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The Verity #1
The Verity: Part One
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
Their Death. Our Glory!
The Lottery is the chance of a lifetime.
The one and only hope a girl has to escape certain death as a sacrificial soldier, fighting the bloodthirsty, flesh-tearing monsters that roam freely beyond “The Wall”.
Put in your name, and if chosen, become wife to the powerful and gorgeous leader of the last of humanity.
Lord Noah Sands. A supposed living god amongst the last of humankind.
For seventeen years, Scarlett has lived as just such a soldier. Trained from birth to kill without question and be ready to die without complaint. Along with her group of misfit friends, she loves exploring the lost world beyond The Wall and fighting for humanity’s freedom.
For Scarlett, winning The Lottery is a fate worse than death. It means turning her back on her secret lover, and worse, giving up the freedom being a killer gives her.
No chance.
But Lord Noah Sands has only ever had eyes for Scarlett, and when he threatens the man she truly loves, Scarlett must make an impossible choice.
Put her name into The Lottery and marry the monster.
Or become something not even he can control.
Something that will kill her quickly, if she’s not careful.
To save the man she loves, she'll risk everything.
Her life. Her freedom. Even her humanity.
"The Walking Dead" meets "The Hunger Games" in this gripping dystopian story. If you love a fierce female lead, forbidden love, life and death stakes and explosive, devastating twists, then you will love "The Verity"!
Their Death. Our Glory!
The Lottery is the chance of a lifetime.
The one and only hope a girl has to escape certain death as a sacrificial soldier, fighting the bloodthirsty, flesh-tearing monsters that roam freely beyond “The Wall”.
Put in your name, and if chosen, become wife to the powerful and gorgeous leader of the last of humanity.
Lord Noah Sands. A supposed living god amongst the last of humankind.
For seventeen years, Scarlett has lived as just such a soldier. Trained from birth to kill without question and be ready to die without complaint. Along with her group of misfit friends, she loves exploring the lost world beyond The Wall and fighting for humanity’s freedom.
For Scarlett, winning The Lottery is a fate worse than death. It means turning her back on her secret lover, and worse, giving up the freedom being a killer gives her.
No chance.
But Lord Noah Sands has only ever had eyes for Scarlett, and when he threatens the man she truly loves, Scarlett must make an impossible choice.
Put her name into The Lottery and marry the monster.
Or become something not even he can control.
Something that will kill her quickly, if she’s not careful.
To save the man she loves, she'll risk everything.
Her life. Her freedom. Even her humanity.
"The Walking Dead" meets "The Hunger Games" in this gripping dystopian story. If you love a fierce female lead, forbidden love, life and death stakes and explosive, devastating twists, then you will love "The Verity"!
378 pages, ebook
Published March 1, 2020
321 people are currently reading
1729 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Lawrie
18 books476 followersMJ Lawrie has always had a love for storytelling. Formerly a film student, she started writing her debut series, The Last Witch, shortly after the birth of her first baby. Driven mad by the boredom of nap times and avoiding housework at all costs, she decided to finally get to work on her lifelong dream of writing a book. A true lover of fantasy, dark romance and thriller fiction, she's combined the three and poured her unusual imagination into the creation of characters that you love to hate and hate to love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
March 3, 2023
Set against a post-apocalyptic backdrop this story is set fifty-years after events have left the world looking very different from what it once was. Scarlet lives under the control of the Verity, a leadership that employs a strict regime to control all who reside behind the wall. This wall also provides protection against the multitude of roaming undead who are hungry for flesh. Bred to fight life behind the wall is all she’s ever known and now coming of age she’s finally due to take her place and be assigned a rank.
This was interesting nothing like I was expecting either. It’s brutal and graphic and every day in this post-apocalyptic world is a fight for survival. I must admit I was expecting more romance from this but that is not actually the main focus of this story. It’s very well written with some great world-building and it was so easy to lose myself in the unfolding narrative. There were times I was literally on the edge of my seat with what might happen here and this is definitely not an easy world to exist in.
It’s sole POV and our protagonist Scarlett was quite the individual. She’s strong capable and a leader. She has a protective streak a mile wide when it comes to those she loves, this isn’t always obvious as she does hide this behind a prickly exterior mostly for her own protection.
Growing up an orphan and trained from birth to be a soldier Scarlett does what she needs to survive and even revels in her violent nature but when an obsessive despot decides she is to be his she will do what she needs to and attempt to protect those he threatens and holds above her head even if they’ve no idea of her sacrifice and end up hating her in the process.
With the finish here I’m definitely intrigued and excited to see what happens next and where exactly we go from here. I definitely recommend this if you like dystopian fiction that doesn’t pull its punches.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
March 7, 2020
This is the first book I have read by this author and it blew me away! This is the first book in the series, set in a world ruined by the damage humans have done to it and also natural disasters. In the UK, there is only one place for survivors, a sanctuary set up by a man called Sands, over fifty years ago and ruled by his descendants ever since. His walled enclosure and haven only holds a few thousand survivors, the only ones who were not turned into ravenously hungry creatures, sort of like zombies, attacking others for food. Added to this was all the damage done to the planet and then the action of various governments to try and stop the spread of these zombiefied people, destroying whole cities and everyone in them.
Now, all the survivors in this haven in the south east of England, live by a certain set of rules. Those set by the first of the Sands, a godly man who was looked at as a sort of Messiah, for taking in one and all, so long as people followed the rules he set out. The Verity is the word of the Sands – the rules set out for living in the Haven, first Harvey Sands, then his son Malakai and just two weeks ago, by Malakai’s twenty one year old son Noah. Those who keep order and carry punishment out on the citizens of the Haven are called Grey Coats. In the Sainted Army, as it is called, there are Black Coats – working in groups of six - the foot soldiers who go out and kill the zombies; the Canaries – usually criminals, sometimes volunteers or those being punished for a misdeed, who spend months outside the walls looking for supplies and often don’t survive for very long; then Green Coats – archers who man the walls of the Haven and kill any zombies that come close to the walls, a job mostly thought suited to women; and then finally the Red Coats – only awarded to the best cadet each year who shows the best level of skill in leadership and capability during testing and who is then in charge of all the Black Coats.
The story starts with a focus on a small group of cadets as they undergo their final test, Scar (Scarlett), Cass, Tee (Q-Tee), Winder, Flash and Titan. They have been trained since the age of five to fight as a unit and learn to kill zombies and kill in all sorts of manner and methods. The rule of Donation was set up to ensure there was always enough soldiers to protect the Haven. Only married couples could kiss or even have a child and every first, third and fifth child was taken and placed in a secure orphanage until they turned five and started their training! Soldiers cannot marry until they retire, but most never live that long! Scar and Cass are definite rivals for the top spot, but Scar always edges in front of him. The names they have are ones they have given themselves. At birth all they are given is a number and the word ‘Cadet’ in front of that! If people fail they will be put into the Canaries and die just as quickly.
Scar has a love for fighting zombies, killing them with her pair of katanas and can see herself doing nothing else and is aiming to be the one and only red coat for her training year. The final year starts when the youngest in the training group turns sixteen and ends on the day this person turns seventeen. They will then be given their roles for the rest of their lives. They can ask for a certain position, but if they are not good enough, they won’t get much choice in it. A group called Elders are in charge of their training and the one we see connected with Scarlett’s group is simply called Elder Eight. Scar is the best at what she does and is looked up at, by a lot of other cadets. Those in her small training group of six are her family and best friends. She loves what she has been trained to do all her life and she loves her friends, but could never tell them that as it is considered bad luck and leads to certain death.
Those in charge of the Haven, namely Noah Sands and his Grey Coats, control everyone with the orders of the Verity, but often do so with violence, cruelty and banishment as threats. They keep their identities and faces hidden and are feared by all. They tell everyone who they can love and what they must do. If anyone decides to go against this rule, they will either be punished, banished or even put to death! Scar is ordered to do something that goes against everything she has ever wanted to do and even those she loves. This doesn’t sit well with her and she sets in motion a series of actions that will lead her onto a completely different path, with danger and revenge at her back.
Her new path pairs her with a new group, Elder Eight, nervous and chatty Sky, Loom and Chilli. They are setting out on a dangerous route, but it will become even more revealing as she is made aware of a terrible truth, of what The Verity are willing to do and it is a deeply dark and dangerous agenda, for the rest of humanity and anyone not on their side. If you don’t do as they say, then life may not be worth living or be shortened unexpectedly. The Grey Coats may be the religious zealots of the organisation, but most young cadets and even some of the Elders, have long lost their faith and belief in the Sands being Messiahs! Not that any of them could ever say this publicly, there are always Grey Coats around every corner.
Scar has to make a difficult choice and it will affect her friends, both new and old, those she considers family and loves with all her soul. There is plenty of action in this book and it leaves you wanting more, ending on a quite abrupt point. She has never been scared of fighting hordes of zombies, but she fears those in charge at the Haven and has no power over what they may do to her. Her only choice was to make a sudden change in her expected role in life, to thwart those with power over her choices and to do so in secret, and hope they didn’t find out in time. Now she is on her way back to Haven and there have been some dangerous and unexpected situations put in their path. Now she and her friends will find out some truths and also see who is with them.
A fascinating read, I stayed up all night to read it as I just couldn’t put it done. Yes, it is a bit of a zombie type book, but the cover gives you no clue to that part of the book. But it is also so much more! These survivors live in a very regimented and brutal atmosphere, with no real choice over their lives and often a short life as well. Plenty of zombie killing action, but also showing the close links that develop between those in these tight knit groups, trained from such an early age for their future roles. They have little in the way of personal freedom and no real childhood either! Strong characters and a very complex storyline, with plenty of action, make a really worthwhile read that I would recommend to all action, zombie or post-apocalyptic tales. I can’t wait to read the next instalment which is out soon. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Now, all the survivors in this haven in the south east of England, live by a certain set of rules. Those set by the first of the Sands, a godly man who was looked at as a sort of Messiah, for taking in one and all, so long as people followed the rules he set out. The Verity is the word of the Sands – the rules set out for living in the Haven, first Harvey Sands, then his son Malakai and just two weeks ago, by Malakai’s twenty one year old son Noah. Those who keep order and carry punishment out on the citizens of the Haven are called Grey Coats. In the Sainted Army, as it is called, there are Black Coats – working in groups of six - the foot soldiers who go out and kill the zombies; the Canaries – usually criminals, sometimes volunteers or those being punished for a misdeed, who spend months outside the walls looking for supplies and often don’t survive for very long; then Green Coats – archers who man the walls of the Haven and kill any zombies that come close to the walls, a job mostly thought suited to women; and then finally the Red Coats – only awarded to the best cadet each year who shows the best level of skill in leadership and capability during testing and who is then in charge of all the Black Coats.
The story starts with a focus on a small group of cadets as they undergo their final test, Scar (Scarlett), Cass, Tee (Q-Tee), Winder, Flash and Titan. They have been trained since the age of five to fight as a unit and learn to kill zombies and kill in all sorts of manner and methods. The rule of Donation was set up to ensure there was always enough soldiers to protect the Haven. Only married couples could kiss or even have a child and every first, third and fifth child was taken and placed in a secure orphanage until they turned five and started their training! Soldiers cannot marry until they retire, but most never live that long! Scar and Cass are definite rivals for the top spot, but Scar always edges in front of him. The names they have are ones they have given themselves. At birth all they are given is a number and the word ‘Cadet’ in front of that! If people fail they will be put into the Canaries and die just as quickly.
Scar has a love for fighting zombies, killing them with her pair of katanas and can see herself doing nothing else and is aiming to be the one and only red coat for her training year. The final year starts when the youngest in the training group turns sixteen and ends on the day this person turns seventeen. They will then be given their roles for the rest of their lives. They can ask for a certain position, but if they are not good enough, they won’t get much choice in it. A group called Elders are in charge of their training and the one we see connected with Scarlett’s group is simply called Elder Eight. Scar is the best at what she does and is looked up at, by a lot of other cadets. Those in her small training group of six are her family and best friends. She loves what she has been trained to do all her life and she loves her friends, but could never tell them that as it is considered bad luck and leads to certain death.
Those in charge of the Haven, namely Noah Sands and his Grey Coats, control everyone with the orders of the Verity, but often do so with violence, cruelty and banishment as threats. They keep their identities and faces hidden and are feared by all. They tell everyone who they can love and what they must do. If anyone decides to go against this rule, they will either be punished, banished or even put to death! Scar is ordered to do something that goes against everything she has ever wanted to do and even those she loves. This doesn’t sit well with her and she sets in motion a series of actions that will lead her onto a completely different path, with danger and revenge at her back.
Her new path pairs her with a new group, Elder Eight, nervous and chatty Sky, Loom and Chilli. They are setting out on a dangerous route, but it will become even more revealing as she is made aware of a terrible truth, of what The Verity are willing to do and it is a deeply dark and dangerous agenda, for the rest of humanity and anyone not on their side. If you don’t do as they say, then life may not be worth living or be shortened unexpectedly. The Grey Coats may be the religious zealots of the organisation, but most young cadets and even some of the Elders, have long lost their faith and belief in the Sands being Messiahs! Not that any of them could ever say this publicly, there are always Grey Coats around every corner.
Scar has to make a difficult choice and it will affect her friends, both new and old, those she considers family and loves with all her soul. There is plenty of action in this book and it leaves you wanting more, ending on a quite abrupt point. She has never been scared of fighting hordes of zombies, but she fears those in charge at the Haven and has no power over what they may do to her. Her only choice was to make a sudden change in her expected role in life, to thwart those with power over her choices and to do so in secret, and hope they didn’t find out in time. Now she is on her way back to Haven and there have been some dangerous and unexpected situations put in their path. Now she and her friends will find out some truths and also see who is with them.
A fascinating read, I stayed up all night to read it as I just couldn’t put it done. Yes, it is a bit of a zombie type book, but the cover gives you no clue to that part of the book. But it is also so much more! These survivors live in a very regimented and brutal atmosphere, with no real choice over their lives and often a short life as well. Plenty of zombie killing action, but also showing the close links that develop between those in these tight knit groups, trained from such an early age for their future roles. They have little in the way of personal freedom and no real childhood either! Strong characters and a very complex storyline, with plenty of action, make a really worthwhile read that I would recommend to all action, zombie or post-apocalyptic tales. I can’t wait to read the next instalment which is out soon. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
July 31, 2020
I didnt when starting this book feel I was going to have such a want to read part 2 straight after. But now shes home I need to know what's going to happen. In the last 30% it really built up some momentum, I wasnt bothered for the rest setting the scene but then I got to 70% and was really glad it had and started to appreciate it. The whole chapter around the Eden project stay was awesome, having visited 2 years ago it brought me straight back to that place in the book exactly which then gave me emersion into the story. It took me a while to get into it, I wouldn't say the story is extremely gripping in the sense of surrounding, I think for a change the apocalypse/zombie world is just a vivid backdrop for a character building and layered story of emotions. Maybe I am reading a bit deep who knows. The book has really crept on me and now I want to know whats waiting Scarlett on the "safe side" of the wall!
Id so want to be a badass Canary 🖤 the whole play of the human race damaging the world is a rather strong reverberation of today, it did leave me rather melancholy. The characters are very likeable in their own ways, much prefer the Canary squad, but maybe cause they have seen Scarlett through the worst time so far? Erm DID NOT see her dad coming, feel a bit thick. I really was too absorbed and distracted to not put it together until she touched the locket! 😂
Cant wait to see what happens!
Id so want to be a badass Canary 🖤 the whole play of the human race damaging the world is a rather strong reverberation of today, it did leave me rather melancholy. The characters are very likeable in their own ways, much prefer the Canary squad, but maybe cause they have seen Scarlett through the worst time so far? Erm DID NOT see her dad coming, feel a bit thick. I really was too absorbed and distracted to not put it together until she touched the locket! 😂
Cant wait to see what happens!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2023
I'm slightly disappointed with this book. The plot was lacking, the characters were flat and the 'plot twists' were super obvious that I wouldn't even class them as plot twists.
So much back story was missed that it was hard to feel connected to any of the characters. I'm really not a fan of being told the story, rather than shown. Especially when you're trying to connect with a group of characters.
But I also just spent the entirety of this book thinking... "what's the point?"
Since I have Part II in paperback I'll finish the series but it is not something I'd currently recommend. Maybe book 2 will change my mind.
So much back story was missed that it was hard to feel connected to any of the characters. I'm really not a fan of being told the story, rather than shown. Especially when you're trying to connect with a group of characters.
But I also just spent the entirety of this book thinking... "what's the point?"
Since I have Part II in paperback I'll finish the series but it is not something I'd currently recommend. Maybe book 2 will change my mind.
February 1, 2020
Knuckledusters welded onto a samurai sword?
I downloaded it before I'd even read the taster. Finally! A zombie thriller, where the screams from the main female character isn't out of fear but anger as she kicks their asses.
M.J.Lawrie knows how to write a strong female lead. Each character has a world built around them as rich and complicated as human beings should be and their stories are weaved together with every bit of deftness and skill as Scarlet is with her swords.
Part two can't come soon enough.
I downloaded it before I'd even read the taster. Finally! A zombie thriller, where the screams from the main female character isn't out of fear but anger as she kicks their asses.
M.J.Lawrie knows how to write a strong female lead. Each character has a world built around them as rich and complicated as human beings should be and their stories are weaved together with every bit of deftness and skill as Scarlet is with her swords.
Part two can't come soon enough.
December 29, 2022
This is the kind of book we grew up wishing was out there. Scarlett's journey throughout the book will keep you on your toes and you will want her to be your best friend.
Want to read a book with a strong female that is willing to kick butt and take names, a female who looks deeper into the forbidden than anyone else admittedly has; The Verity, is the one.
This book will make you laugh, cry, and feel all sorts of feelings we want books to provoke.
I was hooked by page 10, a must-read!
Want to read a book with a strong female that is willing to kick butt and take names, a female who looks deeper into the forbidden than anyone else admittedly has; The Verity, is the one.
This book will make you laugh, cry, and feel all sorts of feelings we want books to provoke.
I was hooked by page 10, a must-read!
January 30, 2020
I love a strong female character with the will to do the bad things normal people don't want to do. I also loved the romance in this story. The action and the world building. Something about an assassin, especially a female one, keeps me very intrigued and nose deeply buried in a book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2024
gripped me from start to finish. the final chapters were especially full of action. the setting is pretty brutal but i loved it, and the fighting was written well too.
the characters are far from boring and i loved how their relationships were developed, especially the canaries.
the characters are far from boring and i loved how their relationships were developed, especially the canaries.
September 13, 2024
Great read!
Kept my attention the whole way through. Really enjoyed it and am now diving into book two. I’d recommend it to anyone who likes dystopian worlds and zombies.
Kept my attention the whole way through. Really enjoyed it and am now diving into book two. I’d recommend it to anyone who likes dystopian worlds and zombies.
February 25, 2020
Utterly Thrilling and Unbelievably Phenomenal!
WOW! What a phenomenal and utterly thrilling book to read! I was hooked right from the first chapter. There was no way I was putting this down until I was finished. This story was one hell of a rollercoaster ride of epic proportions. AND OMG WHAT AN OUTSTANDING ENDING THAT WAS! I literally had to pick my jaw up off the floor. I was NOT expecting it to end that way!!! Fantastic!
Scarlet is my new hero. She's unbelievably strong in mind and body, kicks ass like you wouldn't believe, and has the ultimate heart of gold! She is forced into some impossible situations and has to make the ultimate sacrifice. I absolutely love the way she is able to cope with all of the adversity she faces. She's funny, witty and very sassy, how could you not love her. Everyone wants to be on her team (hell so do I)! All of the other characters in this story were unique in their own way and each brought their own angst and anger to the mix.
The world building and imagery that this amazing author has created is phenomenal. This is one story I could see played out on TV or as a movie. M.J. Lawrie's ability to write characters that jump off the pages is amazing. Her zombies made me cringe and made me very squeamish every time Scarlet had to face them. M.J. Lawrie made her zombies jump off the pages of my kindle!
This is definitely a unique take on a post apocalyptic world with killer zombies, a cruel and bullying leader, and some slow burn romance that will keep you captivated, enthralled and highly entertained from beginning to end. The story is brilliantly written and definitely worth reading! I can't wait to read book 2. Highly recommend.
WOW! What a phenomenal and utterly thrilling book to read! I was hooked right from the first chapter. There was no way I was putting this down until I was finished. This story was one hell of a rollercoaster ride of epic proportions. AND OMG WHAT AN OUTSTANDING ENDING THAT WAS! I literally had to pick my jaw up off the floor. I was NOT expecting it to end that way!!! Fantastic!
Scarlet is my new hero. She's unbelievably strong in mind and body, kicks ass like you wouldn't believe, and has the ultimate heart of gold! She is forced into some impossible situations and has to make the ultimate sacrifice. I absolutely love the way she is able to cope with all of the adversity she faces. She's funny, witty and very sassy, how could you not love her. Everyone wants to be on her team (hell so do I)! All of the other characters in this story were unique in their own way and each brought their own angst and anger to the mix.
The world building and imagery that this amazing author has created is phenomenal. This is one story I could see played out on TV or as a movie. M.J. Lawrie's ability to write characters that jump off the pages is amazing. Her zombies made me cringe and made me very squeamish every time Scarlet had to face them. M.J. Lawrie made her zombies jump off the pages of my kindle!
This is definitely a unique take on a post apocalyptic world with killer zombies, a cruel and bullying leader, and some slow burn romance that will keep you captivated, enthralled and highly entertained from beginning to end. The story is brilliantly written and definitely worth reading! I can't wait to read book 2. Highly recommend.
February 6, 2020
As a huge fan of Lawrie's work, The Verity was already a must read for me. But it turned out to be compelling and utterly mesmerising all on its own, despite my albeit biased position. The best thing about this author is her incredible ability to create strong, complex and fascinating female characters. So often in paranormal fiction we are presented with the damsel in distress trope, but this text encapsulated the best parts of the new wave of kick ass female main characters.
Scarlett is expertly portrayed, with each chapter revealing more nuances to her flawed and ultimately lovable character. It's so refreshing to read, but even more so when applied to the post apocalyptic genre which is often plagued with poorly written end of the world romance. I loved how this book touched on the romantic relationships between characters, but without getting sucked in and becoming all about the love interest. The world building and setting exploration was first and foremost, as all goods books should be.
The plot twists and turns, adding layers to this intriguing landscape of human desperation to stay alive after the whole world had ended, which for me was a highlight of the book. Seeing the way society has been rebuilt, and the new threats they face despite being essentially wiped out, made for a riveting read. I can't wait for the next installment so I can devour some more of Lawrie's writing. If you haven't read her work before, it is a must for any paranormal fiction fan.
Scarlett is expertly portrayed, with each chapter revealing more nuances to her flawed and ultimately lovable character. It's so refreshing to read, but even more so when applied to the post apocalyptic genre which is often plagued with poorly written end of the world romance. I loved how this book touched on the romantic relationships between characters, but without getting sucked in and becoming all about the love interest. The world building and setting exploration was first and foremost, as all goods books should be.
The plot twists and turns, adding layers to this intriguing landscape of human desperation to stay alive after the whole world had ended, which for me was a highlight of the book. Seeing the way society has been rebuilt, and the new threats they face despite being essentially wiped out, made for a riveting read. I can't wait for the next installment so I can devour some more of Lawrie's writing. If you haven't read her work before, it is a must for any paranormal fiction fan.
February 1, 2020
Another stunning book from M J Lawrie. I loved her Last Witch series which is dark, gritty and utterly compelling. The Verity follows suit.
I'm not normally much of a dystopian reader, I lean more towards the more paranormal, magical fantasy, having said that I was immediately captivated by the characters in Verity. As with all her books, M J takes them on such a roller-coaster of a story that you hold on for dear life as these characters face twists and turns, mind-blowing highs and harrowing lows.
I particularly loved the way she turned the normal premise of a zombie post apocalyptic novel on its head to explore the deeper issue of the power struggle between the remaining non-infected humans.
This is a reader's book where the writer has really worked her craft to ensure you are compelled to turn every page to see what happens next. If you are like me you will finish it breathless and desperate to read the next book in the series.
A must read in my humble opinion.
I'm not normally much of a dystopian reader, I lean more towards the more paranormal, magical fantasy, having said that I was immediately captivated by the characters in Verity. As with all her books, M J takes them on such a roller-coaster of a story that you hold on for dear life as these characters face twists and turns, mind-blowing highs and harrowing lows.
I particularly loved the way she turned the normal premise of a zombie post apocalyptic novel on its head to explore the deeper issue of the power struggle between the remaining non-infected humans.
This is a reader's book where the writer has really worked her craft to ensure you are compelled to turn every page to see what happens next. If you are like me you will finish it breathless and desperate to read the next book in the series.
A must read in my humble opinion.
February 14, 2020
M. J. Lawrie wrote yet another amazing story. She has a knack for world building and creates characters that burrow their way into your heart. Raised as a sacrifice soldier, Scarlett and her unit of misfits not only survive but thrive in their training as soldiers in this post apocalyptic tale. The creation of The Verity, while known, still contains mysteries 50 years after the end of the world. A world built on religion and purity, Scarlett learns too well how ugly things are when you look too closely. Faced with an unwinnable choice, she leaves the compound and seeks to survive in a world with few options.
Without sharing the plot, which is amazing, all I can say is this story took me in a direction I did not anticipate and left me begging for more. I cannot wait to see what happens to all of these characters.
Without sharing the plot, which is amazing, all I can say is this story took me in a direction I did not anticipate and left me begging for more. I cannot wait to see what happens to all of these characters.
February 9, 2020
What a book! I absolutely loved the world building in this story. Lawrie has created a really unique post apocalyptic scenario that kept me turning the pages. Scarlett is a strong, kick-ass heroine, who is forced to make some impossible choices and yet you can't help loving her for how she copes in the face of all the horrendous adversity the author has created. It really is one hell of a rollercoaster read that will keep you glued to the pages. A unique post apocalyptic world, killer zombies, a tyrannical leader, and a fantastic romance. Fast paced and brilliantly written!
April 13, 2020
Sci-fi Dystopian
One of the BEST sci-fi, dystopian book I've read this year! It is a must read. This book was definitely entertaining, interesting, well written,and a page turner. The characters left me speechless!! I'm cheering for some, crying for some and angry at a few. This book has a little bit of everything. Fifty foot high and four foot wide wall that stretches 12 miles around a town called The Haven. Haven is supposed to be a safe place but is it? You have three different kinds of zombies. The Sainted Army there are four ranks The Canaries, the Green Coat(archers), Black Coats(foot soldiers/real army), Red Coat lead the Black coats and Grey coats are the law keepers. I enjoyed reading this book and loved it. M.J. Lawrie is a new author to me and I can't wait to read more of this series!!
One of the BEST sci-fi, dystopian book I've read this year! It is a must read. This book was definitely entertaining, interesting, well written,and a page turner. The characters left me speechless!! I'm cheering for some, crying for some and angry at a few. This book has a little bit of everything. Fifty foot high and four foot wide wall that stretches 12 miles around a town called The Haven. Haven is supposed to be a safe place but is it? You have three different kinds of zombies. The Sainted Army there are four ranks The Canaries, the Green Coat(archers), Black Coats(foot soldiers/real army), Red Coat lead the Black coats and Grey coats are the law keepers. I enjoyed reading this book and loved it. M.J. Lawrie is a new author to me and I can't wait to read more of this series!!
August 8, 2023
I really enjoyed this book.
The world-building was amazing and the characters are awesome.
Some parts were slightly predictable but this didn't take away from the story in any way. I would have liked more romance between the characters but this still could happen in the next book so I am holding out hope for this to happen. The book was action-packed from start to finish and was so gripping.
I look forward to reading the next book.
The world-building was amazing and the characters are awesome.
Some parts were slightly predictable but this didn't take away from the story in any way. I would have liked more romance between the characters but this still could happen in the next book so I am holding out hope for this to happen. The book was action-packed from start to finish and was so gripping.
I look forward to reading the next book.
October 23, 2020
Genuinely loved it! M J Lawrie is fast becoming one of my favourite authors! Reading the last witch series brought me to The Verity and the utter emotions I have gone through in the last few days is a complete testament to the ability to craft an immersive story and amazing characters. Immediately on to the next one!
July 3, 2024
This book is SO good!! I never thought I could ever get into reading about a dystopian world with zombies, but the more I read the crazier the story got! Ends on a cliffhanger, I can't wait to read the next book!
April 14, 2021
AHHHHH.
This book, incredible, had me on the edge of my seat from the off. Lawrie is such an incredible author, the passion in her books is palpable.
I love that they’re so fast paced, literally hook you in from the start. And the tension. Oooohhh.
Can’t wait to get stuck into book 2! ✌🏻
This book, incredible, had me on the edge of my seat from the off. Lawrie is such an incredible author, the passion in her books is palpable.
I love that they’re so fast paced, literally hook you in from the start. And the tension. Oooohhh.
Can’t wait to get stuck into book 2! ✌🏻
July 31, 2023
great story
I was hooked from page one! Great story and follow through! Loved it! Will definitely continue on to book two!
I was hooked from page one! Great story and follow through! Loved it! Will definitely continue on to book two!
April 23, 2020
I was expecting to need a few days to read through this but instead i had to read it in one go. The author manages make the view on a dystopian, apocalyptic view very refreshing and I can only reccomend you all to order and read it :)
September 4, 2020
4 stars. An extremely pleasant surprise and really nothing like I expected. The strength of this book lies with both its originality and the characters! The writing is strong enough to keep things rolling and the imagery of all things human and not is well handled!
No really, I was shocked to find out this was a zombie book (I typically don't read too many reviews prior to starting a book and rely instead on the promo blurbs). You see, I just finished a zombie trilogy - Steven Ramirez's very readable "Tell Me When I'm Dead" books - not 24 hours ago and I try to vary my reading selection (eg horror, then scifi, then ... etc.). However, despite it being very quickly clear who were the creepy crawlies - and least as far as the non-human variety - in this book, I found myself absolutely rapt with the interesting scenario MJ.Lawrie has created for this dystopian thriller!
If you are indeed a fan of all things zombie as I am, there is a lot to like here, even if the book does lean a little more to the YA side than a lot of books in this category. But I really found it refreshing in a number of ways, including a quick but believable origin for the apocalypse, where and why the remaining British survivors found themselves where they do and even why the ultimate 'humans are really the monsters' angle is playing out as it is (evangelical North Koreans is the only hint I'll provide!). Even the lack of gun play - here we rely on more archaic and classic sword-play, archery and good old fashioned Thor-like hammer time! - was a welcome respite from the usual shoot 'em through the head approach that so many books seem to spend way too much space on in terms of explaining the necessity thereof.
And the characters - even though there are quite a few we get to know here in just a short time - all work in their own way. Scarlett is a very worthy protagonist and I fully agree with anyone who calls her 'Boss'! The rest of her teams are equally well-rounded and fully dimensionalized as well. The surprises sprinkled throughout the chapters (which are kept on the low side in terms of numbers which is VERY NICE to see) are just that and the emotions are not only believable but understandable to us all. There's some cool and even rather horrifying twists in all this and I'm looking forward to the second part of this tale, particularly if we get more of the 'giant' z's and find out more about the mysterious German 'Polizist' and traps along the way.
A book that gets you this invested in the plot really does deserve any accolades it gets and I'm ready to go with more! Good stuff!
No really, I was shocked to find out this was a zombie book (I typically don't read too many reviews prior to starting a book and rely instead on the promo blurbs). You see, I just finished a zombie trilogy - Steven Ramirez's very readable "Tell Me When I'm Dead" books - not 24 hours ago and I try to vary my reading selection (eg horror, then scifi, then ... etc.). However, despite it being very quickly clear who were the creepy crawlies - and least as far as the non-human variety - in this book, I found myself absolutely rapt with the interesting scenario MJ.Lawrie has created for this dystopian thriller!
If you are indeed a fan of all things zombie as I am, there is a lot to like here, even if the book does lean a little more to the YA side than a lot of books in this category. But I really found it refreshing in a number of ways, including a quick but believable origin for the apocalypse, where and why the remaining British survivors found themselves where they do and even why the ultimate 'humans are really the monsters' angle is playing out as it is (evangelical North Koreans is the only hint I'll provide!). Even the lack of gun play - here we rely on more archaic and classic sword-play, archery and good old fashioned Thor-like hammer time! - was a welcome respite from the usual shoot 'em through the head approach that so many books seem to spend way too much space on in terms of explaining the necessity thereof.
And the characters - even though there are quite a few we get to know here in just a short time - all work in their own way. Scarlett is a very worthy protagonist and I fully agree with anyone who calls her 'Boss'! The rest of her teams are equally well-rounded and fully dimensionalized as well. The surprises sprinkled throughout the chapters (which are kept on the low side in terms of numbers which is VERY NICE to see) are just that and the emotions are not only believable but understandable to us all. There's some cool and even rather horrifying twists in all this and I'm looking forward to the second part of this tale, particularly if we get more of the 'giant' z's and find out more about the mysterious German 'Polizist' and traps along the way.
A book that gets you this invested in the plot really does deserve any accolades it gets and I'm ready to go with more! Good stuff!
May 24, 2025
Zombies, Dystopia, and a Fierce Lead in a World That Still Needs Depth
Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐(½) Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️ (Fade to black. It’s mentioned)
M.J. Lawrie has crafted a vivid and dangerous post-apocalyptic world in "The Verity: Part One”. A story that will likely appeal to fans of The Walking Dead and The Hunger Games. The atmosphere is intense, the stakes are high, and the ever-present threat of zombies adds a thrilling urgency to the story. I was instantly drawn in and remained fully absorbed from the start. However, it’s not without its flaws, which I will discuss shortly.
What truly stood out to me was the female lead, Scarlet. She is a fierce, complex, and refreshingly strong character. I often find myself disengaged when female main characters fall into the damsel in distress trope, but Scarlet is the complete opposite; independent, resilient, and driven by a deep love for her family and friends. Her willingness to sacrifice herself to protect them adds real emotional depth to her character. It's rare to come across a zombie-centered narrative that features such a commanding and emotionally layered heroine.
While Scarlet’s character was a clear highlight, I did find myself wishing for more development in other areas. The world-building, though immersive, lacked some of the background and context I needed to fully connect with the setting. Similarly, the side characters had intriguing potential, but many of them felt underdeveloped. A bit more insight into their histories and motivations would have added much needed richness to the narrative.
The relationship between Scarlet and Noah (The villain) was another area where I hoped for more depth. Their connection felt underexplored, which made it difficult to invest in their emotional arc. As a result, Noah’s intense and erratic behavior came across as too extreme to feel believable, more like the reaction of someone unhinged than someone deeply in love. Greater context or glimpses into their shared past might have made his actions more understandable, if not entirely sympathetic.
The same can be said for Scarlet and Cass’s relationship, I struggled to feel any genuine connection or chemistry between them. I didn’t sense a romantic bond instead their dynamic came across as purely platonic. The only moments that truly stood out were during their synchronized fighting scenes, which briefly hinted at the strength of their partnership. Any romantic feelings she had for him was told rather than shown..
Nonetheless, I look forward to seeing how this world and its characters evolve in part two.
Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐(½) Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️ (Fade to black. It’s mentioned)
M.J. Lawrie has crafted a vivid and dangerous post-apocalyptic world in "The Verity: Part One”. A story that will likely appeal to fans of The Walking Dead and The Hunger Games. The atmosphere is intense, the stakes are high, and the ever-present threat of zombies adds a thrilling urgency to the story. I was instantly drawn in and remained fully absorbed from the start. However, it’s not without its flaws, which I will discuss shortly.
What truly stood out to me was the female lead, Scarlet. She is a fierce, complex, and refreshingly strong character. I often find myself disengaged when female main characters fall into the damsel in distress trope, but Scarlet is the complete opposite; independent, resilient, and driven by a deep love for her family and friends. Her willingness to sacrifice herself to protect them adds real emotional depth to her character. It's rare to come across a zombie-centered narrative that features such a commanding and emotionally layered heroine.
While Scarlet’s character was a clear highlight, I did find myself wishing for more development in other areas. The world-building, though immersive, lacked some of the background and context I needed to fully connect with the setting. Similarly, the side characters had intriguing potential, but many of them felt underdeveloped. A bit more insight into their histories and motivations would have added much needed richness to the narrative.
The relationship between Scarlet and Noah (The villain) was another area where I hoped for more depth. Their connection felt underexplored, which made it difficult to invest in their emotional arc. As a result, Noah’s intense and erratic behavior came across as too extreme to feel believable, more like the reaction of someone unhinged than someone deeply in love. Greater context or glimpses into their shared past might have made his actions more understandable, if not entirely sympathetic.
The same can be said for Scarlet and Cass’s relationship, I struggled to feel any genuine connection or chemistry between them. I didn’t sense a romantic bond instead their dynamic came across as purely platonic. The only moments that truly stood out were during their synchronized fighting scenes, which briefly hinted at the strength of their partnership. Any romantic feelings she had for him was told rather than shown..
Nonetheless, I look forward to seeing how this world and its characters evolve in part two.
June 28, 2023
Wow wow wow. Fantastic!
The world building was fantastic. Set in a post-apocalyptic England, the story takes place in a religion-run settlement that trains children to become guardians against the zombies who roam freely on the other side of the wall. Our heroine, Scar, is a gifted warrior and basically lives and breathes the battlefield. She's destined for greatness, except--oops. Noah, the new leader who just inherited his position from his head dad, is looking for a new bride and he's got his sights set on Scar.
Scar isn't one to be shepherded into motherhood, though, so she enacts a plan that keeps her friends safe and puts her directly in the most dangerous place to be for a year: beyond the safety of the settlement wall.
There isn't a ton of romance in this book, though it's clear that Scar and Cass are meant for each other. The romance wasn't much needed, though. Every single character was fantastic and I was hanging on to every single word.
The world building was fantastic. Set in a post-apocalyptic England, the story takes place in a religion-run settlement that trains children to become guardians against the zombies who roam freely on the other side of the wall. Our heroine, Scar, is a gifted warrior and basically lives and breathes the battlefield. She's destined for greatness, except--oops. Noah, the new leader who just inherited his position from his head dad, is looking for a new bride and he's got his sights set on Scar.
Scar isn't one to be shepherded into motherhood, though, so she enacts a plan that keeps her friends safe and puts her directly in the most dangerous place to be for a year: beyond the safety of the settlement wall.
There isn't a ton of romance in this book, though it's clear that Scar and Cass are meant for each other. The romance wasn't much needed, though. Every single character was fantastic and I was hanging on to every single word.
March 14, 2020
Ummm, THIS BOOK IS FREAKING AMAZING!! If you like strong female characters then you need to read this book and follow Scarlets journey. This girl is strong, stubborn, and can wield katana blades like no other. There is a lot of action, in the book so be prepared to be on pins and needles. Rhe emotional aspect in this book is freaking intense! You know when you are holding back tears and they get stuck in your throat because you don't want people to see you cry. Yeah that was me!! I was so in this book that when I got to the end I was like seriously like you cannot end it like this. AHH, I really need to read the next book because I need to know what happens with Scar.
March 2, 2025
4.5⭐️
The Verity: Part One is a dystopian novel set in a post apocalyptic world with zombies, a religious cult, and a snarky, impulsive teenager ready to take down the whole system. I am absolutely obsessed with this world and story line. I typically dislike MCs that are reckless and rude, but somehow this brilliant author made it work. I highly recommend for those who love brutal dystopian novels.
“Death and glory. Their death. Our glory.”
The Verity: Part One is a dystopian novel set in a post apocalyptic world with zombies, a religious cult, and a snarky, impulsive teenager ready to take down the whole system. I am absolutely obsessed with this world and story line. I typically dislike MCs that are reckless and rude, but somehow this brilliant author made it work. I highly recommend for those who love brutal dystopian novels.
“Death and glory. Their death. Our glory.”
September 3, 2022
Imagine, if you will, an aot self insert fanfiction, but with all of the high school drama AOT was missing out on. And there's zombies instead of titans. Was this well written? No. Did I enjoy reading it? I'm not entirely sure. Am I going to read the sequel? Yes. Sometimes it's just like that.
This book has TWs so be sure to check them out if you are someone who needs them!
This book has TWs so be sure to check them out if you are someone who needs them!
February 14, 2024
BAHHH!!! The ending… Okokok! I was hooked. FMC was on a level of bad assery I will never achieve. But she also infuriated me!!! Like always arguing with someone and saying things so out of pocket and having to apologize.
But ughhhhgh, I liked the world building, I likes our supporting characters, and the antagonist can ROT IN HELLLLLLLLLL.
But ughhhhgh, I liked the world building, I likes our supporting characters, and the antagonist can ROT IN HELLLLLLLLLL.
April 19, 2024
this was refreshing. i've never read anything quite like it, which was thoroughly enjoyable. it was well written and always kept me on the edge of my seat. i was never bored and there was never NOT something happening. loved our FMC to pieces. so brave. so strong. kisses to her
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April 13, 2023Now available in audible 🎧📖🖤⚔️
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