What do you think?
Rate this book
Between You & I
Sloane Mercer has always preferred the quiet certainty of water.
At thirty, she spends her days inside the aquarium’s dim, glass-lit corridors, caring for fragile ecosystems that still follow rules. It’s easier than facing the slow unraveling of her own life—easier than admitting she’s been standing still for far too long.
Callan Ward exists on the edges of her world.
Steady. Distant. Familiar in the way only someone you see every day can be. He understands the aquarium like it’s part of him, like he’s been preparing for something no one else can see.
Then the world outside begins to collapse.
What starts as rumors becomes sirens. Silence. Absence. The aquarium—once a refuge—turns into something else entirely. Cut off and running out of time, Sloane and Callan are forced into a desperate escape, following nothing but instinct and a half-remembered promise of somewhere safe.
Somewhere hidden.
Somewhere meant to survive the end of everything.
But isolation changes people. Strips away the lives they used to live and leaves behind only truth. And in the fragile quiet that follows, Sloane begins to see Callan differently—not as the man she worked beside, but as the one standing between her and the dark.
Because survival isn’t just about outrunning what’s out there.
It’s about facing what’s been waiting between them all along.
And sometimes, the most dangerous place to be…
is alone with someone who truly sees you
At thirty, she spends her days inside the aquarium’s dim, glass-lit corridors, caring for fragile ecosystems that still follow rules. It’s easier than facing the slow unraveling of her own life—easier than admitting she’s been standing still for far too long.
Callan Ward exists on the edges of her world.
Steady. Distant. Familiar in the way only someone you see every day can be. He understands the aquarium like it’s part of him, like he’s been preparing for something no one else can see.
Then the world outside begins to collapse.
What starts as rumors becomes sirens. Silence. Absence. The aquarium—once a refuge—turns into something else entirely. Cut off and running out of time, Sloane and Callan are forced into a desperate escape, following nothing but instinct and a half-remembered promise of somewhere safe.
Somewhere hidden.
Somewhere meant to survive the end of everything.
But isolation changes people. Strips away the lives they used to live and leaves behind only truth. And in the fragile quiet that follows, Sloane begins to see Callan differently—not as the man she worked beside, but as the one standing between her and the dark.
Because survival isn’t just about outrunning what’s out there.
It’s about facing what’s been waiting between them all along.
And sometimes, the most dangerous place to be…
is alone with someone who truly sees you
466 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
About the author
Isolde Blackwood
2 books9 followersIsolde Blackwood has been writing for many years, her passion for storytelling taking root in her teenage years. What began as an escape quickly grew into a lifelong pursuit, shaping a creative path built on imagination, emotion, and the stories that refuse to stay untold.
Throughout her adult life, she has continued to create: both in words and in art drawn to the raw, human connections that live within every story she tells.
She is happily married to the love of her life and lives in the Midwest with their two children, two dogs, and two cats.
Throughout her adult life, she has continued to create: both in words and in art drawn to the raw, human connections that live within every story she tells.
She is happily married to the love of her life and lives in the Midwest with their two children, two dogs, and two cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Revised ARC review:
After the revision to the ARC, I really enjoyed this book. I love how the relationship between Callan and Sloan develops into something more emotional. Their first time is chaotic and rough but as the book continues, we see them develop a relationship that is more than that.
I loved that this took place in an aquarium. It was so unique to this sub-genre. The survival elements to this story were also really interesting. I like that its not the typical surviving in a city setting, but more on the water.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and was so glad that I got another chance with it. I loved the characters and thought their connection felt genuine. I loved seeing them work together and realize there is more than just surviving. Callan was a great match for Sloan.
***
DNF around 50%
The DNF is totally for me and not the book.
The plot was very interesting and I loved the atmosphere. I liked both characters and was so understanding of Sloane. This story had me hooked, especially after the zombie apocalypse started. I loved how interesting that they were stranded in the aquarium.
I just didn't understand how much one of the CWs would be in the book. This was a bit spicier than I anticipated and it wasn't anything that was for me. But, the story outside of it was so good. I would definitely recommend for anyone wanting a spicy zombie post-apoc romance.
Thank you Isolde Blackwood for the ARC.
After the revision to the ARC, I really enjoyed this book. I love how the relationship between Callan and Sloan develops into something more emotional. Their first time is chaotic and rough but as the book continues, we see them develop a relationship that is more than that.
I loved that this took place in an aquarium. It was so unique to this sub-genre. The survival elements to this story were also really interesting. I like that its not the typical surviving in a city setting, but more on the water.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and was so glad that I got another chance with it. I loved the characters and thought their connection felt genuine. I loved seeing them work together and realize there is more than just surviving. Callan was a great match for Sloan.
***
DNF around 50%
The DNF is totally for me and not the book.
The plot was very interesting and I loved the atmosphere. I liked both characters and was so understanding of Sloane. This story had me hooked, especially after the zombie apocalypse started. I loved how interesting that they were stranded in the aquarium.
I just didn't understand how much one of the CWs would be in the book. This was a bit spicier than I anticipated and it wasn't anything that was for me. But, the story outside of it was so good. I would definitely recommend for anyone wanting a spicy zombie post-apoc romance.
Thank you Isolde Blackwood for the ARC.
July 5, 2026
Low 3 stars...very low. I thought the zombie takeover was very interesting and I liked how the author wrote about that part. It was quite scary and well written. The part i didn't like was all the sex scenes. Too many and i just started skimming them. I get it...it's supposed to be spicy, but this was OTT. They're stuck in an aquarium for days/weeks, yet don't learn anything about each other aside from them both being into anal LOL. Like they jumped into that almost immediately, but she had no clue how many brothers and sisters Callan had. The fact that neither of them talked about family that could be out there was strange to me if I'm supposed to believe they're falling in love.
May 5, 2026
I received this book as an ARC and here is my honest review:
-trapped together/forced proximity
-spicy (like REALLY spicy)
-zombie apocalypse
-original plot details
Ok, lets dive in:
-first, I really like that it started out with our main characters, already in a well stocked compound of sorts. Since they didn’t have to immediately search for a safe place or supplies, It left room in the story line for their relationship to grow. It did lean a tad bit towards “insta-love” but the fact that they were already coworkers, gave it more credibility than if they were just 2 strangers meeting for the first time.
I loved the aquarium setting, it was original and the animals were almost like background characters I was rooting for. It’s cool that they hinted at eating the fish if things got bad, lol, some authors are so worried about getting hate from animal lovers that they shy away from common sense survival plans... (Nothing pisses me off faster than when a starving character refuses to even consider eating an animal). Im glad they didn’t end up needing to, but at least they explored the option.
-Im so glad this didnt end up being just another government conspiracy/big pharma cover-up type ZA book. Its refreshing to read one that actually focuses on realistic challenges of a ZA (as if there’s anything realistic about a ZA, lol) instead of the characters suddenly becoming Jason Borne & infiltrating a secret government facility to save humanity.
I also, really like how it described the zombies and their actions. A lot of times the zombies in ZA romances are more of an afterthought. Like they’ll mention the zombies as something they need to be worried about, but never actually encounter any.
It was definitely more romance than thriller, but I still enjoyed it.
And now the ugly:
Let me preface this by saying, all of my “cons” for this book are 100 percent subjective, and just because I didn’t care for it doesn’t mean you wont love it…
-CHARACTERS: Personally I loathe the whole self degradation, woe is me, “I’m so broken” trope, so I had a difficult time liking either main character. To make it worse, Sloane (MFC) added insult to injury by being one of those “Im just so tiny and useless, I cant reach that shelf” types. *eye roll* Don’t get me wrong, as a chubby girl of average height, I enjoy immersing myself in the whole tiny, adorable damsel storyline… but when they’re self-aware of their petite-ness and use it as a victim card, it ruins it for me (I know y’all remember that one short girl all of us went to high school with that found a way to make everything about how short and cute she was, but in a super transparent self-depreciating way? Yeah, it’s annoying just like that). IMO it’s always better when the adorable character flaw is observed from other characters’ POVs.
STORYLINE: I had a hard time putting it down and ended up reading it all in one day. The pacing was well done, it had just enough suspense to keep it interesting and while it left openings for another book, it did not end on a cliffhanger. My only complaint, was.. why tf does it seem like every single zombie they encounter has one broken leg, and a dislocated jaw, lol? I mean, it would be pretty hard for them to bite you with their jaw hanging by a thread. And I mean anatomically, not hypothetically. Your jaw is fulcrum, like a hinge, if it’s not attached at the joint, there is no pivot point, no leverage to open or close it.
-SMUT: This one can be a negative or a positive depending on what you’re into. First off, it has PLENTY of spicy scenes, and they are VERY detailed. I have no complaints really, It’s well written and doesn’t take away from the story line too much. Unfortunately, the whole “you’re such a good girl for me, you take this D*** so well” icks me out a bit (again this is completely subjective, its a very popular trope, I just prefer the strong silent type, so it doesn’t do anything for me). And *subjective* I think the whole “make it hurt/make me forget” trope gets really overused in books. Like it’s hot when it immediately follows a close call or tragic loss, but if you use it every single time they hook up, it kind of loses its edge for me.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, and would recommend to anyone who likes spicy, post apocalyptic romance.
-trapped together/forced proximity
-spicy (like REALLY spicy)
-zombie apocalypse
-original plot details
Ok, lets dive in:
-first, I really like that it started out with our main characters, already in a well stocked compound of sorts. Since they didn’t have to immediately search for a safe place or supplies, It left room in the story line for their relationship to grow. It did lean a tad bit towards “insta-love” but the fact that they were already coworkers, gave it more credibility than if they were just 2 strangers meeting for the first time.
I loved the aquarium setting, it was original and the animals were almost like background characters I was rooting for. It’s cool that they hinted at eating the fish if things got bad, lol, some authors are so worried about getting hate from animal lovers that they shy away from common sense survival plans... (Nothing pisses me off faster than when a starving character refuses to even consider eating an animal). Im glad they didn’t end up needing to, but at least they explored the option.
-Im so glad this didnt end up being just another government conspiracy/big pharma cover-up type ZA book. Its refreshing to read one that actually focuses on realistic challenges of a ZA (as if there’s anything realistic about a ZA, lol) instead of the characters suddenly becoming Jason Borne & infiltrating a secret government facility to save humanity.
I also, really like how it described the zombies and their actions. A lot of times the zombies in ZA romances are more of an afterthought. Like they’ll mention the zombies as something they need to be worried about, but never actually encounter any.
It was definitely more romance than thriller, but I still enjoyed it.
And now the ugly:
Let me preface this by saying, all of my “cons” for this book are 100 percent subjective, and just because I didn’t care for it doesn’t mean you wont love it…
-CHARACTERS: Personally I loathe the whole self degradation, woe is me, “I’m so broken” trope, so I had a difficult time liking either main character. To make it worse, Sloane (MFC) added insult to injury by being one of those “Im just so tiny and useless, I cant reach that shelf” types. *eye roll* Don’t get me wrong, as a chubby girl of average height, I enjoy immersing myself in the whole tiny, adorable damsel storyline… but when they’re self-aware of their petite-ness and use it as a victim card, it ruins it for me (I know y’all remember that one short girl all of us went to high school with that found a way to make everything about how short and cute she was, but in a super transparent self-depreciating way? Yeah, it’s annoying just like that). IMO it’s always better when the adorable character flaw is observed from other characters’ POVs.
STORYLINE: I had a hard time putting it down and ended up reading it all in one day. The pacing was well done, it had just enough suspense to keep it interesting and while it left openings for another book, it did not end on a cliffhanger. My only complaint, was.. why tf does it seem like every single zombie they encounter has one broken leg, and a dislocated jaw, lol? I mean, it would be pretty hard for them to bite you with their jaw hanging by a thread. And I mean anatomically, not hypothetically. Your jaw is fulcrum, like a hinge, if it’s not attached at the joint, there is no pivot point, no leverage to open or close it.
-SMUT: This one can be a negative or a positive depending on what you’re into. First off, it has PLENTY of spicy scenes, and they are VERY detailed. I have no complaints really, It’s well written and doesn’t take away from the story line too much. Unfortunately, the whole “you’re such a good girl for me, you take this D*** so well” icks me out a bit (again this is completely subjective, its a very popular trope, I just prefer the strong silent type, so it doesn’t do anything for me). And *subjective* I think the whole “make it hurt/make me forget” trope gets really overused in books. Like it’s hot when it immediately follows a close call or tragic loss, but if you use it every single time they hook up, it kind of loses its edge for me.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, and would recommend to anyone who likes spicy, post apocalyptic romance.
June 28, 2026
I WAS SAD TO SEE THIS END.
One of the better zombie apocalypse romance that truly focused on the MCs connection rather than piling on loads of human politicking and shit you'd find from The Walking Dead. I'm here FOR ROMANCE, SO I BETTER GET ME THAT DAMN ROMANCE. And, we did.
The beginning was a droning of SLOANE and CALLAN's spiralling life, whatever that was left in their unhappy, unfulfilled lives before the zombie apocalypse struck. Frankly, I like Sloane better POST-apocalypse, because my first and many impressions of her weren't great.
SLOANE was a woman in denial and self-pity. It was honestly, the ugliest emotions ever portrayed on a human being, and it made her seemed petty, as if the world owes her something but she's too afraid to change, the type of possibly blame others for her own mistakes or misgivings. Also, she has never been in love despite having a few relationships. But her character was also founded on realism, whereby I believe plenty of women IRL can probably related to her circumstance or dilemma when we just settle for a partner who doesn't UNDERSTAND us or is WORTHY of our love.
CALLAN was just gruff and reliable in the way Sunshine X Grumps troupes are written, except Sloane wasn't Miss Sunshine.
When shit got real, like many other reviewers, we were pleased by gripping and in-depth the storytelling really was. The writing style was detailed but not boring, it painted a very vivid picture of what our MCs are living through, from Chapter One till the Epilogue.
Sex during the apocalypse? Sounds surreal, but hey, this is what I came for. It did not disappoint. The smut was hot, filthy and leaves you wanting more.
The romantic development between Callan and Sloane was fast and furious, but in the way survivalism brings out the animal in you - for a connection with the last person you're surviving the end of the world with. After setting aside their animosity that was really just attraction, Callan and Sloane worked well together, and their passion burned bright.
OVERALL I'm excited to see more from this series. Perhaps a sneak peek of Callan and Sloane again would be nice, and with the way they've been going at it like rabbits...maybe a mini Callan or Sloane in the future? Callan didn't hide the fact that he wanted to be a father, and we can all agree he would make a really good Dad.
This might be the end FOR NOW, but there seems to be bright possibilities for this fictional setting, and to delve deeper into everything that has happened. Between You & I feels like it's only scratching the surface and laying the groundworks.
One of the better zombie apocalypse romance that truly focused on the MCs connection rather than piling on loads of human politicking and shit you'd find from The Walking Dead. I'm here FOR ROMANCE, SO I BETTER GET ME THAT DAMN ROMANCE. And, we did.
The beginning was a droning of SLOANE and CALLAN's spiralling life, whatever that was left in their unhappy, unfulfilled lives before the zombie apocalypse struck. Frankly, I like Sloane better POST-apocalypse, because my first and many impressions of her weren't great.
SLOANE was a woman in denial and self-pity. It was honestly, the ugliest emotions ever portrayed on a human being, and it made her seemed petty, as if the world owes her something but she's too afraid to change, the type of possibly blame others for her own mistakes or misgivings. Also, she has never been in love despite having a few relationships. But her character was also founded on realism, whereby I believe plenty of women IRL can probably related to her circumstance or dilemma when we just settle for a partner who doesn't UNDERSTAND us or is WORTHY of our love.
CALLAN was just gruff and reliable in the way Sunshine X Grumps troupes are written, except Sloane wasn't Miss Sunshine.
When shit got real, like many other reviewers, we were pleased by gripping and in-depth the storytelling really was. The writing style was detailed but not boring, it painted a very vivid picture of what our MCs are living through, from Chapter One till the Epilogue.
Sex during the apocalypse? Sounds surreal, but hey, this is what I came for. It did not disappoint. The smut was hot, filthy and leaves you wanting more.
The romantic development between Callan and Sloane was fast and furious, but in the way survivalism brings out the animal in you - for a connection with the last person you're surviving the end of the world with. After setting aside their animosity that was really just attraction, Callan and Sloane worked well together, and their passion burned bright.
OVERALL I'm excited to see more from this series. Perhaps a sneak peek of Callan and Sloane again would be nice, and with the way they've been going at it like rabbits...maybe a mini Callan or Sloane in the future? Callan didn't hide the fact that he wanted to be a father, and we can all agree he would make a really good Dad.
This might be the end FOR NOW, but there seems to be bright possibilities for this fictional setting, and to delve deeper into everything that has happened. Between You & I feels like it's only scratching the surface and laying the groundworks.
May 11, 2026
Uhm, WOW! This book surprised me in the best way. It’s not just a zombie‑ridden survival story and it’s not just a filthy, emotionally charged D/lg romance, it’s both, woven together so seamlessly that I never once felt like I was choosing between plot or spice. I got it all.
Callan and Sloane start this story as coworkers who barely look at each other twice… until the world ends while they’re both on shift at the aquarium. Suddenly it’s just the two of them, locked inside with the echo of dripping pipes, the glow of emergency lights, and the constant threat of what’s clawing at the doors. The atmosphere is claustrophobic, intimate, and weirdly tender. It’s the perfect pressure cooker for two people who were never supposed to collide like this.
Callan is in his forties, divorced, steady in that quiet, grounding way that makes you exhale without realizing it. Sloane is younger, still tangled in the emotional leftovers of a four‑year relationship that died long before the apocalypse. Watching them slowly shift from uneasy allies to something softer, deeper, and dangerously necessary was addictive.
And the D/lg dynamic, oof that was hot. It’s handled with so much care. It grows out of trust, safety, and the kind of trauma bonding that feels painfully real in a world where everything else is falling apart. Their dynamic isn’t a kink slapped on top, it’s an emotional language they build together. And when the spice hits, it hits. Filthy, intimate, and charged with that “we could die tomorrow” intensity that makes every touch feel like a confession.
What really got me, though, was how the romance never overshadows the survival story and the survival story never overshadows the romance. The pacing is tight, the stakes are real, and every moment of heat is earned through fear, exhaustion, trust, and the slow realization that they’ve become each other’s reason to keep going.
Between You & I is a post‑apocalyptic slow burn with teeth, tenderness, and downright feral chemistry.
A huge thank you to Isolde Blackwood for the early copy!
Callan and Sloane start this story as coworkers who barely look at each other twice… until the world ends while they’re both on shift at the aquarium. Suddenly it’s just the two of them, locked inside with the echo of dripping pipes, the glow of emergency lights, and the constant threat of what’s clawing at the doors. The atmosphere is claustrophobic, intimate, and weirdly tender. It’s the perfect pressure cooker for two people who were never supposed to collide like this.
Callan is in his forties, divorced, steady in that quiet, grounding way that makes you exhale without realizing it. Sloane is younger, still tangled in the emotional leftovers of a four‑year relationship that died long before the apocalypse. Watching them slowly shift from uneasy allies to something softer, deeper, and dangerously necessary was addictive.
And the D/lg dynamic, oof that was hot. It’s handled with so much care. It grows out of trust, safety, and the kind of trauma bonding that feels painfully real in a world where everything else is falling apart. Their dynamic isn’t a kink slapped on top, it’s an emotional language they build together. And when the spice hits, it hits. Filthy, intimate, and charged with that “we could die tomorrow” intensity that makes every touch feel like a confession.
What really got me, though, was how the romance never overshadows the survival story and the survival story never overshadows the romance. The pacing is tight, the stakes are real, and every moment of heat is earned through fear, exhaustion, trust, and the slow realization that they’ve become each other’s reason to keep going.
Between You & I is a post‑apocalyptic slow burn with teeth, tenderness, and downright feral chemistry.
A huge thank you to Isolde Blackwood for the early copy!
May 1, 2026
I don’t even know where to start with Between You & I by Isolde Blackwood… except to say this book doesn’t just tell a story - it lingers in your chest like something unfinished.
Set against the backdrop of a collapsing world, this isn’t just a zombie apocalypse romance. It’s a study of loneliness, of being seen too clearly, and of what happens when survival strips you down to your most honest self.
Sloane is quietly unraveling long before the world does, and that’s what makes her so compelling. Her voice carries this heavy, introspective ache - like she’s been mistaking proximity for connection her entire life. That line about confusing being wanted with being cherished? Yeah… that one hit.
Callan is the kind of character who exists in the margins until suddenly he doesn’t. There’s something deeply unsettling (and magnetic) about the way he sees her - like he understands her in ways that feel both safe and dangerous.
The romance is slow, tense, and intimate in a way that feels almost invasive at times. Not just physically (and yes, it is explicit 👀), but emotionally. This isn’t easy love. It’s raw, complicated, and at times deeply uncomfortable.
And the setting? The aquarium was such a brilliant, almost poetic choice - fragile ecosystems inside glass while the real world collapses outside. It mirrors everything happening internally with the characters.
If I had one critique, it’s that pacing occasionally leans introspective over momentum - but honestly, for this kind of story, it almost works in its favor.
This is for readers who want:
🖤 emotional intensity over action
🖤 morally gray intimacy
🖤 longing, tension, and quiet devastation
🖤 spice with meaning, not just heat
This book feels like watching the end of the world through fogged glass - close, suffocating, and impossible to look away from.
Set against the backdrop of a collapsing world, this isn’t just a zombie apocalypse romance. It’s a study of loneliness, of being seen too clearly, and of what happens when survival strips you down to your most honest self.
Sloane is quietly unraveling long before the world does, and that’s what makes her so compelling. Her voice carries this heavy, introspective ache - like she’s been mistaking proximity for connection her entire life. That line about confusing being wanted with being cherished? Yeah… that one hit.
Callan is the kind of character who exists in the margins until suddenly he doesn’t. There’s something deeply unsettling (and magnetic) about the way he sees her - like he understands her in ways that feel both safe and dangerous.
The romance is slow, tense, and intimate in a way that feels almost invasive at times. Not just physically (and yes, it is explicit 👀), but emotionally. This isn’t easy love. It’s raw, complicated, and at times deeply uncomfortable.
And the setting? The aquarium was such a brilliant, almost poetic choice - fragile ecosystems inside glass while the real world collapses outside. It mirrors everything happening internally with the characters.
If I had one critique, it’s that pacing occasionally leans introspective over momentum - but honestly, for this kind of story, it almost works in its favor.
This is for readers who want:
🖤 emotional intensity over action
🖤 morally gray intimacy
🖤 longing, tension, and quiet devastation
🖤 spice with meaning, not just heat
This book feels like watching the end of the world through fogged glass - close, suffocating, and impossible to look away from.
August 17, 2026
Has its moments
New author for me
3 stars i think is fair.
1. Authors please don't do the bonus chapters sign up thing because most times it doesnt work, it pisses me off having to sign up for something like that as well.
I struggled with some of the writing, too many analogies at times were used.
Have to suspend some belief in particular with the aquarium itself- great whites aren't in captivity and can never be. Plus the whole tunnels straight to the ocean thing was a bit too convenient for the story but I get it.
The aquarium at least an Interesting choice to have it start and it was done well enough, just sad that animals had to be left and that they allowed the Facility to become overrun to begin with. I guess i felt like they could've done more to prevent break ins.
I just didnt think the lack of cell phone use was realistic, no one was glued to the news either or texting anyone. It was weird that the main adults went along as much as they did without checking their phones or calling anyone?
Weird that FMC's boyfriend texts her a selfie of his throat being torn out & is essentially dying ? Weird?
The biggest problem I had was the sex scenes girl went from liking rough sex to straight up, hard cord painal. Screaming "hurt me or make it hurt really bad" every time.. then they had unused, very rough anal that would've had her bleeding and then they both go to sleep with him still inside of her butt?? Yuck, eww & ouch. Girl was not walking straight after that.
Great, lots of sex but neither talk at all.. we got more inner monologue about Fmc's deadbeat boyfriend than we got about each other.
At 1 point the FMC,mentions a mom in Vermont and around %69 she mentions 2 half sisters..
It's at 91% that we even find out the MMC has 2 brothers and 2 sisters.
I'll move onto book 2 but I hope the story is a bit better.
New author for me
3 stars i think is fair.
1. Authors please don't do the bonus chapters sign up thing because most times it doesnt work, it pisses me off having to sign up for something like that as well.
I struggled with some of the writing, too many analogies at times were used.
Have to suspend some belief in particular with the aquarium itself- great whites aren't in captivity and can never be. Plus the whole tunnels straight to the ocean thing was a bit too convenient for the story but I get it.
The aquarium at least an Interesting choice to have it start and it was done well enough, just sad that animals had to be left and that they allowed the Facility to become overrun to begin with. I guess i felt like they could've done more to prevent break ins.
I just didnt think the lack of cell phone use was realistic, no one was glued to the news either or texting anyone. It was weird that the main adults went along as much as they did without checking their phones or calling anyone?
Weird that FMC's boyfriend texts her a selfie of his throat being torn out & is essentially dying ? Weird?
The biggest problem I had was the sex scenes girl went from liking rough sex to straight up, hard cord painal. Screaming "hurt me or make it hurt really bad" every time.. then they had unused, very rough anal that would've had her bleeding and then they both go to sleep with him still inside of her butt?? Yuck, eww & ouch. Girl was not walking straight after that.
Great, lots of sex but neither talk at all.. we got more inner monologue about Fmc's deadbeat boyfriend than we got about each other.
At 1 point the FMC,mentions a mom in Vermont and around %69 she mentions 2 half sisters..
It's at 91% that we even find out the MMC has 2 brothers and 2 sisters.
I'll move onto book 2 but I hope the story is a bit better.
May 8, 2026
I went into this book expecting a dark, spicy, gruesome and thrilling fight for survival during a zombie apocalypse.
I was not expecting the level of vivid world building, emotional depth and intensity Isolde poured into this story. The zombies were so well described you could see them in your mind, adding to unsettling and horror unfolding. You could feel the uncertainty in every page and left you feeling you were experiencing it with the characters.
The characters are going through their own struggles prior to the world as they know it ending. However, you are there through it all as they rediscover themselves and what it truly means to be alive and taking nothing for granted.
The dynamic between Sloane and Callan is chaotic, dangerous, unpredictable and everything they both needed without knowing it. The perfect fit found during the end of the world. The tension, magnetism, raw need and desire is absolutely delicious and addicting. The spice was everything🥵🔥
I loved the aquarium setting. It tied everything together and had you picturing the story in a new light with beautiful symbolism. Multiple fragile ecosystems that could fall if one thing is off balance. Yet, Frank (our favorite sea turtle) has survived despite the odds and will continue to survive.
Overall this story had great plot, danger, romance and emotional intensity that left you in a chokehold. I can’t wait so see what else Isolde puts on the page! Absolutely recommend!!!
I was not expecting the level of vivid world building, emotional depth and intensity Isolde poured into this story. The zombies were so well described you could see them in your mind, adding to unsettling and horror unfolding. You could feel the uncertainty in every page and left you feeling you were experiencing it with the characters.
The characters are going through their own struggles prior to the world as they know it ending. However, you are there through it all as they rediscover themselves and what it truly means to be alive and taking nothing for granted.
The dynamic between Sloane and Callan is chaotic, dangerous, unpredictable and everything they both needed without knowing it. The perfect fit found during the end of the world. The tension, magnetism, raw need and desire is absolutely delicious and addicting. The spice was everything🥵🔥
I loved the aquarium setting. It tied everything together and had you picturing the story in a new light with beautiful symbolism. Multiple fragile ecosystems that could fall if one thing is off balance. Yet, Frank (our favorite sea turtle) has survived despite the odds and will continue to survive.
Overall this story had great plot, danger, romance and emotional intensity that left you in a chokehold. I can’t wait so see what else Isolde puts on the page! Absolutely recommend!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received this as an ARC, this is my honest review.
4.5⭐️
As a fan of The Walking Dead, Zombie Apocalypse, & World War Z, when I Saw this was a post-Apocalypse romance, had to read.
Love that you get a chance to connect with the two main characters. Relatable 30 & 40 year-olds with troubled relationships, ones who are just going through life, like we all tend to do...
This is super SPICY 😈❤️🔥🥵, BUT also has plot, action, and suspense which kept me reading on.
Loved that the aquarium was a key part, created a sentimental connection. 🐢
The descriptions of the dead were on point, definitely gruesome in detail, just like any zombie lover would enjoy 😜
Favorite quotes:
"The apocalypse could wait. We had each other to destroy first."
"You’re not broken. You never were."
"Because love isn’t peace. Love is fear, the real kind, anyway. It’s the moment someone else holds the power to destroy you and you hand it over willingly. It’s choosing their life over your own without thinking."
Note from the author I thought was important to share:
This story contains spice, gore, horror elements, and a brutal end-of-the-world setting, so please keep that in mind before reading.
This is a post-apocalyptic romance with very explicit spice and strong emotional themes.
If you enjoy dark romance, survival stories, and morally gray characters, this is for you.
4.5⭐️
As a fan of The Walking Dead, Zombie Apocalypse, & World War Z, when I Saw this was a post-Apocalypse romance, had to read.
Love that you get a chance to connect with the two main characters. Relatable 30 & 40 year-olds with troubled relationships, ones who are just going through life, like we all tend to do...
This is super SPICY 😈❤️🔥🥵, BUT also has plot, action, and suspense which kept me reading on.
Loved that the aquarium was a key part, created a sentimental connection. 🐢
The descriptions of the dead were on point, definitely gruesome in detail, just like any zombie lover would enjoy 😜
Favorite quotes:
"The apocalypse could wait. We had each other to destroy first."
"You’re not broken. You never were."
"Because love isn’t peace. Love is fear, the real kind, anyway. It’s the moment someone else holds the power to destroy you and you hand it over willingly. It’s choosing their life over your own without thinking."
Note from the author I thought was important to share:
This story contains spice, gore, horror elements, and a brutal end-of-the-world setting, so please keep that in mind before reading.
This is a post-apocalyptic romance with very explicit spice and strong emotional themes.
If you enjoy dark romance, survival stories, and morally gray characters, this is for you.
May 15, 2026
This book feels quiet in a way that slowly gets under your skin—and then suddenly you realize you’re completely emotionally wrecked by it.
The atmosphere in this story is everything. The aquarium setting alone creates this eerie, fragile calm that hangs over the entire book from the very beginning. Dim lights. Endless water. Silence that feels too heavy. Even before the world starts falling apart, there’s this lingering feeling that something is already breaking beneath the surface.
And honestly??
That tension made this impossible to stop reading.
Sloane feels stuck long before the apocalypse ever begins. She hides inside routines, inside the safety of predictable systems, because real life feels harder to face. Watching her slowly get stripped down to survival—emotionally and physically—felt incredibly raw and human.
And then there’s Callan.
Quiet. Observant. Distant in that way that somehow says too much anyway.
He’s always there in the background at first, almost blending into the aquarium itself… until suddenly he becomes the person holding everything together.
The relationship development in this book is BEAUTIFUL.
It’s subtle. Slow. Built through survival, trust, and all the things left unsaid for far too long.
No dramatic declarations.
No instant romance.
Just two people clinging to each other while the world collapses around them.
And somehow that makes every moment hit harder.
The emotional tension here is incredible because it’s not just about surviving what’s outside—it’s about finally confronting everything between them that neither of them wanted to face before.
✨ If you love:
• atmospheric apocalypse romance
• quiet, emotionally intense slow burn
• forced proximity + survival tension
• soft, protective MMCs
• stories that feel haunting and intimate at the same time
This one is haunting, beautiful, and deeply emotional in a way that lingers long after the last page 🌊🖤
The atmosphere in this story is everything. The aquarium setting alone creates this eerie, fragile calm that hangs over the entire book from the very beginning. Dim lights. Endless water. Silence that feels too heavy. Even before the world starts falling apart, there’s this lingering feeling that something is already breaking beneath the surface.
And honestly??
That tension made this impossible to stop reading.
Sloane feels stuck long before the apocalypse ever begins. She hides inside routines, inside the safety of predictable systems, because real life feels harder to face. Watching her slowly get stripped down to survival—emotionally and physically—felt incredibly raw and human.
And then there’s Callan.
Quiet. Observant. Distant in that way that somehow says too much anyway.
He’s always there in the background at first, almost blending into the aquarium itself… until suddenly he becomes the person holding everything together.
The relationship development in this book is BEAUTIFUL.
It’s subtle. Slow. Built through survival, trust, and all the things left unsaid for far too long.
No dramatic declarations.
No instant romance.
Just two people clinging to each other while the world collapses around them.
And somehow that makes every moment hit harder.
The emotional tension here is incredible because it’s not just about surviving what’s outside—it’s about finally confronting everything between them that neither of them wanted to face before.
✨ If you love:
• atmospheric apocalypse romance
• quiet, emotionally intense slow burn
• forced proximity + survival tension
• soft, protective MMCs
• stories that feel haunting and intimate at the same time
This one is haunting, beautiful, and deeply emotional in a way that lingers long after the last page 🌊🖤
May 17, 2026
3.5 🌟
I went into this not sure what to expect, and honestly it ended up being a pretty wow read. The mix of zombie apocalypse + romance + spice was really well balanced. I’m weak for this stuff and this hit that sweet spot where it felt emotional, a little intense, and still easy to binge.
The story follows Sloane and Callan, and I really liked seeing their relationship develop in the middle of chaos. There's something about forced proximity during an apocalypse that just works, and their dynamic had a lot of tender moments mixed in with the everything.
That said, the story could have more depth, especially when it comes to the danger and urgency of the situation. At times it felt a bit surface-level and could have gone harder emotionally. The pacing was overall good, but the ending felt a little rushed?
The spicy scenes though? 👀 Definitely delivered. There’s a good mix with some softer, emotional moments and some heavier ones, and the spice didn’t take over the plot, which is a plus.
I got this as an eARC and overall I liked it. It's quick, engaging, with a interesting concept and characters. I just wish it dug a little deeper and gave us a more satisfying ending. I'd still recommend it if you like survival stories with a solid dose of romance and spice. 🙏
I went into this not sure what to expect, and honestly it ended up being a pretty wow read. The mix of zombie apocalypse + romance + spice was really well balanced. I’m weak for this stuff and this hit that sweet spot where it felt emotional, a little intense, and still easy to binge.
The story follows Sloane and Callan, and I really liked seeing their relationship develop in the middle of chaos. There's something about forced proximity during an apocalypse that just works, and their dynamic had a lot of tender moments mixed in with the everything.
That said, the story could have more depth, especially when it comes to the danger and urgency of the situation. At times it felt a bit surface-level and could have gone harder emotionally. The pacing was overall good, but the ending felt a little rushed?
The spicy scenes though? 👀 Definitely delivered. There’s a good mix with some softer, emotional moments and some heavier ones, and the spice didn’t take over the plot, which is a plus.
I got this as an eARC and overall I liked it. It's quick, engaging, with a interesting concept and characters. I just wish it dug a little deeper and gave us a more satisfying ending. I'd still recommend it if you like survival stories with a solid dose of romance and spice. 🙏
May 30, 2026
Between You & I is book 1 in the Still Beating series and it was an ok read for me. Everyone who knows me knows I love Zombie's and end of the world situations, add in a romance and I'm sold. This story follows coworkers Sloane and Callan who have worked together for years but are definitely not friends. The story starts out with them both dealing with issues in their personal lives before it all ends. I liked Sloane and Callan as a couple. They had great chemistry and worked well together. I also enjoyed the closer they got as the story went on. Now this is where it gets hard for me to review because I liked it and I enjoyed the authors writing but I also felt it was too long and I found myself losing interest. It took me a week to read because it was just lacking in so many ways and I can't believe I'm going to say this, but there were so many spicy scenes. Now, they were all very enjoyable but there wasn't enough of a balanced story for me for it all to work. With all that said I do plan to read book 2. Like I said I did enjoy the author's writing and hopefully she tightens up the story and gives us more dept to the characters and story and that balances out with her nicely written spicy scenes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Between You & I absolutely wrecked me.
I went in expecting a gritty apocalypse romance… and got something so much more layered. The setting alone deserves a moment—an aquarium. It’s eerie, and completely immersive, with that constant sense that something is just waiting on the other side of the glass. It felt fresh in a genre that can sometimes blur together.
Sloane and Callan? Tension for days. Their dynamic is messy, intense, and so human in a world that’s anything but. The emotional push and pull hit just as hard as the external danger.
And yes—the spice is there (definitely a level five 🌶️), but it never overshadows the story. It enhances it. Every moment felt earned, not thrown in just for shock value.
The writing is strong, the pacing keeps you hooked, and the stakes—both emotional and physical—stay high the entire time. Also, the zombies? Truly biting. (I’m not sorry for the pun.)
If you love post-apocalyptic romance with a unique setting, high tension, and characters that make you feel everything…Between You & I is a must-read.
I received this copy as an ARC.
May 24, 2026
Between You and I is a Post-Apocalypse love story with spice and is book 1 in the Still Beating series.
This story had a way of sucking me in. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop.
Sloan and Callum work together at an aquarium but don't really have much interaction or communication with each other. Sloan in a relationship with a man named Peter, who she seems unhappy with. Callum is married to a successful business woman but is going through a divorce. When things start to get messy in the real world and Sloan and Callum are basically forced to seek refuge in and with each other in the aquarium, they never expected that the two of them, broken separately can be whole again together. Maybe it's the ambiance of the aquarium, maybe its the apocalypse happening outside, maybe it's the thought of being trapped together for who knows how long, but something tender and careful starts to form between them. I think the relationship between them is so amazing. It's not coming from a place of danger or fear. It's coming from friendship and trust . The way this story is laid out, it's unique and not like any other post-apocalyptic story I've ever read before. I can't wait for book 2.
This story had a way of sucking me in. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop.
Sloan and Callum work together at an aquarium but don't really have much interaction or communication with each other. Sloan in a relationship with a man named Peter, who she seems unhappy with. Callum is married to a successful business woman but is going through a divorce. When things start to get messy in the real world and Sloan and Callum are basically forced to seek refuge in and with each other in the aquarium, they never expected that the two of them, broken separately can be whole again together. Maybe it's the ambiance of the aquarium, maybe its the apocalypse happening outside, maybe it's the thought of being trapped together for who knows how long, but something tender and careful starts to form between them. I think the relationship between them is so amazing. It's not coming from a place of danger or fear. It's coming from friendship and trust . The way this story is laid out, it's unique and not like any other post-apocalyptic story I've ever read before. I can't wait for book 2.
June 8, 2026
fun, but needs editing
This one was deeper and more emotional than I had anticipated. Callan and Sloane both showed the harsh reality of failing relationships, but they also showed the beauty of finding the right person. The biggest thing in the book were the zombies. This was equal parts romance and thriller.
I’m not a big zombie fan, they never made sense to me. If you’re going to discuss a worldwide infection, wouldn’t it make more sense for them to be a fungal outbreak than a viral? My loathing for zombie “viruses” aside, I did enjoy this one. I enjoyed the different perspective on what it looked like to survive one. Sloane and Callan work in an aquarium, and that’s where they end up hiding to survive. Never considered the possibilities an aquarium would have for a survival scenario, so that was fun.
It was a good read. Unrealistic, but fun. The author desperately needs to hire an editor and should’ve had some beta readers go over this one before publishing it though. A lot of errors, conflicting information, formatting issues and more than took away from the book. It wasn’t awful, just a little irritating because it absolutely distracted from the story.
This one was deeper and more emotional than I had anticipated. Callan and Sloane both showed the harsh reality of failing relationships, but they also showed the beauty of finding the right person. The biggest thing in the book were the zombies. This was equal parts romance and thriller.
I’m not a big zombie fan, they never made sense to me. If you’re going to discuss a worldwide infection, wouldn’t it make more sense for them to be a fungal outbreak than a viral? My loathing for zombie “viruses” aside, I did enjoy this one. I enjoyed the different perspective on what it looked like to survive one. Sloane and Callan work in an aquarium, and that’s where they end up hiding to survive. Never considered the possibilities an aquarium would have for a survival scenario, so that was fun.
It was a good read. Unrealistic, but fun. The author desperately needs to hire an editor and should’ve had some beta readers go over this one before publishing it though. A lot of errors, conflicting information, formatting issues and more than took away from the book. It wasn’t awful, just a little irritating because it absolutely distracted from the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book was INTENSE and not for the faint of heart but it was for me. I ate this one up and was reading some of the graphic zombie scenes to my husband out loud because they were just that good. 😂 If you ever watched The Walking Dead and wondered where are the spicy time scenes, because c’mon it’s the end of the world and we have to enjoy something, then this book is for you too.
I absolutely loved the imagery and how creeping and disturbing every scene with the zombies was, it felt like I was actually living in this post apocalyptic world and while that’s kind of horrifying it was also captivating and kept me on the edge of my seat. I was not expecting the level of spice this book delivered, pretty sure my Kindle almost caught on fire. 🥵🔥 So if you’re looking for something super spicy and suspenseful, you will definitely love it. My slow burn loving heart would have preferred a bit more of a build up between the main characters and maybe a more dramatic ending because I’m a masochist and love being dropped off the edge of a huge cliffhanger, but overall I really enjoyed this book and feel like there’s still A LOT of story to be told and I can’t wait to read book 2!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This book was INTENSE and not for the faint of heart but it was for me. I ate this one up and was reading some of the graphic zombie scenes to my husband out loud because they were just that good. 😂 If you ever watched The Walking Dead and wondered where are the spicy time scenes, because c’mon it’s the end of the world and we have to enjoy something, then this book is for you too.
I absolutely loved the imagery and how creeping and disturbing every scene with the zombies was, it felt like I was actually living in this post apocalyptic world and while that’s kind of horrifying it was also captivating and kept me on the edge of my seat. I was not expecting the level of spice this book delivered, pretty sure my Kindle almost caught on fire. 🥵🔥 So if you’re looking for something super spicy and suspenseful, you will definitely love it. My slow burn loving heart would have preferred a bit more of a build up between the main characters and maybe a more dramatic ending because I’m a masochist and love being dropped off the edge of a huge cliffhanger, but overall I really enjoyed this book and feel like there’s still A LOT of story to be told and I can’t wait to read book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a great read this was, especially since I love me some zombies!
These two characters are thrown together under apocalyptic circumstances, adding an extra layer of chaos to their relationship. Callan is rough around the edges with a strong “leave me alone” vibe, while Sloan is a strong but lost woman who feels incredibly real and relatable. They both have their own hang-ups, and watching them realize there’s more between them than just being coworkers was one of the best parts of the story.
The tension kept building, and with the end-of-the-world setting, I found myself rooting hard for them. The side characters bring even more heart to the story, adding some truly touching moments. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time for that win.
If you’re into some zombie chaos with some very spicy moments woven in, this is definitely one to pick up. And let's pause for FRANK… extra points for the feels he brought.
These two characters are thrown together under apocalyptic circumstances, adding an extra layer of chaos to their relationship. Callan is rough around the edges with a strong “leave me alone” vibe, while Sloan is a strong but lost woman who feels incredibly real and relatable. They both have their own hang-ups, and watching them realize there’s more between them than just being coworkers was one of the best parts of the story.
The tension kept building, and with the end-of-the-world setting, I found myself rooting hard for them. The side characters bring even more heart to the story, adding some truly touching moments. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time for that win.
If you’re into some zombie chaos with some very spicy moments woven in, this is definitely one to pick up. And let's pause for FRANK… extra points for the feels he brought.
May 2, 2026
Between You and I is a spicy story about survival during a zombie apocalypse.
This was a good book but lacked depth. I enjoyed the overall theme of survival but I felt like I wanted more. While the writing was emotional and very descriptive, it just didn't invoke that feeling in me as a reader. I wanted to feel the urgency and danger that the characters were going through.
Throughout the book the pacing was good and realistic, but towards the end it sped up exponentially. This will be a series, and the book definitely left me feeling like the story was unfinished. Normally I would not mind this especially for a series but it just seemed to end out of nowhere. There wasn't really a cliff hanger, just a feeling of being cut short.
The spicy scenes were great, you get a mix of hot and heavy and slow and loving. There were a good amount of these scenes, but didn't overwhelm the plot.
Overall, I would suggest this book to readers who enjoy a survival plot with a heavy dose of spice.
This was a good book but lacked depth. I enjoyed the overall theme of survival but I felt like I wanted more. While the writing was emotional and very descriptive, it just didn't invoke that feeling in me as a reader. I wanted to feel the urgency and danger that the characters were going through.
Throughout the book the pacing was good and realistic, but towards the end it sped up exponentially. This will be a series, and the book definitely left me feeling like the story was unfinished. Normally I would not mind this especially for a series but it just seemed to end out of nowhere. There wasn't really a cliff hanger, just a feeling of being cut short.
The spicy scenes were great, you get a mix of hot and heavy and slow and loving. There were a good amount of these scenes, but didn't overwhelm the plot.
Overall, I would suggest this book to readers who enjoy a survival plot with a heavy dose of spice.
July 31, 2026
This is the first time I read an apocalyptic zombie style story (have watched TV shows and movies) which was interesting of itself. It was compelling and did a good job at grabbing that sense of anxiety/fear/suspense at certain danger scenes within the book. The premise made for the love story to enfold was interesting. Good descriptions of settings and scenes as well as emotional resonance regarding the characters. The love story part actually ran deep with clear character arcs or growth in their relationship occurring that mixed the intimacy with the spice in a balanced way.
Why it wasn't a 5-star Read for me?
The use of "like it belongs..." repeatedly
The not this, not this, but this (not a lot but this type of sentence expression is personally irritating to read for me).
I think I have come to the conclusion that I personally dislike when a story ends with a spice scene (the last one I skimmed through).
Why it wasn't a 5-star Read for me?
The use of "like it belongs..." repeatedly
The not this, not this, but this (not a lot but this type of sentence expression is personally irritating to read for me).
I think I have come to the conclusion that I personally dislike when a story ends with a spice scene (the last one I skimmed through).
May 6, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author
Sloane and Callan are both navigating their imperfect lives while working alongside and bickering with one another at the aquarium. Then their worlds collide, and survival in a shattered world forces them to rely on the only thing they have left: each other. They end up trapped in the aquarium, trying to figure out how they're going to live, which to me is the coolest part (such a unique setting for the end of the world!)
There are gory, heart-racing zombie encounters that will have you holding your breath, and predicaments that keep you wondering what's coming next. Then somewhere in the pages, between the horror and chaos, you'll find a cautious hope that these two will make it in this dangerous new world, despite the odds and the circumstances that brought them together. I really enjoyed this story and how I was pulled into the world right from the start.
Please check the content warnings before starting; this is an apocalyptic zombie story that leans fully into its horror elements. If you're looking for a vividly creepy zombie plot filled with suspense and spicy romance, give this one a try!
Sloane and Callan are both navigating their imperfect lives while working alongside and bickering with one another at the aquarium. Then their worlds collide, and survival in a shattered world forces them to rely on the only thing they have left: each other. They end up trapped in the aquarium, trying to figure out how they're going to live, which to me is the coolest part (such a unique setting for the end of the world!)
There are gory, heart-racing zombie encounters that will have you holding your breath, and predicaments that keep you wondering what's coming next. Then somewhere in the pages, between the horror and chaos, you'll find a cautious hope that these two will make it in this dangerous new world, despite the odds and the circumstances that brought them together. I really enjoyed this story and how I was pulled into the world right from the start.
Please check the content warnings before starting; this is an apocalyptic zombie story that leans fully into its horror elements. If you're looking for a vividly creepy zombie plot filled with suspense and spicy romance, give this one a try!
June 10, 2026
Eh. It was entertaining but some things bothered me. Likely totally ridiculous on my part to let this perturb me so take it with a grain of salt and read it to see how you feel about it.
Minor gripes-
1. There were great white sharks in captivity? I don’t think that’s possible for any extended period of time.
2. They went 0 to 60 at lightening speed with jumping each other’s bones. Like damn. I realize they have been traumatized and the tension has been there with them but the guy literally just brutally lost someone he loved for years and she lost her boyfriend, albeit she planned to break up with him anyway, but come on the guy sent YOU a pic of him dying and asked for help and you gave it some minor cursory thought and moved on. Cold.
3. No one seemed super worried about their loved ones. Like, they were mentioned but then they moved on fairly quickly from it
Minor gripes-
1. There were great white sharks in captivity? I don’t think that’s possible for any extended period of time.
2. They went 0 to 60 at lightening speed with jumping each other’s bones. Like damn. I realize they have been traumatized and the tension has been there with them but the guy literally just brutally lost someone he loved for years and she lost her boyfriend, albeit she planned to break up with him anyway, but come on the guy sent YOU a pic of him dying and asked for help and you gave it some minor cursory thought and moved on. Cold.
3. No one seemed super worried about their loved ones. Like, they were mentioned but then they moved on fairly quickly from it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I didn't know what to expect from this story. I received this from the author directly as part of ARC. Zombie apocalypse. Reminding me of that zombie show but specifically focused on 2 individuals. Sloane and Callan work at the aquarium she is. Marine biologist and he is her boss. Sloane is in a relationship with Peter who is not right for her at all. And Callan is going through a divorce. Then the world stops with the apocalypse and all hell breaks loose. I can't say too much without giving scenes away but I could not put this book down I actually want more from the characters and other introduced in the story. Thanks isolde
April 24, 2026
I had the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Between You & I by Isolde Blackwood. I gave this book 4 stars. This is book one in the Still Beating Series. I am not normally a zombie apocalypse fan, but Isolde did an incredible job writing this genre. This book had me on the edge of my seat and incorporated dark romance into the book well. This book was more plot with an undertone of dark romance which was a nice change of pace for me. If you are looking for an end of the world, coworkers/ enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and plot driven book, I highly recommend giving this book a read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into Between You & I: A Post Apocalypse Spicy Love Story expecting a fun, steamy escape and it absolutely delivered, with a surprisingly strong emotional core. The post apocalyptic setting adds real tension and grit, making the romance feel earned rather than just thrown in for heat. The chemistry between the leads is intense, but what stood out most to me was how their vulnerability and trust developed alongside the chaos of their world.
It’s definitely on the spicier side, but there’s enough plot and character growth to keep things balanced. If you like your romance with high stakes, danger, and a lot of passion, this one is well worth the read.
It’s definitely on the spicier side, but there’s enough plot and character growth to keep things balanced. If you like your romance with high stakes, danger, and a lot of passion, this one is well worth the read.
May 1, 2026
This was such a compelling apocalyptic, end of the world, spicy romance with zombies! It was well written and the plot was great. I loved seeing Callan and Sloane’s lived before everything went to hell. Seeing their relationships with their partners/ex partners as well as with each other. Of course being trapped with each other made it obvious what would happen, which I am not mad about. However, I do wish they could have held on to the animosity just a little longer before so easily giving in. I honestly enjoyed this story and was pleased that it had a story with action and suspense. I appreciate receiving an advanced copy of the book to read.
May 20, 2026
This book was phenomenal from start to finish. It completely kept my attention the entire time and blended tension, survival, romance, and spice perfectly. The pre/post-apocalypse setting added so much intensity to the story, and the enemies-to-lovers dynamic was done SO well.
The chemistry between the characters was undeniable, and every interaction had me hooked. It was emotional, gritty, suspenseful, and spicy all at once — the kind of book that makes you keep saying “just one more chapter.”
If you love apocalyptic romance with strong tension, high stakes, and a satisfying enemies-to-lovers storyline, I highly recommend this one. 🌶️📖
The chemistry between the characters was undeniable, and every interaction had me hooked. It was emotional, gritty, suspenseful, and spicy all at once — the kind of book that makes you keep saying “just one more chapter.”
If you love apocalyptic romance with strong tension, high stakes, and a satisfying enemies-to-lovers storyline, I highly recommend this one. 🌶️📖
May 20, 2026
Couldn't put it down
This had me hooked from the beginning. The chemistry between Sloane and Callan was fire. It's the kind of chemistry that keeps you up way too late and you don't even kid yourself with saying only one more chapter. You can't help yourself. The emotional beats hit just as hard as the heat. I loved the dynamic between the characters and how the story balanced tension, vulnerability and pure obsession.
I devoured this book and genuinely didn't want it to end. I'm already counting down until the next book. I need more of this world, this couple and conclusions/info on the other characters.
This had me hooked from the beginning. The chemistry between Sloane and Callan was fire. It's the kind of chemistry that keeps you up way too late and you don't even kid yourself with saying only one more chapter. You can't help yourself. The emotional beats hit just as hard as the heat. I loved the dynamic between the characters and how the story balanced tension, vulnerability and pure obsession.
I devoured this book and genuinely didn't want it to end. I'm already counting down until the next book. I need more of this world, this couple and conclusions/info on the other characters.
July 31, 2026
Desperately needs an editor
When the grammatical errors start in the title of the book, you know you’re in for a rough ride. (Should be “Between You & Me”)
I can usually push past little errors, but the errors just in the first few pages (dropped words, confusing story, etc.) made this pretty much unreadable. I’m not sure who the people are giving this book 4-5 stars, but I don’t think they actually read it. The entire book was full of grammatical errors, timeline mistakes, continuity errors, etc. Add to that truly unpleasant characters, and this book is a hard no.
Please, author, get a human editor and redo this book!
When the grammatical errors start in the title of the book, you know you’re in for a rough ride. (Should be “Between You & Me”)
I can usually push past little errors, but the errors just in the first few pages (dropped words, confusing story, etc.) made this pretty much unreadable. I’m not sure who the people are giving this book 4-5 stars, but I don’t think they actually read it. The entire book was full of grammatical errors, timeline mistakes, continuity errors, etc. Add to that truly unpleasant characters, and this book is a hard no.
Please, author, get a human editor and redo this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a good read! I am not a huge dark romance girly, but this was the perfect blend of spice, post-apocalype, and swoon.
The major apocalyptic portions of this story made my stomach hurt (not because they were bad, they just hit really close to home) - but I really enjoyed watching Sloane and Callan come together, protect each other, and ultimately fall head over heels in love. 🥹
This was a breezy read, and I honestly couldn't put it down! Please check the trigger warnings, and stay safe <3
Thank you so much to the author for an eARC of this book! 🫶🏼🖤
The major apocalyptic portions of this story made my stomach hurt (not because they were bad, they just hit really close to home) - but I really enjoyed watching Sloane and Callan come together, protect each other, and ultimately fall head over heels in love. 🥹
This was a breezy read, and I honestly couldn't put it down! Please check the trigger warnings, and stay safe <3
Thank you so much to the author for an eARC of this book! 🫶🏼🖤
May 1, 2026
Such a good book. If you love horror movies and romance books then this is perfect for you. Sloane is woman who is getting out of a relationship that she feels no excitement and no spark. The books mainly take place in an aquarium where Sloane and Callan work and are trying to save the fish while the world is ending all around them. I love how the zombies in this book come so fast one second it’s a normal day at work and then zombies. I love how Sloane and Callan come together to face the world together. Such a good book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews