Red Vapor

by Scott Moon

Follow the dog if you want to live.

The attack came right when the economy was turning around. America’s ultimate enemy deployed a coast-to-coast bio-weapon into the jet stream and lost control of its ultimate purpose. The entire world suffered, or at least that’s what Jason Liddell and a small group of unlikely survivors think.

When the death clouds refuse to dissipate, it becomes clear they do more than kill. Society’s fragile shell has been shattered beyond repair, and each day is a fight for survival. Maybe the world will be a better place afterward, but first, things are going to get a lot worse.

An undercover cop in search of his family, a quick-witted orphan kid, and a plastic surgeon can’t stay where they are, and can’t go anywhere else without getting killed.

The streets are full of hunters, and the red vapor drifts from city to city like the angel of death. The only thing they can do is stay together and follow the dog.

Fans of hard-hitting, post-apocalyptic EMP stories will be on the edge of their seats, desperate to find order in chaos.

Genres: Post Apocalyptic

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 28, 2026

About the author

Scott Moon loves audio books, especially the works of George R.R. Martin, Patrick O'Brian, and Michael Connelly. He has been writing fantasy, science fiction, and urban fantasy thrillers most of his life and aims to read or listen to 100 books a year. Currently, he is a commissioned police officer serving in a street level counter drug and gang unit. Some of his most rewarding and heartbreaking work was as a detective in the Exploited Missing Child Unit. His favorite assignment is SWAT, primarily for the eighty pounds of tactical gear he gets to wear in the blazing summer heat. In 2005, he helped arrest a serial killer who had been at large for over thirty years.

Follow Scott Moon on Twitter @Scottmoonwriter or visit www.scottmoonwriter.com to view his author page.

Reviews

[James E. Darrough · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Start to an Interesting Series

"Red Vapor" is a thrilling start to what promises to be a compelling series. Scott Moon's blend of action, heart, and high-stakes drama with a unique perspective makes it a must-read for fans of post-apocalyptic Science Fiction. The characters are well-developed, and the story never loses momentum. If you're looking for a novel that combines SciFi, survival and deep emotional stakes, this is one to pick up. There is plenty of room for the next installment, and I'm sure looking forward to reading
that. Highly recommended. Five out of five stars!

[Sean Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great unique post apocalyptic book

I've been a fan of Scott Moon for awhile, usually reading science fiction. This book gave me something new and exciting, Its themes of found family along with the amazing action make it a great book to read. If you enjoyed the stand, and Dean Koontz you'll love this book. Moon writes compelling characters from Jason the cop, Vicky the doctor, Mike the bad guy that might just get his redemption to...a dog who really steals the show along with Maddie a kid straight out of true grit. I can't wait for the rest of the series.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good post-apocalyptic novel. The characters in this story are diverse and complex. Perfect to carry the story. It begins with Jason (ex-cop) living in Kansas when clouds of red vapor appear in the sky killing every thing and nearly everyone. Jason realizes what is happening decides to travel to the west coast in search of his ex-wife and children. so far he has managed to find a little girl, a dog who seems to be able to skirt the clouds of vapor and several other people. Read to find out what happens, Well worth.

[Robin Perryman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting Read

So far we hear about the Red Vapor and who will be the main characters in the story. Its interesting. I’m wondering if it’s man made, supernatural or if there will be aliens or zombies. And what about Buddy? What did his owner give him?. I'm ready for the next part of the story. Hopefully its already out.

[Michael Hackerott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting Story and Characters

This is an interesting story and characters. I liked the dynamics between all of the characters good and bad. The “Red Vapor” is an interesting cause of the end of the world.

[KayGeeReads · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't enjoy giving one star ratings but this one deserves it. The book is chaotic. There's little cohesion between characters. It didn't really close so much as end. My guess is the sequel (which I will read) was supposed to be part of the first book, but it was cut. That was a mistake.

[Angela Rassette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I read more than the blurb, unlike one person, and it was definitely a page turner. I couldn’t put it down one I started.
Enjoy!!

[Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the better post apoc novels I've read in a while. Looking forward to the next in series.

[Suzanne Antinoro · Rating 3 out of 5]

Red Vapor

Gave this 3 stars only because of the constant cursing. it isn’t needed, good story, good characters, but the language is too much.

[GaylTB · Rating 1 out of 5]

Too predictable.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting story.

I enjoyed reading this. Unique plot for apocalypse. Loved the POV from the dog and the little girl. Definitely worth the time to read.

[Garnet Nekuda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Kept me needing to read the next chapter. Looking forward to the next installment. Got a feeling of late nights in my future.

[Bonnie munn asido · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unusual End of World

This unique book has unusual characters that are well developed. Can not wait for the mystery to be resolved. How much does the mist have intelligent thoughts. Who created it and for what purpose? Small answers a little at a time while the plot swirls!