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When the World Fell #1
The Fallen: A zombie apocalypse romance
Liv
I should be happy to be one of the small percentage who made it through a zombie apocalypse—and I am. Most of the time. It's just... I'm the sole survivor of my family, and I have one friend left; my eighty-year-old neighbour, Haruto.
It's a lonely life. A dangerous life.
And my food supplies are running low.
I've lived in the city for a decade, long before the pandemic took everything from us, but it’s time to leave and search for a rural property with room for vegetable gardens and fruit trees, and space to invite others to join—if I can find more people like me who've hung onto old-world values in a new world where there are no systems or rules.
The problem? Haruto's unwell and unfit for travel, and it's too dangerous to spend long stretches of time outside. It's not just the dead with their vacant eyes and hungry mouths that I need to worry about. It's other humans, too.
There's a gang roaming the city; they're violent and unpredictable, and they intimidate me enough that I try to make myself invisible whenever I leave my apartment.
There's another man lurking around, too. He's been staying in the building opposite mine, and I've spent the past week tracking his movements. Although I've kept my distance from him so far, just being around him makes me feel safer outside and less lonely.
It's risky approaching other humans now, but Haruto isn't getting any better, and soon enough I'll be alone—completely alone for the first time in my life.
And I'm reaching the point now where desperation is pushing me to risk it all and bear the consequences.
I should be happy to be one of the small percentage who made it through a zombie apocalypse—and I am. Most of the time. It's just... I'm the sole survivor of my family, and I have one friend left; my eighty-year-old neighbour, Haruto.
It's a lonely life. A dangerous life.
And my food supplies are running low.
I've lived in the city for a decade, long before the pandemic took everything from us, but it’s time to leave and search for a rural property with room for vegetable gardens and fruit trees, and space to invite others to join—if I can find more people like me who've hung onto old-world values in a new world where there are no systems or rules.
The problem? Haruto's unwell and unfit for travel, and it's too dangerous to spend long stretches of time outside. It's not just the dead with their vacant eyes and hungry mouths that I need to worry about. It's other humans, too.
There's a gang roaming the city; they're violent and unpredictable, and they intimidate me enough that I try to make myself invisible whenever I leave my apartment.
There's another man lurking around, too. He's been staying in the building opposite mine, and I've spent the past week tracking his movements. Although I've kept my distance from him so far, just being around him makes me feel safer outside and less lonely.
It's risky approaching other humans now, but Haruto isn't getting any better, and soon enough I'll be alone—completely alone for the first time in my life.
And I'm reaching the point now where desperation is pushing me to risk it all and bear the consequences.
Unknown Binding
First published August 31, 2023
429 people are currently reading
987 people want to read
About the author
Elle Richards
3 books74 followersElle Richards has been a fan of end-of-the-world, post-apocalyptic stories for the longest time, and she loves romance. Put them together, and you have her When the World Fell series.
During her free time, she enjoys hiking, drawing, renovating, and Googling cast members while she's watching TV shows and movies.
She lives in Victoria, Australia, with her husband, her two children, and three dogs.
You can find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellerichard...
During her free time, she enjoys hiking, drawing, renovating, and Googling cast members while she's watching TV shows and movies.
She lives in Victoria, Australia, with her husband, her two children, and three dogs.
You can find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellerichard...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
April 26, 2024
The story takes place in Melbourne, Australia, with Olivia (28) and her 80 year-old neighbor, Haruto. They've survived for two years past the collapse of modern civilization thanks to Olivia's reading up on prepper books during the first covid pandemic. She maxes out her credit cards purchasing shelf stable foods and when the time comes to pay those bills, well, the world isn't functioning anymore and her preparation saves them.
Olivia (Liv) leaves the apartment every day to carefully search the city for pain meds for Haruto and anything else useful to their survival. She is aware of a gang of men in town, but so far, has managed to stay hidden from them. One day, she spots a solitary man leaving the building next to hers and feels a different kind of energy with him.
✔Refreshing, original, relatable characters
✔Romantic but no on-page steam (it's in the next bk)
✔Mature characters who effectively communicate
✔Strong FMC who battles with a sword
✔Alpha MMC with a sensitive side
✔️Intense w/zombies and bad guys
✔Ends with a 'safe for now', book two is already out!
Cruz (32) former police detective, has been alone for awhile now. His brother is gone and he longs for stability in the new crazy world. One day he spots Liv leaving her building, and after watching her eloquently dispatch zombies, wants to know more about her.
Liv and Cruz are such relatable characters. Their interactions are genuine, and the chemistry between them is palpable. While I was slightly disappointed in the lack of steam, I have to admit, it was refreshing to have a story focused on emotional depth and connection. This allowed their relationship to develop naturally without relying solely on physical attraction.
Whenever I looked at him now, I felt affection, butterflies. Lust. It was so confusing. We'd known each other for such a short time.
Part of what made this book so enjoyable was reading characters who act like adults and actually communicate. No tired tropes of misunderstandings and miscommunication that often plague romance novels! Instead, the characters confront their issues head-on, allowing for growth and maturity throughout the story.
Highly recommended for a post-apocalyptic romance fans!
Much thanks to Catheryn for recommending this one to me.
Olivia (Liv) leaves the apartment every day to carefully search the city for pain meds for Haruto and anything else useful to their survival. She is aware of a gang of men in town, but so far, has managed to stay hidden from them. One day, she spots a solitary man leaving the building next to hers and feels a different kind of energy with him.
✔Refreshing, original, relatable characters
✔Romantic but no on-page steam (it's in the next bk)
✔Mature characters who effectively communicate
✔Strong FMC who battles with a sword
✔Alpha MMC with a sensitive side
✔️Intense w/zombies and bad guys
✔Ends with a 'safe for now', book two is already out!
Cruz (32) former police detective, has been alone for awhile now. His brother is gone and he longs for stability in the new crazy world. One day he spots Liv leaving her building, and after watching her eloquently dispatch zombies, wants to know more about her.
Liv and Cruz are such relatable characters. Their interactions are genuine, and the chemistry between them is palpable. While I was slightly disappointed in the lack of steam, I have to admit, it was refreshing to have a story focused on emotional depth and connection. This allowed their relationship to develop naturally without relying solely on physical attraction.
Whenever I looked at him now, I felt affection, butterflies. Lust. It was so confusing. We'd known each other for such a short time.
Part of what made this book so enjoyable was reading characters who act like adults and actually communicate. No tired tropes of misunderstandings and miscommunication that often plague romance novels! Instead, the characters confront their issues head-on, allowing for growth and maturity throughout the story.
Highly recommended for a post-apocalyptic romance fans!
Much thanks to Catheryn for recommending this one to me.
June 20, 2024
Every apocalypse book feels like a game show to me. What decisions will they make? How much will they win? Who are the other players? Will they get eliminated? I am a sucker for any plot where the world goes to sh*t 🧟🧟♀️🧟♂️
This book definitely had adrenaline-filled moments that drove the narrative forward and kept the plot interesting. The length of this book is pretty short. Kindle said I would finish it in 3hr 30, but I don’t know if I trust her. I can’t confirm that though because I dnf-ed at 55% … I really wanted to like this book.
I enjoyed the writing style (which is usually one of my DNF reasons), as all details were succinct, and clear and didn’t make me feel like I was drowning in adjectives.
The element that fell short for me was the romance. This is very much my personal preference, but I thought the relationship would play out differently based on the environment.
They are in the apocalypse. There are zombies everywhere. They also have human threats and their survival is never guaranteed. This is a complete pressure cooker situation. Intense AF. This didn’t really translate (for me) to the romance.
The characters have a connection, but I wouldn't say sparks were flying enough for any fires to be put out. It felt very ordinary. Like if you took them out of this environment and made them…neighbours, some of the scenes would play out the same. It was a slow burn, which I get, but I thought because it was so short it would pack more of a punch with the tension and anticipation. I mean their first meeting was sweet, but a little anticlimactic for me.
I prefer that crushing intensity that causes characters to make the best and worst decisions. However, they seemed like quite level-headed people, considering death was around every corner. I just wanted more friction, but maybe that came later..
I just think it's not my kind of relationship to read about (not in this kind of book anyway), but I'm probably comparing it too much to every other apocalypse read I've read.
I'd still recommend it and slightly wonder how it ended, but not enough to finish it.
This book definitely had adrenaline-filled moments that drove the narrative forward and kept the plot interesting. The length of this book is pretty short. Kindle said I would finish it in 3hr 30, but I don’t know if I trust her. I can’t confirm that though because I dnf-ed at 55% … I really wanted to like this book.
I enjoyed the writing style (which is usually one of my DNF reasons), as all details were succinct, and clear and didn’t make me feel like I was drowning in adjectives.
The element that fell short for me was the romance. This is very much my personal preference, but I thought the relationship would play out differently based on the environment.
They are in the apocalypse. There are zombies everywhere. They also have human threats and their survival is never guaranteed. This is a complete pressure cooker situation. Intense AF. This didn’t really translate (for me) to the romance.
The characters have a connection, but I wouldn't say sparks were flying enough for any fires to be put out. It felt very ordinary. Like if you took them out of this environment and made them…neighbours, some of the scenes would play out the same. It was a slow burn, which I get, but I thought because it was so short it would pack more of a punch with the tension and anticipation. I mean their first meeting was sweet, but a little anticlimactic for me.
I prefer that crushing intensity that causes characters to make the best and worst decisions. However, they seemed like quite level-headed people, considering death was around every corner. I just wanted more friction, but maybe that came later..
I just think it's not my kind of relationship to read about (not in this kind of book anyway), but I'm probably comparing it too much to every other apocalypse read I've read.
I'd still recommend it and slightly wonder how it ended, but not enough to finish it.
May 3, 2024
This story and environment are really good, with great characters and a lot of actions.
It’s seems believable.
It’s worth reading!
It’s seems believable.
It’s worth reading!
April 18, 2024
Almost 5 stars.
I loved this book. I thought the world building and pacing was great. Liv has been working to get where she is with her set up. I thought her neighbor was very sweet. Her and Cruz have a few sweet post-apoc flirting moments. I love that Liv's character feels real and believable. Cruz is an amazing MMC and works with Liv, not over her. They both fit together and have different strengths.
I loved that this book did an excellent job of balancing series/tense of the zombies and the gang moments with very sweet/tender moments between Liv and Cruz.
This story is very slow burn (no spice in this book) but I don't even care because we are in this for the long haul. An excellent post-apocalyptic romance!
I loved this book. I thought the world building and pacing was great. Liv has been working to get where she is with her set up. I thought her neighbor was very sweet. Her and Cruz have a few sweet post-apoc flirting moments. I love that Liv's character feels real and believable. Cruz is an amazing MMC and works with Liv, not over her. They both fit together and have different strengths.
I loved that this book did an excellent job of balancing series/tense of the zombies and the gang moments with very sweet/tender moments between Liv and Cruz.
This story is very slow burn (no spice in this book) but I don't even care because we are in this for the long haul. An excellent post-apocalyptic romance!
August 24, 2025
well, this was a promising start!
3.5 Stars
no steam yet
3.5 Stars
no steam yet
May 16, 2024
dnf at 20%
he's a former cop and tan and fit with dark hair and intense eyes. his "masculinity" makes him want to hit on the FMC.
she's thin and fit and looks like tomb raider with her long dark braid and piercing blue eyes. but she'll never accept a compliment because she's just not like other girls.
so - lol no thanks.
he's a former cop and tan and fit with dark hair and intense eyes. his "masculinity" makes him want to hit on the FMC.
she's thin and fit and looks like tomb raider with her long dark braid and piercing blue eyes. but she'll never accept a compliment because she's just not like other girls.
so - lol no thanks.
October 2, 2025
Strangely enough, humans scared me more. The dead were at least predictable and never tried to hide what they wanted from you.
I liked THE FALLEN but for some reason its not pulling me in & making me want to continue with the series. Maybe its a "its not you, its me" situation. 3.5 Stars!
I liked THE FALLEN but for some reason its not pulling me in & making me want to continue with the series. Maybe its a "its not you, its me" situation. 3.5 Stars!
June 21, 2024
DNF @ 27%.
Everything was telling instead of showing. Even when action was actually happening, it still felt like we were being told instead of shown. Paragraphs upon paragraphs of mundane inner monologue separate every piece of real time action and break up dialogue. I had to make myself keep trying to care. I got a little more interested when he left her the M&Ms. That was cute! And then I quickly got bored again. Skimmed ahead and this entire first book only covers a few days, and they hardly get anywhere in their trip. Read spoilers for the next book, and this seems like one of those series where we'll need three more books minimum after that because nothing actually progresses the storyline even though a lot happens. Also way too slow of a burn. I feel like I'm reading YA again, having so much build up to a simple kiss.
Everything was telling instead of showing. Even when action was actually happening, it still felt like we were being told instead of shown. Paragraphs upon paragraphs of mundane inner monologue separate every piece of real time action and break up dialogue. I had to make myself keep trying to care. I got a little more interested when he left her the M&Ms. That was cute! And then I quickly got bored again. Skimmed ahead and this entire first book only covers a few days, and they hardly get anywhere in their trip. Read spoilers for the next book, and this seems like one of those series where we'll need three more books minimum after that because nothing actually progresses the storyline even though a lot happens. Also way too slow of a burn. I feel like I'm reading YA again, having so much build up to a simple kiss.
November 13, 2024
As a post-apocalyptic zombie book, THE FALLEN was an interesting read and I liked that it was set 2 years after the outbreak so people were pretty settled into life being what it was. Liv and Cruz were both great MCs that had retained their resilience and their compassion even after everything that happened.
However, as a romance it was too slow in my opinion. There was almost no development between Liv and Cruz because they were so focused on surviving and getting out of the city. We see in each of their POV chapters that they're attracted to each other but it doesn't really go past that. I appreciated that Cruz was a gentleman and didn't want to scare Liv off but again I needed something more than just a quick kiss at the end. And I don't mean actual sex, I don't mind that it wasn't included but there just weren't moments where they could take a breath from running and actually start to create a connection.
If you're looking for a book that's more focused on the survival aspects than THE FALLEN would probably work for you, it's certainly well written and paced, but if you want a strong romance this might not be for you.
Content Warning: suicide and death
However, as a romance it was too slow in my opinion. There was almost no development between Liv and Cruz because they were so focused on surviving and getting out of the city. We see in each of their POV chapters that they're attracted to each other but it doesn't really go past that. I appreciated that Cruz was a gentleman and didn't want to scare Liv off but again I needed something more than just a quick kiss at the end. And I don't mean actual sex, I don't mind that it wasn't included but there just weren't moments where they could take a breath from running and actually start to create a connection.
If you're looking for a book that's more focused on the survival aspects than THE FALLEN would probably work for you, it's certainly well written and paced, but if you want a strong romance this might not be for you.
Content Warning: suicide and death
October 3, 2025
Interesting surviving zombies dystopian romance
April 26, 2025
it was short and fun, but the cliffhanger wasn’t the best like i could just stop here and just leave with a few unanswered questions but it wouldn’t be the end of the world (get it? 🤭)
November 18, 2025
Story: 3/5 ⭐️
Characters: 3/5 ⭐️
Setting: 3/5 ⭐️
Audio Performance: n/a🎙️
Spice level: 1/5 🌶️
Overall Rating: 3/5 ⭐️
Characters: 3/5 ⭐️
Setting: 3/5 ⭐️
Audio Performance: n/a🎙️
Spice level: 1/5 🌶️
Overall Rating: 3/5 ⭐️
April 29, 2024
The Walking Dead, 28 Days Later, Shaun of the Dead, Dawn of the Dead, I Am Legend, Train to Busan, World War Z and all the other zombie inspired movies and tv shows, I’ve probably seen them all, but this is the first book set in a zombie apocalypse that I’ve read and what a good read it’s turned out to be. Bonus (for me) that’s it’s a romance too.
I really enjoyed this book!
Set in present day Melbourne, Australia after a virus mutated and dead people started reanimating, Liv is one of the few remaining humans who has survived. She is living in her apartment with the only remaining human left alive who she knows, her 80 year old neighbour Haruto.
She is in a set routine and goes out everyday for 2 hours to look for supplies, to run to keep her fitness levels up and keep an eye on a gang of human men who are roaming the local area, scavenging and looting as they go, all whilst taking down the reanimated humans she comes across. She has been able to survive in her apartment because at the beginning of the pandemic she had a feeling the world was going to go to shit, so started stockpiling supplies getting everything ready for when that would happen which it eventually did.
One day she notices a lone male coming out of a building opposite, a man she’s never seen before, but she is immediately drawn to him.
And that starts the beginning of Liv and Cruz’s story.
Though this book appears to be the first book this author has written, reading this book does not feel like it’s a debut book at all. The author does say she has been writing romance under other pen names for quite a while and you can tell this book has been written by someone with experience.
It’s well written and I enjoyed the writing style. The world building is developing nicely and I enjoyed the character development so far. At the moment we have quite a limited cast, but even with so few characters, story moves along at good and enjoyable pace. I have a feeling that will meet more (alive) humans in the next book.
This book wasn’t on my radar at all, but one of my mutuals on Goodreads mentioned it and I thought it sounded like it might be good, so I gave it a go. I’m so glad I did give it a chance. I’m looking forward to reading book two next
I really enjoyed this book!
Set in present day Melbourne, Australia after a virus mutated and dead people started reanimating, Liv is one of the few remaining humans who has survived. She is living in her apartment with the only remaining human left alive who she knows, her 80 year old neighbour Haruto.
She is in a set routine and goes out everyday for 2 hours to look for supplies, to run to keep her fitness levels up and keep an eye on a gang of human men who are roaming the local area, scavenging and looting as they go, all whilst taking down the reanimated humans she comes across. She has been able to survive in her apartment because at the beginning of the pandemic she had a feeling the world was going to go to shit, so started stockpiling supplies getting everything ready for when that would happen which it eventually did.
One day she notices a lone male coming out of a building opposite, a man she’s never seen before, but she is immediately drawn to him.
And that starts the beginning of Liv and Cruz’s story.
Though this book appears to be the first book this author has written, reading this book does not feel like it’s a debut book at all. The author does say she has been writing romance under other pen names for quite a while and you can tell this book has been written by someone with experience.
It’s well written and I enjoyed the writing style. The world building is developing nicely and I enjoyed the character development so far. At the moment we have quite a limited cast, but even with so few characters, story moves along at good and enjoyable pace. I have a feeling that will meet more (alive) humans in the next book.
This book wasn’t on my radar at all, but one of my mutuals on Goodreads mentioned it and I thought it sounded like it might be good, so I gave it a go. I’m so glad I did give it a chance. I’m looking forward to reading book two next
October 16, 2024
There are several ways to kill a zombie, but the most satisfying is to stab it in the brain with a wooden stick. - Dwight Shrute
October 30, 2025
i read this as my little halloween book for the month. Super short quick read. I was able to finish during my breaks at work. I went into it without much expectation. Genuinely started it mostly for the vibes and to get into the halloween spirit, but i have to say i enjoyed it. It wasn’t anything spectacular but it was good and the story kept me intrigued the whole time. If you are looking for a seasonal quick read i would recommend this. i may try to read the second book just to get some sort of end to Liv and Cruz’s story. 4/5 stars from. I am generous with my stars considering october is the best month to read any book.
May 30, 2025
So thrilled to say that I loved this start to the When the Word Fell series! Liv is a very unique FMC who seems to toe the balance between relatable and capable in this crazy post-apocalyptic world. This was refreshingly fast paced and generally well written. I'm already in love with Cruz and while this novella only takes place over a few days, I believe the chemistry and connection between our characters. He was down bad from the beginning and we love him for that. Starting the Fearless right away and can't wait to see how their journey continues. A good recommendation from the Kindle app. Who knew?
September 14, 2025
Short, engaging post-apocalyptic story. The characters were interesting, the relationship developed in a reasonable way, and the plot was good. My only beef with the book were 1. Their luck was plot-conveniently bad. Every plan they make goes to shit. And 2. Where are they getting clean, potable water? Where are they disposing of waste? They’re in an apartment building, there’s not an outhouse or well.
Let’s hope the next book keeps the vibes. I’ve read too many p-a series that start out strong and get worse with each new book.
Let’s hope the next book keeps the vibes. I’ve read too many p-a series that start out strong and get worse with each new book.
March 12, 2024
FINALLLYYY AN APOCALYPTIC ROMANCE BOOK THATT ISNT A STANDALONE AND ACTUALLY GETS U EMOTIONALLT
INVESTED
MANYS TEARS AND INWAS ON THE EDGE OF MY SEAT
THE ONLY THING I DISLIKED WAS RHAT IT WAS SO SHORT (at least it felt like it)
i read it in about an hour Cant wait for book two :)))
INVESTED
MANYS TEARS AND INWAS ON THE EDGE OF MY SEAT
THE ONLY THING I DISLIKED WAS RHAT IT WAS SO SHORT (at least it felt like it)
i read it in about an hour Cant wait for book two :)))
May 1, 2024
Sort of slow burn.
Like it takes place in under a week but they don’t kiss until 99%.
I liked the story. Characters are cute. I get their relationship.
Like it takes place in under a week but they don’t kiss until 99%.
I liked the story. Characters are cute. I get their relationship.
April 16, 2024
short, but great character introductions
This is a short book, but has a great introduction to the main characters that makes me ready to delve right into the book! Not a ton of spice, but the tension is perfect! You know it’s coming
This is a short book, but has a great introduction to the main characters that makes me ready to delve right into the book! Not a ton of spice, but the tension is perfect! You know it’s coming
Read
May 19, 2024DROPPED.
This was okay, if you like your romance starting off on a sweet note. Survivalist mode aside, I just wasn't that into the romance that pretty much showed us that the MMCs were already very attracted to each other. Since I'm an enemies-to-lovers or slow burn type of reader, you can understand why this didn't appeal and bored me quickly.
This was okay, if you like your romance starting off on a sweet note. Survivalist mode aside, I just wasn't that into the romance that pretty much showed us that the MMCs were already very attracted to each other. Since I'm an enemies-to-lovers or slow burn type of reader, you can understand why this didn't appeal and bored me quickly.
November 10, 2024
5⭐
This is feeding my survivalist side. When I say I want apocalypse romance, THIS IS WHAT I WANT.
This is feeding my survivalist side. When I say I want apocalypse romance, THIS IS WHAT I WANT.
June 9, 2025
Low key this book was super cute! I haven’t read anything like this- but I like zombies- so kindle unlimited was very helpful or else I wouldn’t have read any zombie apocalypse books.
The characters are upper twenties and lower thirties and remain respectful through the whole story, and I just love how comfortable they are with each other because of how he took to show he wasn’t a threat.
This was low key a comfort read for me, not a long book, and it ended well enough to where I don’t feel a need to read the second.
That’s why I give it 3.5 stars.
I also started the first chapters of the second one in this series and it just didn’t give off the same vibe as this book, so I decided the first book was a good end point.
However, I think if you want a zombie apocalypse rom this would be a good series. Maybe it just wasn’t for me after the thrill of slow burn 🔥
The characters are upper twenties and lower thirties and remain respectful through the whole story, and I just love how comfortable they are with each other because of how he took to show he wasn’t a threat.
This was low key a comfort read for me, not a long book, and it ended well enough to where I don’t feel a need to read the second.
That’s why I give it 3.5 stars.
I also started the first chapters of the second one in this series and it just didn’t give off the same vibe as this book, so I decided the first book was a good end point.
However, I think if you want a zombie apocalypse rom this would be a good series. Maybe it just wasn’t for me after the thrill of slow burn 🔥
April 9, 2025
Reread: 2 ⭐️ I should not have wasted my time
3 ⭐️ idk. It was good but also very meh. A little bland. And it was so short! I read the ebook and was shocked when I got to the last page bc I thought I’d be maybe 30% of the way through.
The Plot: A global pandemic has torn society apart and brought about the Zombie apocalypse. Our FMC Liv is hunkered down in her pre-apocalypse city apartment with her elderly Japanese neighbor, Harturo. The dead have taken over the city, but the living are still around, and they're scarier. There's a large group of violent men who patrol the area and Liv avoids them like the plague (no pun intended). And there's a man. Cruz. Just a stranger passing through, but someone who may be Liv's salvation.
Overall, it was interesting but felt monotonous and a bit dry. It's definitely a slow burn, and the main characters aren't very likable, but it's somewhat interesting.
Hmmmmm I'm feeling a bit indifferent to the rest of their story, but I’ll probably read the second one. Hopefully the plot thickens
3 ⭐️ idk. It was good but also very meh. A little bland. And it was so short! I read the ebook and was shocked when I got to the last page bc I thought I’d be maybe 30% of the way through.
The Plot: A global pandemic has torn society apart and brought about the Zombie apocalypse. Our FMC Liv is hunkered down in her pre-apocalypse city apartment with her elderly Japanese neighbor, Harturo. The dead have taken over the city, but the living are still around, and they're scarier. There's a large group of violent men who patrol the area and Liv avoids them like the plague (no pun intended). And there's a man. Cruz. Just a stranger passing through, but someone who may be Liv's salvation.
Overall, it was interesting but felt monotonous and a bit dry. It's definitely a slow burn, and the main characters aren't very likable, but it's somewhat interesting.
Hmmmmm I'm feeling a bit indifferent to the rest of their story, but I’ll probably read the second one. Hopefully the plot thickens
August 2, 2024
Not bad but...
I really liked the beginning, the FMC was strong, smart and had dealt with the apocalypse for years. But...the minute she hooks up with the MMC, she begins to turn into the typical heroine. Falling apart little by little. Why do writers do that??? Do you think the only way to make a man appear strong is to make the woman weak???? Shame on You!. Deleted from my kindle.
I really liked the beginning, the FMC was strong, smart and had dealt with the apocalypse for years. But...the minute she hooks up with the MMC, she begins to turn into the typical heroine. Falling apart little by little. Why do writers do that??? Do you think the only way to make a man appear strong is to make the woman weak???? Shame on You!. Deleted from my kindle.
February 28, 2024
excellent
I love the tension in the book. The pace is nice, writing is good and the characters feel very lively and true.
I love the tension in the book. The pace is nice, writing is good and the characters feel very lively and true.
March 2, 2024
It was insanely good for how short it was and I’m excited for the second book!
July 8, 2025
’Ahora vivimos en un mundo diferente, y lo único que hizo fue demostrarme que harás lo que sea necesario para protegerme.’
•Mi opinión puede contener Spoilers.
•Esta destinada a ser un descargo personal no para que alguien más lea pero si lo haces y te ofende, me disculpo porque sé lo que es que te guste un libro y otros lo critiquen.
The Fallen de Elle Richards Serie When the World Fell libro 1
Argumento:
Liv
Ser parte del pequeño porcentaje que sobrevivió a un apocalipsis zombi debería haberme hecho feliz, y supongo que lo soy. La mayor parte del tiempo. Es solo que... Soy la única sobreviviente de mi familia, y me queda un amigo; mi vecino de ochenta años, Haruto.
Es una vida solitaria. Una vida peligrosa.
Y ahora mis reservas de alimentos se están agotando.
He vivido en la ciudad durante una década, mucho antes de que la pandemia nos lo quitara todo, pero necesito una propiedad rural con espacio para huertos y árboles frutales, y espacio para invitar a otros a unirse, si puedo encontrar más personas como yo que aún crean en los valores del viejo mundo en un mundo nuevo donde no hay sistemas ni reglas.
¿El problema? Haruto no se encuentra bien y no es apto para viajar, y es demasiado peligroso pasar largos períodos de tiempo al aire libre. No son solo los muertos con sus ojos vacíos y bocas hambrientas de los que tengo que preocuparme. También son otros humanos. Hay una pandilla vagando por la ciudad; Son violentos e impredecibles, y nunca he visto mujeres con ellos. Me intimidan tanto que intento hacerme invisible cada vez que salgo de la seguridad de mi apartamento.
También hay otro hombre merodeando. Se ha estado quedando en el edificio de enfrente del mío, y he pasado la última semana rastreando sus movimientos. Aunque hasta ahora he mantenido mi distancia de él, el solo hecho de estar cerca de él me hace sentir más segura afuera y menos sola.
Es arriesgado acercarse a otros humanos ahora, pero Haruto no está mejorando, y muy pronto estaré sola, completamente sola por primera vez en mi vida.
Y estoy llegando al punto en que la desesperación me empuja a arriesgarlo todo y asumir las consecuencias.
Mi humilde opinión:
Romance postapocalíptico, después de un virus, zombis, atracción instantánea, proximidad forzada.
En apenas unos capítulos ya simpatice con Oliva, y pensé que tenia unos instintos de supervivencia increíbles porque gracias a su preparación previa logro no contagiarse el virus y luego aprender por su cuenta a cuidarse de los zombis. Me gustó que fuera una heroína fuerte y practica. La parte en que tiene que dejar a Haruto rompió mi corazón, no aparece mucho pero por la forma en que Olivia hablaba de él me hizo quererlo también. Necesité mas partes con ellos.
Olivia y Cruz se ven durante sus salidas para buscar suministros en los lugares abandonados, saben que el otro esta allí pero nunca se acercaron. Me gustaba que se dejaran ofrendas y mantuvieran las distancias pero supieran que se cuidaban las espaldas y estuvieran en sintonía con el otro a pesar de que nunca se presentaron. Había una conexión rápida entre ellos como supieran profundamente que podían contar con el otro. Me gustaba la afinidad, comodidad y que Cruz apreciara a Olivia tanto como ella a él, además querían lo mismo, poder encontrar seguridad en un hogar permanente. Si bien esta la atracción inmediata, hay quemadura lenta, tensión y un apasionado beso posteriormente en consecuencia pero no hay escenas spicy.
Olivia estuvo tan segura en su apartamento y acostumbrada a su rutina que cuando lo deja para buscar un lugar mejor con Cruz se enfrentan a zombis y una pandilla que esta decidida a atraparla. Hay mucha acción, suspenso y peligros mientras intentan escapar de la ciudad que me mantuvo al borde la silla.
Termina en un continuará y ya quiero saber que mas les espera a estos dos en un mundo donde la muerte y los peligros los rodean, donde no hay un lugar a salvo y solo el consuelo de que se encontraron y se tienen el uno al otro.
October 13, 2023
4.5 stars!
I had been wanting to read this book since I discovered it when I was scrolling through Amazon one day! I wasn’t sure if it was book one of a series or a standalone series that focused on a different characters! I decided to give it a read, and after reading, I can say that I really enjoyed it! The plot was dystopian/post apocalyptic and I love books that are set in a dystopian/post apocalyptic world! This book only took me a few sittings to read and the plot developed nicely and there was more and more action and suspense as it progressed! There was also a lot of romance in the plot and it was very slow burn! I maybe wasn’t expecting it to be quite so slow burn, but it was the right way to do it because of the circumstances! There was some sexual tension between the two main characters! The characters were also amazing and made this book even better! Olivia ‘Liv’ was the main female character, and I told book she was prepared for the end of the world and tried her best to adjust! I really liked Liv, but I kind of wanted to see her kick ass a bit more and not rely on her love interest because she was so strong at the beginning and then that kind of fell away when she was with her love interest! Cruz was the main male character and love interest of Liv! Cruz was a detective before the world fell apart and this served him well in the new world! Cruz was by himself at the beginning of this book until he found Liv! I liked Cruz and he supported Liv and was there for her! He was very protective of Liv as well and it was easy to see how he felt about her! This book was written from both Liv and Cruz’s point of views! I was hoping that it was going to be before I started reading and the synopsis does give the impression that it’s going to be! I’m really happy that it was because it helped me connect more with Liv and Cruz and see how they were dealing with the new world and see their feelings for each other grow! It allowed for more things to happen in the plot as well, which helped as the main characters did go through some situations by themselves and they did spend some time apart! I now can’t wait to read the next book in this series! I now know that it’s going to focus on the same characters and continue their story! The ending has left me very excited to find out what’s going to happen next because I can see the characters changing because of what they had to do at the end of this book! The next book releases in January, which is a bit of a wait, but I know it’ll be worth it! I also love the cover for this book a lot! I like that it doesn’t have cover models on it and instead uses imagery because it suits the feel of the book! The cover drew me to the book as well!
I had been wanting to read this book since I discovered it when I was scrolling through Amazon one day! I wasn’t sure if it was book one of a series or a standalone series that focused on a different characters! I decided to give it a read, and after reading, I can say that I really enjoyed it! The plot was dystopian/post apocalyptic and I love books that are set in a dystopian/post apocalyptic world! This book only took me a few sittings to read and the plot developed nicely and there was more and more action and suspense as it progressed! There was also a lot of romance in the plot and it was very slow burn! I maybe wasn’t expecting it to be quite so slow burn, but it was the right way to do it because of the circumstances! There was some sexual tension between the two main characters! The characters were also amazing and made this book even better! Olivia ‘Liv’ was the main female character, and I told book she was prepared for the end of the world and tried her best to adjust! I really liked Liv, but I kind of wanted to see her kick ass a bit more and not rely on her love interest because she was so strong at the beginning and then that kind of fell away when she was with her love interest! Cruz was the main male character and love interest of Liv! Cruz was a detective before the world fell apart and this served him well in the new world! Cruz was by himself at the beginning of this book until he found Liv! I liked Cruz and he supported Liv and was there for her! He was very protective of Liv as well and it was easy to see how he felt about her! This book was written from both Liv and Cruz’s point of views! I was hoping that it was going to be before I started reading and the synopsis does give the impression that it’s going to be! I’m really happy that it was because it helped me connect more with Liv and Cruz and see how they were dealing with the new world and see their feelings for each other grow! It allowed for more things to happen in the plot as well, which helped as the main characters did go through some situations by themselves and they did spend some time apart! I now can’t wait to read the next book in this series! I now know that it’s going to focus on the same characters and continue their story! The ending has left me very excited to find out what’s going to happen next because I can see the characters changing because of what they had to do at the end of this book! The next book releases in January, which is a bit of a wait, but I know it’ll be worth it! I also love the cover for this book a lot! I like that it doesn’t have cover models on it and instead uses imagery because it suits the feel of the book! The cover drew me to the book as well!
July 8, 2025
What a strange world we lived in now, where it was considered a compliment to tell someone they were skilled at killing people who were already dead.
This was very PG13 Zombie apocalypse. I love the emotional depth the author is setting up between Liv+Cruz and also showing us familial love with Haruto but the book was very boring.
It picks up a bit with the running from the gang aspect. We are also told about the dangers of being a woman in an zombie future, but not shown. As I said before, I am not a fan of dark romance but I think it is a disservice to edit down/out the fear. For example the conversation that Cruz+Liv have in whispered tones when the gang are looking for them and we know the bad guy is talking about basically raping her, but it is termed as 'he said horrible things' or some other such descriptor. So it can work out in two ways, if you are triggered by such scenes in books, then this is a good book for you to read. If however you want a more realistic tone of what is going on, this is very PG13.
I think I was more fascinated by the aspect of essentially slow zombies. Might I recommend if you want to watch a show in a similar style but more rated 17+, watch the limited series Earth Abides. SPOILER
What was the point of any of this if we didn’t have each other
Now, this is just my personal observation, but I feel Cruz being part Latina/Mexican was like how you write a character, but you don't actually give them the background of being this other race/ethnic group other than they say things like querida repeatedly.
So, wasn't bad but I am not compelled to continue with the series. If however you've been reading some nasty shit and need a safe book, I'd say read this.
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