Pestilence

The Calling #1

by Kim Faulks

The Apocalypse isn't just coming…
It's already here.

Four riders are hunting a fallen woman…
One that will seal this world's fate. 
And they'll leave behind utter devastation in their wake. 
…Pestilence, War, Famine, Death. 
Harlow Morgan is lost in a dying world, desperate to find a reason to live.
She finds that reason in a filthy bathroom stall, with the rush of Nirvana in her veins, and the whisper of God in her ear.
A Calling she cannot shake. 
Armed with a Bible in one hand and a gun in the other, Harlow won’t wait for the Horsemen to find her. 
She's coming after them with the wrath of God on her side. 
She'll defeat them any way she can…body, mind, and soul. 
All in the name of salvation. 

**This is a Post-Apocalyptic Reverse Harem Series filled with danger, lust, and dark romantic themes.  

***Pestilence is approx 50,000 words/160 pages. Bonus teaser of Ace - Zodiac Guardian Series included for your enjoyment.

Genres: Post Apocalyptic, Dystopia, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Magic, Adult

182 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2018

About the author

I have been an avid reader for longer than I can remember, desiring the darker, edgier works of Bram Stoker, Stephen King, Dean Koontz. I first started writing in High School giving that away when my first attempt was nothing more than dribble. I wish now that I kept at it, pursued it with a hunger that I currently possess.

Writing is my passion, it is what fuels the fires inside of me and it is an all-or-nothing furnace that keeps me up at all hours.

I am married to a wonderful supportive husband, I have 2 wonderful kids and the best friends that I have waited some 35 odd years to meet.

Reviews

[Alex ☣ Deranged KittyCat ☣ · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF - 28%



This is too depressing and I don't like it. I was hoping for some reverse harem urban fantasy, but got myself into something seemingly serious.



So, I'm just going to go find something better.

[J.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of Pestilence by Kim Faulks for my honest opinion.
No spoilers of any kind. All I’m going to say about this book is that it’s a make your head spin insane story but it is a really good read. But it does have a cliffhanger which I dislike cliffhangers but that’s okay because it just means that this story isn’t finished yet and I most definitely can’t wait to read the next book. Because I got to know what happens to Harlow. So if you want my advice well it would be get this book and then strap yourself into a chair and get ready for a insane whirlwind of a ride.

[TrulyDeeplyBookishly_708456 · Rating 1 out of 5]

Weird and unfulfilling

I don't know what I had expected, but I do know it was "more" - so for the first time ever, I've been let down by Kim Faulks.

To me the story is very weird with little to no explanation, and everything seems rushed and obscure. It might just be me (very possible) but I didn't make much sense of the first 50 pages, and kept having to go back to re-read things to make sense of it. The beginning is so confusing, what is the past? What is from her drug hazed mind? What is real? For me I had to spend way too much time keeping on top of this, and I think that's what really turned me off.



The book is also too doom & gloom for my taste, yes I know it's a post apocalypse book, but to me it's too much.

Also, I'm not actually sure this qualifies as a Reverse Harem book. I certainly wouldn't qualify it as such, so I haven't shelved it as one.

Please note: this story is only 60% of the book, the remainder is 14 sample chapters from another book by the same author. To me that was extremely frustrating because I finally thought we were getting somewhere and then it was over.

[Book Addict · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once I started reading this book it was impossible to put it down until the end, and even then I was trying to get more out of the story. I am absolutely intrigued by the idea of this series and the MC of this book, Harlow, is fantastic. She is strong because she has to be, but she also has that vulnerable side, obviously because she is alone in the world! The way Harlow is, in a world falling apart, is so realistic. She attempt to get away from her memories and her loneliness in drugs and instead she starts to find herself. At times I was a little confused by what was happening, as so much happened in her thoughts, but I just kept reading and pushed through and was rewarded with more greatness! At the end of this book I really wanted Harlow to understand the four horsemen and what they are, but I think that is going to take time and I hope by the end of the series she is no longer alone and unable to trust. The four horsemen are so interesting in this story and Pestilence is truly captivating and by the end you want them to feel that connection! I cannot wait to read the next book in the series, War, and am really excited to see where this series takes us. Highly recommended new series by a fantastic author!

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh gosh I'm not sure how I really feel about this one. Ms. Faulks writes with a depth of emotions that you just don't see in a lot of books these days. Many of my emotions were dark and unsure, in many ways I identified with Harlow and in others I was WTF. The men in her life are the four horsemen as mentioned in the book of Revelations yet they are vague in a corporeal sense. Harlow goes through such struggles and by the end of this book we have met Pestilence.

I do want to know how War comes into existence so I cannot wait to see him, will his light shine and who is the mysterious preacher mentioned. Will love come into existence or will lust continue to hold sway? What emotions will Ms. Faulks evoke for you and will you dare to grab a copy and find out?

[Cristy Burchartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Initally I wasn’t sure if I was going to like Pestilence or not due to the biblical reference and the main characters questionable mental status but I got sucked into the book. I found myself rooting for the main character and can’t wait until the next book in the series comes out.

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lies?

So the book was good but ended at 59%. The other 41% was a sneak peak at one of the other author's books. So that was so disappointing that the book itself lost a star. I'll read the next book but if the same thing happens i will not continue with this author.

[Iris Hunter (InstagramREADS) · Rating 2 out of 5]

PG book, no romance And no RH in this installment

This is not your book if you are looking for
- RH
- Romance
- Strong characters

This book is about an addict with dreams finding the bible. And with the voice of God like a Mother Theresa trying to survive this world filled with decease, abusing men, death babies and suicide. The 4 horseman don't play a big part. There is no romance, romantic story line or fun ending what so ever.

[Kathy Tozzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pestilence – Kim Faulks
The Calling Series


Wow, what a story! First off I have to admit that this was the first book I have read about the Apocalypse. It is not my normal go to read. While I don't usually read this type of book I have to say it was rather well done.
Pestilence is the first of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Harlow Morgan is a woman chosen by God to help defeat them.
With the world crumbling and falling to desease and death all around one woman stands armed with a Bible and a Gun. Truly a book of Good vs Evil.
Afraid and alone Harlow turns to drugs to help numb her to the horrific world around her.
While she is feeling no pain from the drugs in her system she suddenly begins hearing voices.
One voice tells her he is God and tells her she alone can defeat the coming Horsemen and end the Apocalypse. Giving the world a chance at life once again. The other voice? Well that would be Pestilence trying to seduce her to the side of Evil.
Now if she can just have enough faith in herself to do Gods work without giving in to the voices and thoughts in her mind. Which side and voices will she choose to follow?
This is the first book in a new series by Kim Faulks – The Calling Series

I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Pestilence: A Post-Apocalyptic Reverse Harem Series

[Rebecca · Rating 2 out of 5]

This story is different from anything I've ever read. I love RH books. I love post-apocalyptic books. The two together, fascinating. The storyline is really unique and intriguing. I'm definitely interested to see where the story will go.

I usually prefer stories with a good bit of dialogue. Because of the premise of the story, however, there is very limited dialogue. The majority of the story is the main character's thoughts. It does make sense for the story, though at times it did make it a touch harder to get into the book. A good dialogue can really pull the reader in.

My biggest issue was the choppiness of the writing. Throughout the book there were periods and commas that just didn't belong, grammatically in many cases and for flow in almost every case. This made it extremely hard to enjoy the story. It didn't feel complete; I kept feeling like there was way too much missing. Overall, the story has a lot of potential, but it fell a little flat. I'm hopeful for the next book, as I was really excited for this series from the first little blurb.

Also of note, I was really disappointed to find out the actual book ended at 60%. Literally 40% of this book is a "sneak peak" at another book. Here's a hint, when your "peek" is working toward half the length of the entire book it's no longer just a peek. I was finally really getting into the story, thinking I had 40%, or at the very least 30%, more to go when BAM now it's over. That's extremely frustrating to readers everywhere.

[Kayla Pipkin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was excited to read this, but I'm more confused now than ever.

The apocalypse is upon Harlow.
And she is now trying to survive it the best way she can.
However, it seems someone has different plans in mind for her.

I am so freaking confused.
I have no idea what I just read.
I just don't understand what is going on.

First things first.
I was super excited to start reading this book.
It has the four horsemen in it, which I think is a cool concept to add to books.
It's dystopian.
And the female character seemed like she would be very strong and independent.
I don't feel like that is the way it went.

The last 40% of the book is a teaser of a different book.
Which is fine, but think it was a bit much.

The other thing was I didn't feel comfortable with the drug aspect of it.
Not that I think books shouldn't mention it, but I'm not a big fan of it.
Especially with this being a dystopian thing, I didn't expect it to be a player in this book.
Also with knowing who supplies her the stuff.

I just don't know what I read.
I'm not sure what the plot of the story is.
I don't know who is bad, who is good, what role Harlow plays in the story, and how the four horsemen come into play.

I want to read more, but feel like I will just get further confused.

Not sure if I would recommend it because of how much I was thrown off by the story.
It was all just really confusing to me.

[Emily Dickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harlow was such a strong character who was surviving during the Apocalypse. She had lots of back story with memories of her family who seemed to talk to her. She also was hearing and seeing the four horsemen. Not the usual from Kim Faulks but was a good read. Lots of action and some violence. All in all it was a page turner for me and I can't wait for the next book. As you can guess by the name Pestilence was the first horseman and seemed to be a possible love interest to Harlow who isn't sure that its a good thing. I can't wait to see where this story leads as it is definitely a different take.

[Alli · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story has a lot of potential. I really like the premise, but it just didn't grip me. The FMC is a bit of a loner and it leads to long monologues in her head. There is also quite a bit of "telling" instead of "showing". There is some steam in this first book, but the romance is a slower burn.

As for the narration, she is easy to understand and does a pretty good job. However, she doesn't put a ton of emotion into her voice, and after awhile it starts to drone, especially with all the internal dialogue from the FMC.

Quick & Dirty Details:
- Dystopian/Apocalyptic
- Reverse Harem
- Steamy
- Enemies-to-Lovers

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense, dark and very intriguing apocalyptic story. Alone, desperate and facing the horror of having lost all hope, Harlow Morgan found a reason to live and fight for. A Calling to fight evil was now her guide but was she ready to face the Horsemen or were they making her delusional? She can never know”, “Never tell her”, “It’s always been you, Harlow…always been you”. Intriguing words that left me thinking, what was the mystery behind? Strong emotions, intense and sexually charged scenes, detailed description, suspense and violence. A story that left me thinking and eager for War.

[Amber Denise Weatherford · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF

I rarely give reviews for books if I would not give them at least 2.5 stars but this one was a jumbled mess. It is like the author has all these ideas (a decent story idea) but had no clue how to write a book or organize them into anything that remotely made sense out side of what was in their head. The MFC is a drug addicted survivor in the apocalypse and I'm still not sure if God is real or the horsemen are real...or if it's drug induced...which may be the point but was poorly executed.

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good story line

This book had a really good storyline. I love apocalyptic books and this one hit most things I look for in books.
The only thing I wished more of was a little bit more understanding of pestilence. I feel as though many many things were missing that left me more confused towards the end. Maybe I wish for a bit more in the romance dept, hopefully that comes into play in book 2. This was the first book i have read from this author.

[Raina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Talk about intense. The beginning of this series is confusing. What is real and what is just in her head? Things do get a little clearer by the end, but the first book is really about setting things up for the series. If the second keeps going as I think it will, things will most likely really heat up and more answers will be revealed. So give it a chance and you may be along for a great ride. Can’t wait to see what book two will bring.

I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of the book.

[Linda Levine · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want a story that keeps you guessing, this is a great choice. There is a lot going on in this first book. Harlow is a character unlike others and she really keeps you invested in the story. She is struggling to make the right choices and you feel like you are really on the journey with her. I love that it is not predictable and really challenges you as a reader. I can't wait for the second book.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Format: audiobook
Narrator: Azalea Blau
This story was good I got a good sense of the apocalyptic world Harlow is living in and her struggle to fight for good all the while the four horsemen of the apocalypse are tempting her to join with them.
An interesting and enjoyable adventure with strong characters, tense moments and a bit of steam.
The narrator does a good job and I found her voice easy to listen to.

[Dmcl · Rating 5 out of 5]

“‘I’m here, God whispered,’ and lifted a hand. ‘And I have a Calling for you.’”

This book is a dark, head spinning doozy. Set in a post apocalyptic world, our heroine Harlow receives The Calling, a summons to change the fate of the world. Only she stands between the Four Horsemen and the destruction of humanity, but how does she begin saving the world? What is required? And what will she do when the flare of lust and desire burns bright for them? Keep reading, for this promises to be an amazing series that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.

[Rebecc Tippins · Rating 1 out of 5]

Is more then one book.

In the about book says nothing about a bonus book. Says it’s a 300 page book it’s not ends at 59%. I was really happy with the book till I found this out. It’s one thing to tell me I’m reading an omnibus another to hide it. So was the story good yes in a way but it is kinda weird. It’s makes you want more but I probably won’t read it now.

[Chelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kind of confusing

I liked Harlow and I liked the idea of the four horsemen. But I found the whole thing awfully confusing. It felt like the story jumped from one action sequence to another without any real explanation. I'm still trying to figure out the whole Calling thing. Anyway, I'll definitely read the next one. If only to figure out what's actually going on.

[abi · Rating 3 out of 5]

*3.5*
I honestly don't know how I feel about this book... on one hand I couldn't put it down but on the other hand I didn't understand 90% of it... I didn't feel like there was much explanation about the stuff that was happening... but then again it could be that I'm just not smart enough to understand the book haha

[Coral Mitchell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings about the story and I know it is a part one. Harlow is surviving the end of the world and is confused with everything going on. The "Calling" is not what she thinks it is. She cannot seem to make up her mind what she is doing and places herself in constant danger. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Joy Ki`Ili · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not your normal fare even for post-apocalyptic ones. This is dark, edgy and definitely without an HEA. The first part of the book builds the characters and sets the stage, it twists and turns from there. The ending is kind of a cliffhanger, although maybe his role is just over, only the next book will tell.

I received an ARC of this story and have voluntarily chosen to review it here.

[Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pestilence

Honestly, I wasn’t sure how I felt about this book I’m still not sure. I couldn’t really get into it. The concept with the horsemen was what drew me but I don’t quite understand the story.
It was just okay for me I don’t know; it didn’t grab my attention unfortunately.

[Natalie H · Rating 3 out of 5]

Huh.

Not sure what to think about this one just yet. Four horseman. Yay. Dystopian. Not so yay. A little dark and a little scary. Contains death, violence and the four horseman ravaging the world. Didn’t like the whole religious epiphany. Good story line though and I’m curious how it continues. Got a feeling it’s gonna have a hell of a plot twist.

[Sheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

post apocalyptic book with a strong female lead character. WOW the character went thru so many ups and down you just want to help her out.

I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book. This is book 1 of a new series The Calling by the author.

[Mia LeNae · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lab rats

3.5 stars. Because she frustrated me. If someone is trying to explain something to you... don't cut off their sentence. LISTEN!! Then make a decision. Yeah he's a one of the four but he did just save you and how the hell did she move that big *ss chain to tie up a supernatural being??

[Sharon Richmond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pestilence ( The Calling Series, # 1 ) by Kim Faulks 4.5 Stars

O.M.G. Whoa, talk about a head turner of a book.
I'm gonna enjoy this series of books. If the others to come are as exciting as Pestilence then they are going to be awesome.