Winter Igniting

Scorpius Syndrome #5

by Rebecca Zanetti

His only goal was survival until he met her... With nothing to lose, former cop Damon Winter agrees to an undercover op, infiltrating a cult in the dangerous post-Scorpius world. After one look at his new partner, he knows she belongs far away from not only the cult, but from him. She's sweet and kind and has no business being in peril, but she's determined to help. Suddenly, the part he's playing as her man explodes into a passion neither of them had expected.She hadn't purposefully faced risk until she met him... April Snyder has survived loss, pain, and uncertainty. Now she's ready to live again. There's nothing left but to make a difference for others, so why not go undercover in the cult? Now all she has to do is keep it professional and ignore her handsome, deadly, overbearing partner, who's too sexy for her peace of mind. Intrigue, risk, and danger make for an irresistible temptation--until enemies close in, threatening everyone they've sworn to protect.

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Post Apocalyptic, Dystopia, Science Fiction, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance

372 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 20, 2018

About the author

New York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than seventy novels and novellas, which have been translated into several languages, with millions of copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus starred reviews, favorable Washington Post and New York Times Book Reviews, and been included in Amazon best books of the year.

Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.

Reviews

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 - "We live in violent times, sweetheart..." Stars!

Rebecca Zanetti ups the ante with the fifth book in the Scorpius Syndrome series; Winter Igniting gives readers a deeper look into the group of people living under Pastor Zachary King in The Pure Church as well as move things along with the whole President Bret Atherton situation, and the rest of the underground bunkers that both he and the Vanguard Mercenaries are looking for.

"If you can find some romance and excitement in this crappy world, why not do it..?"

As you would expect all this takes place around the coming together of Soccer-mom-turned-apocalypse-survivor April Snyder, and ex-cop-still-total-bad-ass Damon Winter. This is a tale of opposites attract, with a little fake-relationship thrown in for good measure. But when being two of the few known uninfected adults in Vanguard Territory proves useful to Jax Mercury, a plan is formed and April and Damon are tasked with finding out more about what is going on in the Pure compound, and pretending they are together gives them the perfect in… But pretense soon turns into reality for them both, something neither are really prepared for.

"We’re just fucking…"

"We’re doing more than that, and you know it."

A lot goes on with the bigger story arc in this book as well as with this couple in particular, both aren’t looking for any type of commitment initially, having lost everything and everyone they hold dear since the Scorpius bacteria wiped out life as they knew it. Rebecca delivered me an alpha that made my lady-parts tingle, and April although in the previous books came across as a little quiet and acquiescent, stepped up and found her cojones in this one. To say it took our Mr. Winter by surprise would be an understatement, and I found myself giggling like a total girl on a couple of occasions because of it.

"It took and apocalypse to find you, but you’re it for me."

I have fallen back in love with this series over the last couple of books, and the author teased a few secondary characters in this one who I think will likely figure more heavily in the future, but I cannot lie, I am absolutely dying to get me hands on Marcus and Penny’s book; Knight Awakening probably one of the most broken alpha’s Zanetti has so far written, and I am interested to find out more about him because although he has been pretty present since his introduction, we still know very little about him. The rebuilding of his relationship with his brother Jax, is going to be the kicker though, because two extremely alpha makes working through their shit… well you just know there are going to be tears, sniffles and a few tissues involved there I am sure, and that’s just me, who knows what will go down between them!

"You’re everything… You know that right..?"

ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winter Igniting by Rebecca Zanetti
Book 5 of the Scorpius Syndrome series. Post apocalypse romantic suspense. A virus has killed 95% of the world population. Written several years before current 2020 conditions.

No electric, no internet, minimual medicines, and little hope. A cult is not what the Merc amd Vanguard leaders want growing in their territory. Everyone should be protected.

April has nothing else to lose in the world. She’s already lost everything. She is able to infiltrate the Pure Church to find out if the members are there willingly and if they pose a danger to the children or society. Damon Winter is the perfect partner to accompany April. He’s an ex-cop, big, tough and dangerous. And when he winks at April, she’s flustered and uncertain how to react. The two pose as a couple to get access to the church.
April is sweet and the perfect foil to Damon. Their romance grows hot while they pose as a couple to protect the women and children.

Not quite as intense as the previous books. Good progression of the series.
A win for the rebellion. But the cure is still pending.

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the Fifth installment of The Scorpius Syndrome we get Damon and April's story. It's time for us to find out what's going on with the Pure church and these two are the key to exposing them. Neither one have been infected by the Scorpius bacteria and are being recruited by Pastor King.

Jax sees this as their chance to make sure the women and children are not being held against their will. It is up to April and Damon to pretend to be interested in joining their church so they can get inside and make sure everything is on the up and up. This also gives Damon the chance to get closer to April. He's been insnared by her from the first time he laid eyes on her.

This series is filled with so many characters, more than one storyline and a whole lot of action. Which is why I would suggest starting the series from the beginning. In just this installment we have The Pure church, the struggle of the Mercs and the Vanguards trying to integrate into one group, the President and his Elite Force racing to take over the Reno Bunker and the Twenty gang constantly attacking the borders of Vanguard.

On top of everything going on, Rebecca Zanetti brings me the alpha heroes I absolutely love to read about. Her men are pure Alpha. They are dominant, protective and will do anything for the women in their life. Her women are strong, independent and fighters all on their own. Together, these couples are explosive.

This series has sunk its hooks into me and I love discovering what is about to happen with each new book. Marcus and Dr. Penelope is next and I can't be more excited for their story. ARC provided by the author.

[Carole (Carole's Random Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/

I enjoyed this book! I have been enjoying myself as I have worked my way through Rebecca Zanetti’s Scorpius Syndrome series this year. This is a series that I would recommend reading in order if at all possible since so much of the story builds upon the events from previous books. I was hooked by this installment right away and couldn’t wait to see how things would work out.

April is a character that I have been eager to learn more about since she was introduced at the beginning of the series. Things have not been easy for April and I really wanted to see good things come her way. Damon was very easy to like. He is genuinely a nice guy who is willing to put himself in danger to protect others. I thought that they made a great pair working undercover at the cult. This story had a lot of really emotional scenes that really got to me. I thought that April and Damon were a perfect match and was eager to see them form a connection.

Michael Pauley did a wonderful job with the narration of this book. He has narrated all of the books in the series so he has become the voice of these characters for me. I think that he has a great range and is able to portray both male and female characters quite well. I liked that he is able to add some emotion and excitement to his reading. I am certain that his narration added to my overall enjoyment of this book.

I would definitely recommend this book to others. This has been an entertaining series filled with great characters and quite a bit of action. I cannot wait to pick up the next book to see how the series wraps up.

Book Source: Purchased

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Winter Igniting the Mercs and Vanguards have merged at the Vanguard compound out of necessity.  You could feel the tension and lack of trust between them.  It was interesting seeing how things played out.  Meanwhile, the questions surrounding Pastor King and his group of Pures living within the compound continues to raise concerns and in this episode, we find out more.

April Snyder has lost everything to the Scoripus Syndrome. She works with the children within the compound and is one of only a few uninfected women who have yet to join the Pure.  Pastor King and his group are courting her making her the perfect uncover op. Damon Winter, a former cop and second in command for the Mercs is also uninfected so he is assigned to team up with her. To get inside the Pure, Damon and April fake a relationship, but Damon makes it clear from the start he is very attracted to April.

It was fun watching these opposites come together. I could easily relate to April who has only ever loved one man. I felt her inner struggles at not only developing feelings for Damon but dealing with his Alpha tendencies and dangerous missions. Damon was open, sexy and all male, but I appreciated his insight and patience with April.

The overall ARC dealing with the crazed President, finding info from the secret compounds and investigating the Pure all came to a head in this fifth novel. While the series is far from over, we do finally get some answers and plenty of intense action scenes that placed everyone in danger. The world is still a perilous place, and it is not a question of how they will survive but if.

The world and tension make love, friendship, and family the things each man and woman hold tight to. All of these elements create an addictive read. The little girl who doesn't speak, but seems to know things continues to intrigue me, and I loved her scene with Damon. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's something about the men in these books, who would risk it all to keep people safe, that really makes this series work for me. Survival is paramount, but along the way, these men are rediscovering their humanity and their hearts. The romance is definitely key for each story and Damon was no different.

He lost it all when Scorpius hit. His entire family was wiped out by the virus and he found a new one with the Mercs. He and Grey had turned a group of men just trying to get by into something really special. Now that they've allied with Vanguard, the goal is to lead all of their people and provide hope in this new world.

He and April are tasked with infiltrating the Pure church to make sure that all of the members are there willingly. Things didn't seem right with this cultish group, which was obvious in the previous books. It only became clearer here and I was actually really scared for what April might have to face. Thankfully Damon had her back. Their fake relationship for their undercover op turned into something real. April was understandably afraid because she had lost it all too. But what they shared was precious in a world full of loss.

There's talk of moving everyone to Wyoming and I'm guessing the plans and the actual trek will happen in the next book, which is for Marcus. Hmmm... that man is something else. Big and scary, he makes his brother Jax look like a nice guy. I'm excited to dive into his story.

[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“This was crazy. Even in a world already gone to insanity.”

5 HUGE STARS!

I freaking LOVE this series. Every book is an adventure with romance that sucks me in and makes me feel everything, and I relish every opportunity that I get to step back into Rebecca Zanetti’s post-apocalyptic world. And now we get the story of two series favourites, Damon and April, and it was every bit as amazing as I was hoping.

Firstly, I would also recommend that you don’t read this book as a standalone. The books are each about different couples, but each book builds on the previous, and you’d miss so much if you skipped, so do yourself a favour and read these in order! And be warned that I am completely in love with the way Zanetti writes her characters, so this review is heavy on the quotes because I was highlighting constantly!

Damon Winter is the best friend and right-hand man of Greyson Storm . Ex-SWAT and strategic genius of the Mercenaries, he has been enfolded into the Vanguard leadership now that the two groups have joined forces, and he has his eye on local sweetheart, April.

April Snyder has lost everything to Scorpius. First her husband, and then she nursed her daughter through her illness and death. She has thrown herself into making a difference within the Vanguard territory and cares for the children that live within the compound, but she has been hurt so badly that she has no intention of loving again, only to lose everything.

As two of the rare people within the compound who haven’t been subjected to the Scorpius virus, they are in the unique position of being courted by the self-proclaimed Pure Church – a ‘cult’ that exists within the Vanguard territory, and a group that is an unknown entity, posing a threat to the group as a whole. Vanguard leader, Jax Mercury decides to send the two in on a mission to get more information, creating a wonderful set up for much fun to come!

“First you’re going to assist Damon with integrating the Mercs into Vanguard territory so you have a reason to spend time together,” Jax said.
Easy enough. “Okay,” she said.
“And, second, he’s going to romantically pursue you. Big time,” Jax finished. “The church will see and will try to use you to manipulate him since he’s about to be so into you.”
Her body flushed hot. “Huh?”
“Men falling for women act like morons for a brief time,” Jax said simply.
Brief time? Right. April lifted an eyebrow.
Damon smiled, and this time, a dimple showed in his left cheek. “This might be my favorite mission ever.”

The chemistry is sizzling right from the beginning, especially considering that Damon and April are already attracted to each other, and Damon dives right on in there, acting the part while also letting April know his true intentions.

There was no reason for them to hold hands. Why couldn’t she breathe? His simple touch had overwhelmed her and forced sensations into her body that she had no business feeling. “We don’t need to pretend now.”
His eyes glittered with a light she couldn’t quite read. “Who’s pretending?”

I freaking LOVE Damon! He is a total badass of course, but he’s also smart, funny and so, so sweet. He is confident without being cocky and he speaks his mind, saying it exactly like it is. I could have easily highlighted almost every word out of his mouth.

“I’m attracted to you, too. So if you’re afraid of being embarrassed, of feeling something real while I’m pretending, then stop being afraid. I think you’re beautiful, smart, and kind. Your tits are unreal, and I’ve wanted to take your mouth from the first time you got sassy with me. Hard and deep.”
She freed her hands and threw them up. “Who says that? I mean, who in real life actually says that?”

He may have a smart mouth, but his feelings for April are absolutely beautiful. He is sweet and gentle with her, fully supportive and understanding of her feelings, and his protectiveness and soft heart absolutely melted me.

“It may take you a while to get settled into it, but you’re covered, April. I’m not letting anything happen to you. That’s a promise.”

In return, April is just as open with him, which I loved! Although she’s closed herself off to romance, she can’t help but be drawn to the sexy soldier with the kind heart.

He was just too much. Dark eyes, rugged jaw, cut cheekbones. His chest was wide and muscled. With a gun strapped to his thigh, and a knife to his calf, he oozed deadliness. That shouldn’t be sexy…but it was.

Damon was becoming a force she didn’t want to live without.

But despite what she’s feeling for him, she’s terrified of losing another love so she tries her hardest to fight everything that is happening between them. But we all know it’s a losing battle, and watching it all unfold is just delicious. In fact, I’m getting tingles just thinking about it! And even with all of that sweetness, when their time comes, holy hell it’s HOT! Damon is a big, strong alpha male, and amidst him throwing April over his shoulder, up against walls and into bed (*fans self*), there is some seriously steamy time!

“I’m not asking for true love or any promises of tomorrow – because tomorrow is an illusion these days. Let’s find pleasure where we can.”

Together they are sexy, intense and passionate, and though there is some back and forth as they figure out exactly what is happening between them, it’s understandable and realistic, and it’s handled functionally. I could feel everything right along with them, and I was cheering for them the whole way through.

“I’ve never been in love before, and it took the apocalypse to find you, but you’re it for me, April.”

He was the biggest risk she’d ever take. But he was worth it, and she wanted every second she might have.

*dreamy sigh*

The romantic storyline is strong, and would have been awesome enough on its own, but there’s also a whole lot of action doing on. Firstly, the business with the Church, which is intriguing and had me theorising madly as the danger builds and you just know something is coming, then there’s the hunt for the elusive second Bunker which will aid them in finding a cure for the disease, and thirdly there is the ongoing battle with the psychotic President who has seemingly waged war on the Vanguard compound. It’s exciting and action-packed, and I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough.

Characters from the earlier books are all a part of the story, and I loved catching up with them. As more and more characters come on board, the dynamics are shifting, and I love seeing all of the different relationships at play. In particular, I loved the depth of friendship between Grey and Damon, which was absolutely gorgeous. And now that the Mercenaries have joined the Vanguard, there is more opportunity for the characters to blend, and those moments are pure gold!

“Jesus,” Jax shook his head, the motion almost sad. “First, I had to deal with Raze and the shrink while stupid Greyson here kidnapped and seduced Raze’s sister.”
Grey reared back. “Hey. She seduced me.”
Raze calmly reached across the table and punched Grey in the face before settling back down.
Greyson rubbed his chin. “That was hardly necessary.”
…
Jax continued as if violence hadn’t just occurred at his table. “Then Tace and Sami danced around each other for ages, making gooly eyes. I had to send them both to our Bunker just to keep from puking. And now? Damon and April. Well, no. I’m just saying no this time. No romance, no fucking, no emotional shit. Got it, Damon?”
Damon finally calmed. “I think you’re a complete moron.”

It’s all kinds of awesome, full of everything that I love about this series, and I am eagerly anticipating Marcus and Penny’s book up next!

Fantastic - 5 stars!

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Sunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I never thought I’d say that I would be happy to be back in Los Angeles after the apocalypse in which 99% of the human populations is destroyed by a virus from space. But since it is the world of the Scorpius Syndrome, I am excited to see where the author is taking us next.

This series is purely and simply about survival. The Scorpius virus decimates the human population, but people still manage to survive. Those that have overcome the virus, may or may not have certain enhancements in strength or mental powers, others degenerate into sociopaths. Only about five percent that has never been infected. Resources such as water and food are scarce. Our heroes and heroines are racing to find government bunkers that may house a cure for the disease or provide other pertinent information for survival. Their rival in this race is none other than the President of the United States, who after surviving the virus, is on a sociopathic rampage looking to exact revenge on our band of survivors. Fun times.

Since the last book, two factions, the Vanguard and the Mercenaries have merged (although it is a bumpy ride). They are working together to find the government bunkers. They must do so quickly as the group is running out of food and water. It is clear that the whole operations will have to move soon. To complicate matters, there is a mysterious group within the Vanguard compound call The Pure. These are non-infected survivors who have banded together. They are terrified of getting infected. Moreover, no infected female has been able to bring to any pregnancy to term. So, these women represent the survival of the human race. But why are they so secretive? April Snyder (Vanguard) and Damon Winter (#2 man for Mercenaries) are tasked with infiltrating the Pure.

I really enjoy the direction Ms. Zanetti going. Of course, survival changes all the rules for propriety and social norms. The future is so uncertain. Couples cannot promise each other forever; it is more like good enough for now. But what was true about human beings before Scorpius is true now, the heart wants what the heart wants. This is certainly true for our protagonists. April is the quintessential soccer mom who loses everything and everyone to the virus. Damon is former LAPD officer who has a mind for strategic engagement, but cannot imagine a world with a lifelong partner. They are recruited by the Pure because they are uninfected. Really, their investigation into the Pure is the weakest part of the story because I do not believe that anyone is fooled by April or Damon. However, the best part of the story is watching April grow out of her victim mentality to back to the woman she was before the virus. She flourishes as a woman with a purpose, someone with an opinion, who takes more responsibility. Damon becomes the catalyst for this change, but where he helps her the most is in the bedroom. He is a bit of a caveman, but he helps her overcome her fears and shed her inhibitions.

There is clearly a lot more story to tell. We have to find out how Jax, Lynn and the rest of the crew will deal with the President because there will undoubtedly be a showdown, but I’m also anxious for these folks to find a place to settle, be safe, and create the future for the human race.

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this series. It has everything I need.

A well-crafted apocalyptic/dystopian world. Alpha men that take charge who are ruthless and will do anything to protect their women. An awesome plot which is fast paced and action packed which is never disappointing. Totally kickarse heroines who know what they want and what they have to do to see their HEA where the world is going to hell.

This series just ticks all my boxes.

The Characters.

Damon Winter former SWAT. Greyson’s right hand man within the mercenaries has even in dire times seen the positive side of the syndrome. He is the one always through the door first. The most likely to get injured. He is Greyson’s conscience after the world has gone to shit. He does it all without thinking of the consequences. All around he’s truly one of the good guys.

April Snyder the former softball Mom has lost everything her husband and the thing that crushed her the most was losing her child. She has no more to give and as she has nothing to lose she is going to infiltrate the Pure Church to see what can be done about them. She isn’t undercover material but she has backup.

The Chemistry.

Damon is focused on danger and April is a nurturer. The Hero/heroine dynamic didn’t work for me for that reason really they do say that opposites attract and ain’t that the truth. But although they had chemistry I was missing true intimacy. It was all steaming and hot. Damon is a complete alpha commanding and controlling. Half the time I felt as if April didn’t stand a chance with him and was a bit of a pushover. I needed her to push back more and actually win.

I liked Damon more than I liked April I am just indifferent about her. She grew on me as she stopped existing and lived. But I don’t know she was just so meh!

The Writing & Plot.

Ms. Zanetti’s grips me like no other. She is at such ease creating her characters and the story that she applies is never boring. The pace flowed well. Scorpius is still out there and causing havoc although advancements are being made. The president is still after Vanguard but I want to see the bugger die.

The overall plot of the book is progressing nicely and I can’t wait for the next instalment. Vanguard and the Mercs have now merged and have become the Vanguard Mercenaries. There are a lot of altercations for them to adapt to the new dynamic that they are in.


The Verdict.

I am gutted but this one just didn’t work for me. I can’t wait for the next instalment but there are some things that I am dying to see happen.

Figuring out if there is a cure, producing enough vitamin B.

What will happen to the pregnant women that have had Scorpius?

Finding a safe haven for all of them.

Please deliver some satisfying answers to this I need to see that there is a giant leap in the development of the series.

[B.E.Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. April and Damon were everything I had hoped for. So much happens story wise in this book not only with Damon and April but with the president, and the cult and other charters. This book is really chocked full and we also get some resolution. I loved that Lena was in this book I really thought her story would resolve in this book but I'm ok waiting as long as it does. This series is so amazing, this is one of those series you are just so happy you found. I hate that I have to wait for the next book and at the same time I can't wait to see what happens next and more importantly how this all will end.

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Goodness, Winter Igniting had a lot going on. Vanguard and the Mercenaries are now all in one place since the mercenaries got burned out. Tensions are high as the former adversaries figure out how this is going to work or if it will even work at all. While this is happening, there are still other battles to fight, other injuries to deal with, along with intrigue, betrayal, and figuring out a way to survive what seems like unsurvivable times. And then you have the two people who have no interest in getting in a relationship falling in love despite themselves.

Damon is the second in command of the merc’s. Like the other heroes of this series he is alpha through and through, rough around the edges, and unapologetic when it comes to what he has to do to keep his people safe, especially Greyson, his leader and best friend. A former cop, he has a code he lives by. He hates unnecessary killing, but that does not mean he won’t do what needs to be done.

A former soccer mom, the apocalypse has taken everything from April. First, it took her husband and then she had to watch her daughter succumb to the virus. At first glance, she seems fragile and not equipped at all to deal with the reality of what’s facing them. Underneath it all, she is as strong as they come and finds the will to take it one step at a time, even though she’s lost her world.


Both Damon and April have not had the virus so they are uniquely qualified to infiltrate The Pure and find out just what the heck was going on over there. The more they dig, the more it becomes apparent something is hinky…I have to say when the mystery was solved I was a bit disappointed. And there was what I felt like was a huge plot hole that caused me to raise my eyebrows but didn’t tank the book for me.

Because of the sheer heartbreak that April has already endured, she did not go into this relationship easily. She’s lost everything and doesn’t want to start over again when it could just get brutally ripped away again. The amazing chemistry between her and Damon was so volatile, a simple touch felt like an electric shock and not to be ignored. One thing this story in particular and this series as a whole tries to impart is that falling in love in the midst of an apocalypse sure can be a pain in the ass. It’s intense, scary, dangerous, but so freakin’ worth it.

Jax pulled at my heartstrings with his determination to save April from more heartbreak. Being there when she lost her daughter affected him deeply and this translated into a brotherly type of need to protect her, especially from someone like Damon. He’s come a long way from the almost unfeeling man at the beginning of this series. I love character arcs like that.

My one complaint is that we still are dealing with President Atherton after all this time. He is depicted as being so evil it’s almost cartoonish and I cringe whenever he gets page time. Thank goodness that although he was still around pulling strings here and there, he was not the main focus with this book. I’m still wishing they’d take him out. It’s an apocalypse, surely another bad guy/trial/tribulation can be found to focus on.

Winter Igniting was an action-packed, sexy, emotional ride that I immensely enjoyed. I loved that April got her second chance at love after she’d endured so much heartbreak and loss and that she ended up with such a worthy, alphatastic man as Damon.

Rating: 4 Who Knew The Apocalypse Could Be Sexy Stars

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

Winter Igniting
3.5 Stars

Series note: This series must be read in order. Each book continues from where the previous one left off.

With the merger of Jax Mercury's Vanguard and Greyson Storm's Mercenaries, life has become even more complicated in the post-Scorpius world. Amidst the animosity between the two groups, the Mercs' second-in-command, Damon Winter, and Vanguard member, April Snyder, must work together to infiltrate the Chuch of the Pure, a cult-like group comprised of those who have never contracted the infection and want to keep it that way.

Despite the compelling premise, the execution falls flat mainly because it is difficult to create the necessary tension revolving around the cult when the members are clearly aware of Damon and April's agenda. Moreover, April naivete and TSTL characterization are tiresome, and she is clearly the last person who should even be an undercover operative. The climax with the Elite Force attack is also problematic as it has been done before in the series, and the resolution is too quick and too easy.

Damon is sexy and sweet, but he has a serious savior complex, which places a less than positive light on his romance with April, who is struggling with the trauma of losing her husband and daughter to Scorpius. Despite their potent chemistry, there is no real intimacy in their relationship, which is primarily based on lust rather than emotion.

Next is Penelope and Marcus's book, which is the final installment of the series, and I am looking forward to all of the threads coming together.

[Lover of Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.

Introduction
Winter Igniting is such a action packed romance and I absolutely loved everything about it. There was something so endearing about this one. Rebecca Zanetti really upped her game on this one or atleast for me it felt that way. There was something so different about this one that I didn't expect. But it worked in so many ways. I loved the opposite attract dynamic that this author normally implements. It was so charming the way that these two banter and interact while also pursuing a mystery involving the church on the base and also revealed some answers we have been waiting for in a few books, so if you are a fan of this series, this addition will be such a great installment that will entertain all the way for you.

My Outlook
Winter Igniting is such an endearing story that I fell so hard for. The hero is such a playful alpha male. I honestly didn't see that coming. And then our heroine is damaged, from losing her husband and her daughter to Scorpius, and is more reserved and especially shy around men. She only had one boyfriend who was her husband. She is not experienced but there is an instant chemistry between them as they start to work undercover together. And despite what Jax tries to enforce on them, they are determined to fight for each other and the safety of their people.

Winter Igniting was such a delicious read. It had so MUCH sizzling chemistry that is typical with reading a Rebecca Zanetti. I couldn't put this one down, there was such an addicting personality to the way this story evolved and I was so charmed by their relationship. And all the fun bantering in this book was so so delightful. There is such balance that Rebecca Zanetti brings to the level of intensity that is delivered in these books here.

Overall View
Winter Igniting is such a sexy, angsty yet fun filled read that wildly entertains from beginning to end! If you are a fan of Zanetti or Dystopian romance, this needs to be a must read!

Rating Evaluation:
Plot: 5
World Building: 5
Cover: 4
Hero: 5
Heroine: 5
Steam: 5
Heart & Feels: 4
Ending: 4
Overall View: 4.5

[Whitley Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the mystery element in this book, perhaps because it wasn't predictable. I really had no clue what Pastor King's angle was for a long while. I figured out pretty quick who he was working with, but his motives remained unclear which was a nice change as I beginning to find the other books in the series a tad predictable.

The heat and chemistry between April and Damon was scorching. His genuine sweetness (toward everyone) was a nice change from all the he-man alphas we've been seeing in this series. Yes, he's deadly and dangerous with an edge to him, but what you see first is his sweet and funny side. Despite the way the world has gone he still holds on to hope and can find a reason to smile. April is probably one of the strongest characters RZ has written in a long time. Yes, her heroines are all typically strong-willed females, but April is like Lara Croft, Wonder Woman and Imperator Furiosa all rolled into one. She's literally lost everything and yet she's still fighting, still taking care of others and unwilling to let the devastation around her get her down. Definitely one of my favourites in the series so far.

[Mari · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to say I just wasn't feeling the relationship between April and Damon. Too often Damon behaved like and alpha-hole. April didn't like it but she didn't do anything about it either. The main story arc is still revolving around getting more info on Scorpius and fighting with President Atherton's men. I'm finding both story tiresome. Time to get some real info about the virus and defeat Atherton. I'm caught up with this series and looking forward to Marcus and Penelope's book.

[Sonia189 · Rating 3 out of 5]

The weakest of the series so far, for me.
I just didn't see the protagonist's relationship as that balanced or captivating as the ones from the other books were.

The world building is as good as ever... I wonder how many books will there be until a better situation is finally achieved for the survivors? I don't mean a rosy scenario since that would be inconsistent but at least a more stable situation for all...

[Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winter Igniting was - if possible - even more tense the the earlier books in this series! I loved Damon and April. Even if she got a little bit on my nerves at times.
FRC

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

Scorpius Syndrome #5, Waiting for Damon's book has been like waiting for that one piece of chocolate you reward yourself with after waiting for what seems like forever and when you finally get it and it's so good. mmmmmmmm. You can read this without reading the first four but if you are like me all the previous characters with obvious stories and I don't know them bug me, but it is an easy read. It's easy to get absorbed into the dystopian post pandemic world where people struggle for water, and all the amenities we take for granted. Rebecca paints a pretty scary picture for what the world could be like if something like that actually happened. I'm torn on the characters, I absolutely love Damon he's the cool and calm one to counterbalance Grey's hot tempered nature, Damon is loyal and as a former cop has a good sense of right and wrong. April on the other hand has been very timid and sweet but she started to come back to her true self and damned if she didn't get annoying. She bordered on TSTL and I hate that term so for me to actually use it shows how much she pissed me off. I can understand her wanting to assert her independence and prove her worth in the community but there is being smart about it and being stupid and she was doing some pretty stupid things. Thankfully by the end she learned her lesson and actually showed common sense for a change.

April and Damon are more alike than it seems, both are loyal and steadfast, they both had families and lost everyone they loved, and they both are still Scorpius free. Which make them prime candidates for infiltrating the "Pure". The Pure are the people who have yet to be infected by Scorpius, their leader who founded the Pure and gave that stupid name, yes even the people who are part of that think it's a stupid name too, is dead and the new leader a young cocky guy Zach is in charge now and even though it makes sense that the unifected would want to stay that way it still feels like something funny is going on and they need to get to the bottom of it. But that's not their only worry the gang Twenty joined forces with the evil President of the United States, Bret Atherton, and have been systematically attacking Vanguard territory, trying to merge Vanguard and the Mercenaries, and they have to plan a raid on the Reno Bunker for more information. Between all that Damon is stretched thin and falling for April wasn' t in the cards.

April lost everything to Scorpius, raised in the foster system her husband and daughter were her whole life. Then suddenly this PTA president baseball mom extraordinaire had nothing she was at a loss of what to do, until Jax gave her a mission. April's determination to do a good job starts to bring back her confidence. Her attraction to Damon scares her because of who he is, he was L.A.P.D. SWAT he's always going to be the first one in the door, she so afraid of losing another loved one she doesn't want to get close to him and with as many times as he gets injured in this one book alone I don't blame her. Damon is determined to win April over and show her he's worth living for.

Overall, I loved Damon, April not so much but she was better by the end of the book, everything else about this book I loved. I can't wait to find out what happens next.

[Jujubee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 5 in the Scorpius Syndrome series picks up right after we left the Vanguard and Mercenary soldiers with their new shaky, alliance.right after killing the U. S. vice-president, and watching the Merc compound burn to the ground. Just to name some main plot twists from book 3. There is a LOT going on in this series!
And I love the battle scenes. Who knew? But they are well written and paced, keeping things exciting.
Think Die Hard with zombie-like Rippers!
At least three main vital, on-going missions keep that action burning.
They must find the remaining hidden research bunkers for the possibility of finding a cure for Scorpious, medical and food supplies, and the key to healthy births to repopulate a devasted apocalyptic earth. While keeping Vanguard safe from the ongoing street war with the Twenty gang, now funded by the Scorpious corrupted U. S. Government. And figure out how to integrate Vanguard with the displaced Mercs and the uninfected members shut in the Pure Church.
The MCs are tasked to infiltrate the Pure as a committed couple to find out if the church is legit or turning into a cult. That fake relationship is confusing to both Damon and April. Though Damon seemed smoothly focused on "his" outcomes! Here's where our couple's story really ignites....
Damon Winter was introduced in book 3, and he was intriguing right from the get go. Laid back, sharply intelligent, a valuable tactical expert, hard fighting ex-LA SWAT, and sternly loyal to his brother-in-arms Greyson Storm...knew he would be pivotal in strengthing the blending of Merc and Vanguard forces.
April Snyder came to Vanguard a young widow with her teenage daughter for safety and survival, we were introduced to most of her backstory in book 1. She is now in charge of Vanguards orphans and teens. Naturally kind, pragmatic, and always willing to help others, we learn through her eyes how life after a Scorpious infection, even if one has never been infected like April, changes everything. Some things are just never going to heal.
Not without a reason to keep going.
April really grew as a character with every chapter as she pushed through her grief and fear to try to find a new happiness in this new world. No clipboard was harmed in the making of a leader.
Without getting spoilery, if you are a fan you won't want to miss Jax and Lynne's update. Little Lena is still giving gifts. And Marcus's recovery progresses. Someone was found reading a Lexi Blake novel *winks*
The continuing series arc keeps the action moving...with a few new twists and turns. Lots of secrets yet to discover, trusts to form or fail.
The author always hits the right balance of testing loyalties, inserting danger, revealing secrets, amidst intense burgeoning feelings.
RZ remains a go-to one-click for me.
Solid 4.5*

[Sandy S · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars--

ABAOUT THE BOOK: Release date February 20, 2018

His only goal was survival until he met her...

With nothing to lose, former cop Damon Winter agrees to an undercover op, infiltrating a cult in the dangerous post-Scorpius world. After one look at his new partner, he knows she belongs far away from not only the cult, but from him. She's sweet and kind and has no business being in peril, but she's determined to help. Suddenly, the part he's playing as her man explodes into a passion neither of them had expected.

She hadn't purposefully faced risk until she met him...

April Snyder has survived loss, pain, and uncertainty. Now she's ready to live again. There's nothing left but to make a difference for others, so why not go undercover in the cult? Now all she has to do is keep it professional and ignore her handsome, deadly, overbearing partner, who's too sexy for her peace of mind. Intrigue, risk, and danger make for an irresistible temptation--until enemies close in, threatening everyone they've sworn to protect.


•••••••••

REVIEW: 4.5 stars-WINTER IGNITING is the fifth full-length instalment in Rebecca Zanetti’s adult SCORPIUS SYNDROME cross genre Sci-Fi/ UF/Dystopian series focusing on a biological pandemic sweeping the planet that has already killed 99% of the world’s population. This is former cop and SWAT team member Damon Winter, and April Snyder’s story line. For more background information and some history, there is a prequel novella-SCORPIUS RISING-which can be found in the ON THE HUNT anthology (August 2015), and the author’s new novella companion series The Brigade.

SOME BACKGROUND: Some of those infected with the biological virus have survived to become something known as a Ripper, but there are two types of Rippers inhabiting the world-one is a zombie like creature who feasts on the living; the other is a survivor whose brain has been altered resulting in a stronger, more powerful enhanced human being sometimes bordering on the sociopathic ideology with delusions of grandeur, obsession and hate. If you are a fan of the series The Walking Dead (or Mad Max), you will see many similarities in the story line premise including the search for food and supplies, attacks of the ‘undead’, and various groups of survivors vying for power and control.

Told from several third person perspectives including Damon and April WINTER IGNITING follows several factions of survivors now living in the Vanguard Compound including the arrival of the Mercs (mercenaries), and those not affected by the virus who call themselves the Pure; and the ongoing war for survival against the self-proclaimed president of the United States Bret Atherton, and his Elite Force of soldiers. Damon Winter former SWAT team member in the ‘before’ has been tasked to go undercover with one of the other women who has not been affected by the virus, a woman who has lost much more than most. Enter April Snyder, the woman with whom Damon will fall in love but not before battling for his own life, and the life of his friend, as the Mercs and the soldiers from Vanguard stumble upon more trouble as they search for information and supplies at one of the hidden Bunkers. What ensues is the acrimonious relationship between Damon and April, and the potential fall-out when a suspected traitor begins to take down the compound one explosion at a time.

April Snyder has no plans to fall in love but pretending to be in a relationship with Damon Winter has our heroine conflicted about her feelings and emotions as it pertains to the man in question. Damon is an over protective, alpha male who isn’t willing to risk April’s life including the possibility that the Pure are hoping to entice our heroine to the other side.

The relationship between April and Damon begins as an undercover assignment wherein our couple must gather as much information at the secret society known as the Pure. Believing the members to be part of a cult, April and Damon must report back what they find while keeping up the ruse of having fallen in love. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense; Damon keeps threatening to spank April for defying his orders, and setting out on her own.

There is a very large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Tace and Sami (Justice Ascending), Vivi and Raze (Shadow Falling), Lynn and Jax (Mercury Striking), Greyson and Maureen (Storm Gathering), Marcus and Dr. Penelope; and little Lena, a young girl who refuses to speak but says more with her actions and little gifts that she finds. There is a large contingent of men, women, and children seeking refuge with the Pure including their leader Pastor Zachary King, and his assistant Sharon Matson . The requisite evil has many faces including the gang known as the Twenty, the Scorpius Virus, President Bret Atherton, and his new VP Jerome Blankenship. Marcus and Penny’s story line is next in KNIGHT AWAKENING.

WINTER IGNITING is a fast paced, energetic, and suspenseful story line with spirited and courageous characters; a complex and fascinating look at a post-apocalyptic future where the survivors are at war with themselves. The premise is intriguing and electrifying; the characters are playful, captivating, inspiring and tragic; the romance is seductive and emotional. Rebecca Zanetti’s SCORPIUS SYNDROME is a thrilling and exciting series you do not want to miss.

Copy supplied for review

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Love Rebecca Zanetti’s books and her latest, Winter Igniting, did not disappoint! This is the fifth book in the Scorpius Syndrome Series and it was awesome! I couldn’t wait to get through it to see what was going to happen but at the same time I didn’t want it to end! A real page turner.

[Elizabeth Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review in progress...

[TJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this installment in the Scorpio’s Syndrome series is good, there were a few things that REALLY hit my red-buttons and kept it from a higher rating.

I absolutely LOVED Damon in previous books and really liked the idea of he and April together, so I was really looking forward to this story. His personality in this book, however, took a turn from alpha to chauvinistic jerk at times. Yes, all the men are over-the-top alphas and are demanding and bossy but Damon didn’t even listen to April’s point-of-view or desires. If she disagreed with him and did something he didn’t like he spanked her, then demanded she act better or it would get worse! Now, to be sure, previous male characters have incorporated this “technique” (honestly, I think the author has some kind of spanking fantasy because she uses it in every single book) but with the others it led to sexy times and consent. Not so in this case. It was strictly punishment, then back to work. And for April to acquiesce and accept that? Oh no... nope, Nope, NOPE! That just burned me double and made it hard for me to even continue reading.

With this type of interaction between the two of them, I had a hard time really connecting and believing the relationship. We didn’t see any actual growth. So, while the overal story moves forward, this one just didn’t hit my happy buttons.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love concept/environment of this series. I love the different characters, they are so detailed and familiar. The story just dragged. This should have been a day read but took 4 to get through. I am still excited over the series and await the next book.

[Debrac2014 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good! Damon and April are a good match! Funny scene with Damon having the flu!

2022 reread - Still good! I like both Damon and April!

[Gloriamarie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

One thing I am always grateful for is when books in a series can be read as stand-alones. At first, I thought this wasn't one of them and then I checked my reading history and discovered my error. I was confusing two series: one where they are fighting to prevent the disease by a different author but also read this month and this series in which I have read some of the previous volumes.

So, yes, this can be read as a stand-alone. Glad to have that cleared up. Which is good because I think the first one in the series I read was #4.5 and then here I am reviewing #5. One of these days, I'll indulge myself with the first three volumes.

Frankly, I can't imagine living in a world in which so many people have been wiped out by a deadly disease for which there is no cure, no vaccine and the very people who might have found either have been killed by it. I like my technology, my modern conveniences, but Zanetti writes of people willing to take stock of what is, and figure out ways to keep on. For instance, the potable water problem is very realistic. I live in SoCal where we have droughts and a serious lack of rain.

Having to forage for food, clothing, etc and stay while doing it is a frightening concept to me and the dangers are made real. I was amused to notice that apparently the foragers also foraged for condoms but no mention is made of feminine hygiene supplies which is an issue I have with dystopian novels. Authors are coy on the subject of toileting arrangements and feminine hygiene.

Personally, I'd appreciate if an author got to that level of realism. The appearance of verisimilitude is crucial to me in a novel. I want the author to make it real for me. Society has fallen apart. Any civilization that exists is because of the voluntary choice of the participants. How do they handle the real nitty-gritty, sometimes distasteful aspects of life? I suspect it can be done in a sort of off-the-cuff manner without a lot of voyeuristic details. For example in Voyager, by Diana Gabaldon, Bree asks her mother, Claire, what they did for toilet paper in the 1740s and Claire gives a brief yet honest response.

I had to laugh at the grown men, warriors, eating and relishing Twinkies and arguing over who ate the PopTarts with sprinkles. I would have thought warriors would be more careful about what they put in their bodies, on the other hand, they can only eat what they can forage and I doubt a lot of fresh produce is available. So one can only wonder where did the Pure obtain the succulent food they fed Damon and April?

Something I appreciated was the detailed care with which Zanetti drew the backstories of the two main characters, April and Damon. Each came from loving families, each lost everyone, and each handled the loss very differently and very believably.

Another thing I appreciated is that Zanetti concentrated on writing this story and didn't sacrifice parts of it to set up the next book in the series. We know another book is coming, we know it will be about of the people we have met. I appreciate an author who gives me that kind of respect.

The one aspect I didn't like and which made me give this only a three instead of a four is that some of the characters are cliched. I get it that Scorpius's survivors are often sociopaths, but not all sociopaths act the same, have the same motivations, are unlikable, or are evil. I recall an episode of Sherlocke in which Benedict Cumberbatch's line as Sherlock Holmes is "I am a highly functioning sociopath" and who didn't love Sherlocke?

The other place we found cliched characters was in the Pure. Frankly, I found it annoying that the people there all seemed identical, even when they had names.

Another thing that annoys me, even though I know Zanetti cant give us all the answers at once is what the heck is the Pure actually? I don't to include any spoilers but who is doing what to whom in that building? Are they or are they not a religious cult?

Looking forward to finding out.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is great to be back in the world of Scorpius, which is kinda weird. The world has gone to hell after the release of the Scorpius bacterium. Four things can happen after you contract this bacteria. One, you die. Two, you live through it and are changed, for the better. Smarter, better reflexes etc., though these aren’t extreme. Three, you live through it and are a psychopath. Everything from fully functional, but you have psychopathic tendencies like murder and thinking only of oneself. Four, a killer, but almost zombie like or just not really functional. For example, the group comes across one guy that acted like a dog. Sitting like a dog and barking and everything. You could make the case these are a fifth category.

So this Scorpius Syndrome series takes place mostly in what was formerly known as Los Angeles. Jax Mercury, former gang member, turned Delta Force soldier and then on to leader of Vanguard, his stronghold within LA where he is just trying to protect people who cross his path. He was the hero of the first book. His heroine is a scientist who was on the front line trying to fight this disease, until the president turned on her.

There is also a group called The Mercs. They were in an area on the coast. They work with Vanguard and are just starting to merge together into one group. There is also the president, his Elite Force and the Twenty gang. They are the real enemy. You see, the president fits into the third group, the ones that are functional psychopaths. He’s extremely smart, but doesn’t value of human life.

The last group is really more of a subset of Vanguard called, the Pure. They are a group of people who haven’t been infected. There are several women and children, and pregnant women too. It seems women who’ve been infected can’t carry a baby to term, or at least no one knows of an infected woman carrying their baby to term. No one knows for sure, since communications around the country really isn’t a thing. The problem with The Pure is it seems a bit cult-like. Jax doesn’t mind if they want to segregate themselves, he just wants to make sure all the women and children are there of the own free will. He also wants to make sure that no women are being impregnated against their will.

This book focuses on April Snyder, a member of Vanguard, and Damon Winter, a member of the Mercs and a former cop, who just made SWAT right before the breakout. They are both still non-infected, so they are trying to infiltrate The Pure and make sure everything is on the up and up.

April has had it pretty hard since Scorpius hit. She’s lost both her husband and child. She now has a hard time getting close to people, because she doesn’t want to lose anyone else. I wouldn’t call her suicidal, but she also doesn’t seem to care if she lives or not. She is just going through the motions. She has made a bit of a place for herself caring for the kids who are not part of the Pure, either because they’re infected or because they just don’t want to go.

This series has some great mystery/thriller parts. The romance is always a fun time too. Zanetti does seem to have a knack for pairing up couples. They have their issues, but work through them in a way that makes the story very interesting.

I will say that this series really needs to be read in order. Not because of the romance, but because of the overall story arc of the disease and as the characters fight one another. I think if you started this book without having read the previous books, you would have a hard time understanding what is going on with all the different groups and the locations, like the bunkers. Not ot mention how we slowly learn more about disease and how they plan to fight or cure it.

Lastly, I want to say how much I love all of these characters. I really care whether these characters live or die. I want to see them succeed. I want to see them get their happy ever after. After finishing each book, I’m excited for the next couple. I also love how the previous couples continue to be a large part of the series. I highly recommend this series.

[Amy A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted at Vampire Book Club

After taking out the Vice President and securing one of the lauded bunkers, Winter Igniting gravitates back to Vanguard and the internal conflicts that have been brewing there, especially in regards to The Pure, a group of uninfected people who have chosen to live separately from the rest of Vanguard. The only problem: they aren’t exactly forthcoming with what is happening beyond the walls they’ve erected.

To make sure those living with The Pure are there willingly, Jax Mercury is tasking former cop and current Mercenary Damon Winter along with April Snyder to go undercover.

April has lost everything she’s ever loved to Scorpius, but she’s determined to continue living, and she’s determined to help. She’s not worried about any danger posed by the creepy cult-like church. What she is worried about are her emerging feelings for Damon Winter.

Both Damon and April have lost, but can they open themselves up for love?

Winter Igniting was a standout read for me in this series. The storyline came together seamlessly and was pretty much exactly what this reader was looking for. I’m hard pressed to find anything that I wasn’t fond of within the story. So, here are just some of my favorite things:

Finally getting down to the business of sussing out what exactly is going on with The Pure really drove the storyline forward for me. They’ve been a partial thorn in Vanguard’s side for a few books now. You couldn’t really blame them for wanting to separate themselves from those infected, especially the pregnant women, but something just always felt off about the whole situation, and that feeling certainly continues as Damon and April pose as possible new recruits.

I absolutely loved the familial bonds this group of people have formed. I particularly liked seeing the playfulness in the brotherly affection between Grey and Damon and the way they clearly have each other’s backs, stepping in and protecting each other without hesitation. Damon’s clear-headedness in tense situations also gives a different pace than what one might be used to seeing in the “alpha” male romance heroes. Oh, he definitely likes to take control of a situation, but he also never charges in without a plan.

We also get to see a lot of female bonding (Thank You!!). April has been a secondary character since the beginning of the series. Longtime readers will remember the loss of her daughter, after already having lost her husband to Scorpius. It was great seeing April come back to life in the way she responds to Damon, but I understand her hesitation as well because the wounds are still raw. Who better to figure out your feelings than with your girlfriends (and tequila!)?

Longtime readers will also know that the Damon and April relationship has been hinted at for at least a couple of books now. What really struck me while reading their romance, however, was the fact that these are both people who have lost big-time yet who took that loss in different ways. Damon wants to get back the feelings he had for the family he lost, and April kind of closes herself off. She doesn’t want to go through something like that again. I loved seeing Damon help April work through her pain, and giving her back some hope again.

There’s not much more I can say about this book except that the series in general has been pretty exceptional, and Winter Igniting really puts it over the edge. As with previous books, the setup is clear as to where we go next, and I will definitely be along for the ride.

[Lucy Dosch (EBookObsessed) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca Zanetti knows how to build the perfect amount of tension. You know something bad is coming.
You are just not sure if…no, when all your worst fears will come to fruition.

The latest novel in the Scoripus Syndrome series features, Damon Winters. Damon is a former member of the LAPD SWAT and post-Scorpius, he is a member of the Mercs. While the Mercenaries try to merge with Vanguard, tensions are high between both sides. Even Jax Mercury is still wondering if he can trust Greyson, the leader of the Mercs, but even Jax has trusted Damon since the first time they met. Jax knows that Damon and Greyson are like brothers, but Damon always seems to play straight with Vanguard in all of their dealings.

We have come to really, really love Damon Winters. He is the first man through the door in any situation. He even agreed to help out Vanguard long before the Mercs came to share space. Damon and his love interest, April, are rare in this new world. Neither of them have been infected with Scorpius. So when the Church of the Pure (those uninfected) set up their own mini-camp/cult within the walls of Vanguard and refused to allow Jax or any of his survivor Lieutenants in to make sure all of the members are there willingly, the former police officer agreed to help and go undercover for Vanguard.

Damon had his eye on April from the first time he was invited in the gates of Vanguard and he plans is taking their undercover assignment really deep under the covers. *wink* April lost her teenage daughter at the beginning of the series, losing a bit of herself as well, and she is still a bit fragile. April is not ready to invest her heart, now or ever again in this world where the illusion of safety is as fragile as a soap bubble, and especially with a man who is always putting himself in danger to protect others. It is a sweet and sexy romance as Damon tries to find just the right amount of push to get April to trust him and give him a chance, even if she wants to call it casual.

There are so many issues that need to be settled in this story, you know something bad is coming. You just don’t know where or when. It’s like watching a scary movie, knowing a jump-scare is around the corner and trying to brace yourself, but you know when the time comes, you are going to scream anyway.

Let me list some of the worries going through our minds are we read: Will either April or Damon become infected? The psycho president and Vangaurd are both going after the government Bunker in Reno. Who will get there first? What is up with the Pure? Is it a Church or a cult? Who is fathering all the babies? Where are they getting all the food and weapons and how? Why do they want April to join so badly? They know danger lurks outside their walls, but who else is betraying them inside of Vanguard?

I was stressing reading this story. I had to put it aside and go play a few rounds of Candy Crush until I could calm myself and pick it up again.

This was a great story with a perfect balance of action, tension and romance and the foundation was laid for Marcus and Penolope’s story and now I can’t wait to see what happens next.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

See more at EBookObsessed.com

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some big changes happening in this latest post apocalyptic chapter of Rebecca Zanetti's Scorpius Syndrome.

The Mercenaries have now merged with Vanguard. Some growing pains with that merger but not surprising when you mix two groups of alphas together. Damon Winter is as alpha as they come but he also has a strong sense of loyalty and even though he kills when he has he is still not comfortable with it. He came from a loving family with brothers he was close to who are all now gone. He is ex LAPD/SWAT and found a “brother” in Greyson Storm. His tactical expertise are what he brings to the Vanguard table. He is a little out of his element when he's asked to go undercover with a Vanguard woman to see what is happening within a group that has separated themselves from Vanguard.

April Snyder was a sweet mother we met in the first book. She was innocence personified and she almost broke when her daughter contracted the virus and died. She eventually took over being one of the caregivers to the orphan children but she's always presented as meek and fragile. That all changed when she volunteers to go undercover to see if the women, children and the new influx of pregnant women are there of their own free will at the Pure Church. She was not at all prepared for the awakening feelings that Damon ignited in her and at times almost let it overwhelm her but in the same right she also found strength from it and end the end could hold her own against the Merc.

Psychopath President Bret Atheton wrecks quite a bit of havoc (more than his usual) within the Vanguard territory. I cannot wait till the final showdown happens that is going to finally take him down and was surprised at who the author hinted that may be with.

I have to say sometimes by the 5th book in a series like this things get repetitive and I start to lose interest. That has not been the case in this series. Book six looks to be cray cray as its going to be Marcus book who was tortured by the scientist and made him into angry killing machine. Cant wait to see how that book is going to go.