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The Storm #1
Lightning Strikes
True love refuses to die...
Whitney Lake has had a lot of time to contemplate the end of the world. In the blink of an eye, an infection wiped out most of the human population, and her life changed forever. In one of the few safe cities left, Whitney tries to keep her head down, and stay alive.
But the world needs saving, and she may be the only one who can do it.
When a letter from her long-dead best friend arrives, Whitney takes a chance. Can she save those she thought were lost?
Out in the wilderness, where she never dared to go, she'll discover a world she never expected, and six men who would come back from the dead just to be with her.
Will she fight for the men who chose her, or will she lose everything in the coming storm?
Whitney Lake has had a lot of time to contemplate the end of the world. In the blink of an eye, an infection wiped out most of the human population, and her life changed forever. In one of the few safe cities left, Whitney tries to keep her head down, and stay alive.
But the world needs saving, and she may be the only one who can do it.
When a letter from her long-dead best friend arrives, Whitney takes a chance. Can she save those she thought were lost?
Out in the wilderness, where she never dared to go, she'll discover a world she never expected, and six men who would come back from the dead just to be with her.
Will she fight for the men who chose her, or will she lose everything in the coming storm?
278 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2018
569 people are currently reading
579 people want to read
About the author
Ripley Proserpina
50 books521 followersRipley Proserpina spends her days huddled near a fire in the frozen northern wilds of Vermont. She lives with her family, two magnificent cats, and one dog who aspires to cat-hood.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
December 23, 2019
A great start to a new series.
I was hesitant to read this because I knew the harem were zombies and I thought that was strange, however, this was really well done.
I usually don't like insta love but I think it worked with this story line. Whitney was a great main h, she was compassionate and sweet.
All the guys were amazing, even John who acted like a dick for a minute.
Nice read.
I was hesitant to read this because I knew the harem were zombies and I thought that was strange, however, this was really well done.
I usually don't like insta love but I think it worked with this story line. Whitney was a great main h, she was compassionate and sweet.
All the guys were amazing, even John who acted like a dick for a minute.
Nice read.
dnf
March 10, 2019A kinda It's not you, it's me thing.
December 16, 2018
Well this was interesting. Zombies are so not my thing. I don't even enjoy zombie movies so it was really the RH aspect that convinced me to read this. Though I'm still not sure how I feel about a RH full of zombies. I did enjoy the characters to an extent and I hope they all get fleshed out a bit more in future books. Also hope I'll feel the connection between Whit and the guys since other than Brandon it all came out of nowhere. All in all I enjoyed it and I'll continue the series.
October 5, 2019
Last night I tried to read book three of the series that I started few days ago Natural Witch. I had liked book 1 so much but book 2 was just horrible. I thought there's a 50/50 chance that book 3 might be good so I took a chance. The very 1st page, it felt like I was continuing book 2, the suck continued, so I just stopped. I tried to watch the last season of The Walking Dead but I couldn't get into it.
I don't know about other people, but every time I hit a bookfunk I default back to the last book that made it to my favorites shelf on GR. So that's what I did and that let me to this list about RH books set in Dystopian/Apocalyptic worlds. I mean, come on, how great is that. The world is going to shits but some lucky girl out there is still able to literally knock pants off a harem, sign me right up.
That brought me to Lightning Strikes. Coincidence - no I think fate, because I was hooked from page 1. I loved Whitney and I loved her guys, I can't wait to see how they develop as individuals and how they grow into their different roles and abilities.
The only thing that was kind of disturbing for me was that first kiss between Whitney and Brandon. I mean the guy is practically a walking corpse and she goes and sticks her tongue into his mouth! Just no. I couldnt get over that. I felt like I needed to wash my mouth with soap and I am not the one who kissed him.
Apart from that minor ick-factor, the rest of the book was not bad. It felt a bit rushed at some points but I am hoping that the stories, the plot and the charectors will be expanded more in the following instalments.
I can't wait to see where this goes.
I don't know about other people, but every time I hit a bookfunk I default back to the last book that made it to my favorites shelf on GR. So that's what I did and that let me to this list about RH books set in Dystopian/Apocalyptic worlds. I mean, come on, how great is that. The world is going to shits but some lucky girl out there is still able to literally knock pants off a harem, sign me right up.
That brought me to Lightning Strikes. Coincidence - no I think fate, because I was hooked from page 1. I loved Whitney and I loved her guys, I can't wait to see how they develop as individuals and how they grow into their different roles and abilities.
The only thing that was kind of disturbing for me was that first kiss between Whitney and Brandon. I mean the guy is practically a walking corpse and she goes and sticks her tongue into his mouth! Just no. I couldnt get over that. I felt like I needed to wash my mouth with soap and I am not the one who kissed him.
Apart from that minor ick-factor, the rest of the book was not bad. It felt a bit rushed at some points but I am hoping that the stories, the plot and the charectors will be expanded more in the following instalments.
I can't wait to see where this goes.
November 1, 2018
I wasn't too sure about this book when I started it but I love these authors so I plowed ahead and am SO glad I did! It's a zombie story told in a new to me way and make it RH and you have a great story! The world has changed and her best friend is now a zombie but when she gets a note from him of course she goes to meet him. That's the game changer. Now she's falling for 6 zombies who aren't your everyday ones and they're changing everyday. But someone doesn't want like them this way. Romance, suspense (and not really what you think), and a little why's this happening stuff and it a book you must read even if you don't really like zombies! Can't wait for the next book!!
November 1, 2018
Whitney
Start to a new series with two amazing authors. In this book the earth is falling apart and Whitney finds a letter from her love. And sends her on a journey of love and acceptance of her new mates. In this end of the world zombie romance. Looking for something new to read this is it.
Start to a new series with two amazing authors. In this book the earth is falling apart and Whitney finds a letter from her love. And sends her on a journey of love and acceptance of her new mates. In this end of the world zombie romance. Looking for something new to read this is it.
November 13, 2018
Great new series. Fun with the zombie harem. A new one for me :)
October 23, 2018
Lightning Strikes: A Reverse Harem Paranormal Romance (The Storm Book 1) Kindle Edition
by Ripley Proserpina (Author), Rebecca Royce (Author)
I received an eARC from the authors and have opted to leave a fair and honest review.
Let me start by saying I am not a zombie kind of chick! I love a good apocalypse, but rarely do the shuffling living dead pull me in. But, and this a great big but, Ripley Proserpina and Rebecca Royce's living dead are so well created, I love them. .
Lightning Strikes has a definite Dean Koontz vibe with the zombie cyborgs becoming so much more. And like Koontz, the two Queens of RH Romance, layer each scene and character with more meaning that what meets the eye at first glance.
The story and its heroine, Whitney, hit the ground running when she follows up on a message from a lost friend. It hits the ground running and it never lets up. Heart-pounding actions that James Cameron would be jealous of.
The excitement and action never ends.
5 stars out of 5
The Book Nerd loves this version of zombies.
https://smile.amazon.com/Lightning-St...
by Ripley Proserpina (Author), Rebecca Royce (Author)
I received an eARC from the authors and have opted to leave a fair and honest review.
Let me start by saying I am not a zombie kind of chick! I love a good apocalypse, but rarely do the shuffling living dead pull me in. But, and this a great big but, Ripley Proserpina and Rebecca Royce's living dead are so well created, I love them. .
Lightning Strikes has a definite Dean Koontz vibe with the zombie cyborgs becoming so much more. And like Koontz, the two Queens of RH Romance, layer each scene and character with more meaning that what meets the eye at first glance.
The story and its heroine, Whitney, hit the ground running when she follows up on a message from a lost friend. It hits the ground running and it never lets up. Heart-pounding actions that James Cameron would be jealous of.
The excitement and action never ends.
5 stars out of 5
The Book Nerd loves this version of zombies.
https://smile.amazon.com/Lightning-St...
February 25, 2019
This reverse harem story is so unique and interesting! It is a dystopian/post-apocalyptic setting, which I always love, but the characters themselves are in a unique condition following the infection that wiped out a large chunk of the population.
The heroine, Whit, hears from a childhood friend she thought was dead and from there she is attempting to piece together what exactly is going on outside of the sheltered city she was living in, previously unaware to certain things that were happening both inside and outside of her barricaded town. I enjoyed the different men in her potential harem - they do have distinct characteristics and I loved how one called her a different name - which I found very endearing. The emotional connection between her and the guys came too quickly for my tastes, as my preference is always for a slow build in that regard, but there is a reason for it as explained in the book. It does not end on a cliffhanger and the book completes a full story arc, setting up/hinting at things to come that I am looking forward to reading.
The heroine, Whit, hears from a childhood friend she thought was dead and from there she is attempting to piece together what exactly is going on outside of the sheltered city she was living in, previously unaware to certain things that were happening both inside and outside of her barricaded town. I enjoyed the different men in her potential harem - they do have distinct characteristics and I loved how one called her a different name - which I found very endearing. The emotional connection between her and the guys came too quickly for my tastes, as my preference is always for a slow build in that regard, but there is a reason for it as explained in the book. It does not end on a cliffhanger and the book completes a full story arc, setting up/hinting at things to come that I am looking forward to reading.
December 16, 2018
Really more a 3.5 stars, but ...
Okay I'm not really a zombie person. This has just enough creep factor at the beginning then tapered off. Pros: I liked the guys a lot. They had some depth and character, but started to also taper off at points. The concept and world building was unique - born again zombies is - non Controlled and post apocalyptic setting.
Cons: Insta-love. I had to go back several times and wonder what the heck did I just miss. How are they all instantly in love with the underwhelming FMC-Whitney? They barely spoke before she was trying to kiss them or form a bond. I mean this book basically takes place in like 3-5 days at best. I wanted more and the climax was more anticlimactic. I'm curious about what could happen in the next book, but not in a rush to continue. It feels that the book lost too much momentum for me.
Okay I'm not really a zombie person. This has just enough creep factor at the beginning then tapered off. Pros: I liked the guys a lot. They had some depth and character, but started to also taper off at points. The concept and world building was unique - born again zombies is - non Controlled and post apocalyptic setting.
Cons: Insta-love. I had to go back several times and wonder what the heck did I just miss. How are they all instantly in love with the underwhelming FMC-Whitney? They barely spoke before she was trying to kiss them or form a bond. I mean this book basically takes place in like 3-5 days at best. I wanted more and the climax was more anticlimactic. I'm curious about what could happen in the next book, but not in a rush to continue. It feels that the book lost too much momentum for me.
January 25, 2019
Let me start by saying I've never read anything from Ripley Proserpina before, but I am a huge fan of Rebecca Royce and her name is what pulled me in.
I LIKE zombie stories and I like menage stories, but this book didn't do it for me. I'm not sure how I feel about menage WITH zombies. I understand Whitney was in love with Brandon prior to his demise. But within minutes of Whitney waking up at Zero, the Uncontrolled safe haven, she is kissing him. Kissing. A. Zombie. Can I just say huge ICK factor?
I also understand that she brings him and his pals "back to life", so toward the middle and end it was not so icky, but still (shiver and stomach lurch). Perhaps if the authors had waited until the end it would have suited better? Also, Whitney AUTOMATICALLY feels drawn to not only Brandon, but ALL his buddies, Carson, Dante, Isaiah, Nick, and John. Together they discover they complete a circuit, of sorts, and via Whitney they all, very quickly, regenerate all their rotting parts, and also seem to discover they all have some sort of psychic gift.
Again, the ick factor. These guys are DEAD. They are DEAD. Yes, I know I repeated myself. But, they ARE dead. Why would kissing them and cuddling up with them be enjoyable? These are not vampires, frozen in time in their undeath. They are ROTTING. First the smell - no matter how much they wash would be atrocious. And, second... well the authors cannot have it both ways you cannot have rotting and deteriorating people not be disgusting. Again, I don't get it. The zombies are deteriorating and Dante has to replace peoples parts with skin grafts of metal. So, why aren't their brains deteriorating along with their bodies? There are SO many contradictions I am still flabbergasted.
Apparently we were only to be concerned about the 2 types of zombies, the Controlled - who are mind managed by Whitney's supposedly dead brother, Dexter. Of all names, Dexter - which I believe was a nod to the TV show, but this Dexter is even more twisted. He wants to control all the zombies. The Uncontrolled are those who have free will and are not controlled by Dexter.
I'm still trying to figure out the romance angle, which I'm sure will be "fleshed out" (ha) later on in the upcoming sequel. As it stands, at the end of book 1, all the guys are "alive" again via some Frankensteinish electrical jump start from Whitney. She has had sex with both Isiah and Brandon - in that order. For a gal whose "love of her life" is Brandon that kinda baffled me. I would at least assume Brandon would bed her first. Gah!
Anyway, despite all the contradictions and the goofy love heptagon, I kind of enjoyed this story - if only because it's so bizarrely unique. You can definitely tell where one author drops and the other picks up the story - you can tell it's not as cohesive as it could be. Hopefully the authors will tighten things up and stop contradicting themselves in the next book, or perhaps explain why they did it to begin with?
I LIKE zombie stories and I like menage stories, but this book didn't do it for me. I'm not sure how I feel about menage WITH zombies. I understand Whitney was in love with Brandon prior to his demise. But within minutes of Whitney waking up at Zero, the Uncontrolled safe haven, she is kissing him. Kissing. A. Zombie. Can I just say huge ICK factor?
I also understand that she brings him and his pals "back to life", so toward the middle and end it was not so icky, but still (shiver and stomach lurch). Perhaps if the authors had waited until the end it would have suited better? Also, Whitney AUTOMATICALLY feels drawn to not only Brandon, but ALL his buddies, Carson, Dante, Isaiah, Nick, and John. Together they discover they complete a circuit, of sorts, and via Whitney they all, very quickly, regenerate all their rotting parts, and also seem to discover they all have some sort of psychic gift.
Again, the ick factor. These guys are DEAD. They are DEAD. Yes, I know I repeated myself. But, they ARE dead. Why would kissing them and cuddling up with them be enjoyable? These are not vampires, frozen in time in their undeath. They are ROTTING. First the smell - no matter how much they wash would be atrocious. And, second... well the authors cannot have it both ways you cannot have rotting and deteriorating people not be disgusting. Again, I don't get it. The zombies are deteriorating and Dante has to replace peoples parts with skin grafts of metal. So, why aren't their brains deteriorating along with their bodies? There are SO many contradictions I am still flabbergasted.
Apparently we were only to be concerned about the 2 types of zombies, the Controlled - who are mind managed by Whitney's supposedly dead brother, Dexter. Of all names, Dexter - which I believe was a nod to the TV show, but this Dexter is even more twisted. He wants to control all the zombies. The Uncontrolled are those who have free will and are not controlled by Dexter.
I'm still trying to figure out the romance angle, which I'm sure will be "fleshed out" (ha) later on in the upcoming sequel. As it stands, at the end of book 1, all the guys are "alive" again via some Frankensteinish electrical jump start from Whitney. She has had sex with both Isiah and Brandon - in that order. For a gal whose "love of her life" is Brandon that kinda baffled me. I would at least assume Brandon would bed her first. Gah!
Anyway, despite all the contradictions and the goofy love heptagon, I kind of enjoyed this story - if only because it's so bizarrely unique. You can definitely tell where one author drops and the other picks up the story - you can tell it's not as cohesive as it could be. Hopefully the authors will tighten things up and stop contradicting themselves in the next book, or perhaps explain why they did it to begin with?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2018
The world ended. An infection wiped out much of humanity but they didn't die. Zombies are a real thing and there are only a few safe towns left. Whitney Lake lives under her father's control in one of those towns, Roanoke. She's lost her mother, her older brother, and recently her best friend Brandon, the man she had hoped to spend her life with. It's Brandon's loss that has left her nearly destroyed. So when she gets a letter from Brandon asking her to meet him, she has no choice. She saw his death, she saw him rise a zombie; she knows that the note, that hope is impossible, yet she has no choice! So she places her trust once more in the man she loves and sets off in the middle of the night hoping for the impossible. Whitney's trust opens the door to one impossibility after another until once again the world is changing. A storm is coming. All it takes is a few special people, trust, and love. All is not lost after all.
When you hear that two of your very favorite authors have written a book together, you 1. squeal like a fangirl and 2. start counting down the days until you can get your greedy hands on the book! At least that's what I did. Rebecca Royce and Ripley Proserpina are two of the most original writers working today. More importantly to me, they are masters at creating beautiful characters. Rebecca has created some of my favorite modern heroines, Ripley always creates the most diverse, inspiring characters. Together I knew they would be sensational. I was not disappointed. This book reminds me of an exquisite quilt. Patchwork people coming together to make a family more beautiful, more powerful than the ones they left behind. Brandon and his friends Nick, Carson, Dante, John, and Isaiah make the most unlikely harem in the history of RH. There's a reason Dante was given the last name Shelley. There's more than a little Frankenstein going on here! But each of these guys is so much more than their first appearance. Their hearts, minds, and souls set them apart from the others. All it takes is the right girl, a special girl to 'see' them. Whitney is that girl. She may have rare qualities but that's not all that makes her exceptional. Her heart, her capacity to empathize and love, her bravery and resilience, her open-mindedness and her neverending hope make her extraordinary. Together this group will change the world.
I am not going to give any story details so that each reader can enjoy the experience as much as I did without any spoilers. It's a strangely remarkable read with an amazing assortment of characters; thoughtful zombies, evil humans, everyday heroes, and lovers. It highlights the dangers and achievements of brilliance and proves the old adage that love conquers all.
When you hear that two of your very favorite authors have written a book together, you 1. squeal like a fangirl and 2. start counting down the days until you can get your greedy hands on the book! At least that's what I did. Rebecca Royce and Ripley Proserpina are two of the most original writers working today. More importantly to me, they are masters at creating beautiful characters. Rebecca has created some of my favorite modern heroines, Ripley always creates the most diverse, inspiring characters. Together I knew they would be sensational. I was not disappointed. This book reminds me of an exquisite quilt. Patchwork people coming together to make a family more beautiful, more powerful than the ones they left behind. Brandon and his friends Nick, Carson, Dante, John, and Isaiah make the most unlikely harem in the history of RH. There's a reason Dante was given the last name Shelley. There's more than a little Frankenstein going on here! But each of these guys is so much more than their first appearance. Their hearts, minds, and souls set them apart from the others. All it takes is the right girl, a special girl to 'see' them. Whitney is that girl. She may have rare qualities but that's not all that makes her exceptional. Her heart, her capacity to empathize and love, her bravery and resilience, her open-mindedness and her neverending hope make her extraordinary. Together this group will change the world.
I am not going to give any story details so that each reader can enjoy the experience as much as I did without any spoilers. It's a strangely remarkable read with an amazing assortment of characters; thoughtful zombies, evil humans, everyday heroes, and lovers. It highlights the dangers and achievements of brilliance and proves the old adage that love conquers all.
March 17, 2024
RATE: 3.5/5
FL is too casual and forgiving. When she reunited with Brandon, she wasn't as gagged as how one would see a dead person (and a person you know at that) talking to you.
Brandon mentioned how he felt alone, tell me why another ML came out of nowhere saying he's not anymore. DAMN, let the meeting of Whit and Brandon marinate at LEAST. Let them talk to each other before you reveal yourself! Bruh couldn't wait to "jump on the bandwagon" looking ahh! And that triggered the FL(Whit) to run and knock herself silly. Now Brandon and the other ML gotta bring her to where they live.
Anyways, when she woke up she saw Dante (another ML) who I guessed looked butt ugly. Bruh got DIY limps, a metal plate on his chin, stitches are sewn everywhere, skin deteriorating and it's the fact he knows he's hard on the eyes, HE'S A ZOMBIE. So when the FL woke up and saw him, she didn't flinch! And then she casually let out a "hello" and a joke. She's so different HA!
From what I got she's a "princess who lives in a castle" If I saw a zombie like him, and one who can talk, I'd pass out! LORD!
Fast forwarding, she's back to where her evil father is and he starts to torture her. Here's the part that threw me way off. When she was getting tortured, I guess the men created a bond with her, so their able to astral project to where she is at, and see her. She sees them too and can separate her spirit from her body while she is getting tortured. This exchange of the MLS projecting themselves to where she's at one by one got tiring and I kept on skipping.
After she tells her father where the men is, she gets up to escape. She runs into the doctor who let the torture happen and forgives him. BFFR.
The FL isn't special and she doesn't have a personality.
I honestly wished this was a slow-burn and focused more on world-building since we are in a zombie apocalypse.
FL is too casual and forgiving. When she reunited with Brandon, she wasn't as gagged as how one would see a dead person (and a person you know at that) talking to you.
Brandon mentioned how he felt alone, tell me why another ML came out of nowhere saying he's not anymore. DAMN, let the meeting of Whit and Brandon marinate at LEAST. Let them talk to each other before you reveal yourself! Bruh couldn't wait to "jump on the bandwagon" looking ahh! And that triggered the FL(Whit) to run and knock herself silly. Now Brandon and the other ML gotta bring her to where they live.
Anyways, when she woke up she saw Dante (another ML) who I guessed looked butt ugly. Bruh got DIY limps, a metal plate on his chin, stitches are sewn everywhere, skin deteriorating and it's the fact he knows he's hard on the eyes, HE'S A ZOMBIE. So when the FL woke up and saw him, she didn't flinch! And then she casually let out a "hello" and a joke. She's so different HA!
From what I got she's a "princess who lives in a castle" If I saw a zombie like him, and one who can talk, I'd pass out! LORD!
Fast forwarding, she's back to where her evil father is and he starts to torture her. Here's the part that threw me way off. When she was getting tortured, I guess the men created a bond with her, so their able to astral project to where she is at, and see her. She sees them too and can separate her spirit from her body while she is getting tortured. This exchange of the MLS projecting themselves to where she's at one by one got tiring and I kept on skipping.
After she tells her father where the men is, she gets up to escape. She runs into the doctor who let the torture happen and forgives him. BFFR.
The FL isn't special and she doesn't have a personality.
I honestly wished this was a slow-burn and focused more on world-building since we are in a zombie apocalypse.
October 31, 2018
Whitney thought the world had ended when the infection came. She was wrong. It ended when it took her best friend. So when she gets a mysterious letter, she has nothing to lose. She takes a chance in a world full of death and finds life. She also uncovers a world of secrets. People aren't who she thought they were and things aren't what they were lead to believe. In a world full of sickness and death, is there light to be found?
I'm not going to spoil anything for you. Rebecca always writes books that you need to take line by line and this one is no different. I love these two authors individually and together, holy freaking cow!! I knew this book was going to be good but I couldn't have prepared myself for the adventure we were going to go on.
I don't think I'm spoiling anything by saying this is a zombie book. That has been stated a couple times. It is unlike any zombie book I have read before though. It's a completely different and new take on the whole concept and something I found interesting and refreshing. I don't typically do the whole zombie thing because I'm a big fraidy cat when it comes to them. It's like my one weakness in the horror world. This wasn't that type of zombie book though. It was focused more on the characters and their story rather than zombies eating people. There is action, adventure, mystery, love and hate. Everything you need to keep you sucked in from cover to cover.
It doesn't matter if you love these authors or have never read them before, this is a must read book. I love that it is so different than anything else out there.
I'm not going to spoil anything for you. Rebecca always writes books that you need to take line by line and this one is no different. I love these two authors individually and together, holy freaking cow!! I knew this book was going to be good but I couldn't have prepared myself for the adventure we were going to go on.
I don't think I'm spoiling anything by saying this is a zombie book. That has been stated a couple times. It is unlike any zombie book I have read before though. It's a completely different and new take on the whole concept and something I found interesting and refreshing. I don't typically do the whole zombie thing because I'm a big fraidy cat when it comes to them. It's like my one weakness in the horror world. This wasn't that type of zombie book though. It was focused more on the characters and their story rather than zombies eating people. There is action, adventure, mystery, love and hate. Everything you need to keep you sucked in from cover to cover.
It doesn't matter if you love these authors or have never read them before, this is a must read book. I love that it is so different than anything else out there.
January 20, 2025
Read: Jan 2025
Rating: 3 (relatively weak)⭐⭐⭐
Feels like a YA, very much insta love/lust
It feels like it's a YA in a lot of the interactions between characters and their decision making process, which are flimsy at best, not at all like one of them is a genius and all of them are supposedly above average intelligence.
Whitney and Brandon coming together and coupling up felt relatively normal but the other are just kind of...thrown in there and magically there is a connection for almost everyone and this, for me, meant that I felt no connection between at all, except them just being in the right place at the right time I guess.
The backstory concerning the zombie outbreak is also pretty convoluted and honestly, just weird but since a lot of zombie outbreak books have a wafer thin explanation to how it came to be I can let that one slip by.
The intercourse between characters felt just shoved in there, especially the very first sexual encounter Whitney has with one of her "zombified" men, exacerbating the insta lust/love feeling to the max immediately.
I doubt that I will read more of this since I didn't enjoy it and it neither hit my zombie wants or my reverse harem wants but if you don't mind weak zombie backstories, with barely any actual scary/exciting zombie content or insta love/lust, this could be for you.
Rating: 3 (relatively weak)⭐⭐⭐
Feels like a YA, very much insta love/lust
It feels like it's a YA in a lot of the interactions between characters and their decision making process, which are flimsy at best, not at all like one of them is a genius and all of them are supposedly above average intelligence.
Whitney and Brandon coming together and coupling up felt relatively normal but the other are just kind of...thrown in there and magically there is a connection for almost everyone and this, for me, meant that I felt no connection between at all, except them just being in the right place at the right time I guess.
The backstory concerning the zombie outbreak is also pretty convoluted and honestly, just weird but since a lot of zombie outbreak books have a wafer thin explanation to how it came to be I can let that one slip by.
The intercourse between characters felt just shoved in there, especially the very first sexual encounter Whitney has with one of her "zombified" men, exacerbating the insta lust/love feeling to the max immediately.
I doubt that I will read more of this since I didn't enjoy it and it neither hit my zombie wants or my reverse harem wants but if you don't mind weak zombie backstories, with barely any actual scary/exciting zombie content or insta love/lust, this could be for you.
November 6, 2018
The end of the world has come in the form of the Infection and life as everyone knows it has changed. Many people died from the Airport nfection. And rose as zombies. *Shudders* I'm not the biggest fan of zombies, like really not but I am a big fan of Rebecca Royce and Ripley Proserpina! I have loved their separate work but this has a different feel with both their influences!
And I got intrigued by Whitney. And that all zombies weren't mindless monsters. There were Controlled, who were hordes of slavering undead and under the circumstances control of someone, and the Other uncontrolled which managed to slip the Controllers mental grip abd get their freedom. But they're still the undead. But free! Except the Controller still keeps trying to round up the Uncontrolled.
We meet Whitney who is in the process of escaping her home to meet Brandon. Who she saw killed. By zombies. But has sent her a note to meet. And meet him she does. She also meets Nick, Carson, Dante, Isaiah, the first Uncontrolled and John. And a bond starts to form. Not just for Whitney but something that benefits them all. This just be the beginning of somwthing different and Unique and something worth fighting for and fight they will.
And I got intrigued by Whitney. And that all zombies weren't mindless monsters. There were Controlled, who were hordes of slavering undead and under the circumstances control of someone, and the Other uncontrolled which managed to slip the Controllers mental grip abd get their freedom. But they're still the undead. But free! Except the Controller still keeps trying to round up the Uncontrolled.
We meet Whitney who is in the process of escaping her home to meet Brandon. Who she saw killed. By zombies. But has sent her a note to meet. And meet him she does. She also meets Nick, Carson, Dante, Isaiah, the first Uncontrolled and John. And a bond starts to form. Not just for Whitney but something that benefits them all. This just be the beginning of somwthing different and Unique and something worth fighting for and fight they will.
December 29, 2018
Brilliant new take on zombies
Bravo!!! I LOVED this exciting book and can't wait to see the next in the series. Filled with romance, excitement, intrigue and one brave, big hearted young lady! Whitney is grieving the loss of her best friend and crush Brandon who was killed by a hoarde of zombies aka Controlled. Having snuck out of her dad's little empire of Roanoke to see if this secret note could be real..... She saw him die with her own eyes, but the note used their code word that NOBODY knew. Could it be possible? The adventure begins upon learning Brandon does still exist, but his heart no longer beats. Somehow he still retained his mind and control of himself.... and so have others with him. How is this possible??? Upon meeting his new friends Whitney feels an instant connection to the group, but what does it mean? Throw in a few evil men who happen to be related to her, a crazy doctor and a secret held by one of her guys about how the infected all began. Suffice to say you have the start to one kick butt new series!!! I couldn't out it down until I finished it. Nothing like WAKING DEAD 😉....oodles of romance, intrigue and adventure, and a psychic or two. You won't regret reading this!
Bravo!!! I LOVED this exciting book and can't wait to see the next in the series. Filled with romance, excitement, intrigue and one brave, big hearted young lady! Whitney is grieving the loss of her best friend and crush Brandon who was killed by a hoarde of zombies aka Controlled. Having snuck out of her dad's little empire of Roanoke to see if this secret note could be real..... She saw him die with her own eyes, but the note used their code word that NOBODY knew. Could it be possible? The adventure begins upon learning Brandon does still exist, but his heart no longer beats. Somehow he still retained his mind and control of himself.... and so have others with him. How is this possible??? Upon meeting his new friends Whitney feels an instant connection to the group, but what does it mean? Throw in a few evil men who happen to be related to her, a crazy doctor and a secret held by one of her guys about how the infected all began. Suffice to say you have the start to one kick butt new series!!! I couldn't out it down until I finished it. Nothing like WAKING DEAD 😉....oodles of romance, intrigue and adventure, and a psychic or two. You won't regret reading this!
November 25, 2018
“Sometimes survival was just a question of being lucky".
With that thought, Whitney Lake should consider herself one. Or something like that.
Being daughter to the most powerful and richest man when a mysterious infection swiped the whole country, it afforded her the security from getting her brains eaten by a horde of zombie.
While it did have some perks, it did nothing to help her save the man she loves, Brandon.
One letter. One fateful night. That's all it took for her life to be forever changed.
"Lightning Strikes" is the first book in the trilogy, The Storm series. I absolutely enjoyed reading it! It kind of gave me the vibes of “Warm Bodies” movie but RH style which made me love this even more. The multiple POV is a plus for me because it gave me the chance to know each guy’s personality (Brandon, Carson, Nick, Dante, John and Isaiah). It is safe to say that I'm positively in love with Dante's character.
Overall, I highly recommend this book and I'm (im)patiently waiting for the next one.
With that thought, Whitney Lake should consider herself one. Or something like that.
Being daughter to the most powerful and richest man when a mysterious infection swiped the whole country, it afforded her the security from getting her brains eaten by a horde of zombie.
While it did have some perks, it did nothing to help her save the man she loves, Brandon.
One letter. One fateful night. That's all it took for her life to be forever changed.
"Lightning Strikes" is the first book in the trilogy, The Storm series. I absolutely enjoyed reading it! It kind of gave me the vibes of “Warm Bodies” movie but RH style which made me love this even more. The multiple POV is a plus for me because it gave me the chance to know each guy’s personality (Brandon, Carson, Nick, Dante, John and Isaiah). It is safe to say that I'm positively in love with Dante's character.
Overall, I highly recommend this book and I'm (im)patiently waiting for the next one.
November 19, 2018
True love refuses to die...
Whitney Lake has had a lot of time to contemplate the end of the world. In the blink of an eye, an infection wiped out most of the human population, and her life changed forever. In one of the few safe cities left, Whitney tries to keep her head down, and stay alive.
But the world needs saving, and she may be the only one who can do it.
When a letter from her long-dead best friend arrives, Whitney takes a chance. Can she save those she thought were lost?
Out in the wilderness, where she never dared to go, she'll discover a world she never expected, and six men who would come back from the dead just to be with her.
Will she fight for the men who chose her, or will she lose everything in the coming storm?
I really enjoyed this book despite the fact that there were some moments that i felt a bit uncomfortable but only due to the fact of zombies.
I don't particularly like zombies though i came to like these ones.
Its action packed and its an amazing love story and a reverse harem one.
Its a unique story with really well written characters.
Whitney Lake has had a lot of time to contemplate the end of the world. In the blink of an eye, an infection wiped out most of the human population, and her life changed forever. In one of the few safe cities left, Whitney tries to keep her head down, and stay alive.
But the world needs saving, and she may be the only one who can do it.
When a letter from her long-dead best friend arrives, Whitney takes a chance. Can she save those she thought were lost?
Out in the wilderness, where she never dared to go, she'll discover a world she never expected, and six men who would come back from the dead just to be with her.
Will she fight for the men who chose her, or will she lose everything in the coming storm?
I really enjoyed this book despite the fact that there were some moments that i felt a bit uncomfortable but only due to the fact of zombies.
I don't particularly like zombies though i came to like these ones.
Its action packed and its an amazing love story and a reverse harem one.
Its a unique story with really well written characters.
June 13, 2019
I'm going to say right from the start Ripley and Rebecca have some very weird, yet interesting minds. I don't think even my wildest imagination could come up with what they have in this start to a new series.
It is likely the end of the world. Zombies are everywhere and every day someone is turned by the infection.
Whitney's best friend, Brandon was one of those people. She watched in horror as he was killed and turned. However when she gets a message to meet him she goes. She loved him and she had to trust that he wouldn't harm her.
When he shows up with another, Whitney runs and ends up falling and unconscious. Which leads to meeting the Uncontrolled, and a dream that starts changing everything.
There is much going on in this book as Whitney goes on the run from her father and discovers so much more. Not only about the Uncontrolled that are somehow bound to her but also the Controlled and the Controller.
Ripley and Rebecca have truly outdone themselves. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
It is likely the end of the world. Zombies are everywhere and every day someone is turned by the infection.
Whitney's best friend, Brandon was one of those people. She watched in horror as he was killed and turned. However when she gets a message to meet him she goes. She loved him and she had to trust that he wouldn't harm her.
When he shows up with another, Whitney runs and ends up falling and unconscious. Which leads to meeting the Uncontrolled, and a dream that starts changing everything.
There is much going on in this book as Whitney goes on the run from her father and discovers so much more. Not only about the Uncontrolled that are somehow bound to her but also the Controlled and the Controller.
Ripley and Rebecca have truly outdone themselves. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
October 10, 2019
I absolutely loved this book! I’ve read more than a hundred RH books this year (no exaggeration here, I read like a book per day) and latelu I couldn’t find anything that kept my interest but this book managed it. It’s different to all the RH books I’ve read before. I’ve gotta warn you, there is insta love but it’s totally worth it in my opinion, I guess it would be even better if all the characters knew each other a little more before they jump to the “I love you” but I’ll give it 5 stars anyway for several reasons. First, the plot is pretty interesting, it’s a different twist to the zombie genre. Second, I like the fact that the characters don’t fit the mold of the stereotypical harem (in this book the rough one is the most inteligent of the bunch, the leader is a pacifist, etc.). And third, the sex scenes are quite organic with some weirdness (the MC is a virgin) so it seemed real.
- So, for all those reasons and the fact that it’s the first book to really interest me in a while, I’ll give it 5 stars (also the fact that it made me laugh in the first page didn’t hurt).
- So, for all those reasons and the fact that it’s the first book to really interest me in a while, I’ll give it 5 stars (also the fact that it made me laugh in the first page didn’t hurt).
May 15, 2019
Way Better Than Expected
Even though I am a big fan of both of these authors, I was reluctant to read this book. I am not a fan of zombies. I should have known better. I loved this take on the zombie apocalypse. The authors did an excellent job of building the world so far, though I hope subsequent books will provide more of the bigger picture. I also loved that we were provided some reasoning to the insta-connection and acceptance of the harem type relationship. Often that is a point of discontent for me. I like that most of the guys felt like they had individual personalities which I believe will be further enhanced as we get to know their backstory's in future installments. My only real criticisms are that not all of the guys were given clear physical descriptors so it was hard to picture them and there was some timeline confusion so either I misread or it wasn't clear. All in all, I loved this book!
Even though I am a big fan of both of these authors, I was reluctant to read this book. I am not a fan of zombies. I should have known better. I loved this take on the zombie apocalypse. The authors did an excellent job of building the world so far, though I hope subsequent books will provide more of the bigger picture. I also loved that we were provided some reasoning to the insta-connection and acceptance of the harem type relationship. Often that is a point of discontent for me. I like that most of the guys felt like they had individual personalities which I believe will be further enhanced as we get to know their backstory's in future installments. My only real criticisms are that not all of the guys were given clear physical descriptors so it was hard to picture them and there was some timeline confusion so either I misread or it wasn't clear. All in all, I loved this book!
November 5, 2018
Witney has gotten a note from a friend. A friend she knew is dead she saw him killed by a zombie so how is he sending her a note with the right code that only he would know and begging her to come out in the middle of the night all alone? There was only one way to find out.
Brandon her best friend did send the note, he is a zombie as is Nick, Carson, Dante, thire different. Dante is more machine then zombie at this point. They leaders Zero the first to be different is Isaiah and john. But there are more.
Lots of twist a turns in this story, betrayal, mystery, intrigue, danger, tons of surprises I don't want to give away but wow what a story. It keep you no your toes all the way. While the book gives to a ending it's the the end this is a 3 part story so there is more yeah! I can't wait for more.
It's totally awesome
Voluntarily reviewed a copy and I honestly loved it.
Brandon her best friend did send the note, he is a zombie as is Nick, Carson, Dante, thire different. Dante is more machine then zombie at this point. They leaders Zero the first to be different is Isaiah and john. But there are more.
Lots of twist a turns in this story, betrayal, mystery, intrigue, danger, tons of surprises I don't want to give away but wow what a story. It keep you no your toes all the way. While the book gives to a ending it's the the end this is a 3 part story so there is more yeah! I can't wait for more.
It's totally awesome
Voluntarily reviewed a copy and I honestly loved it.
December 2, 2018
Different take on RH.
Loved Dante...not sure about the idea behind why they became aware, seemed a little simplistic. Dexter could of had more depth, enjoyed that he was in the story though as a surprise to the storyline but didn’t feel like the MC had the right reaction to him, I would of gone catatonic after mourning my brother then seeing him alive.
Apart from those criticisms the book is fun and fantastic. These authors look like they’ve had a great time writing this. It’s great that we get more than one perspective and see the world through the guys eyes, it is basically baddie versus goodie with a little mystical put in with a big porridge of zombies.
I couldn’t get into any of the sex scenes mainly because zombies represent rotten flesh and even though the guys are healed and alive I still couldn’t get Walking dead zombies out of my head lol.
Loved Dante...not sure about the idea behind why they became aware, seemed a little simplistic. Dexter could of had more depth, enjoyed that he was in the story though as a surprise to the storyline but didn’t feel like the MC had the right reaction to him, I would of gone catatonic after mourning my brother then seeing him alive.
Apart from those criticisms the book is fun and fantastic. These authors look like they’ve had a great time writing this. It’s great that we get more than one perspective and see the world through the guys eyes, it is basically baddie versus goodie with a little mystical put in with a big porridge of zombies.
I couldn’t get into any of the sex scenes mainly because zombies represent rotten flesh and even though the guys are healed and alive I still couldn’t get Walking dead zombies out of my head lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2019
Kinda odd and exceptionally engaging
Okay, so I gotta say that Lightning Strikes is seriously weird... and really fun. I enjoyed learning more about the various characters through the multiple POVs interspersed throughout the novel, and there were a lot of twists included that there’s simply no way I could’ve guessed would be coming.
This book has a bit of everything: seemingly mindless zombies, not so mindless zombies, not zombies, hodge-podge beings, psycho family, romance, laughs, adventure, reverse harem, dystopian staples here and there, not-your-normal abilities, WTH moments, oh, and storms (lots of weather oddities).
Give this book a try - it’s definitely different, and it’s something you can easily lose track of time reading because it’s tough to put down. I’m looking forward to reading the next book to see what else is waiting to surprise and ensnare me! :)
Okay, so I gotta say that Lightning Strikes is seriously weird... and really fun. I enjoyed learning more about the various characters through the multiple POVs interspersed throughout the novel, and there were a lot of twists included that there’s simply no way I could’ve guessed would be coming.
This book has a bit of everything: seemingly mindless zombies, not so mindless zombies, not zombies, hodge-podge beings, psycho family, romance, laughs, adventure, reverse harem, dystopian staples here and there, not-your-normal abilities, WTH moments, oh, and storms (lots of weather oddities).
Give this book a try - it’s definitely different, and it’s something you can easily lose track of time reading because it’s tough to put down. I’m looking forward to reading the next book to see what else is waiting to surprise and ensnare me! :)
October 24, 2018
Sorry no spoilers will be included in my review!
This book was freaking awesome!
It dragged me in after I read two sentences and I could not climb out until I got to the end of the book, which by the way I can not wait until the next book because I have to know what happens to next to Whit and her men!
I’ve read quite a few books by Rebecca Royce and I absolutely love her books but this is the first time that I’ve read anything by Ripley Proserpina and I gotta say I’ll definitely be reading more of her work because I couldn’t tell who was who writing when it came to this book and that says to me she’s good.
So yes I most definitely recommend this book because I thought it was absolutely amazing and I everyone should read it!
This book was freaking awesome!
It dragged me in after I read two sentences and I could not climb out until I got to the end of the book, which by the way I can not wait until the next book because I have to know what happens to next to Whit and her men!
I’ve read quite a few books by Rebecca Royce and I absolutely love her books but this is the first time that I’ve read anything by Ripley Proserpina and I gotta say I’ll definitely be reading more of her work because I couldn’t tell who was who writing when it came to this book and that says to me she’s good.
So yes I most definitely recommend this book because I thought it was absolutely amazing and I everyone should read it!
October 24, 2018
Okay, I suddenly love zombie books now because this book was awesome!!! I’m not really normally into zombie books or post-apocalyptic books, but this book just drew me in from the very first page to the last page!! I didn’t want to put it down or stop reading, it was that good. I love Whitney, Dante, Brandon, Isaiah, John, Nick, and Carson!!! They make a perfect family together. I loved all their powers from being psychic to being to an empath to storm maker to genius to strength to everything; it was all so cool! I’ve never seen a book combine so many different paranormal elements together so nicely, and still so modern day. A great co-written book by Rebecca Royce and Ripley Proserpina! I really loved this book, and I can’t wait for Thunder Rolls: The Storm #2 to come out!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2019
So below is MY thoughts and feelings regarding the characters and plot
******mild spoilers regarding the guys****
Plot: I love all things zombies, but i adore this take on the zombie version. Whitney is strong through all the fucked up things that happen. Its best to read and enjoy the story of Whitney and her men.
Will start book 2 shortly
FMC: Whitney- She's a strong woman in her early 20's.
Guys:
Brandon- best friend for years
Dante- The oldest of the group- genius
Nick- Can be a bit of a ass
Carson- The quite lawyer
John- The untrusting one
Isaiah- the pacifist leader
Relationship:
In relationship with all
Friends:
No additional friends besides guys
******mild spoilers regarding the guys****
Plot: I love all things zombies, but i adore this take on the zombie version. Whitney is strong through all the fucked up things that happen. Its best to read and enjoy the story of Whitney and her men.
Will start book 2 shortly
FMC: Whitney- She's a strong woman in her early 20's.
Guys:
Brandon- best friend for years
Dante- The oldest of the group- genius
Nick- Can be a bit of a ass
Carson- The quite lawyer
John- The untrusting one
Isaiah- the pacifist leader
Relationship:
In relationship with all
Friends:
No additional friends besides guys
October 25, 2018
This is a great start to a new series. I really enjoyed the storyline and the characters. Whitney has lived with a monster and has retained the ability to really care about others. She is determined to find her best friend and it leads to an adventure she never would have thought possible.
I don't tend to read zombie books but this one is so much more than what you expect. It offers a storyline that keeps you guessing with lots of twists. The romance aspect is very well done and I am really looking forward to reading the other books in the trilogy.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
I don't tend to read zombie books but this one is so much more than what you expect. It offers a storyline that keeps you guessing with lots of twists. The romance aspect is very well done and I am really looking forward to reading the other books in the trilogy.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
October 27, 2018
Let me start off by saying I'm not really into books about zombies or having to do with zombies, BUT I really liked the take on them in this book. The romance that develops between the characters is definitely a medium/fast burn, but I really liked the personalities of the men and Whitney.
I have to say already Dante and Nick stick out as my favorites.
I gave this book 4/5 stars just because some of the story seemed to jump plot wise and left me feeling like I missed some of the plot. Though I was having some issues with my copy, which I messaged them about so that could fix that particular issue.
I cannot wait to see what the next book has in store!
I have to say already Dante and Nick stick out as my favorites.
I gave this book 4/5 stars just because some of the story seemed to jump plot wise and left me feeling like I missed some of the plot. Though I was having some issues with my copy, which I messaged them about so that could fix that particular issue.
I cannot wait to see what the next book has in store!
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