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Wilders #1
Wilders
The forest behind Renna's home is dark and dense. It hold more secrets than she knows. Having grown up in the half-pocalypse, a world balancing against the tide of a blood-borne virus, Renna knows the rules by heart:
1) Stay inside between dusk and dawn.
2) Close and lock the copper and silver screens.
3) Report anyone suspected of infection immediately.
Now, at seventeen, Renna must survive against the rules.
-An unprecedented attack.
- A strange boy with copper eyes.
Can Renna survive the darkness to save those she loves?
1) Stay inside between dusk and dawn.
2) Close and lock the copper and silver screens.
3) Report anyone suspected of infection immediately.
Now, at seventeen, Renna must survive against the rules.
-An unprecedented attack.
- A strange boy with copper eyes.
Can Renna survive the darkness to save those she loves?
Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2020
46 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Cass Kim
23 books38 followersHaving burst onto the publishing scene in May of 2019, Cass Kim completed the "Wilders" series in January of 2020. Cass has successfully headed two books now in the "Autumn Nights" Charity Anthology series to celebrate Halloween and give back.
Cass is a professional Line and Developmental Editor for Young Adult and Adult Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dystopian, and Literary fiction. She is also a Beta Reader and Book Coach. She loves animals, the outdoors, and believes firmly in being kind.
Cass is a professional Line and Developmental Editor for Young Adult and Adult Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dystopian, and Literary fiction. She is also a Beta Reader and Book Coach. She loves animals, the outdoors, and believes firmly in being kind.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 19, 2020
Wilders is a fantastic tale that draws you in and won't let you go. The combination of excellent writing and narration make this a must read for book lovers of any genre!
The author did an amazing job developing the characters in a natural, believable manner - with the tension of the story line building stronger and stronger with each chapter. I felt like I had stepped into the book and was trying to get away from the Wilders myself! The scientific elements were also explained in an easy to understand and believable manner - without adding any unnecessary complexity to the story.
I can't recommend this book enough! My only complaint is that the "mean author" left me hungry for the sequel!
The author did an amazing job developing the characters in a natural, believable manner - with the tension of the story line building stronger and stronger with each chapter. I felt like I had stepped into the book and was trying to get away from the Wilders myself! The scientific elements were also explained in an easy to understand and believable manner - without adding any unnecessary complexity to the story.
I can't recommend this book enough! My only complaint is that the "mean author" left me hungry for the sequel!
August 23, 2020
When a virus attacks.
A virus attacks the US. Copper and silver help repel the infected. This fast paced story is terrific. You get so involved you almost wonder if you are there. It's an unusual take on an apocalyptic tale.
A virus attacks the US. Copper and silver help repel the infected. This fast paced story is terrific. You get so involved you almost wonder if you are there. It's an unusual take on an apocalyptic tale.
February 1, 2020
The Wilders are a mutated strain of humans, similar to zombies. Unlike zombies, humans have adapted to the presence of the Wilders, learning that copper and sunlight keep them at bay. With these techniques, life goes on in a semi-normal state. That is until the Wilders virus mutates creating a new strain of disease that creates Wilders who aren’t afraid of the sunlight. Wilders who attack in the sunlight.
Suspenseful and action-packed, it’s not very often that I find apocalyptic books that are unique, but Wilders is one of those. The creatures, Wilders, were an interesting concept, and I loved the author’s creature of a world that’s halfway between normalcy and the apocalypse. It was a refreshing change of pace. Characters were very well written, and I loved the details that the author put in such as Renna’s cat. It made the world and characters even realer.
My only real complaint is that the story wasn’t longer. I have some questions that were left unanswered, and I hope there will be a sequel so I can see what will become of these characters.
Narration was pleasant and went along well with the story.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
Suspenseful and action-packed, it’s not very often that I find apocalyptic books that are unique, but Wilders is one of those. The creatures, Wilders, were an interesting concept, and I loved the author’s creature of a world that’s halfway between normalcy and the apocalypse. It was a refreshing change of pace. Characters were very well written, and I loved the details that the author put in such as Renna’s cat. It made the world and characters even realer.
My only real complaint is that the story wasn’t longer. I have some questions that were left unanswered, and I hope there will be a sequel so I can see what will become of these characters.
Narration was pleasant and went along well with the story.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
August 31, 2019
With the flood of “zombie apocalypse” style novels saturating the market these days, it is refreshing to find a new take on the old theme. Cass Kim’s book stands out from the pack for two main reasons. First, her equivalent of the zombies (and for the record, her story does not have zombies but the far more creative “wilders”) have not yet completely destroyed civilization. Humanity (at least in the United States) has adapted to what keeps getting referred to as the “half-pocalypse”. Life is not easy in the new normal, but it is livable. This provides a quite different story environment than the typical tale and that was very refreshing.
The second reason Kim’s book leads the pack of this subgenre is that it is not about simple survival but something much more important in the grand scheme of things. (It’s difficult to write about this without giving away an important plot twist.) There is plenty of action in the book, but larger issues than personal survival are dealt with on a very intimate level that really struck home with me.
So those are the big issues that can be summed up as Wilders has a unique flavor for this subgenre, but by themselves they would only have made this an interesting book—not a great one. Fortunately, Kim populates her world with a believable cast of teenagers who are trying to thrive in the half-pocalypse. It’s a difficult balance which Kim handles with a master touch dealing with the basic immaturity of young people when the consequences of teenaged rebellion can include being eaten alive by wilders. Add to that parents who are emotionally damaged by the civilization-threatening events and Kim has created a social environment that quickly builds sympathy for her cast and adds quite a bit of tension to the story.
Finally, every novel can benefit from superb narration and Liz Brand certainly does her part to bring this book to life—especially excelling at young, easily differentiated, voices.
I received this book from Audiobook Boom in exchange for an honest review.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
The second reason Kim’s book leads the pack of this subgenre is that it is not about simple survival but something much more important in the grand scheme of things. (It’s difficult to write about this without giving away an important plot twist.) There is plenty of action in the book, but larger issues than personal survival are dealt with on a very intimate level that really struck home with me.
So those are the big issues that can be summed up as Wilders has a unique flavor for this subgenre, but by themselves they would only have made this an interesting book—not a great one. Fortunately, Kim populates her world with a believable cast of teenagers who are trying to thrive in the half-pocalypse. It’s a difficult balance which Kim handles with a master touch dealing with the basic immaturity of young people when the consequences of teenaged rebellion can include being eaten alive by wilders. Add to that parents who are emotionally damaged by the civilization-threatening events and Kim has created a social environment that quickly builds sympathy for her cast and adds quite a bit of tension to the story.
Finally, every novel can benefit from superb narration and Liz Brand certainly does her part to bring this book to life—especially excelling at young, easily differentiated, voices.
I received this book from Audiobook Boom in exchange for an honest review.
If you liked this review, you can find more at www.gilbertstack.com/reviews.
July 25, 2019
Fast-pace, exciting read!
Extremely well-written story. The main character Renna is easy to like and fun to follow. As a relatable character, I found myself rooting for her like a cheerleader. The scientific research was well executed and seemed natural. I love the close association to other mythical creatures as the Wilders are described. Excellent prose and overall easy to read! I’m pulling for Tim Tam too!!
Extremely well-written story. The main character Renna is easy to like and fun to follow. As a relatable character, I found myself rooting for her like a cheerleader. The scientific research was well executed and seemed natural. I love the close association to other mythical creatures as the Wilders are described. Excellent prose and overall easy to read! I’m pulling for Tim Tam too!!
October 15, 2019
A realistic, unsettling virus
I listened to this book on Audible.
Wilders is an interesting, different approach to the zombie apocalypse, a "halfpocalypse" like the book says. I liked the uncertainty of this crazy virus, waiting for the inevitable mutation that turns it into a fullpocalypse. Renna's backstory is heartbreaking because of the nature of the virus. I really loved her and wondered if I'd be as brave as she is.
Though not really scary, several moments in the story filled me with deep dread. I won't give any spoilers away, but Cass made me love the characters so much that I was right there with them worrying about how they'd survive.
I love apocalyptic stories and appreciate the realistic science and backstory to the virus progression in Wilders. Much closer to World War Z than Walking Dead.
My only disappointment (and maybe it will be remedied in the next book) is that Jeremy was never ripped to shreds by a wilder!
My usual scale of giving something 5 stars is if I'd read it again, and I would! You should, too!
I listened to this book on Audible.
Wilders is an interesting, different approach to the zombie apocalypse, a "halfpocalypse" like the book says. I liked the uncertainty of this crazy virus, waiting for the inevitable mutation that turns it into a fullpocalypse. Renna's backstory is heartbreaking because of the nature of the virus. I really loved her and wondered if I'd be as brave as she is.
Though not really scary, several moments in the story filled me with deep dread. I won't give any spoilers away, but Cass made me love the characters so much that I was right there with them worrying about how they'd survive.
I love apocalyptic stories and appreciate the realistic science and backstory to the virus progression in Wilders. Much closer to World War Z than Walking Dead.
My only disappointment (and maybe it will be remedied in the next book) is that Jeremy was never ripped to shreds by a wilder!
My usual scale of giving something 5 stars is if I'd read it again, and I would! You should, too!
May 14, 2019
This was a page turner - read it through in one evening (stayed up too late!) Well-written and wonderfully imagined take on the zombie/virus theme. Appreciated that the author built a realistic vision of how the world might very well adapt to an ongoing crisis of this sort, and the way people would attempt to carry on living a more or less normal life in spite of it. Fits into the YA genre with a teenage protagonist trying to navigate the murky waters of everything from the social awkwardness of an all-night party to the terrors lurking in the woods behind her house. Some gore as is appropriate to the story, but the horror often takes a backseat to the thoughtful exploration of the very human ways people behave in response to extreme events. (And there is a delightful cat named Tim Tam! Bonus!)
June 6, 2019
*3.5/5 stars*
**I received a digital copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**
Super fun, fast-paced twist on this genre. I really enjoyed this one. I wish it had been a little bit longer because I really enjoyed the storyline, so I would have liked to have seen it a bit more in depth. But overall, I really enjoyed this. It was a quick read and kept me entertained. I hope to see more in this story!!
Full review here: https://katelynpdickinson.wordpress.c...
**I received a digital copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.**
Super fun, fast-paced twist on this genre. I really enjoyed this one. I wish it had been a little bit longer because I really enjoyed the storyline, so I would have liked to have seen it a bit more in depth. But overall, I really enjoyed this. It was a quick read and kept me entertained. I hope to see more in this story!!
Full review here: https://katelynpdickinson.wordpress.c...
July 25, 2019
Solid world-building, great flow, and easy-to-like characters! Wilders was a real treat to read. I found myself on the edge of my seat and blowing through chapters to find out what happens next. The only thing holding me back from giving this story the highest praise is that it ended too soon for me. I wanted more: more time with the characters, more length to their arcs, and more exploration into what this new world might look like. I definitely recommend this book, though. It'll leave you wanting more, after all!
May 11, 2019
Loved this book it drew me in from the start, and kept me in the story to the end. It’s an exciting quick read. This is her first book and I cannot wait for more!
March 23, 2020
Creepy yet eerily relatable!
The copy I received had the prequel called The Change, as well as Wilders.
When The Change ended, I was actually upset because I wanted more! Kim did such a great job of creating terror and anxiety that I myself was nervous, yet excited to turn the next page.
I really appreciated her unique and refreshing take on zombies and a post apocalyptic world. Her virus made sense and I loved the solutions the survivors came up with to keep the Wilders out. It makes me want to go out and buy some copper screens as well...
Kim did a great job portraying what it's like to be a teenage girl trapped in a dangerous world, while still dealing with all the stressors and doubts that come with adolescence.
This was a great story that kept me entertained throughout! It even gave me nightmares which is a huge bonus because the story stayed with me and won't be easy to forget!
The copy I received had the prequel called The Change, as well as Wilders.
When The Change ended, I was actually upset because I wanted more! Kim did such a great job of creating terror and anxiety that I myself was nervous, yet excited to turn the next page.
I really appreciated her unique and refreshing take on zombies and a post apocalyptic world. Her virus made sense and I loved the solutions the survivors came up with to keep the Wilders out. It makes me want to go out and buy some copper screens as well...
Kim did a great job portraying what it's like to be a teenage girl trapped in a dangerous world, while still dealing with all the stressors and doubts that come with adolescence.
This was a great story that kept me entertained throughout! It even gave me nightmares which is a huge bonus because the story stayed with me and won't be easy to forget!
April 16, 2023
Even for a novella it seemed pretty short. There are a few adults in the story, but this is mostly about and aimed at teens. Renna is 17 and living in the 'half-pocalypse", there are curfews and rules/regulations, but society hasn't collapsed.
There's an incident involving Renna's brother that turns her world upside down. There wasn't enough time for me to get really invested in the characters or the story before it stops, the end seemed abrupt.
There's an incident involving Renna's brother that turns her world upside down. There wasn't enough time for me to get really invested in the characters or the story before it stops, the end seemed abrupt.
March 28, 2020
The wilders offers the reader a unique take on the apocalypse genre and what it means to fight for one's life. Well done, Mrs. Kim, for writing a book that captures the reader's attention and doesn't let it go.
October 19, 2019
Review coming soon ...
March 28, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. A much different take on the typical apocalypse than anything else I've read, very refreshing. Can't wait to read the next one!
February 29, 2020
This book is dealing with same virus as book 1 but it is a different family we are observing in the story. The characters are very diverse and the story builds. I was sad that it ended with a cliffhanger type ending. Narrator did a good job in narrating the story. Wish the next book was already available!!
July 11, 2019
Thanks to the author for the free ebook copy in exchange for my honest review
At just around 150 pages I flew through this sci-fi novella from Cass Kim. WILDERS takes place in what is known as the half-pocalypse and there are rules that need to be followed. You don’t go out between dusk and dawn, lock up the copper and silver screens, and always report anyone suspected of being infected. Renna has grown up with these rules, but a series of events causes her to have to break the rules in order to survive.
I would definitely categorize this under the YA umbrella – more so sci-fi as opposed to horror. I feel like this has a more realistic approach to how people would adjust and live in a half-apocalyptic world. I’ve never been the biggest fan of the zombie genres (I just think they were so overdone in a short amount of time years ago), but this was the right amount for me. I liked the story and would like to see more! With this being a novella, I know we only can get so much out of it, but I think it’s a good jumping-off point for more in a series.
At just around 150 pages I flew through this sci-fi novella from Cass Kim. WILDERS takes place in what is known as the half-pocalypse and there are rules that need to be followed. You don’t go out between dusk and dawn, lock up the copper and silver screens, and always report anyone suspected of being infected. Renna has grown up with these rules, but a series of events causes her to have to break the rules in order to survive.
I would definitely categorize this under the YA umbrella – more so sci-fi as opposed to horror. I feel like this has a more realistic approach to how people would adjust and live in a half-apocalyptic world. I’ve never been the biggest fan of the zombie genres (I just think they were so overdone in a short amount of time years ago), but this was the right amount for me. I liked the story and would like to see more! With this being a novella, I know we only can get so much out of it, but I think it’s a good jumping-off point for more in a series.
March 10, 2020
Awesome
I loved this book. A completely new take on the classic pandemic/virus outbreak. I couldn’t put this book down and I can’t wait to read the next one!
I loved this book. A completely new take on the classic pandemic/virus outbreak. I couldn’t put this book down and I can’t wait to read the next one!
August 22, 2019
( Format : Audiobook )
"Truly a living work of art."
review to follow
"Truly a living work of art."
review to follow
May 26, 2019
The (1/2)pocalypse is coming!
I'm a big fan of the apocalyse genre and love zombies (not literally, just the mayhem they produce) in general.
This book is a great entry into that arena.
However, rather than having the total destruction of civilization, which leads the survivors into tough choices of living and dying and losing their remaining humanity, this book ponders the question of "What if zombies came, but civilization didn't collapse?"
Wilders follow Renna, a teenager, and her family struggling to make a normal life in the midst of the (1/2)pocalypse, where the zombies exist but have been contained in wild, untamed areas between outlying towns and cities. This unstable equilibrium of society teetering on the thin edge between civilization and anarchy gives a great kick to the moral underpinnings of the usual apocalypse novel.
The author has a strong and clean writing style with a great eye for creating nuanced and clear characters. The story is well-paced and the pages turn quickly making for a very enjoyable read.
Will be looking forward to the sequels.
I'm a big fan of the apocalyse genre and love zombies (not literally, just the mayhem they produce) in general.
This book is a great entry into that arena.
However, rather than having the total destruction of civilization, which leads the survivors into tough choices of living and dying and losing their remaining humanity, this book ponders the question of "What if zombies came, but civilization didn't collapse?"
Wilders follow Renna, a teenager, and her family struggling to make a normal life in the midst of the (1/2)pocalypse, where the zombies exist but have been contained in wild, untamed areas between outlying towns and cities. This unstable equilibrium of society teetering on the thin edge between civilization and anarchy gives a great kick to the moral underpinnings of the usual apocalypse novel.
The author has a strong and clean writing style with a great eye for creating nuanced and clear characters. The story is well-paced and the pages turn quickly making for a very enjoyable read.
Will be looking forward to the sequels.
January 4, 2020
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading Wilders, but soon found myself drawn into the story about a world wherein many people that have become infected by an ailment that turns them into 'Wilders', which are essentially mindless, violent humans. The main revolves around a typical teenagers world, which spirals downward after a disastrous 'Wilder' outbreak.
For me, what set this book above most is that the author does a wonderful job of creating the world piece by piece. It isn't flung at you in long paragraphs, but rather in small bits as the main character goes about her life in the 'new' world. The second aspect that I really enjoyed was the character development. Each person is distinct and well written, and the conversations that take
place are believable, and have a realistic feel that kept me reading more.
For me, the one small drawback was that it felt like the book ended a bit early. It wasn't a huge issue, and it may be good in some ways because I'm looking forward to the sequel, and just purchased it.
I definitely recommend giving this book a read.
For me, what set this book above most is that the author does a wonderful job of creating the world piece by piece. It isn't flung at you in long paragraphs, but rather in small bits as the main character goes about her life in the 'new' world. The second aspect that I really enjoyed was the character development. Each person is distinct and well written, and the conversations that take
place are believable, and have a realistic feel that kept me reading more.
For me, the one small drawback was that it felt like the book ended a bit early. It wasn't a huge issue, and it may be good in some ways because I'm looking forward to the sequel, and just purchased it.
I definitely recommend giving this book a read.
June 30, 2020
The cover drew my attention, the name made me think something different than it was, reading the description cinched it, I wanted to see what this book was about. I am glad I did. This was an interesting take on a sort of "half" apocalypse with zombies.
The novel talks about how there are zombies out in the world, but that people can still live relatively safe if they live by a set of rules. But if they are not careful, that safety won't last long.
Narrator did a good job reading the book and did an ok job giving each character their own tone though could have been better
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving am honest review
The novel talks about how there are zombies out in the world, but that people can still live relatively safe if they live by a set of rules. But if they are not careful, that safety won't last long.
Narrator did a good job reading the book and did an ok job giving each character their own tone though could have been better
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving am honest review
May 31, 2020
I received this as a copy to review from voracious readers only.
This is a fantastic story that's really gripping, so much so that I had to read the second one to find out what happened.
A disease has changed lots of humans to Wilders, who are reminiscent of zombies. The story tells of a girl and her family and their struggles in the aftermath of the disease.
It's full of suspense and intrigue and is very well written.
I will look for this author again.
This is a fantastic story that's really gripping, so much so that I had to read the second one to find out what happened.
A disease has changed lots of humans to Wilders, who are reminiscent of zombies. The story tells of a girl and her family and their struggles in the aftermath of the disease.
It's full of suspense and intrigue and is very well written.
I will look for this author again.
May 11, 2019
Great book... Could not put it down!!! Hoping for a second book... Maybe a trilogy?!?!?!
January 5, 2020
This is a fantastic take on the zombie apocalypse genre that will have you hooked from beginning to end!
In Wilders, as in its prequel, The Change, Cass Kim has found a unique, interesting take on the popular topic of a zombie apocalypse. I absolutely loved her invention of the “half-pocalypse,” a world where society has been damaged by a deadly virus, but civilization has not completely fallen into chaos. People still go to work and school, and teenagers still have parties and get drunk. But hovering around the edges of everyday life is the constant threat of the Wilders: freakish, not-quite-humans that have been infected or “changed,” and are now extremely violent and seemingly immune to pain. Citizens of this new world have to be ever-vigilant against attack, and against the virus that causes the change. Trying to continue with life as usual while being constantly on guard added an extra element of suspense and tension that kept my attention and kept me waiting for the moment when everything falls apart.
I really loved the characters we meet in Wilders. They all felt thoughtfully developed and distinct, and I cared about what would happen to each of them. Renna felt especially well-done to me, her reactions and the way she handled some difficult choices made complete sense given what we find out about her childhood and her personality. She was an example of how growing up in the half-pocalypse would change someone, and it was very interesting following her journey. Speaking of great characters, one of my favorites is Renna’s cat, Tim Tam! He’s got a great personality of his own, and I was so relieved (small spoiler alert) that nothing bad happened to him! The fact that a cat was so wonderfully developed just shows how much attention to detail the author put into the story.
Through the course of the book, we find out more about the current state of the virus and what’s being done to try to fight it. Cass Kim includes some scientific explanations and tidbits about the way the virus spreads and the nature of the Wilders in general that I really appreciated. It’s a pet peeve of mine when things don’t make sense within a fictional situation that’s presented, and that was not at all the case here. It was clear that she had thought through the mechanics of the world she created, and it made everything feel more believable and grounded in reality.
I liked that we get a longer page count here than in The Change, and I thought the overall story benefitted greatly from it. We get more time with the characters, and more room for the plot to develop. Although we’re left with some unresolved plot points, the story still feels complete within itself. We’re not left on a cliffhanger; however, the ending is left open for a continuation. I was happy to see that the finale of this saga is being released soon, and personally, I can’t wait!
In Wilders, as in its prequel, The Change, Cass Kim has found a unique, interesting take on the popular topic of a zombie apocalypse. I absolutely loved her invention of the “half-pocalypse,” a world where society has been damaged by a deadly virus, but civilization has not completely fallen into chaos. People still go to work and school, and teenagers still have parties and get drunk. But hovering around the edges of everyday life is the constant threat of the Wilders: freakish, not-quite-humans that have been infected or “changed,” and are now extremely violent and seemingly immune to pain. Citizens of this new world have to be ever-vigilant against attack, and against the virus that causes the change. Trying to continue with life as usual while being constantly on guard added an extra element of suspense and tension that kept my attention and kept me waiting for the moment when everything falls apart.
I really loved the characters we meet in Wilders. They all felt thoughtfully developed and distinct, and I cared about what would happen to each of them. Renna felt especially well-done to me, her reactions and the way she handled some difficult choices made complete sense given what we find out about her childhood and her personality. She was an example of how growing up in the half-pocalypse would change someone, and it was very interesting following her journey. Speaking of great characters, one of my favorites is Renna’s cat, Tim Tam! He’s got a great personality of his own, and I was so relieved (small spoiler alert) that nothing bad happened to him! The fact that a cat was so wonderfully developed just shows how much attention to detail the author put into the story.
Through the course of the book, we find out more about the current state of the virus and what’s being done to try to fight it. Cass Kim includes some scientific explanations and tidbits about the way the virus spreads and the nature of the Wilders in general that I really appreciated. It’s a pet peeve of mine when things don’t make sense within a fictional situation that’s presented, and that was not at all the case here. It was clear that she had thought through the mechanics of the world she created, and it made everything feel more believable and grounded in reality.
I liked that we get a longer page count here than in The Change, and I thought the overall story benefitted greatly from it. We get more time with the characters, and more room for the plot to develop. Although we’re left with some unresolved plot points, the story still feels complete within itself. We’re not left on a cliffhanger; however, the ending is left open for a continuation. I was happy to see that the finale of this saga is being released soon, and personally, I can’t wait!
October 31, 2019
Wilders Cass Kim
I have just identified the problem of how to sell books on Amazon as an independent author. It’s almost impossible to find. Even if you type in the title and the author's name you will be lucky to find the book you want. Which is a shame because this was a fun story to read and deserving of more publicity that Amazon is giving it. It amazes me, when reading independent author's books that there is so much talent out there and so many stories that the movie industry is in desperate need of judging by the number of sequels and remakes they are making.
In this story we are introduced to a world where life is struggling to carry on as normal in the sunlight but when it is dark people are hiding behind metal screens in their own homes ... because of the ‘wilders. Teenagers are even daring to dream old going to all night parties as long as they don’t try to return home before the sun has come up it should be safe. The party was the bit of the story I enjoyed the least but after it had finished the lace speeded up and became gripping.
The elements of this story I enjoyed the most were the delightful female characters that the main character Renna was surrounded with. Renna herself reminded me of Bella from Twilight she was a passive, timid character brought to life by those around her. I envied her her good friends and the world they created amongst themselves. The bit of this story I enjoyed the least was the ending I was told by my Kindle that I was only 95% through and it ended quite quickly I thought. What happened to the last 5% and my expectation of being entertained for another 10 minutes? Finally I got over my disgust and went back to investigate. The last 5% was an extract from the next book – a prequel to Wilders.
I think this book would appeal to anyone who likes stories about zombies or young people having adventures.
I have just identified the problem of how to sell books on Amazon as an independent author. It’s almost impossible to find. Even if you type in the title and the author's name you will be lucky to find the book you want. Which is a shame because this was a fun story to read and deserving of more publicity that Amazon is giving it. It amazes me, when reading independent author's books that there is so much talent out there and so many stories that the movie industry is in desperate need of judging by the number of sequels and remakes they are making.
In this story we are introduced to a world where life is struggling to carry on as normal in the sunlight but when it is dark people are hiding behind metal screens in their own homes ... because of the ‘wilders. Teenagers are even daring to dream old going to all night parties as long as they don’t try to return home before the sun has come up it should be safe. The party was the bit of the story I enjoyed the least but after it had finished the lace speeded up and became gripping.
The elements of this story I enjoyed the most were the delightful female characters that the main character Renna was surrounded with. Renna herself reminded me of Bella from Twilight she was a passive, timid character brought to life by those around her. I envied her her good friends and the world they created amongst themselves. The bit of this story I enjoyed the least was the ending I was told by my Kindle that I was only 95% through and it ended quite quickly I thought. What happened to the last 5% and my expectation of being entertained for another 10 minutes? Finally I got over my disgust and went back to investigate. The last 5% was an extract from the next book – a prequel to Wilders.
I think this book would appeal to anyone who likes stories about zombies or young people having adventures.
September 16, 2020
So this little bad boy I received through the author via Voracious Readers Only. I signed up to receive opportunities to read various books in exchange for honest reviews so it’s a pretty sweet gig if I do say so myself. If you haven’t heard of it, but that sounds like something you would be interested in, I encourage you to sign up!
Wilders is sort of a post-apocalyptic world where a blood borne virus is running rampant, and anyone who is not infected must be in before the sun sets as this is when the Wilders are out and about. They are inhumanly fast, they can see in the dark, and they can tear you apart quite easily. Say no more! I would be inside an hour before it got dark to even avoid these things. I’m good on the being torn apart by a friend or neighbor.
Our main character Renna, knows all to well about the virus. She had to watch her father be shot down after he was infected at home. He trained her on the proper precautions to take in a just in case scenario that I’m sure if it was any of us, we would not want this scenario to ever come to fruition. Now that it’s just her, her mother and her brother Ben, she feels like her mother resents her and blames her for the father’s death.
When there’s an attack at a bar, things get real bad. There is an immediate lock down, and we learn that the Wilders are now attacking during the day! Ruh oh! It seems that the virus is mutating, and it’s only going to get worse from here for Renna, for pretty much anyone who is not already infected.
This is a nice quick read, so I really don’t want to give too much more away. This was a nice change of pace for me, it’s been awhile since I read a horror or zombie-like book. If you can pick it up, I would recommend it, especially with the spoopy season coming around soon!
Wilders is sort of a post-apocalyptic world where a blood borne virus is running rampant, and anyone who is not infected must be in before the sun sets as this is when the Wilders are out and about. They are inhumanly fast, they can see in the dark, and they can tear you apart quite easily. Say no more! I would be inside an hour before it got dark to even avoid these things. I’m good on the being torn apart by a friend or neighbor.
Our main character Renna, knows all to well about the virus. She had to watch her father be shot down after he was infected at home. He trained her on the proper precautions to take in a just in case scenario that I’m sure if it was any of us, we would not want this scenario to ever come to fruition. Now that it’s just her, her mother and her brother Ben, she feels like her mother resents her and blames her for the father’s death.
When there’s an attack at a bar, things get real bad. There is an immediate lock down, and we learn that the Wilders are now attacking during the day! Ruh oh! It seems that the virus is mutating, and it’s only going to get worse from here for Renna, for pretty much anyone who is not already infected.
This is a nice quick read, so I really don’t want to give too much more away. This was a nice change of pace for me, it’s been awhile since I read a horror or zombie-like book. If you can pick it up, I would recommend it, especially with the spoopy season coming around soon!
August 29, 2019
3.5 stars. I've read a ton of apocalyptic/zombie stories. Here, it wasn't so much "zombies" as "Wilders" ... a crazed, animal-like, flesh-eating transformation. And it wasn't a full apocalypse. They say right in the book, it's more of a half-a-pocalypse. Those infected have been put down, or fenced out, and the world is pretty much going on as usual with these modifications (see the rules in the blurb). There is still school, work, shopping, cell phones, high school parties ... until the Wilders break the rules and things appear to be changing. Full apocalyptic.
Renna gets caught up, and saved ... by a Wilder. One who still has his consciousness. Apparently, there is a group of scientists who are working on a vaccine, and they would like Renna as a test subject.
So - I liked the story. It has some interesting elements I hadn't encountered before in this genre. It was quite short, a quick read. I would be interested in continuing on with the story.
I liked this narrator a lot. I was able to download the Kindle copy of the book as part of Kindle Unlimited. With some books I NEED this option, to quickly read over what I listened to. I really didn't have any trouble following the story through audio here though. Good enunciation and pacing and character voicing.
*** I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Renna gets caught up, and saved ... by a Wilder. One who still has his consciousness. Apparently, there is a group of scientists who are working on a vaccine, and they would like Renna as a test subject.
So - I liked the story. It has some interesting elements I hadn't encountered before in this genre. It was quite short, a quick read. I would be interested in continuing on with the story.
I liked this narrator a lot. I was able to download the Kindle copy of the book as part of Kindle Unlimited. With some books I NEED this option, to quickly read over what I listened to. I really didn't have any trouble following the story through audio here though. Good enunciation and pacing and character voicing.
*** I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
November 20, 2019
I received this book for free. I am voluntarily posting this review and any opinions expressed herein are my own.
This is a wonderful, tension-filled, well-written, quick read. Wilders will hook you from the beginning as Renna, the MC, is a normal, average teenager trying to survive in an abnormal world with a virus that has no cure and can kill you. She follows the rules set forth by the government so that she and her family plus her cat Tim Tam live through each night. But, she is a teenager with teenage desires of spending time with friends at a party at night - something that she has never been able to do. You will root for Renna and her family as the city is put on lockdown when there is an attack of the Wilders [those exposed to the virus] at a nightclub where Renna's brother was playing music. The action sequences are terrifying as you understand how dire the situation is for Renna and the life/death decisions that she has to make. I loved the world building - which was very realistic and even the science around the disease was interesting. Highly recommend!
The narrator, Liz Brand, was wonderful. She had a tautness to her voice during the action sequences that had me on the edge of my seat, willing Renna to survive. During the quieter, more emotional moments, she was able to convey Renna's angst and scars in a very believable and compelling fashion.
This is a wonderful, tension-filled, well-written, quick read. Wilders will hook you from the beginning as Renna, the MC, is a normal, average teenager trying to survive in an abnormal world with a virus that has no cure and can kill you. She follows the rules set forth by the government so that she and her family plus her cat Tim Tam live through each night. But, she is a teenager with teenage desires of spending time with friends at a party at night - something that she has never been able to do. You will root for Renna and her family as the city is put on lockdown when there is an attack of the Wilders [those exposed to the virus] at a nightclub where Renna's brother was playing music. The action sequences are terrifying as you understand how dire the situation is for Renna and the life/death decisions that she has to make. I loved the world building - which was very realistic and even the science around the disease was interesting. Highly recommend!
The narrator, Liz Brand, was wonderful. She had a tautness to her voice during the action sequences that had me on the edge of my seat, willing Renna to survive. During the quieter, more emotional moments, she was able to convey Renna's angst and scars in a very believable and compelling fashion.
June 23, 2021
Renna is a typical teenager except for the fact that she is living in a world full of Wilders, people who have been infected with a virus that changes them into monsters. Her brother, Benjamin, is in a band and just trying to live his life the best he can. Suddenly, their world is thrown for a loop when the virus mutates and Jamin and his friends are attacked. Renna has to run for her life from her brother as he changes.
She is soon rescued by a boy named Emerson and taken to his family, who are hiding out in the woods. Renna soon discovers that there is more to this virus that she has been led to believe.
This book was different from a lot of the post-apoc books that I have read. It is aimed at a YA audience and there is plenty of teenage angst and rebellion along with the "zombie" aspect. The story was a little far-fetched in parts, but all in all was an entertaining read if you enjoy this genre.
The narrator did a great job and added a lot to this audiobook. I was given the chance to listen through Story Origins and chose to review it.
She is soon rescued by a boy named Emerson and taken to his family, who are hiding out in the woods. Renna soon discovers that there is more to this virus that she has been led to believe.
This book was different from a lot of the post-apoc books that I have read. It is aimed at a YA audience and there is plenty of teenage angst and rebellion along with the "zombie" aspect. The story was a little far-fetched in parts, but all in all was an entertaining read if you enjoy this genre.
The narrator did a great job and added a lot to this audiobook. I was given the chance to listen through Story Origins and chose to review it.
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