What do you think?
Rate this book
Safe Haven #0.2
Before Safe Haven: Alex
From the multi-award-winning author Christopher Artinian, comes a novella featuring one of his most intriguing characters. People are calling Safe Haven “Gripping”, “Captivating”, “Emotional”, “Compelling” and “Scary as Hell”.
Before Safe Haven: Alex
A virus has infected billions all over the world, turning its victims into vicious zombies. The UK and Ireland have remained uninfected...until now.
Alex Munro’s city is put in lockdown as an outbreak of the zombie virus takes hold. Each day the government broadcasts claim a new victory in the fight. Each night more shots are heard as the undead begin to stake their claim to the streets of Leeds.
What will he do? What can he do? For Alex, family is everything. Survival is everything. Heroes aren’t born. Heroes are made. Today we need a new hero. Today we need Alex.
This is his story.
Before Safe Haven: Alex
A virus has infected billions all over the world, turning its victims into vicious zombies. The UK and Ireland have remained uninfected...until now.
Alex Munro’s city is put in lockdown as an outbreak of the zombie virus takes hold. Each day the government broadcasts claim a new victory in the fight. Each night more shots are heard as the undead begin to stake their claim to the streets of Leeds.
What will he do? What can he do? For Alex, family is everything. Survival is everything. Heroes aren’t born. Heroes are made. Today we need a new hero. Today we need Alex.
This is his story.
112 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2018
About the author
Christopher Artinian
178 books309 followersChristopher Artinian was born and raised in Leeds, England, but now lives on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. He published his debut novel, Safe Haven: Rise of the Rams, in February 2017 and currently has fifty-three horror and science fiction titles to his name, including international best sellers such as Relentless, Night of the Demons, The Devil’s Face, Neverland, The End of Everything and his new hit series, Unsafe.
Madhouse was released in October 2024 and Tantor Media bought the global rights for the audiobook in 2025. He's recently signed a shopping contract which paves the way for a possible movie deal.
CLAIM YOUR FREE BOOK: BEFORE SAFE HAVEN: ALEX
https://dl.bookfunnel.com/1v9xdaxx77
Join the Christopher Artinian fan club on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/12769...
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/christopher...
Christopher Artinian author page
https://www.facebook.com/safehaventri...
For signed books and exclusive merchandise
https://www.christopherartinian.com/
Madhouse was released in October 2024 and Tantor Media bought the global rights for the audiobook in 2025. He's recently signed a shopping contract which paves the way for a possible movie deal.
CLAIM YOUR FREE BOOK: BEFORE SAFE HAVEN: ALEX
https://dl.bookfunnel.com/1v9xdaxx77
Join the Christopher Artinian fan club on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/12769...
https://www.instagram.com/christopher...
Christopher Artinian author page
https://www.facebook.com/safehaventri...
For signed books and exclusive merchandise
https://www.christopherartinian.com/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 18, 2026
Another prequel to the Safe Haven series (which I haven't read yet) about Alex who is the patriarch of a family I'm guessing is central to the oncoming story. Very moving and a great insight into what's to come. I'm going to be reading all the prequels (I think there's 6) because I'm already invested!
February 26, 2024
I’ve had this book forever and I’m so glad that I decided to read it and I loved it.
A brilliant read and the characters were amazing. It’s a very easy book to read.
A brilliant read and the characters were amazing. It’s a very easy book to read.
June 14, 2022
Excellent read. I'm looking forward to reading more of the Safe Haven series.
April 29, 2025
This is a prequel to the safe haven series which I haven’t read yet. But after reading this I can’t wait to start the whole adventure. 🥰 I love the way Christopher makes the characters come alive. You’re becoming fond of them immediately after starting the book. They all feel so reel and I love the humor between them. I think this series could turn into a new favorite of mine.
January 23, 2022
Before Safe Haven: Alex (A Zombie Novella) by Christopher Artinian and narrated by Kim Bretton is an emotional read...grab the tissues. Yes, it is worth a listen as the writing and narration are fabulous (all of Christopher and Kim’s collaborations are FYI)- it’s more a question of if you should listen to this or the first book of Safe Haven first. With that being said, if you continue to read my review,***Warning***, contains spoilers if you have not listened to the first Safe Haven book. I highly recommend the Safe Haven series if you are new to Christopher’s books and if you are not but haven’t listened to this one, you should.
This novella tells Alex’s story and events at the beginning of the outbreak. It’s about family, or what family should be, and zombies. It’s an emotional read due to Alex being infected and the subsequent events. Kim’s narration is excellent. She brings the characters to life and makes each one special.
Parental guidance/trigger warnings: It’s the beginning of the zompoc- some violence (Mike beats up some guys who were trying to rape a woman), discussions of Mike beating up a priest who was assaulting a young girl, drinking, or other like situations. Language used: Sx8, Fx23.
*I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Thank you for allowing me to listen and review the book!
This novella tells Alex’s story and events at the beginning of the outbreak. It’s about family, or what family should be, and zombies. It’s an emotional read due to Alex being infected and the subsequent events. Kim’s narration is excellent. She brings the characters to life and makes each one special.
Parental guidance/trigger warnings: It’s the beginning of the zompoc- some violence (Mike beats up some guys who were trying to rape a woman), discussions of Mike beating up a priest who was assaulting a young girl, drinking, or other like situations. Language used: Sx8, Fx23.
*I was given a free review copy of the audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Thank you for allowing me to listen and review the book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2022
I enjoyed this short story about Alex a lot. This short story gave a voice to Alex that made him seem more real. Although Alex was a secondary character in the series, his influence helped to make Mike and Emma and the whole family strong enough to be able to meet the challenges being brought about by the changing world. I have been a fan of Christopher Artinian's "Safe Haven" series since I listened to the first book in the series in audiobook format, and I recommend this series to others. Kim Bretton's narration was outstanding, and she kept my attention throughout the tale. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily left this review.
January 14, 2022
Even though I knew how this story would end, that didn't take anything away from reading it. Christopher Artinian is a wonderful author and this story is no exception. Great character development, great world building and great emotion throughout make this a 5+ star read.
As always, Kim Bretton's performance make an already fantastic book even better. She really brings the characters to life and makes the listener fell like they are living in the story, not just listening to it. Just be sure to have some tissues handy when listening because you will need them!
I was given the chance to listen to the audiobook version of this book by the author/publisher/narrator and chose to review it.
As always, Kim Bretton's performance make an already fantastic book even better. She really brings the characters to life and makes the listener fell like they are living in the story, not just listening to it. Just be sure to have some tissues handy when listening because you will need them!
I was given the chance to listen to the audiobook version of this book by the author/publisher/narrator and chose to review it.
May 17, 2024
(I accidentally wrote a review for the book written in Lucy’s pov lol)
I’m so glad I gave this book a chance. I absolutely love zombies, so I’m trying to read more stories involving them. This is the first book from the series that I’ve read. At first, I felt the story was taking too long to develop, but I came to appreciate the character development. I especially love the character Alex. You can just feel how much he loves his children, and it is so heartbreaking to read about his attack after trying to save his neighbor. I can’t wait to read what happens next, this definitely left me wanting to read more!
I’m so glad I gave this book a chance. I absolutely love zombies, so I’m trying to read more stories involving them. This is the first book from the series that I’ve read. At first, I felt the story was taking too long to develop, but I came to appreciate the character development. I especially love the character Alex. You can just feel how much he loves his children, and it is so heartbreaking to read about his attack after trying to save his neighbor. I can’t wait to read what happens next, this definitely left me wanting to read more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2024
Honestly, one of the best horror/apocalypse books I have read in a long time!
It could use a little more action though. I thought it was building up to a climax but it never really hit. I feel it will deliver action in other books in the series.
It's a realistic portrayal of how a seemingly normal lifestyle in England can be unpredictability thrown into chaos, with relatable characters who converse naturally and believably. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series. It's made me question the quality of all of the other books I have read in the zombie genre so far. This is so well written and easy to imagine. A pleasure to read. I love the glimpses of British culture throughout.
It could use a little more action though. I thought it was building up to a climax but it never really hit. I feel it will deliver action in other books in the series.
It's a realistic portrayal of how a seemingly normal lifestyle in England can be unpredictability thrown into chaos, with relatable characters who converse naturally and believably. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series. It's made me question the quality of all of the other books I have read in the zombie genre so far. This is so well written and easy to imagine. A pleasure to read. I love the glimpses of British culture throughout.
September 7, 2018
Awesome
Throughout the safe haven books, we hear a lot about Alex and the type of person he was from other characters. This book however, let's you delve into his life and we see all his hidden depths. The story makes you instantly connect with him and the type of character he is. Christopher Artinian has such a way of writing that you really start to love all of the characters and with the before safe haven shorts we get to learn more about them. Fantastic book that I couldn't put down and really looking forward to more of these books. Well worth a read.
Throughout the safe haven books, we hear a lot about Alex and the type of person he was from other characters. This book however, let's you delve into his life and we see all his hidden depths. The story makes you instantly connect with him and the type of character he is. Christopher Artinian has such a way of writing that you really start to love all of the characters and with the before safe haven shorts we get to learn more about them. Fantastic book that I couldn't put down and really looking forward to more of these books. Well worth a read.
September 15, 2018
As always a chilling read
Mr. Artinian has done it again with this book. His stories just keep getting better and better. After 3 books and 2 novellas, I feel as if the characters are friends and family. From the touching dedication until the end of the story was a great adventure. If you want something scary and fun to take your mind away try the Safe Haven series. You won't regret it.
Mr. Artinian has done it again with this book. His stories just keep getting better and better. After 3 books and 2 novellas, I feel as if the characters are friends and family. From the touching dedication until the end of the story was a great adventure. If you want something scary and fun to take your mind away try the Safe Haven series. You won't regret it.
August 31, 2020
So that’s the story of Alex
We have known that Alex got bit in the first Safe Haven book but we just didn’t know how. This book explains what happened and also some more on the start of the outbreak. Gives more depth to Alex. I really enjoyed this book. There are so many more I want to hear about like Emma and I know that Alex would love for Emma to tell her story.
Read it please - totally worth your time and your money :)
We have known that Alex got bit in the first Safe Haven book but we just didn’t know how. This book explains what happened and also some more on the start of the outbreak. Gives more depth to Alex. I really enjoyed this book. There are so many more I want to hear about like Emma and I know that Alex would love for Emma to tell her story.
Read it please - totally worth your time and your money :)
September 7, 2018
Great novella
I really enjoyed reading this novella, learning about the type of person alex was before the outbreak, the novellas are a great way to bring characters well and truly alive and christopher artinian is great at doing this, another excellent story, cant wait for the rest.
I really enjoyed reading this novella, learning about the type of person alex was before the outbreak, the novellas are a great way to bring characters well and truly alive and christopher artinian is great at doing this, another excellent story, cant wait for the rest.
May 13, 2019
We finally get to meet the real Alex
Such a great addition to this series of books. Throughout the Safe Haven books Alex is only mentioned as a memory, his only appearance in the books are when he turns. So this was wonderful to finally meet the real Alex. Great story telling once again
Such a great addition to this series of books. Throughout the Safe Haven books Alex is only mentioned as a memory, his only appearance in the books are when he turns. So this was wonderful to finally meet the real Alex. Great story telling once again
July 10, 2019
Loved it
I loved this little glimpse into a character who only plays a short part in the main story. In all honesty I thought it was a bit pointless having a whole book dedicated to such a small player but truth be told it wasn't. It worked and I enjoyed it and it filled in some time before the next full novel was released which I'm dashing off to get now.
I loved this little glimpse into a character who only plays a short part in the main story. In all honesty I thought it was a bit pointless having a whole book dedicated to such a small player but truth be told it wasn't. It worked and I enjoyed it and it filled in some time before the next full novel was released which I'm dashing off to get now.
November 16, 2019
Good deeds don’t always pay off!
I loved finding out about Alex and his relationship to his kids. I thought it was interesting to learn the detailed information that was put out by the government. If only you could trust your government. Looking forward to reading Mike’s story next.
I loved finding out about Alex and his relationship to his kids. I thought it was interesting to learn the detailed information that was put out by the government. If only you could trust your government. Looking forward to reading Mike’s story next.
February 11, 2020
Wow..what a point of view!!!
I have to tell you, I loved this story and the series in general, I can't recommend it enough! Christopher Artinian is one hell of a writer, he makes you feel like you are a part of everything you write. Please buy his books, I want him to keep on writing.
I have to tell you, I loved this story and the series in general, I can't recommend it enough! Christopher Artinian is one hell of a writer, he makes you feel like you are a part of everything you write. Please buy his books, I want him to keep on writing.
January 13, 2022
Any insight to these beloved characters is always welcome
Trust me when I say this is only a small taste of what’s to come in the safe haven series
Glad these are getting the audiobook treatment as Kim always knocks it out of the park
This series never disappoints 5stars
I received a free review audiobook and voluntarily left this review
Trust me when I say this is only a small taste of what’s to come in the safe haven series
Glad these are getting the audiobook treatment as Kim always knocks it out of the park
This series never disappoints 5stars
I received a free review audiobook and voluntarily left this review
January 25, 2022
I love hearing the same story from different character view points. I live this series, this universe and all of the characters.
Christopher knows how to craft a great story.
Kim Bretton brings them to life! Amazing narration as always! You’ll never go wrong with this dynamic audio due!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Christopher knows how to craft a great story.
Kim Bretton brings them to life! Amazing narration as always! You’ll never go wrong with this dynamic audio due!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
September 24, 2022
This is brilliant! I don't know why I have not read this writers work before! An amazing english, zombie, end of the world! Excellent! I loved everything about this, the ideas, the characters & story line! Overall a really amazing story! I will for sure look for more by this writer & I do strongly recommend!
September 7, 2018
Just the best start with this novella about Alex.
As always when another book comes out from Christopher Artinian you know you are in for one helluva great novel and this one doesn't disappoint.Absolutely fantastic read into the characters of the Safe Haven series.Brilliant.
As always when another book comes out from Christopher Artinian you know you are in for one helluva great novel and this one doesn't disappoint.Absolutely fantastic read into the characters of the Safe Haven series.Brilliant.
September 17, 2018
It's nice to get to know Alex better before the first Safe Haven book but I'm glad I read them in this order because Mike really was a dick in this novella....lol. A great addition to the Safe Haven world.
November 10, 2018
ALEX
I loved this story of Alex and how he had gotten bitten. He sounds like a wonderful father and it was heartbreaking for him to leave his family. Thanks for writing the story of Alex.
I loved this story of Alex and how he had gotten bitten. He sounds like a wonderful father and it was heartbreaking for him to leave his family. Thanks for writing the story of Alex.
March 27, 2019
Heartbreaking
I felt like bawling my eyes out pretty much the whole time reading this book. However, what great fortune for the kids to have such an awesome human for a dad! Wonderful character build and I loved the ability to see the story from more points of view.
I felt like bawling my eyes out pretty much the whole time reading this book. However, what great fortune for the kids to have such an awesome human for a dad! Wonderful character build and I loved the ability to see the story from more points of view.
May 17, 2020
Fabulous
Really enjoyed this book and reading more about Emma and mike from before. Alex is a lovely character and a shame he isn’t in more books -obviously for a good reason.
I hope to read more from this author
Really enjoyed this book and reading more about Emma and mike from before. Alex is a lovely character and a shame he isn’t in more books -obviously for a good reason.
I hope to read more from this author
August 14, 2020
Alex's story, I always wanted to know more about the man that had such a profound effect on Mike, and I wasn't disappointed. This was incredibly moving and terrifying all at the same time, as the family realises how horrifying their new reality is. I loved this book, and couldn't put it down.
October 13, 2020
Although heartbreaking getting to know Alex, especially when you know what happens to him - it was good getting a glimpse into the man that played such an important role in Mike and Emma’s lives.
Thank you for introducing us to such a brave dad.
Thank you for introducing us to such a brave dad.
February 17, 2022
EXCELLENT
This, along with the other Before Safe Haven Books are simply some of the best I have read. If you love Safe Haven, these books give you a glimpse into the characters before the end. While I love all the characters, this one was my favorite. Alex. What a great story.
This, along with the other Before Safe Haven Books are simply some of the best I have read. If you love Safe Haven, these books give you a glimpse into the characters before the end. While I love all the characters, this one was my favorite. Alex. What a great story.
December 17, 2018
THIS WAS A GREAT READ AND LETS YOU HAVE SOME BACK STORY ON ALEX THE STEPFATHER ..I ENJOYED IT VERY MUCH.LOTS OF FEELINGS FLOWING WHEN YOU READ THIS BOOK.
February 17, 2019
This was a very emotional story for me. A great backstory to what happened before Safe Haven. Highly Recommended!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews