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Peril in Plain Space #2
Amish Zombies from Space
** Realm Award Winner for Supernatural, Horror & Other, 2016 ** First, vampires in space. And now...zombies. Really? Jebediah and the others are trying to get over the horrors they faced in deep space, and now this.
It’s been five years, and the Amish colony on Miller’s Resolve has finally gotten settled. Jeb and Sarah have a son. Elder Samuel is happy not being in charge. Darly has a private practice. And Greels is out of jail at last.
But when a mysterious ship from space arrives on Resolve, it unleashes a horde of undead that might spell the end of the survivors and their dreams of peace.
Will the specters of the past save them, or seal their fate?
It’s been five years, and the Amish colony on Miller’s Resolve has finally gotten settled. Jeb and Sarah have a son. Elder Samuel is happy not being in charge. Darly has a private practice. And Greels is out of jail at last.
But when a mysterious ship from space arrives on Resolve, it unleashes a horde of undead that might spell the end of the survivors and their dreams of peace.
Will the specters of the past save them, or seal their fate?
457 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
15 people are currently reading
342 people want to read
About the author
Kerry Nietz
37 books176 followersKerry Nietz is an award-winning science fiction author. He has over a half dozen speculative novels in print, along with a novella, a couple short stories, and a non-fiction book, FoxTales.
Kerry’s novel A Star Curiously Singing won the Readers Favorite Gold Medal Award for Christian Science Fiction and is notable for its dystopian, cyberpunk vibe in a world under sharia law. It has over a hundred 5-star reviews on Amazon and is often mentioned on “Best of” lists.
Among his writings, Kerry's most talked about is the genre-bending Amish Vampires in Space. AViS was mentioned on the Tonight Show and in the Washington Post, Library Journal, and Publishers Weekly. Newsweek called it “a welcome departure from the typical Amish fare.”
Kerry is a refugee of the software industry. He spent more than a decade of his life flipping bits, first as one of the principal developers of the database product FoxPro for the now mythical Fox Software, and then as one of Bill Gates's minions at Microsoft. He is a husband, a father, a technophile and a movie buff.
Kerry’s novel A Star Curiously Singing won the Readers Favorite Gold Medal Award for Christian Science Fiction and is notable for its dystopian, cyberpunk vibe in a world under sharia law. It has over a hundred 5-star reviews on Amazon and is often mentioned on “Best of” lists.
Among his writings, Kerry's most talked about is the genre-bending Amish Vampires in Space. AViS was mentioned on the Tonight Show and in the Washington Post, Library Journal, and Publishers Weekly. Newsweek called it “a welcome departure from the typical Amish fare.”
Kerry is a refugee of the software industry. He spent more than a decade of his life flipping bits, first as one of the principal developers of the database product FoxPro for the now mythical Fox Software, and then as one of Bill Gates's minions at Microsoft. He is a husband, a father, a technophile and a movie buff.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 28, 2020
This sequel to Amish Vampires in Space does its predecessor proud.
Firstly, as I began my review of the first book, I need you to look at the title of this novel. If that doesn't spark in you the desire to read this book, then shame on you. SHAME. Right on you.
Ok, that being said, this book, like numero uno, has hidden depths that are belied by the whimsical and sensationalist title. Once again, the whole narrative has running through it an obviously well-researched and almost lovingly-crafted respect and knowledge of the Amish way of life.
Add to that the awesome space-travelly sci-fi tropes, along with the central themes of redemption and forgiveness. The combination makes for a truly singular work of science fiction.
BUT WAIT; THERE'S MORE!
Fucking zombies, man. And these zombies bring with them a conflict I've personally never really seen realized before: what happens when an unstoppable army of the dead descend on a community which holds as one of its core beliefs non-violent pacifism? How do you shoot the head and kill the ghoul when your religion prohibits self-defense?
I went into the first book with the idea I was going to read some super-silly, campy Syfy movie-of-the-week ridiculousness, and was blown away by the thought and heart behind the title. I went into this book with a much better idea of what to expect, and yet still found myself amazed.
Firstly, as I began my review of the first book, I need you to look at the title of this novel. If that doesn't spark in you the desire to read this book, then shame on you. SHAME. Right on you.
Ok, that being said, this book, like numero uno, has hidden depths that are belied by the whimsical and sensationalist title. Once again, the whole narrative has running through it an obviously well-researched and almost lovingly-crafted respect and knowledge of the Amish way of life.
Add to that the awesome space-travelly sci-fi tropes, along with the central themes of redemption and forgiveness. The combination makes for a truly singular work of science fiction.
BUT WAIT; THERE'S MORE!
Fucking zombies, man. And these zombies bring with them a conflict I've personally never really seen realized before: what happens when an unstoppable army of the dead descend on a community which holds as one of its core beliefs non-violent pacifism? How do you shoot the head and kill the ghoul when your religion prohibits self-defense?
I went into the first book with the idea I was going to read some super-silly, campy Syfy movie-of-the-week ridiculousness, and was blown away by the thought and heart behind the title. I went into this book with a much better idea of what to expect, and yet still found myself amazed.
June 5, 2015
Kerry Nietz does it again. I was eager for a sequel to Amish Vampires in Space. It raised a lot of interesting questions and I hoped the author would delve deeper into the origins of the vampires. He does just that in this book. We get to see all the old familiar faces as they gradually come together. The progression of the characters' lives is natural. Jeb and Sarah now live on an Englisher planet, straddling the line between their former world and their new one. Greels is out of jail, with no resources or purpose. Darly spends all her free time investigating those who created the vampires in book 1. Seal and Singer live together on their own ship, and the Amish in Miller's Resolve have successfully rebuilt their lives.
As with the vampires in book 1, the zombies in this book were unique and awesome. The scientific basis that Kerry used to explain them gave the book a fun edge and set it apart from the usual fare.
This book explores both the light and darkness of humanity. Through one particular character we get to see the horrifying result when a person fails to value human life. Through others we see the hope and beauty of forgiveness.
Once again, this book explores the Amish culture in a very sensitive way. It pays great respect to them while not putting them on a pedestal either.
There are also a couple of fun Easter eggs in here for those who have read some of Kerry's other work - hinting at a larger story universe.
The book brings the saga to a very satisfying conclusion - while still leaving room for a potential follow-up should the author decide to write one.
I heartily recommend this series to anyone who loves thoughtful science fiction mixed with a fun adventure and some monsters for good measure.
As with the vampires in book 1, the zombies in this book were unique and awesome. The scientific basis that Kerry used to explain them gave the book a fun edge and set it apart from the usual fare.
This book explores both the light and darkness of humanity. Through one particular character we get to see the horrifying result when a person fails to value human life. Through others we see the hope and beauty of forgiveness.
Once again, this book explores the Amish culture in a very sensitive way. It pays great respect to them while not putting them on a pedestal either.
There are also a couple of fun Easter eggs in here for those who have read some of Kerry's other work - hinting at a larger story universe.
The book brings the saga to a very satisfying conclusion - while still leaving room for a potential follow-up should the author decide to write one.
I heartily recommend this series to anyone who loves thoughtful science fiction mixed with a fun adventure and some monsters for good measure.
May 9, 2015
*I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Just when you thought space couldn't get any weirder. The Amish folk from Amish Vampires in Space should have been good, right? I mean, not only did they have to survive their planet almost killing them, but they had to survive vampires. So, you'd think they had paid their dues and should be good to go and live a peaceful life free from drama, etc. Well, think again. No one is safe from zombies. No one. You may think that living an Amish life and not having technology would help in a zombie apocalypse, but not this time.
I can tell you that just when you think you know how things are going to go and where the roads are going to lead, Kerry Nietz throws a curve ball at you at 80 mph. I had no idea where this story was going or how things were going to happen. Kerry Nietz is great at making you believe one thing while actually just distracting you from what is really happening.
I enjoyed this installment of the Amishers and I really can't wait for him to write more (oh please oh please). It's not that I have a thing for the Amish or that I am a huge religious nut (FAAAR from it). It's just that the struggles that these folk are faced with are real (not the zombies or vampires, ok?). I mean the struggles with society changing and how much of the outside world to let in, how to keep the old ways true, and to live the best life possible. Those are real struggles that everyone faces. With all of the changes in technology and society, it's hard to not get caught up in all the flashy, shiny things.
I have something to say about the whole Amish thing. If you think you are getting a campy, b-movie type book when you read AZfS or AViS, you will be sadly disappointed. These stories are about zombies and vampires and some characters who happen to be Amish. If you think you are going to have religion shoved in your face and preached to about God and the bible, you will be wrong. There is none of that in here, with the exception of some of the Amish talking about their faith with others and some of the struggles they are facing. PICK UP THESE BOOKS. YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY!
Just when you thought space couldn't get any weirder. The Amish folk from Amish Vampires in Space should have been good, right? I mean, not only did they have to survive their planet almost killing them, but they had to survive vampires. So, you'd think they had paid their dues and should be good to go and live a peaceful life free from drama, etc. Well, think again. No one is safe from zombies. No one. You may think that living an Amish life and not having technology would help in a zombie apocalypse, but not this time.
I can tell you that just when you think you know how things are going to go and where the roads are going to lead, Kerry Nietz throws a curve ball at you at 80 mph. I had no idea where this story was going or how things were going to happen. Kerry Nietz is great at making you believe one thing while actually just distracting you from what is really happening.
I enjoyed this installment of the Amishers and I really can't wait for him to write more (oh please oh please). It's not that I have a thing for the Amish or that I am a huge religious nut (FAAAR from it). It's just that the struggles that these folk are faced with are real (not the zombies or vampires, ok?). I mean the struggles with society changing and how much of the outside world to let in, how to keep the old ways true, and to live the best life possible. Those are real struggles that everyone faces. With all of the changes in technology and society, it's hard to not get caught up in all the flashy, shiny things.
I have something to say about the whole Amish thing. If you think you are getting a campy, b-movie type book when you read AZfS or AViS, you will be sadly disappointed. These stories are about zombies and vampires and some characters who happen to be Amish. If you think you are going to have religion shoved in your face and preached to about God and the bible, you will be wrong. There is none of that in here, with the exception of some of the Amish talking about their faith with others and some of the struggles they are facing. PICK UP THESE BOOKS. YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY!
May 23, 2015
This makes my heart happy.
November 13, 2018
Once again I have to say, don't just a book by it's cover or it's title. This book was just as good as Amish Vampires in Space.
This time we are roughly 5 years after the events in the first book and life has moved on. Most of the Amish have been relocated to a new planet that they named Miller's Resolve. Jeb and Sarah Miller (whom the planet has been named after) are living on an Englisher's planet with their son Issac, trying to make a living after Jed was exiled from the community for violating the laws, even though by doing so he helped to save his community.
Things take a turn when someone from the events on the ship arrives and ends up kidnapping Issac. Jeb and Sarah, along with some friends from the original ship go after him only to be be diverted to Miller's Resolve, where they have been suffering from a strange infection that came after a spaceship crashed on the planet.
Like the first book, this was a well written sci-fi story that provided a credible premise for all aspects of the story and even explained the zombie invasion and contamination very well.
As with the first book, I recommend to anyone who likes a good science fiction story. Don't let the title fool you.
This time we are roughly 5 years after the events in the first book and life has moved on. Most of the Amish have been relocated to a new planet that they named Miller's Resolve. Jeb and Sarah Miller (whom the planet has been named after) are living on an Englisher's planet with their son Issac, trying to make a living after Jed was exiled from the community for violating the laws, even though by doing so he helped to save his community.
Things take a turn when someone from the events on the ship arrives and ends up kidnapping Issac. Jeb and Sarah, along with some friends from the original ship go after him only to be be diverted to Miller's Resolve, where they have been suffering from a strange infection that came after a spaceship crashed on the planet.
Like the first book, this was a well written sci-fi story that provided a credible premise for all aspects of the story and even explained the zombie invasion and contamination very well.
As with the first book, I recommend to anyone who likes a good science fiction story. Don't let the title fool you.
October 19, 2016
Once again I have to say, I liked this book. It treats the Amish faith respectfully, it delves into the Christian faith and changed lives, it has seekers who needs to hear about God's love for them, and it's good science fiction. It continues beautifully from the first book, Amish Vampires From Space, and makes perfect sense. Well, perfect in the worlds Nietz has created. I'm telling you, they are worth a read if you like the science fiction, vampire, or zombie genres. Now, he left the book open for another installment - who is Zed? Do Mark and Darly find common ground? Does Greels come to faith? There's more story here. Maybe alien insects?
August 28, 2015
A great sequel, one that takes us on another rollicking adventure with Amish people in space. But this time, it's not vampires that are plaguing the good folk of Alabaster/Resolve, but zombies.
Nietz does an excellent job incorporating the tropes of a zombie story into a science fiction atmosphere. And while some may disagree, I think he handled the Amish aspects of the story with respect and seriousness.
Definitely worth the read and I'm looking forward to another one? Maybe? Seems like the door was left open at the end. But that makes me wonder what the next one could be...
Nietz does an excellent job incorporating the tropes of a zombie story into a science fiction atmosphere. And while some may disagree, I think he handled the Amish aspects of the story with respect and seriousness.
Definitely worth the read and I'm looking forward to another one? Maybe? Seems like the door was left open at the end. But that makes me wonder what the next one could be...
November 17, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised with Amish Vampires in Space. It took me awhile to get to Zombies, but I am again surprised, as this sequel was better than the first book. With campy titles as these, one gets the impression these books are not good, but that is not the case.
This book has a lot of subjects, zombies, kidnapping, faith, couple struggles and even a budding romance. Kerry Nietz has left open questions, I do hope he writes another in this series so we can have answers!
This book has a lot of subjects, zombies, kidnapping, faith, couple struggles and even a budding romance. Kerry Nietz has left open questions, I do hope he writes another in this series so we can have answers!
September 6, 2021
I’m not sure how the author does it, but he left me wanting more. The idea of this and the first book are so ridiculous that it left me completely intrigued how the author would tie everything together, but he did it so wonderfully. I actually enjoyed Amish Zombies from Space more than it’s predecessor. I’m a historical fiction kind of girl, some fantasy every so often. That being said, this series is great! Give this book a try!!! I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
September 15, 2021
This book was a sequel to Amish Vampires & it was just as much fun to read. Really enjoying the characters & how some are changing their thoughts about things that are different. Will have to read the next book in the series
Want to read
September 6, 2016Hold up, there's a sequel!?
March 30, 2019
Can't believe this book took nearly a month to read - but then, November was a busy month ;)
There were a lot of things wrong with the Amish. How they believe and spoke and such. I'll bullet point all the issues:
*Amish don't call English "Standard". It's just English.
*I have no idea where Nietz got the words "Amisher" and "Englisher" from. No "er" at the end.
*Amish, like Quakers and other conservative people believe that we shouldn't be partial to anyone (James 2:9) or show extra respect. Examples would be that back in the old days they wouldn't bow down to royalty, bow or say sir to nobles, or stand/ sit in their presence, but treat all men as their equal, worshiping God alone. In the book the Amish would call lots of people Mr or Mrs or "Yes ma'am" or the women would curtsy. Amish do not do that
*once one of the Amish accidentally said "ja" instead of "yes" to an English person. And the English person acted confused. The thing is, the German word for yes sounds so much like our slang for yes (yeah) that I doubt anyone would be confused at hearing a "ja"
*the German word for "Thanks" is spelled "danke" not "danki" and the German word for "yes" is spelled"ja" not "ya" though it sounds like the latter.
*Also, why are the Amish speaking English at all if they continued to speak Pennsylvania Dutch? Dutch was the Amish and Mennonites first language when they immigrated to America. But everyone here spoke English, so the Amish taught their kids English, but continued to speak Dutch at home because it was their "sacred" language. If the Amish had truly moved to another planet with no English people there would have been no need to continue to speak English as now days Amish only speak English for business and outward social reasons. In the first book I as OK with there being no Dutch for sake of the story. But then in the second book the Amish were suddenly speaking Dutch, too. I just don't see them realistically having kept both languages having been isolated for years. Another thing, when Amish do speak English they know how to say dog. "hund" is obviously a German word and they wouldn't use it so much as they did in the book.
But enough ranting about how many things were wrong with the Amish ;)
The STORY was good. I really enjoyed it.
I really loved this little bit of conversation:
"[Samuel said,] . . . But who better to lead the sheep than a shepherd who has suffered? I commend to you the book of Job. It has helped me often when—"
"I have read Job a dozen times since the Trial, Samuel." Mark felt a touch of anger, unneeded, unrighteous, but present just ht same. "I have studied all the scriptures. But my pain remains I feel lost and helpless. A Bishop should not the that way. Not here."
"You are not unique in your feelings. Remember Job doubted the Lord's ways. He sat in ashes and wept. Tormented for days. And even his friends were no help."
Mark shook his head. "I know this, but it does not help me. I am not Job."
Samuel straightened again. "We all are at some points. Why—"
"No. I am in that story, but I am not that man."
Samuel sniffed. "Well, who are you then? Not one of his friends? You don't claim to know God's ways. You are a servant, as I was. Better than I was, probably."
Mark's eyes found the floor again. "I am only on of Job's kinner. Destroyed as part of someone else's trial."
It . . . is so relatable. Job is one of my favorite books, yet this made me see if a bit differently. What if I were simply just Job's child? Sometimes the trials of life do feel more alike to that than the trials of Job.
I really liked how Nietz tied in many of other Bible stories in the book, too. But this was the most thought provoking for me.
Also, I liked how he mentioned the story of the Northkill settlement. I used to be bothered by that story, too. Though it's a favorite in the Amish storybooks.
The science was sometimes a bit over my head, yet I enjoyed it. And it was great getting to know more of the why behind the vampires and zombies.
One other critique. Isaac did not seem like a five year old, but more like an eight year old. And his parents allowing him to like action figures (that would be evil to most Amish) and cartoons, just seemed really fast-moving on their part after having JUST left the Amish. Also, how readily they agreed to having a doctor assist with birthing seemed a bit fast and not how many Amish would do, even if leaving the Amish.
But I did like Isaac, and I really like something I can't mention because it's a plot spoiler, but it's a huge part of the latter part of the story.
I liked all the characters much more in this story. I really liked Darly and Dixon. And felt sorry for Greels and enjoyed all the parts with him. And Mark and Samuel were more fun to read about. And I didn't dislike Seal as much either ;p
Overall, an enjoyable story but the Amish aren't realistic at all.
There were a lot of things wrong with the Amish. How they believe and spoke and such. I'll bullet point all the issues:
*Amish don't call English "Standard". It's just English.
*I have no idea where Nietz got the words "Amisher" and "Englisher" from. No "er" at the end.
*Amish, like Quakers and other conservative people believe that we shouldn't be partial to anyone (James 2:9) or show extra respect. Examples would be that back in the old days they wouldn't bow down to royalty, bow or say sir to nobles, or stand/ sit in their presence, but treat all men as their equal, worshiping God alone. In the book the Amish would call lots of people Mr or Mrs or "Yes ma'am" or the women would curtsy. Amish do not do that
*once one of the Amish accidentally said "ja" instead of "yes" to an English person. And the English person acted confused. The thing is, the German word for yes sounds so much like our slang for yes (yeah) that I doubt anyone would be confused at hearing a "ja"
*the German word for "Thanks" is spelled "danke" not "danki" and the German word for "yes" is spelled"ja" not "ya" though it sounds like the latter.
*Also, why are the Amish speaking English at all if they continued to speak Pennsylvania Dutch? Dutch was the Amish and Mennonites first language when they immigrated to America. But everyone here spoke English, so the Amish taught their kids English, but continued to speak Dutch at home because it was their "sacred" language. If the Amish had truly moved to another planet with no English people there would have been no need to continue to speak English as now days Amish only speak English for business and outward social reasons. In the first book I as OK with there being no Dutch for sake of the story. But then in the second book the Amish were suddenly speaking Dutch, too. I just don't see them realistically having kept both languages having been isolated for years. Another thing, when Amish do speak English they know how to say dog. "hund" is obviously a German word and they wouldn't use it so much as they did in the book.
But enough ranting about how many things were wrong with the Amish ;)
The STORY was good. I really enjoyed it.
I really loved this little bit of conversation:
"[Samuel said,] . . . But who better to lead the sheep than a shepherd who has suffered? I commend to you the book of Job. It has helped me often when—"
"I have read Job a dozen times since the Trial, Samuel." Mark felt a touch of anger, unneeded, unrighteous, but present just ht same. "I have studied all the scriptures. But my pain remains I feel lost and helpless. A Bishop should not the that way. Not here."
"You are not unique in your feelings. Remember Job doubted the Lord's ways. He sat in ashes and wept. Tormented for days. And even his friends were no help."
Mark shook his head. "I know this, but it does not help me. I am not Job."
Samuel straightened again. "We all are at some points. Why—"
"No. I am in that story, but I am not that man."
Samuel sniffed. "Well, who are you then? Not one of his friends? You don't claim to know God's ways. You are a servant, as I was. Better than I was, probably."
Mark's eyes found the floor again. "I am only on of Job's kinner. Destroyed as part of someone else's trial."
It . . . is so relatable. Job is one of my favorite books, yet this made me see if a bit differently. What if I were simply just Job's child? Sometimes the trials of life do feel more alike to that than the trials of Job.
I really liked how Nietz tied in many of other Bible stories in the book, too. But this was the most thought provoking for me.
Also, I liked how he mentioned the story of the Northkill settlement. I used to be bothered by that story, too. Though it's a favorite in the Amish storybooks.
The science was sometimes a bit over my head, yet I enjoyed it. And it was great getting to know more of the why behind the vampires and zombies.
One other critique. Isaac did not seem like a five year old, but more like an eight year old. And his parents allowing him to like action figures (that would be evil to most Amish) and cartoons, just seemed really fast-moving on their part after having JUST left the Amish. Also, how readily they agreed to having a doctor assist with birthing seemed a bit fast and not how many Amish would do, even if leaving the Amish.
But I did like Isaac, and I really like something I can't mention because it's a plot spoiler, but it's a huge part of the latter part of the story.
I liked all the characters much more in this story. I really liked Darly and Dixon. And felt sorry for Greels and enjoyed all the parts with him. And Mark and Samuel were more fun to read about. And I didn't dislike Seal as much either ;p
Overall, an enjoyable story but the Amish aren't realistic at all.
June 13, 2019
Ha! What a good book! Sadly, another Amish community decimated. Rather slow getting started but as it all came together...YES! I LOVED the ending. It is not a cliffhanger but certainly left the door open for a third book. Sadly seems unlikely since this was written in 2015. But if he ever wrote another, I'd read it. I'd love to follow these characters on further adventures.
June 19, 2015
*I received an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.*
Just when you thought space couldn't get any weirder. The Amish folk from Amish Vampires in Space should have been good, right? I mean, not only did they have to survive their planet almost killing them, but they had to survive vampires. So, you'd think they had paid their dues and should be good to go and live a peaceful life free from drama, etc. Well, think again. No one is safe from zombies. No one. You may think that living an Amish life and not having technology would help in a zombie apocalypse, but not this time.
I can tell you that just when you think you know how things are going to go and where the roads are going to lead, Kerry Nietz throws a curve ball at you at 80 mph. I had no idea where this story was going or how things were going to happen. Kerry Nietz is great at making you believe one thing while actually just distracting you from what is really happening.
I enjoyed this installment of the Amishers and I really can't wait for him to write more (oh please oh please). It's not that I have a thing for the Amish or that I am a huge religious nut (FAAAR from it). It's just that the struggles that these folk are faced with are real (not the zombies or vampires, ok?). I mean the struggles with society changing and how much of the outside world to let in, how to keep the old ways true, and to live the best life possible. Those are real struggles that everyone faces. With all of the changes in technology and society, it's hard to not get caught up in all the flashy, shiny things.
I have something to say about the whole Amish thing. If you think you are getting a campy, b-movie type book when you read AZfS or AViS, you will be sadly disappointed. These stories are about zombies and vampires and some characters who happen to be Amish. If you think you are going to have religion shoved in your face and preached to about God and the bible, you will be wrong. There is none of that in here, with the exception of some of the Amish talking about their faith with others and some of the struggles they are facing. PICK UP THESE BOOKS. YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY!
Just when you thought space couldn't get any weirder. The Amish folk from Amish Vampires in Space should have been good, right? I mean, not only did they have to survive their planet almost killing them, but they had to survive vampires. So, you'd think they had paid their dues and should be good to go and live a peaceful life free from drama, etc. Well, think again. No one is safe from zombies. No one. You may think that living an Amish life and not having technology would help in a zombie apocalypse, but not this time.
I can tell you that just when you think you know how things are going to go and where the roads are going to lead, Kerry Nietz throws a curve ball at you at 80 mph. I had no idea where this story was going or how things were going to happen. Kerry Nietz is great at making you believe one thing while actually just distracting you from what is really happening.
I enjoyed this installment of the Amishers and I really can't wait for him to write more (oh please oh please). It's not that I have a thing for the Amish or that I am a huge religious nut (FAAAR from it). It's just that the struggles that these folk are faced with are real (not the zombies or vampires, ok?). I mean the struggles with society changing and how much of the outside world to let in, how to keep the old ways true, and to live the best life possible. Those are real struggles that everyone faces. With all of the changes in technology and society, it's hard to not get caught up in all the flashy, shiny things.
I have something to say about the whole Amish thing. If you think you are getting a campy, b-movie type book when you read AZfS or AViS, you will be sadly disappointed. These stories are about zombies and vampires and some characters who happen to be Amish. If you think you are going to have religion shoved in your face and preached to about God and the bible, you will be wrong. There is none of that in here, with the exception of some of the Amish talking about their faith with others and some of the struggles they are facing. PICK UP THESE BOOKS. YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY!
March 16, 2018
Kerry Nietz did it again. He took a horror trope and turned in into a science fiction premise that works while simultaneously talking about how people cope with change, community, and family. I did not get the book for free, I paid full price and feel like I got a good deal. In some ways, this is not great literature, in that the writing is not lyrical by any means, which a five star book must usually have for me to rate it so highly, but the story-telling is clear and intelligent. I would have preferred more technical details of how this all works, but Nietz wisely neglected to write a manual to please me, and chose to tell a rollicking tale that at the end made me cry and will please everybody who likes stories of endurance, family, and the big questions of life. I can't look at the cover because it's so icky, but I have grown to trust the author despite his choice of shlocky titles and the occasional unsettling art. This book can be easily read as a stand-alone, though reading the previous Amish Vampires from Space will surely help. There is an indication at the end that there be a sequel to AZfS, and if there is I will buy it. I just hope I won't take so long to get around to it, as I did this, because, you know, zombies, yuck. If you haven't read any of his previous books, such as A Star Curiously Singing, I would like to recommend his other books as well. Do yourself a favor and read at least samples of his novels and see if you would like to go for his rides.
November 1, 2015
I loved this book. I really loved it. It was even better than the first one. Just in case you haven't figured it out yet, this book (Amish Zombies from Space) is the sequel to the now infamous, Amish Vampires in Space. All the surviving characters are back to kick some un-dead butt.
Jeb and Sarah have a five year old son, Issac, who much to his parents dismay is fascinated by monsters. Inspired by a cartoon show Issac comes to the conclusion that the word Monster is synonymous with hero. Much of the book revolves around this theme: that a Monster can be a hero.
The first half of the book alternates between Issac's story and the arrival of a strange ship on the Amish planet, Miller's Resolve. I don't really need to spell out for you what's on the ship do I?
The Amish story line progresses as a traditional Zombie story. The characters learn the rules as they go and make do with what they have.
The Story with Issac and his parents travels down the path of the first book. With Darly still looking for answers and Greels still hearing voices.
A little over halfway in, the story lines start to merge into one epic story. The ending is satisfying with plenty of opening left for another book.
Jeb and Sarah have a five year old son, Issac, who much to his parents dismay is fascinated by monsters. Inspired by a cartoon show Issac comes to the conclusion that the word Monster is synonymous with hero. Much of the book revolves around this theme: that a Monster can be a hero.
The first half of the book alternates between Issac's story and the arrival of a strange ship on the Amish planet, Miller's Resolve. I don't really need to spell out for you what's on the ship do I?
The Amish story line progresses as a traditional Zombie story. The characters learn the rules as they go and make do with what they have.
The Story with Issac and his parents travels down the path of the first book. With Darly still looking for answers and Greels still hearing voices.
A little over halfway in, the story lines start to merge into one epic story. The ending is satisfying with plenty of opening left for another book.
February 6, 2017
Thrills and chills continue as the sequel to Amish Vampires in Space (one of the best book covers ever) meets the challenge of running equal to its predecessor. As I said - very vehemently - about the first title in this series, this is NOT a joke. It is hard science fiction with a terrifying premise (no, it isn't supernatural, and you'll find out why when you read it/them) and well-crafted, clear prose that is absolutely captivating. The Amish aspect comes in to complicate matters as the English and Amish have to work together - and struggle with the Amish religious restrictions that ultimately cost some of them their lives and the lives of those they love.
All good things here, my fellow sci-fi fans, all good things.
All good things here, my fellow sci-fi fans, all good things.
February 6, 2017
A fantastic continuation of Amish Vampires in Space - here's to hoping that the author continues this fascinating combination of science fiction and the conflicts of dealing with life (and a lot of unexpected twists and turns that aren't specifically mentioned in the Bible) within the restraints of Amish culture.
"I believe it isn't so much about the circumstances, but how we live in them."
"I believe it isn't so much about the circumstances, but how we live in them."
August 1, 2021
A few months ago, I read Amish Vampires in Space for the alone. But I really liked it and felt in bested in the characters. This 2nd book did not disappoint. It shows how all the main characters have changed and the impact the Vampires had on them. It seemed natural that Jedediah and Sarah would break away from the Amish but stay true to who they are. Greeks story was intriguing because he’s such a flawed Person but who know he’s a good guy and you root for him. The way the zombies came about kept me interested. A good mix of adventure, horror and sci-fi that kept me interested.
October 29, 2021
How to pull off another zany but we'll written sequel? Read to find out.
This was a bigger emotional rollercoaster than it's predecessor, but good none the less. The novelty of the first was gone so now we needed more story, which we received in this one. There's bad guys here, and it's not the zombies. If the third book doesn't unravel the corruption, then a fourth better be in the works. Ride this Amish hayride to the end...
This was a bigger emotional rollercoaster than it's predecessor, but good none the less. The novelty of the first was gone so now we needed more story, which we received in this one. There's bad guys here, and it's not the zombies. If the third book doesn't unravel the corruption, then a fourth better be in the works. Ride this Amish hayride to the end...
August 16, 2019
If you are looking for great Science Fiction, you need to read Amish Vampires in Space and Amish Zombies From Space.
December 22, 2020
I just finished the book Amish vampires in space, how ever I found out that there is more, IT IS A TRILOGY and obviously I will read completely ( dont know when hehe) let me tell You first, I am not a native English speaker so, if something does not make sense for you feel free to ask again, so i can explain better
THE STORY BEHIND THE BOOK, some one from the team from the editorial https://www.enclavepublishing.com/books/ made the title and a book cover as a joke when amish books were kind of popular and teenagers where crazy with vampires topics. How ever Kerry Nietz made a story around that topic.
WHAT IS THE BOOK ABOUT Both, There is a plage in the ship, and every one in danger, this sickness doesnt diffence between race, believes, ages. every one has to find a way to be safe. Amish and no amish people who are in the same ship have to learn from one each other, put aside their differences and work together. In one side you have the amish who are so based in their rules, faith and believes, and in other hand you have the ship tripulants who dont give credit to prayers and such stuff ( I dont want to create a debate about this topic, and I want to invite you to read the book and after that give your opinion about how they handdeled this differences) EVEN THE AUTHOR IS A CHRISTIAN, HE DOESNT GO TO ANY SIDE AT ALL FROM MY POINT OF VIEW and if you believe or not, i am sure you will enjoy it.
Characters: 1. Jeb: a joung amish who loves his people and his family, how ever he always struggles with amish rules, so he is always fighting within himself about moral decitions he has to take. 2. Samuel: The Amish leader, he is radical in his beliefs, but besides that he really loves the people he leaders, at the beggining you can even hate him, during the story you really can know his reasons and his heart to protect others. 3. Seal, the captain, in the other side he doesnt event know about the existance of a deidy, his life are the machines and complete the missions, he is always attached to schedules, rutines and such, he doesnt even care about the tripulation he has, but you gotta read the book to findout the desitions he also has to take. Singer, my favorite character, she is really amazing, she is someone from the ship team and is encharge of take care of the amish, differenty than the other workers she doesnt see her mission as a task, but she really cares for both sides and i would say, she is the one who keeps the from christian-atheist fights.
Lesson: I would say this book not only teaches tolerance, but most especificly love, between the differences, respect others.
MY OWN EXPERIENCE: I found out about this book, since this year i was following a reading challenge and decided to be opened to new topics and books I am sure would never read otherwise. When i started I tryied to do not have expectations. since I couldnt even imagine how the author was going make one story like that. It catched me since chapter number 5-7 after that the book becomes very interesting, there are alot of twists, and the best part and funny thinks are the ways the Amish interpret everything that is going on. it took me arround 30 days to finish it, first because english is my second language, and because i have work to do, however it had me thinking about the plot all day long, and when I read, i was in ONE CHAPTER MORE mode.
As I said at the begging, then I found out there is a trilogy, and for sure I will read it, I know the name is supper bizarre, but, believe me, it is worth it. This is the first time i read this author, but i loved him. I recomend you to check this web https://www.enclavepublishing.com/books/ that has many Cific from the same editorial. now i have a big pile or TBR books to add to my TBR list
WHO SHOULD READ THIS BOOK i would say everyone. I guess believers and not believers should give them a try, the author takes you from one team to another. I am pretty sure a teenager will enjoy it, it has battles, fun, love, so much suspence, romance, moral decitions the characters gotta take in every single chapter.
THE STORY BEHIND THE BOOK, some one from the team from the editorial https://www.enclavepublishing.com/books/ made the title and a book cover as a joke when amish books were kind of popular and teenagers where crazy with vampires topics. How ever Kerry Nietz made a story around that topic.
WHAT IS THE BOOK ABOUT Both, There is a plage in the ship, and every one in danger, this sickness doesnt diffence between race, believes, ages. every one has to find a way to be safe. Amish and no amish people who are in the same ship have to learn from one each other, put aside their differences and work together. In one side you have the amish who are so based in their rules, faith and believes, and in other hand you have the ship tripulants who dont give credit to prayers and such stuff ( I dont want to create a debate about this topic, and I want to invite you to read the book and after that give your opinion about how they handdeled this differences) EVEN THE AUTHOR IS A CHRISTIAN, HE DOESNT GO TO ANY SIDE AT ALL FROM MY POINT OF VIEW and if you believe or not, i am sure you will enjoy it.
Characters: 1. Jeb: a joung amish who loves his people and his family, how ever he always struggles with amish rules, so he is always fighting within himself about moral decitions he has to take. 2. Samuel: The Amish leader, he is radical in his beliefs, but besides that he really loves the people he leaders, at the beggining you can even hate him, during the story you really can know his reasons and his heart to protect others. 3. Seal, the captain, in the other side he doesnt event know about the existance of a deidy, his life are the machines and complete the missions, he is always attached to schedules, rutines and such, he doesnt even care about the tripulation he has, but you gotta read the book to findout the desitions he also has to take. Singer, my favorite character, she is really amazing, she is someone from the ship team and is encharge of take care of the amish, differenty than the other workers she doesnt see her mission as a task, but she really cares for both sides and i would say, she is the one who keeps the from christian-atheist fights.
Lesson: I would say this book not only teaches tolerance, but most especificly love, between the differences, respect others.
MY OWN EXPERIENCE: I found out about this book, since this year i was following a reading challenge and decided to be opened to new topics and books I am sure would never read otherwise. When i started I tryied to do not have expectations. since I couldnt even imagine how the author was going make one story like that. It catched me since chapter number 5-7 after that the book becomes very interesting, there are alot of twists, and the best part and funny thinks are the ways the Amish interpret everything that is going on. it took me arround 30 days to finish it, first because english is my second language, and because i have work to do, however it had me thinking about the plot all day long, and when I read, i was in ONE CHAPTER MORE mode.
As I said at the begging, then I found out there is a trilogy, and for sure I will read it, I know the name is supper bizarre, but, believe me, it is worth it. This is the first time i read this author, but i loved him. I recomend you to check this web https://www.enclavepublishing.com/books/ that has many Cific from the same editorial. now i have a big pile or TBR books to add to my TBR list
WHO SHOULD READ THIS BOOK i would say everyone. I guess believers and not believers should give them a try, the author takes you from one team to another. I am pretty sure a teenager will enjoy it, it has battles, fun, love, so much suspence, romance, moral decitions the characters gotta take in every single chapter.
July 25, 2020
The title may seem like a silly B-movie title, but like many B-movies, the product is surprising and awesome. I think both of these books are written very well, and the plot and characters pull me back into the series.
The zombie scenes in this book are great because they're reminiscent of classic zombie movies, like Night of the Living Dead, as well as modern zombie stories, like The Walking Dead. And to make it even better, animals can be zombies too, so you get a lot of scary and delightful scenes from that.
I love books that skirt around on genre lines. This one is also Christian fiction. Throughout all this insanity, the Amish settlers question what all this means for them in terms of faith. I'm not Amish, but I still found this philosophical exploration of the Ordnung fascinating.
Yay for genre mash-ups! I highly recommend this series, especially if you're looking for something original.
The zombie scenes in this book are great because they're reminiscent of classic zombie movies, like Night of the Living Dead, as well as modern zombie stories, like The Walking Dead. And to make it even better, animals can be zombies too, so you get a lot of scary and delightful scenes from that.
I love books that skirt around on genre lines. This one is also Christian fiction. Throughout all this insanity, the Amish settlers question what all this means for them in terms of faith. I'm not Amish, but I still found this philosophical exploration of the Ordnung fascinating.
Yay for genre mash-ups! I highly recommend this series, especially if you're looking for something original.
December 21, 2025
Normally I'm not a big fan of zombies but Nietz knows how to make stories appealing. There is a scientific reason why the creatures become and do what they do, and it all makes sense.
All the best characters are back to take on the next trial and this time there are reinforcements! I absolutely love the vampire children. I can't wait to see what happens with them and the survivors next.
Also, if Darly and Mark don't get together in the next book I'm gonna be sad. Dixon it's hilarious.
Overall, a very enjoyable read. I look forward to the next book!
All the best characters are back to take on the next trial and this time there are reinforcements! I absolutely love the vampire children. I can't wait to see what happens with them and the survivors next.
Also, if Darly and Mark don't get together in the next book I'm gonna be sad. Dixon it's hilarious.
Overall, a very enjoyable read. I look forward to the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2023
This follow-up to Vampires in Space was fantastic. I honestly think it's better than the first. Loved that Nietz brought the same characters back in and gave some solid backstory behind the first book. And that it leaves it open for future books! If you're not into gore, don't be scared away by the zombie aspect. This isn't The Walking Dead with gross descriptions. The focus remains on the characters and their journey as they face impossible odds (again!) This book is perfect for any sci-fi or horror reader!
August 17, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed "Amish Vampires in Space," and its sequel lives up to the promise of the original. The tale here is different because, while we revisit the lives of the Amish and their friends after the vampire horror, the new threat they face is very different and the Amish themselves have the experience with which to handle it. Kerry's characterizations were excellent: whenever he switched points of view, I knew how the characters were going to react to situations, because he was consistent. He also handled the multiple plot lines masterfully, tying them together in ways I didn't see coming - and saving the best surprises for last. And of course, he deals with the challenges to faith admirably, as characters struggle with how to eliminate a zombie threat without compromising their morality.
A warning: set aside lots of time to read this, because you'll find it hard to put down. And another: avoid reading it at night! That's the mark of a good horror novel.
A warning: set aside lots of time to read this, because you'll find it hard to put down. And another: avoid reading it at night! That's the mark of a good horror novel.
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