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Strain of Resistance #2
Strain of Defiance
It's been eight years since the invasion. Eight years of fighting alien and human predators alike. Each day a struggle to survive.
Bixby, and her crew of survivors at the Grand Hotel, thought they had lived through the worst of it.
They were wrong.
The invaders have evolved. They've become smarter. Stronger. Deadlier.
There may be a way to eradicate this new threat. But that entails a perilous expedition over three hundred miles of infested territory. Three hundred miles of leeches, ravagers, and hybrids, all on the hunt for blood.
What could possibly go wrong?
Bixby, and her crew of survivors at the Grand Hotel, thought they had lived through the worst of it.
They were wrong.
The invaders have evolved. They've become smarter. Stronger. Deadlier.
There may be a way to eradicate this new threat. But that entails a perilous expedition over three hundred miles of infested territory. Three hundred miles of leeches, ravagers, and hybrids, all on the hunt for blood.
What could possibly go wrong?
226 pages, ebook
First published November 17, 2017
55 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 18, 2016
I received an eARC of this book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
Initial Reaction
OMG!!!! I need more! Strain of Defiance by Michelle Bryan is topping my favorite list right now. It is the second book in the Bixby Series and picks up a few weeks after the end of Strain of Resistance. I’ll be honest, I was concerned how the author would be able to keep the momentum and suspense going after the first book. I’m happy to say she did it and did it well! I devoured this book. I would’ve finished it in one sitting IF I hadn’t started it so late. I can’t remember another time that I was so engrossed and invested in a character.
Bixby’s back!
I love Bixby! She’s one messed-up chick though. She watched the world turn to hell and now she’s living to survive. She locks her emotions down and doesn’t let many people into her life. Why would she when they all leave? Yet the events in the first book have changed her. Bix is fighting her growing feelings for Luke, admitting she cares for the guys on her team and owning up/moving on from the grief of losing Sam.
All the characters I loved are back. Luke is still the “gentle giant” that Bixby referred to in the first book yet he’s also changed. He’s done waiting on Bixby to admit her feelings, especially when he can read her like a book. Gordon is still one of my favorite characters though he doesn’t play as big as a role in this book. The characters find a new colony of survivors in this book and so I don’t spoil anything I’ll just say I love them!
A New Threat
At the end of Strain of Resistance, Bixby and the others encountered a new mutation of the worms they are fighting. These are smarter, deadlier, and harder to kill. Honestly these guys scare the heck out of me and the characters! Why? Because they hide in plain sight as a human.
The plot revolves around finding a way to eradicate these guys. So Bixby and her crew on on a new mission: deliver the scientists they saved to a research facility. I liked this! This aspect of the plot forces them to leave the city they’ve made their home and in turn they encounter new dangers and new friends. It’s interesting to see this world evolve as the series continues. There is plenty of suspense as there are so many dangers even without the alien threat. I love it!!
Conclusion
Overall I LOVED this book! I couldn’t read it fast enough. I love Bixby, the romantic trouble she entangles herself in, and the story itself. I’m fully invested. I’m on pins and needles needing to know what will happen next. And that ending *sobs* I can’t even….Michelle Bryan I need more ASAP PLEASE?!?!
Initial Reaction
OMG!!!! I need more! Strain of Defiance by Michelle Bryan is topping my favorite list right now. It is the second book in the Bixby Series and picks up a few weeks after the end of Strain of Resistance. I’ll be honest, I was concerned how the author would be able to keep the momentum and suspense going after the first book. I’m happy to say she did it and did it well! I devoured this book. I would’ve finished it in one sitting IF I hadn’t started it so late. I can’t remember another time that I was so engrossed and invested in a character.
Bixby’s back!
I love Bixby! She’s one messed-up chick though. She watched the world turn to hell and now she’s living to survive. She locks her emotions down and doesn’t let many people into her life. Why would she when they all leave? Yet the events in the first book have changed her. Bix is fighting her growing feelings for Luke, admitting she cares for the guys on her team and owning up/moving on from the grief of losing Sam.
All the characters I loved are back. Luke is still the “gentle giant” that Bixby referred to in the first book yet he’s also changed. He’s done waiting on Bixby to admit her feelings, especially when he can read her like a book. Gordon is still one of my favorite characters though he doesn’t play as big as a role in this book. The characters find a new colony of survivors in this book and so I don’t spoil anything I’ll just say I love them!
A New Threat
At the end of Strain of Resistance, Bixby and the others encountered a new mutation of the worms they are fighting. These are smarter, deadlier, and harder to kill. Honestly these guys scare the heck out of me and the characters! Why? Because they hide in plain sight as a human.
The plot revolves around finding a way to eradicate these guys. So Bixby and her crew on on a new mission: deliver the scientists they saved to a research facility. I liked this! This aspect of the plot forces them to leave the city they’ve made their home and in turn they encounter new dangers and new friends. It’s interesting to see this world evolve as the series continues. There is plenty of suspense as there are so many dangers even without the alien threat. I love it!!
Conclusion
Overall I LOVED this book! I couldn’t read it fast enough. I love Bixby, the romantic trouble she entangles herself in, and the story itself. I’m fully invested. I’m on pins and needles needing to know what will happen next. And that ending *sobs* I can’t even….Michelle Bryan I need more ASAP PLEASE?!?!
February 7, 2017
I knew it!! But *gasp* I didn't think it would happen like that! Ms. Bryan you evil, evil Author.
February 22, 2017
After the shocking and big cliffhanger at the end of Strain Of Resistance, I couldn’t wait to read this book. If you loved the previous book, you’ll definitely love this book. I even loved this book a little bit more than the previous one and I want to read more books in this series. I really love the action, steamy moments and the characters.
The most important character is still Bixby and the book is solely told from her point of view. The young, sassy woman whose a great fighter. She hasn’t changed one bit and is always the first person who volunteers when something needs to happen. Bixby is happy with Luke and she likes him, but she still hasn’t forgotten Sam.
Bixby and the men of the group need to make another walk for the survival of everybody. The walk isn’t easy. There are still bad creatures who want to kill them. The action is always unexpected. The group meets new people and some old friends. They don’t know what to think sometimes.
The group is still as close as before and I still love every member. They like to tease each other, but will always have each other’s back. They trust each other. When someone is in danger, someone else will do everything he/she can to save him.
-- Copy provided by the author. Thank you! --
The most important character is still Bixby and the book is solely told from her point of view. The young, sassy woman whose a great fighter. She hasn’t changed one bit and is always the first person who volunteers when something needs to happen. Bixby is happy with Luke and she likes him, but she still hasn’t forgotten Sam.
Bixby and the men of the group need to make another walk for the survival of everybody. The walk isn’t easy. There are still bad creatures who want to kill them. The action is always unexpected. The group meets new people and some old friends. They don’t know what to think sometimes.
The group is still as close as before and I still love every member. They like to tease each other, but will always have each other’s back. They trust each other. When someone is in danger, someone else will do everything he/she can to save him.
-- Copy provided by the author. Thank you! --
November 19, 2016
I HATE MICHELLE BRYAN ... in a good way.
What can I say about this book?
Are you looking for a world with perfect characters, little action, and no horror? THEN DON'T READ THIS BOOK!
Bixby, still crass and flawed as ever is back, and she is still her snarky, cranky self. And I wouldn't have her any other way.
Luke, you just keep being perfect, 'kay?
I won't give away too much, because who wants spoilers? But all I can say is this book left me feeling heartbroken, bitter, and I hate the author for putting me so deep in the world she created, that I felt every loss down to my bones. It's a true testament to the author's immersive writing to make me feel for this group of people.
What's next for Bixby and her gang? I don't know. I don't know if I want to know. But that won't stop me from grabbing book 3 with my grubby little hands as soon as it's available.
**I received and ARC of Strain of Defiance.**
What can I say about this book?
Are you looking for a world with perfect characters, little action, and no horror? THEN DON'T READ THIS BOOK!
Bixby, still crass and flawed as ever is back, and she is still her snarky, cranky self. And I wouldn't have her any other way.
Luke, you just keep being perfect, 'kay?
I won't give away too much, because who wants spoilers? But all I can say is this book left me feeling heartbroken, bitter, and I hate the author for putting me so deep in the world she created, that I felt every loss down to my bones. It's a true testament to the author's immersive writing to make me feel for this group of people.
What's next for Bixby and her gang? I don't know. I don't know if I want to know. But that won't stop me from grabbing book 3 with my grubby little hands as soon as it's available.
**I received and ARC of Strain of Defiance.**
February 9, 2017
I received a copy of Strain of Defiance from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thanks Michelle Bryan! Since the crazy reveal at the end of first book, I've been WAITING for this one to come out! Finally, the leeches are back!
Strain of Defiance is the second book in the Bixby series. Much like the original, it boasts action, adventure, witty banter between characters (a few one-liners had me laughing, and a few others had me cringing), flesh-eating-parasitic-alien-zombies , f-bombs galore, some sex, female bad-assery, blood and guts, and an ending you didn't see coming. It was a quick and entertaining read, and I am excited to read the next!
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy post apocalyptic, survival New Adult books.
Strain of Defiance is the second book in the Bixby series. Much like the original, it boasts action, adventure, witty banter between characters (a few one-liners had me laughing, and a few others had me cringing), flesh-eating-parasitic-alien-zombies , f-bombs galore, some sex, female bad-assery, blood and guts, and an ending you didn't see coming. It was a quick and entertaining read, and I am excited to read the next!
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy post apocalyptic, survival New Adult books.
November 21, 2016
I was eagerly anticipating the release of Strain of Defiance and it didn’t disappoint!
After falling in love with the world Michelle Bryan created in Strain of Resistance, I was excited to be reading about Bixby and her friends again. Bixby hasn't changed a bit and is as feisty as ever, which to be honest is why I love her! She’s still dealing with the internal battle between the grief of losing Sam, and her feelings that are growing for Luke. But with the prospect of finding a possible cure for those who have been infected, Bixby and her motley crew set off on an adventure.
I don’t want to say too much because frankly it would give away too much of this awesome story! What I will say is that if you love action, suspense, romance (Bixby’s idea of it anyway), and an ending that will make your jaw drop, then this is the book for you!
After falling in love with the world Michelle Bryan created in Strain of Resistance, I was excited to be reading about Bixby and her friends again. Bixby hasn't changed a bit and is as feisty as ever, which to be honest is why I love her! She’s still dealing with the internal battle between the grief of losing Sam, and her feelings that are growing for Luke. But with the prospect of finding a possible cure for those who have been infected, Bixby and her motley crew set off on an adventure.
I don’t want to say too much because frankly it would give away too much of this awesome story! What I will say is that if you love action, suspense, romance (Bixby’s idea of it anyway), and an ending that will make your jaw drop, then this is the book for you!
March 4, 2017
3.5 stars
I was a little skeptical starting this book. Book one in the series seemed to set the stage, more so a prequel. Book two started of slow but it got much better. I found myself reading this book in about a day and a half.
Ms. Bryan did an excellent job in this book. The first book mainly consisted of battles scenes. In book two, she did a nice job of balancing the battle scenes and the character development. Bixby still got on my nerves with her stubbornness and at times, I was yelling at the her but I loved the growth she experienced in this book. She is tough when she needs to be but we are reminded that she is still human and still a woman.
This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for a honest review.
I was a little skeptical starting this book. Book one in the series seemed to set the stage, more so a prequel. Book two started of slow but it got much better. I found myself reading this book in about a day and a half.
Ms. Bryan did an excellent job in this book. The first book mainly consisted of battles scenes. In book two, she did a nice job of balancing the battle scenes and the character development. Bixby still got on my nerves with her stubbornness and at times, I was yelling at the her but I loved the growth she experienced in this book. She is tough when she needs to be but we are reminded that she is still human and still a woman.
This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for a honest review.
February 14, 2018
OMG!!!!! This book was AWESOME!
This is the perfect blend of post apocalyptic, survival, alien takeover with a zombie apocalypse feeling. I was glued to the pages from start to finish and I don’t know how long I have to wait to find out what happens next but I cannot wait!!!
Thank you so much for having this book on Kindle Unlimited!! I am on pins and needles waiting to find out what happens next with those who may not be human any longer and those who were taken by the ravagers. Way to end on another cliffhanger- like two cliffhangers!!
This is the perfect blend of post apocalyptic, survival, alien takeover with a zombie apocalypse feeling. I was glued to the pages from start to finish and I don’t know how long I have to wait to find out what happens next but I cannot wait!!!
Thank you so much for having this book on Kindle Unlimited!! I am on pins and needles waiting to find out what happens next with those who may not be human any longer and those who were taken by the ravagers. Way to end on another cliffhanger- like two cliffhangers!!
March 26, 2017
Holy crap
Ok this book is as good as the first one. I love this series.... can't wait for the next book. Amazing characters and storyline.i highly recommend this.
Ok this book is as good as the first one. I love this series.... can't wait for the next book. Amazing characters and storyline.i highly recommend this.
August 5, 2017
I started with book 2. I haven't even read the first one. Whoops. But I liked it. There's gonna be a 3rd right cuz that was a hell of a cliffhanger. I should probably go read the first one now. Might explain a lot
February 13, 2019
OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It’s tearing me apart!!!!!!! I NEED TO KNOW what happens next!!!!!!!!!!!! This could be an amazing series on Netflix!!! I love all the characters!!! The plot twist at the end, everything!!!!!! Frejshfjrj!!!!! I’m dying!!
August 12, 2018
Wooooo mama.
Read both books in one sitting and now I’m desperate for the third.
I knew things were going to get dicey but maaaaaan
Read both books in one sitting and now I’m desperate for the third.
I knew things were going to get dicey but maaaaaan
December 14, 2018
Good book, love Bix, I look forward to see what happens next. Was upset over ending
December 20, 2018
OMG
Another great storyline that I absolutely love!! I am gonna binge read the next book and hope for more awesomeness.
Another great storyline that I absolutely love!! I am gonna binge read the next book and hope for more awesomeness.
May 17, 2021
These books are so good!! It's dystopian but like The Walking Dead meets Mad Max. Bix is a badass and I love the entire crew. Getting the next one to read now!
January 5, 2024
The author of this series managed to write the perfect second book with this one: it has plenty of action, surprising revelations, soms expected but also unexpected twists, relationships entering the “it’s complicated” stage and a jaw dropping cliffhanger. Even though I tend to stay far away from love triangles, I’m invested to see where the bonds between Bixby, Sam and Luke will lead to…
March 1, 2017
Strain of Defiance
I'm giving Michelle Bryan a five star review for this book, Strain of Defiance,. It is the second book in her Bixby series and it was a fantastic read which I enjoyed very much. Bix finally reunites with Sam, but is it her Sam and where was he for the eighteen months that he was gone? If you haven't read book one, then you really need to and then this one. Book three is coming out soon and I can't wait to continue Bixby's journey.
I'm giving Michelle Bryan a five star review for this book, Strain of Defiance,. It is the second book in her Bixby series and it was a fantastic read which I enjoyed very much. Bix finally reunites with Sam, but is it her Sam and where was he for the eighteen months that he was gone? If you haven't read book one, then you really need to and then this one. Book three is coming out soon and I can't wait to continue Bixby's journey.
October 27, 2018
It has been a few years since alien’s invaded earth and infected humans with a flesh eating parasite. Bixby was only twelve years old when the aliens attacked. Now after eight years they think they may have a solution to the virus. Bixby, Luke and their team are put in charge of taking two doctors to a research lab other doctors and scientists are working on cure for the virus.
There are miles and miles between the lab and the Grand Hotel where they are living with the rest of their crew. On the road they run into a huge car pileup and not too far away is a horde of leeches. Just as they are trying to make their way past the cars without the leeches seeing them a sign choose that moment to fall attracting the attention of the leeches who are now hot on their trail.
Later on they run into another group of leeches in the city. They walk into an alley and run into leeches. Well they obviously can’t go that way so they turn around to try another street but there are more leeches. Every which way they turn there stands leeches and more leeches waiting to attack. The Leeches are getting smarter and smarter. It seems as if they are planning out their every move and are ambushing Bixby and her crew. The leeches seem to know every move Bixby and the others are going to make before they do themselves.
The leeches have them surrounded with no way out. I imagine that Bixby, Luke and the rest of the team are thinking that this is it we are going to die. Their ammunition is running out. Just as the leeches start to close in they hear an engine roaring its way toward them. Bullets are whizzing by Bixby at first she doesn’t know what is happening. Is someone shooting at them? But then the leeches start to hit the ground one after the other.
Here they meet a new group of people who save their butts. Who are these new people? Can they trust them? Will they become new friends?
On their journey they run into horde after horde of leeches and hybrids. Bixby meets someone from her past, someone that she never thought she would ever see again.
I fell in love with this series when I read the first book Strain of Resistance. I love this world of Bixby’s. There is action from beginning to end. Strain of Defiance will grab your attention from the first word and won’t let go until the last and even then it keeps hanging on leaving you wanting more and more. Strain of Defiance is filled with lots of action, blood, gore, leeches, and hybrids. Strain of Defiance is a mixture between The Walking Dead, Falling Skies and Stephen King’s Dreamcatcher.
If you like shows like these then you are going to love Strain of Defiance. I would recommend Strain of Defiance to all fans of aliens, science fiction, dystopia and post-apocalyptic.
There are miles and miles between the lab and the Grand Hotel where they are living with the rest of their crew. On the road they run into a huge car pileup and not too far away is a horde of leeches. Just as they are trying to make their way past the cars without the leeches seeing them a sign choose that moment to fall attracting the attention of the leeches who are now hot on their trail.
Later on they run into another group of leeches in the city. They walk into an alley and run into leeches. Well they obviously can’t go that way so they turn around to try another street but there are more leeches. Every which way they turn there stands leeches and more leeches waiting to attack. The Leeches are getting smarter and smarter. It seems as if they are planning out their every move and are ambushing Bixby and her crew. The leeches seem to know every move Bixby and the others are going to make before they do themselves.
The leeches have them surrounded with no way out. I imagine that Bixby, Luke and the rest of the team are thinking that this is it we are going to die. Their ammunition is running out. Just as the leeches start to close in they hear an engine roaring its way toward them. Bullets are whizzing by Bixby at first she doesn’t know what is happening. Is someone shooting at them? But then the leeches start to hit the ground one after the other.
Here they meet a new group of people who save their butts. Who are these new people? Can they trust them? Will they become new friends?
On their journey they run into horde after horde of leeches and hybrids. Bixby meets someone from her past, someone that she never thought she would ever see again.
I fell in love with this series when I read the first book Strain of Resistance. I love this world of Bixby’s. There is action from beginning to end. Strain of Defiance will grab your attention from the first word and won’t let go until the last and even then it keeps hanging on leaving you wanting more and more. Strain of Defiance is filled with lots of action, blood, gore, leeches, and hybrids. Strain of Defiance is a mixture between The Walking Dead, Falling Skies and Stephen King’s Dreamcatcher.
If you like shows like these then you are going to love Strain of Defiance. I would recommend Strain of Defiance to all fans of aliens, science fiction, dystopia and post-apocalyptic.
February 16, 2017
This second book of the series really packed a solid punch: Incredibly intense, graphic, bloody action scenes; emotional elements that had your guts twisting and your heart pleading with you to "make it stop" or "make it so"; horror and humor; anxiety and intrigue. The author is very talented at setting a scene and weaving a tangible, palpable, dark and gritty atmosphere, allowing the readers to truly submerge themselves into the story and suspend reality. There was an interesting dynamic between the love triangle, with Sam trying to keep himself distant for fear of what he may or may not be, despite wanting nothing more than to be by Bix's side; Luke hardening his heart and building a wall between Bix, in preparation for the rejection that he's certain she will deliver; and Bix, standing lost, confused and torn, in the middle. You find yourself really sympathizing with all three of their positions. The way that the author is dealing with the element of Sam and his connection to the hybrids is super intriguing. While there is obviously something altered in him, I find it encouraging that the dog (who is known for his judgment of character) sees the new Sam as friend instead of foe. I'm extremely impressed with this little read. Looking forward to the next installment.
November 19, 2016
Bixbys back!!!
Oh my gosh, I was anxiously anticipating this sequel. So freaking happy the day finally came that I could read it. And I read it so fast, I need to go back and reread it. I LOVE this series and Strain of Resistance ended in a way that made me hungry for more. And wow did I get it!
Low on medical supplies, the team “voluntarily” seeks to obtain some with an exchange of other physicians. Well we all know what that means! Encounters!
I'm not commenting on plot because I'm afraid I'll give away spoilers, but...I loved this installment as much as the other one! And the ending, yeah...I'm still hungry! I cannot recommend this series enough! Bring me the next one SOON. Please!
Oh my gosh, I was anxiously anticipating this sequel. So freaking happy the day finally came that I could read it. And I read it so fast, I need to go back and reread it. I LOVE this series and Strain of Resistance ended in a way that made me hungry for more. And wow did I get it!
Low on medical supplies, the team “voluntarily” seeks to obtain some with an exchange of other physicians. Well we all know what that means! Encounters!
I'm not commenting on plot because I'm afraid I'll give away spoilers, but...I loved this installment as much as the other one! And the ending, yeah...I'm still hungry! I cannot recommend this series enough! Bring me the next one SOON. Please!
November 22, 2016
Couldn't put it down
This was a very interesting story. I don't normally like these types of books because I know the Author is going to kill off characters I have become attached to and yes Michelle Bryan did it too! With that said, I still had to rate this 5 stars because I found it so interesting that I couldn't put it down. My only complaint is I have to wait for the next book so if you don't like series then this book isn't floor you. All others it's a must read!
P.S I am for team Luke, sorry Sam!
This was a very interesting story. I don't normally like these types of books because I know the Author is going to kill off characters I have become attached to and yes Michelle Bryan did it too! With that said, I still had to rate this 5 stars because I found it so interesting that I couldn't put it down. My only complaint is I have to wait for the next book so if you don't like series then this book isn't floor you. All others it's a must read!
P.S I am for team Luke, sorry Sam!
January 20, 2017
I picked up this book immediately after finishing the first book in the Bixby Series. There was a seamless transition from the first book, Strain of Resistance to the second, Strain of Defiance. The fast pace through the first book was maintained in the second right to the very end. I was on the edge of my seat through the entire book and I was looking for the next instalment before I was finished. Very enjoyable series! Looking forward to lots more from this author!
February 3, 2017
Breathtaking...
This is a really good series about the end of the world and alien invaders. I love the characters and the storyline. I couldn't wait read this part and now have to wait to see what happens next. How can she lie to those around her unbelievable. Love can be the downfall to all just like like underestimating your enemy,. Wow
This is a really good series about the end of the world and alien invaders. I love the characters and the storyline. I couldn't wait read this part and now have to wait to see what happens next. How can she lie to those around her unbelievable. Love can be the downfall to all just like like underestimating your enemy,. Wow
November 29, 2016
Every amazing twist and turn keeps me up flipping pages when I should be sleeping! This series is amazing and I can't wait for Michelle's next piece of work!!
November 18, 2016
Ahhhh oh my God, so this book is amazing. Not surprising being that the first one set the bar for the sequel pretty damn high.
You have to love Bixby. If you don't, you are either a little too straight laced or have some prim idea of how a woman should act. She tends to wear the pants in her relationships, getting through their harsh reality with a crassness that might look trashy on anyone else. But she's written in a way that makes her look strong and bad-ass instead. She's one of my favorite book heroines. And she's got the skills to back up the talk.
Plus, she has two sexy men who are totally in love with her. She loves them equally as much - which is where some of the biggest problems arise. Luke has gotten her through so much, but the new (or shall we say old) person in her life has a history with her that can't be competed with.
Add into all of this that they are on a journey cross country to find a possible cure for all the madness. They meet another group of people who've been surviving in similar ways to them - that is to say without losing their humanity.
There's a bit more hope in this book than the first one - mainly because the premise centers around there possibly being an end to their torment. But it ends in such a way that rips that hope from your heart with such force that it leaves you feeling a bone crushing defeat and in such dire need of the rest of the story that the wait is going to be torture.
In other words - it was perfect. <;
You have to love Bixby. If you don't, you are either a little too straight laced or have some prim idea of how a woman should act. She tends to wear the pants in her relationships, getting through their harsh reality with a crassness that might look trashy on anyone else. But she's written in a way that makes her look strong and bad-ass instead. She's one of my favorite book heroines. And she's got the skills to back up the talk.
Plus, she has two sexy men who are totally in love with her. She loves them equally as much - which is where some of the biggest problems arise. Luke has gotten her through so much, but the new (or shall we say old) person in her life has a history with her that can't be competed with.
Add into all of this that they are on a journey cross country to find a possible cure for all the madness. They meet another group of people who've been surviving in similar ways to them - that is to say without losing their humanity.
There's a bit more hope in this book than the first one - mainly because the premise centers around there possibly being an end to their torment. But it ends in such a way that rips that hope from your heart with such force that it leaves you feeling a bone crushing defeat and in such dire need of the rest of the story that the wait is going to be torture.
In other words - it was perfect. <;
May 2, 2017
After finishing the first book, I was more than excited to start the second and STRAIN OF DEFIANCE doesn't disappoint.
Bixby remains the coolest and toughest character I know. After destroying the leeches' pods, Bixby is sent on a very important, but very risky mission. They need supplies and the doctors from St. Joseph need to regroup with another set of doctors because they may be the key to finding the cure. Upon their safe passage, Bixby and her group will be trading for much needed medical supplies that they've been running short on. Of course, Luke is quick to go on the mission and makes me fall for him even more. The only probably is that his ex, Robyn, also volunteers to go. With her on board, tensions run high.
The mission starts off rocky when they become surrounded. But when they're saved and taken to a secret farm, things become complicated when they're met with familiar faces. One of them being Bixby's Sam. Even with this new discovery, the mission must go on until it's completed.
I loved this story just as much as the first one and couldn't put it down. I felt bad for Luke at Sam's reappearance, but I will always be TEAM LUKE and am eagerly waiting to see how their story plays out in the next one.
Final verdict: This is an action-packed post-apocalyptic New Adult read with a twist of romance and comedy. Fans of horror and Post-Apocalyptic stories won't be disappointed with this one.
Bixby remains the coolest and toughest character I know. After destroying the leeches' pods, Bixby is sent on a very important, but very risky mission. They need supplies and the doctors from St. Joseph need to regroup with another set of doctors because they may be the key to finding the cure. Upon their safe passage, Bixby and her group will be trading for much needed medical supplies that they've been running short on. Of course, Luke is quick to go on the mission and makes me fall for him even more. The only probably is that his ex, Robyn, also volunteers to go. With her on board, tensions run high.
The mission starts off rocky when they become surrounded. But when they're saved and taken to a secret farm, things become complicated when they're met with familiar faces. One of them being Bixby's Sam. Even with this new discovery, the mission must go on until it's completed.
I loved this story just as much as the first one and couldn't put it down. I felt bad for Luke at Sam's reappearance, but I will always be TEAM LUKE and am eagerly waiting to see how their story plays out in the next one.
Final verdict: This is an action-packed post-apocalyptic New Adult read with a twist of romance and comedy. Fans of horror and Post-Apocalyptic stories won't be disappointed with this one.
August 15, 2017
It took me a bit to get into this one simply because it had been sooo long since I'd read book one and I couldn't remember all the details. Overall, this was better written and edited than the first book, and held my attention just as well as the first one did. My main complaint was that I wish the author had taken more time throughout the story to refresh our memories of what happened in book one. I had a difficult time remembering some things, as well as who some of the characters were, and a little bit of a refresher would have been helpful. Otherwise, I enjoyed the story and the twists, and am really looking forward to seeing what happens next. Even the tension between Bixby and her two men didn't bug me, which can sometimes be the case when there's a sudden love triangle thrown into the story, because I felt like all their reactions and emotions were very realistic given the situation.
January 27, 2026
I couldn't reccomend this series more.
Post-apocalyptic, sci-fi, action and the added complications of a love triangle had me reading late into the night for a week!
I've long been an avid readers and have read hundreds of books but this is one of the few I know I won't forget, the characters especially I felt so attached to and every one was so clearly distinguished and recognisable by just a name.
I honestly feel so sad to have finished this series and I'm desperate for more!
Post-apocalyptic, sci-fi, action and the added complications of a love triangle had me reading late into the night for a week!
I've long been an avid readers and have read hundreds of books but this is one of the few I know I won't forget, the characters especially I felt so attached to and every one was so clearly distinguished and recognisable by just a name.
I honestly feel so sad to have finished this series and I'm desperate for more!
February 8, 2018
So, I totally got these out of order, but you know what? It didn't matter! I jumped right in and the action was fast-paced, but understandable. The lead character is a b*&%$, but I loved her. She was awesome.
April 9, 2018
Excellent book-anxiously awaiting next in series
I chose the rating I did as the story was very exciting from the start. It has kept me up late each night until I finished it and am most anxious to read the next book. Can't wait!
I chose the rating I did as the story was very exciting from the start. It has kept me up late each night until I finished it and am most anxious to read the next book. Can't wait!
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