down! If anything, I think I loved it even a little bit more than the first book! Shattered World picks up right where Broken World left off, and the gang is rescued and allowed into the shelter – by a movie star!
What I LOVED:
The zombies.
The zombie apocalypse is now in high gear!! Like the synopsis says, the safety of shelter life doesn’t last long. Vivian and the others have to go out into Las Vegas to get supplies – food and fuel – and the trips are full of zombie action and near-death experiences (and some actual death experiences!). If you thought there weren’t enough zombies in the first book, you won’t be disappointed again!
New characters and relationships.
There were quite a few new characters introduced – both people who were already residing in the shelter and people who are picked up on the various trips out to Las Vegas. My favorite was definitely Vivian’s roommate – a movie star, who Vivian originally doesn’t think very highly of, but she quickly becomes a good friend. Then there’s the old plastic surgeon, who is grieving over his dead wife. He ends up being an important character later in the book! In general, in the shelter, we’re able to see the relationships among all of these people develop more – because they have a relatively safe environment in which to interact. I loved seeing how all of the relationships played out. Especially the main romance …
The romance.
Just like the zombie action, the romance also picks up in this book. I was definitely shipping Axle and Vivian in the first book, so I was REALLY happy to see them get together in book #2. But it isn’t easy for either of them to acknowledge their feelings – after all, they both have their share of baggage. So, we got to see them work their way up to a relationship, which I loved!
The negatives:
Coincidence.
There is one new character who’s introduced that made me roll my eyes a little because it was just a little too coincidental. But this character did add a really interesting dynamic to the book, so I could forgive the coincidence!
Cliffhanger.
This book ends with a bit of a cliffhanger too. Guess I’ll have to be on the edge of my seat until January!
If you’re looking for a great zombie series, check this one out! I am happy to say that the second book in the series continued the excitement and character-driven story that we got in Broken World. 5/5 Stars.
***Disclosure: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
Well, book #2 in this series definitely did not let me down! If anything, I think I loved it even a little bit more than the first book! Shattered World picks up right where Broken World left off, and the gang is rescued and allowed into the shelter – by a movie star!
What I LOVED:
The zombies.
The zombie apocalypse is now in high gear!! Like the synopsis says, the safety of shelter life doesn’t last long. Vivian and the others have to go out into Las Vegas to get supplies – food and fuel – and the trips are full of zombie action and near-death experiences (and some actual death experiences!). If you thought there weren’t enough zombies in the first book, you won’t be disappointed again!
New characters and relationships.
There were quite a few new characters introduced – both people who were already residing in the shelter and people who are picked up on the various trips out to Las Vegas. My favorite was definitely Vivian’s roommate – a movie star, who Vivian originally doesn’t think very highly of, but she quickly becomes a good friend. Then there’s the old plastic surgeon, who is grieving over his dead wife. He ends up being an important character later in the book! In general, in the shelter, we’re able to see the relationships among all of these people develop more – because they have a relatively safe environment in which to interact. I loved seeing how all of the relationships played out. Especially the main romance …
The romance.
Just like the zombie action, the romance also picks up in this book. I was definitely shipping Axle and Vivian in the first book, so I was REALLY happy to see them get together in book #2. But it isn’t easy for either of them to acknowledge their feelings – after all, they both have their share of baggage. So, we got to see them work their way up to a relationship, which I loved!
The negatives:
Coincidence.
There is one new character who’s introduced that made me roll my eyes a little because it was just a little too coincidental. But this character did add a really interesting dynamic to the book, so I could forgive the coincidence!
Cliffhanger.
This book ends with a bit of a cliffhanger too. Guess I’ll have to be on the edge of my seat until January!
If you’re looking for a great zombie series, check this one out! I am happy to say that the second book in the series continued the excitement and character-driven story that we got in Broken World. 5/5 Stars.
***Disclosure: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
February 20, 2016
Crikey! I swear I want to like this book but I just can't get past the repetitiveness! I get it.....the f'n zombies smell bad and ooze black goo. Good God it's in every other paragraph!
I hate Vivian. She's stupid.
The story line isn't believable. I get it, it's fiction. But just too many stupid things happen. I read one review where the person said they had as much of a chance of being hit by lightning and being eaten by a shark at the same time and they live in Ohio and it was October, as the things happening in the story. I concur.
And someone else said what I wanted to say, fire your editor or give them a good bitch slap. Better yet, get your editor an editor!
What do I like? Well if Daryl and Rick [from Walking Dead] made a baby, Axl would be him. I like Axl. He is believable.
I hate Vivian. She's stupid.
The story line isn't believable. I get it, it's fiction. But just too many stupid things happen. I read one review where the person said they had as much of a chance of being hit by lightning and being eaten by a shark at the same time and they live in Ohio and it was October, as the things happening in the story. I concur.
And someone else said what I wanted to say, fire your editor or give them a good bitch slap. Better yet, get your editor an editor!
What do I like? Well if Daryl and Rick [from Walking Dead] made a baby, Axl would be him. I like Axl. He is believable.
March 12, 2015
This one frustrated me, it had a lot of promise to be good. The main character Vivan turned into a love sick idiot, and in one instance was more concerned about the fact that she wasn't going to be able to have sex with Axl if she died. I definitely wouldn't be worried about sex in the middle of trying to survive. She also was VERY judgmental about every other character but Axl. I got tired of hearing how she thought Hadley was such a bitch before the apocalypse and how Bipolar her feelings were for Angus. Lastly I felt like the author really needed an editor. There were a few instances where she would mention how Axl smelled every few paragraphs. I am giving this book a 2.5 but bumping the rating to a 3 because I did like the plot. Still debating whether I will read book 3.
October 6, 2019
I dont recall the first book being this corny, the protagonist this insufferable. I cringed at nearly every thought she had. The characters were all flatter than the floor and i figured very quickly that i didnt care for any of them. Vivian didnt seem too cut up about her only daughter dying right in front of her. No shes too busy calling the beautiful and only-reason-youre-alive Hadley a bitch for something trivial. And wondering why Axl isnt putting the moves on her. And using her body for stupid and cringe-worthy things that add nothing what so ever to the story.
December 29, 2014
A fun addition to the series.
Shattered world has more zombie slaying action than the first book, which I like. There wasn't a slow or dull part of the book, YIPPEE no skimming. In the next installment I hope Angus has more of a presence, every time he opens his mouth I laugh.
Shattered world has more zombie slaying action than the first book, which I like. There wasn't a slow or dull part of the book, YIPPEE no skimming. In the next installment I hope Angus has more of a presence, every time he opens his mouth I laugh.
February 5, 2015
This is a great book....tense! I've chewed all the skin off the inside of my lip! I'm only giving it 4 stars because it just ENDS right in the middle of a car chase. Really makes me wonder if I want to read the next version....kind of stinky to end a book that way!
May 13, 2021
***3.5***
Thoughts in case I ever want to re-read this book:
-Low steam, fade to black.
-These awful characters are starting to grow on me.
- Why the heck don't they wear masks if the smell is so horrible?
-GET OUT OF VEGAS. It wasn't even a good place to go before the zombies arrived!!
Thoughts in case I ever want to re-read this book:
-Low steam, fade to black.
-These awful characters are starting to grow on me.
- Why the heck don't they wear masks if the smell is so horrible?
-GET OUT OF VEGAS. It wasn't even a good place to go before the zombies arrived!!
October 23, 2022
I'm 79% through this book and went to get the rest of the series when I decided to DNF where I'm at.
The writing is phenomenal, the story is gripping, the characters are pretty realistic and the suspense is great! I highly recommend this for TWD fans.
I just... I can't do it...
*spoilers ahead*
I read the synopsis for the future books and noticed some names missing. I read a few reviews and realized those names were missing for obvious reasons.
I find deaths of main characters triggering and can't get invested in a series without a happily ever after. So I'm not abandoning the series because there's anything wrong with it, I'm walking away because I know I can't handle it.
😮💨
I REALLY like these books too. I hope (some day) to find something similar but with a HEA for the main characters.
The writing is phenomenal, the story is gripping, the characters are pretty realistic and the suspense is great! I highly recommend this for TWD fans.
I just... I can't do it...
*spoilers ahead*
I read the synopsis for the future books and noticed some names missing. I read a few reviews and realized those names were missing for obvious reasons.
I find deaths of main characters triggering and can't get invested in a series without a happily ever after. So I'm not abandoning the series because there's anything wrong with it, I'm walking away because I know I can't handle it.
😮💨
I REALLY like these books too. I hope (some day) to find something similar but with a HEA for the main characters.
January 29, 2018
A great human story, while surviving the zombie apocalypse.
Oh my gosh!! The second book in an amazing series, Shattered World, has everything that Broken World had but more. Our group of survivors is growing. But some of these new group members aren't exactly sane. Will our group of survivors survive this hugely shattered world? How beneficial will the new group members be? Who will be the next group member to get infected and die?
Oh my gosh!! The second book in an amazing series, Shattered World, has everything that Broken World had but more. Our group of survivors is growing. But some of these new group members aren't exactly sane. Will our group of survivors survive this hugely shattered world? How beneficial will the new group members be? Who will be the next group member to get infected and die?
October 3, 2020
Round up to 4.5 stars. This author knows how to keep you glued to your seat! I’m not usually a series binger, but I can’t seem to stop with this one.
December 5, 2019
Carries on from book 1.
Triggers for violence.
Leads into next book.
Triggers for violence.
Leads into next book.
March 19, 2017
I feel like there was less of a story arc in this book than in the first book. There's lots of action and character development, but it is much less of a stand-alone book and very clearly just part of a series. Or possibly, it reads as just part of a book, I'm not sure. I'm still really enjoying the characters (Though Angus and Axl are always, and likely will always be Merle and Darrell in my head...) so I'm going to keep reading.
October 2, 2014
The novel elaborates more on the dire circumstances of Vivian, our narrator, and the rag-tag group of survivors that she joined up with out of necessity. (At least, that was why she stuck by them at first.) Vivian’s tone is still very conversational, which gives the book the same familiar feeling of being a story told by a friend rather than a novel about a dystopian wasteland filled with zombies. The tone suits the character well (an ex-stripper who was living in Kentucky at the time of the outbreak), and the easy to read language selection lends itself to the page-turning action and romance sequences that Mary frequently transitions between.
If it is possible, I liked Shattered World even more than I liked Broken World. Despite my fondness for terrible movies, I actually adore character development and was excited to learn more about Vivian, Axl, Angus, and the rest of the cast of characters from the first book. I love the opportunities that Mary’s writing style affords the reader to get to know each character. We get to see not only their actions, but their interactions with other characters and with Vivian in particular. Though her vocabulary is not always the most elevated, Vivian is a sharp character and is very observant. Her characterization and portrayal only adds to the presentation of the story as Mary has written it and intended it to be. Honestly, I don’t think the novel would be as fun were it not for the added drama of character dynamics including the romantic components. (Take that, naysayers.) Thanks to Mary’s clever monologues and the quip-laden banter which is exchanged with anyone who crosses Vivian, the book maintains a fun feel and doesn’t dip into the monotonous melancholia that can overwhelm novels about morbid topics such as the zombie apocalypse.
In this second volume of the series, the reader is exposed to more of what has happened. With each new character introduced another piece of the outbreak puzzle and experience is revealed. Readers learn a bit more about what the outbreak looked like for people across the United States as the individuals themselves were vastly different and in incredibly different situations prior to the spread of the infection. We also are exposed to some of the different ways that people handle seemingly impossible scenarios, such as a zombie apocalypse, but also the more mundane but still tragic scenario of losing a loved one. Mary presents these themes well and covers a large amount of territory in terms of character development and back story establishment in a fairly short amount of time through dialogue.
For those who do not like to merge themes within the horror genre there is, as in the last book, a blend of romance and action. Due to the nature of the story, the transition from romance to fighting zombies and back again can happen in a matter of pages. Even Vivian, the narrator, occasionally kicks herself for not keeping her thoughts on survival, something I think even those who dislike romance in their horror can appreciate. Who hasn’t watched a horror flick and thought “Seriously? You want to flirt NOW?”
Overall, I give this book a very positive review. If you enjoyed Broken World you should definitely pick up Shattered World!
If it is possible, I liked Shattered World even more than I liked Broken World. Despite my fondness for terrible movies, I actually adore character development and was excited to learn more about Vivian, Axl, Angus, and the rest of the cast of characters from the first book. I love the opportunities that Mary’s writing style affords the reader to get to know each character. We get to see not only their actions, but their interactions with other characters and with Vivian in particular. Though her vocabulary is not always the most elevated, Vivian is a sharp character and is very observant. Her characterization and portrayal only adds to the presentation of the story as Mary has written it and intended it to be. Honestly, I don’t think the novel would be as fun were it not for the added drama of character dynamics including the romantic components. (Take that, naysayers.) Thanks to Mary’s clever monologues and the quip-laden banter which is exchanged with anyone who crosses Vivian, the book maintains a fun feel and doesn’t dip into the monotonous melancholia that can overwhelm novels about morbid topics such as the zombie apocalypse.
In this second volume of the series, the reader is exposed to more of what has happened. With each new character introduced another piece of the outbreak puzzle and experience is revealed. Readers learn a bit more about what the outbreak looked like for people across the United States as the individuals themselves were vastly different and in incredibly different situations prior to the spread of the infection. We also are exposed to some of the different ways that people handle seemingly impossible scenarios, such as a zombie apocalypse, but also the more mundane but still tragic scenario of losing a loved one. Mary presents these themes well and covers a large amount of territory in terms of character development and back story establishment in a fairly short amount of time through dialogue.
For those who do not like to merge themes within the horror genre there is, as in the last book, a blend of romance and action. Due to the nature of the story, the transition from romance to fighting zombies and back again can happen in a matter of pages. Even Vivian, the narrator, occasionally kicks herself for not keeping her thoughts on survival, something I think even those who dislike romance in their horror can appreciate. Who hasn’t watched a horror flick and thought “Seriously? You want to flirt NOW?”
Overall, I give this book a very positive review. If you enjoyed Broken World you should definitely pick up Shattered World!
August 16, 2014
Vivian thought it was the end, and then the door to the compound opened and who comes to their rescue? A MOVIE STAR! Thankfully for them someone in the compound was smarter than Mitchell and let them in, but just when they thought things were finally going their way they find out that their haven is little more than an empty shell. Now they have to go out and look for supplies and their only option is Vegas, a city they all know will be crawling with Zombies. While all that craziness is going on Vivian is trying to firgure out her feelings for Axel, but everytime they get close to each other something else happens, will they ever get their "relationship" or lack of one figured out or will everything else keep getting in the way?
Vivian was so tough and awsome in the first book and while I still enjoyed her character this go around, her constant crying become a bit much at times. She's still a tough chick and she's not one to take crap from anyone and it was fun to see her go toe to toe with some of the other characters at times.
Axel and Angus bring their own brand of fun to this story as well keeping you guessing what will happen with them next and what stunts they will pull. We also see more of the other characters helping you get sucked into their world even more wondering who is thinking what and what everyone will do when things are tense.
We see more of what this group does to survive and if you're like me you get even more ideas about what to do if we have our own Zombie apocalypse. ;)
Vivian was so tough and awsome in the first book and while I still enjoyed her character this go around, her constant crying become a bit much at times. She's still a tough chick and she's not one to take crap from anyone and it was fun to see her go toe to toe with some of the other characters at times.
Axel and Angus bring their own brand of fun to this story as well keeping you guessing what will happen with them next and what stunts they will pull. We also see more of the other characters helping you get sucked into their world even more wondering who is thinking what and what everyone will do when things are tense.
We see more of what this group does to survive and if you're like me you get even more ideas about what to do if we have our own Zombie apocalypse. ;)
January 28, 2015
First of all, I don't understand why people keep saying that this book is like TWD!! I don't find that the story is similar, of course there are a couple of cliches but I don't think that they "belong" to the tv show!
Once again, Kate delivers another great book. The group is growing, the safe place is not so safe, so our main characters must go to Las Vegas looking for supplies, the zombies are in full motion, giving us more action and over the edge scenes. We are introduced to new characters and one of them is very close to Vivian, there are also a couple of them that are suspicious, so I found myself enjoying the development of their stories.
Axl and Vivian are growing closer, maybe putting them in danger? It's seems to be that she's going trough a crisis, because she rambles a little to much. Axl, of course, is perfect! Lol
This is how I see our couple in this book:
Vivian with her crisis
Axl more adorable
I'm so happy that I was able to read this books, I'm loving this Author!!
Can't wait to grab book #3!!!!!!
*I received a copy in exchange of an Honest review*
Once again, Kate delivers another great book. The group is growing, the safe place is not so safe, so our main characters must go to Las Vegas looking for supplies, the zombies are in full motion, giving us more action and over the edge scenes. We are introduced to new characters and one of them is very close to Vivian, there are also a couple of them that are suspicious, so I found myself enjoying the development of their stories.
Axl and Vivian are growing closer, maybe putting them in danger? It's seems to be that she's going trough a crisis, because she rambles a little to much. Axl, of course, is perfect! Lol
This is how I see our couple in this book:
Vivian with her crisis
Axl more adorable
I'm so happy that I was able to read this books, I'm loving this Author!!
Can't wait to grab book #3!!!!!!
*I received a copy in exchange of an Honest review*
January 3, 2015
The adventure continues! After reading book one in two days, I immediately downloaded book two and was engrossed again. I was really excited to meet the characters living in the bunker and for the characters to get a chance to breathe and interact more without the constant threat of danger.
I was thrilled to see the relationship develop between Vivian and Axl. Their chemistry is awesome, and there are some really steamy scenes in here. I will never look at a sauna the same way again. Vivian continues to be a strong, likable character, and I also really liked Hadley. Angus, while still kind of gross, becomes that guy you grudgingly like. Of course, Axl is the man.
However, this book also has a ton of action. The ending moves at a breakneck pace. I read the last half extremely quickly. Mostly, I was concerned that something would happen to Axl. This continues to have the same feel as "The Walking Dead," and this installment is even a little bit darker as the characters start to realize that the struggle to survive is going to be ongoing.
I was glad to see book three just came out, so I'm looking forward to delving into that next.
I was thrilled to see the relationship develop between Vivian and Axl. Their chemistry is awesome, and there are some really steamy scenes in here. I will never look at a sauna the same way again. Vivian continues to be a strong, likable character, and I also really liked Hadley. Angus, while still kind of gross, becomes that guy you grudgingly like. Of course, Axl is the man.
However, this book also has a ton of action. The ending moves at a breakneck pace. I read the last half extremely quickly. Mostly, I was concerned that something would happen to Axl. This continues to have the same feel as "The Walking Dead," and this installment is even a little bit darker as the characters start to realize that the struggle to survive is going to be ongoing.
I was glad to see book three just came out, so I'm looking forward to delving into that next.
May 12, 2016
Well. It didn't get better. I wanted to do a wordcount of the words hurl, sticky, bile, gag, and more. Every few minutes the main character is "about to hurl", wants "to hurl", feels or chokes back "the need to hurl". In between sweating and being sticky and gagging on or tasting bile. Let us not forget that EVERY situation is an occasion to dig her fingernails into the palm of her hands. And in between that she's horny. Once again I think this author doesn't have a bad writing style but the story itself doesn't stand up to any kind of scrutiny. It wasn't even a fun read for all of the glaring problems.
She looks out over a crowd and then spots a couple people she knows. Of course the crowd consists of 5 people she knows. It's as though the author forgets what she's writing about over and over again throughout the story.
This was my second and last attempt to enjoy these books and I have no desire to continue with the rest of the story.
If you're looking for a very sex oriented "relationship" between sweaty stinky people who are either violent or continuously at the brink of hurling this is probably the book for you.
She looks out over a crowd and then spots a couple people she knows. Of course the crowd consists of 5 people she knows. It's as though the author forgets what she's writing about over and over again throughout the story.
This was my second and last attempt to enjoy these books and I have no desire to continue with the rest of the story.
If you're looking for a very sex oriented "relationship" between sweaty stinky people who are either violent or continuously at the brink of hurling this is probably the book for you.
October 2, 2014
As a mega fan of The Walking Dead, I was eager to get my hands on something zombie themed while waiting for the new season. The first book in this series blew me away and I was instantly drawn to the quirky characters, especially Vivian, the ex-stripper telling the story. It was easy to get back into the flow where the group was left in the desert, locked out from their hope of survival. There are more zombies in this book and it moves at a faster pace than the first. While at times the concept of the redneck brothers reminds me of Daryl and Meryl, it's not to the point where the author copied these characters as Axl and Angus have their own sets of issues and personalities that run even deeper. I really enjoyed the side story of romance and seeing the relationships of the characters develop. Definitely a page turner with a shocking ending...you'll be anxious for the release of book #3 in January!
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