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World Fallen #1
Pandemonium
I knew better than to trust bad boys. But that was before the end of the world…
I was a normal college student when the pandemic hit.
Now, the world I’ve always known is becoming a dystopian nightmare.
Taking refuge with my cousin seemed like a good idea at the time. After all, he’d been prepping for the apocalypse for years.
Nothing could’ve prepared me for his best friend, though.
Ripper Solis, ex-Army Ranger and current motorcycle club enforcer, is not a nice guy. I shouldn’t trust him.
But I do.
Ripper’s everything I ever wanted. Sexy and commanding. Protective.
With law and order breaking down and the viral threat looming over our heads, it’s not long before I need his strength and resourcefulness as much as I need his touch.
But in this dark new world where I’ve already lost so much…can I really afford to lose my heart, too?
I was a normal college student when the pandemic hit.
Now, the world I’ve always known is becoming a dystopian nightmare.
Taking refuge with my cousin seemed like a good idea at the time. After all, he’d been prepping for the apocalypse for years.
Nothing could’ve prepared me for his best friend, though.
Ripper Solis, ex-Army Ranger and current motorcycle club enforcer, is not a nice guy. I shouldn’t trust him.
But I do.
Ripper’s everything I ever wanted. Sexy and commanding. Protective.
With law and order breaking down and the viral threat looming over our heads, it’s not long before I need his strength and resourcefulness as much as I need his touch.
But in this dark new world where I’ve already lost so much…can I really afford to lose my heart, too?
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2020
334 people are currently reading
549 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
July 9, 2021
Starts out okay. Reality of COVID on crack …. Like why could’ve happened if a super virus spread hard and fast enough. The story just never got seated, though. I never VISUALIZED the world the author failed to build. Way to much time spent outlining the bunker, eating, washing clothes etc. Paint thou are dry.
Whitewashed apocalypse. Example - the world is collapsing and we have no real threats to this compound other than a pill head and has pubescent teen brother? It all felt like the characters of 90210 reunited for a hurricane party miles away from the actual hurricane lol.
The FMC is annoying as HELL. She’s one of those throwing around how she doesn’t want to be weak all while she does EVERYTHING stupid and weakly. other Smart ass attitude full of assumptions and eye-roll goodie two shoes shit. Yet another TSTL disappointment that simultaneously bemoans feminism while falling apart constantly.
Biker was like a putting a drop of caramel on vanilla ice cream. Author whitewashed him until he sparkled, but not in good way. His Ripper name … ah, more like gummy bear.
Zero chemistry between the MCs. Her ex showing up was stupid. If the guy loved her, he wouldn’t have left. She just expects one big happy family of her ex and biker boy toy to get along. More eye rolls as to the storyline and how the MCs handle it.
I was bored out of my mind with the pacing and writing. Nothing exciting. Nothing.
I skimmed from 80% until the end, finding nothing to make me continue forward with the series.
Whitewashed apocalypse. Example - the world is collapsing and we have no real threats to this compound other than a pill head and has pubescent teen brother? It all felt like the characters of 90210 reunited for a hurricane party miles away from the actual hurricane lol.
The FMC is annoying as HELL. She’s one of those throwing around how she doesn’t want to be weak all while she does EVERYTHING stupid and weakly. other Smart ass attitude full of assumptions and eye-roll goodie two shoes shit. Yet another TSTL disappointment that simultaneously bemoans feminism while falling apart constantly.
Biker was like a putting a drop of caramel on vanilla ice cream. Author whitewashed him until he sparkled, but not in good way. His Ripper name … ah, more like gummy bear.
Zero chemistry between the MCs. Her ex showing up was stupid. If the guy loved her, he wouldn’t have left. She just expects one big happy family of her ex and biker boy toy to get along. More eye rolls as to the storyline and how the MCs handle it.
I was bored out of my mind with the pacing and writing. Nothing exciting. Nothing.
I skimmed from 80% until the end, finding nothing to make me continue forward with the series.
June 17, 2021
3.5*
For the most part I enjoyed this book.
A flu virus is decimating the population. Sound familiar?
There’s a lot here to like and I’ll be moving straight onto the next book. Although it was slow at times I liked the story and most of the characters. The exception being Kenzie. Talk about naive and stupid, I mean seriously. I’m assuming it’s to show growth as the series progresses but it was hard going at times.
Luckily Ripper and Miles made up for it.
For the most part I enjoyed this book.
A flu virus is decimating the population. Sound familiar?
There’s a lot here to like and I’ll be moving straight onto the next book. Although it was slow at times I liked the story and most of the characters. The exception being Kenzie. Talk about naive and stupid, I mean seriously. I’m assuming it’s to show growth as the series progresses but it was hard going at times.
Luckily Ripper and Miles made up for it.
August 19, 2020
ARC review....
I can't lie this book hits very close to home with what the world is going through right now.
There were parts that made me smile and laugh then parts that made me cry but overall I liked Kenzie, Ripper, Miles and Kyle.
Miles preparations are impressive and I am suddenly thinking I'd need to up my game. I am excited to see where she takes them in next book.
I can't lie this book hits very close to home with what the world is going through right now.
There were parts that made me smile and laugh then parts that made me cry but overall I liked Kenzie, Ripper, Miles and Kyle.
Miles preparations are impressive and I am suddenly thinking I'd need to up my game. I am excited to see where she takes them in next book.
August 11, 2022
Whew, Pandemonium was a ride that gave me all the visceral reactions. My heart pounded, my stomach dropped, I got choked up with emotions. The story starts innocently enough with Kenzie (h) in her dorm at college focusing on a paper that's due. Then she learns that the flu that's been going around is actually much more serious and the state's about to go into lockdown. Her friends want to take her back to Boise with them (they're in Portland), but Kenzie decides to stay with her prepper cousin, Miles, partially to avoid her ex (Miles has a secured home with allll the supplies). From there we're introduced to Miles, his biker friend Ripper (H), and the highs and lows of surviving in a world devolving because of a pandemic. The story is written in first person, with 3 POVs highlighted (Kenzie, Ripper, and Kyle - Kenzie's ex who's the hero in book 3). No ow drama, some om drama from Kyle, neither are virgins but very little history is given, bc is discussed.
I thought Kenzie was really relatable and likable. She's not a badass and she does make mistakes, but she's quick to own up to them and apologize. She also has baggage that sometimes gets in her way. I felt like she was growing by the end of the story, but still had some development to go. I loved Ripper. Like Kenzie, I've read and drooled over the bad boy biker books, and Ripper not only fits this description, he's protective, caring, and a good man. Plus, he comes with an awesome dog. I did feel like his background needed more fleshing out and their relationship as a whole would have benefitted from a bit more depth. Steamy times do happen on page a few times and a couple of times are implied off page.
Pandemonium isn't just a romance (it's only one part of the plot), this story has a lot of drama, danger, and suspense. While the main characters spend a lot of time in Miles' compound, there are scenes outside of it as well. There's violence, death, bad guys trying to take advantage of others, and the constant threat of getting sick. The main characters face significant challenges and they don't always come out winning even when they do come out the other side. The losses they go through were especially hard at times.
The story ends with them forced to leave the compound and travel elsewhere, but with Kenzie and Ripper together. Their story continues in book 2 and then, based on blurbs, the other books out so far each feature a different couple. While I thought this story was very well-written and interesting, I'm not in the right state of mind to continue the series at this time. I may be able to come back to it another time because I'd love to see these characters continue to grow, esp Kenzie.
I thought Kenzie was really relatable and likable. She's not a badass and she does make mistakes, but she's quick to own up to them and apologize. She also has baggage that sometimes gets in her way. I felt like she was growing by the end of the story, but still had some development to go. I loved Ripper. Like Kenzie, I've read and drooled over the bad boy biker books, and Ripper not only fits this description, he's protective, caring, and a good man. Plus, he comes with an awesome dog. I did feel like his background needed more fleshing out and their relationship as a whole would have benefitted from a bit more depth. Steamy times do happen on page a few times and a couple of times are implied off page.
Pandemonium isn't just a romance (it's only one part of the plot), this story has a lot of drama, danger, and suspense. While the main characters spend a lot of time in Miles' compound, there are scenes outside of it as well. There's violence, death, bad guys trying to take advantage of others, and the constant threat of getting sick. The main characters face significant challenges and they don't always come out winning even when they do come out the other side. The losses they go through were especially hard at times.
The story ends with them forced to leave the compound and travel elsewhere, but with Kenzie and Ripper together. Their story continues in book 2 and then, based on blurbs, the other books out so far each feature a different couple. While I thought this story was very well-written and interesting, I'm not in the right state of mind to continue the series at this time. I may be able to come back to it another time because I'd love to see these characters continue to grow, esp Kenzie.
January 1, 2022
There are not enough stars for me to rate this book, I loved it that much.
Kenzie’s at college when a flu hits, she, her bestie, her besties boyfriend, and her ex-boyfriend leave college to be with their family. She goes to stay with her prepper cousin, Myles, and her friends and ex go back home. This is where she meets Ripper, former military turned motorcycle club badass, who is her cousin’s neighbor. Oh let’s not forget his awesome dog Hector too. So you know the saying that says “don’t take a knife to a gun fight”, well don’t go to any fight in this new world, without a Ripper of your own, because you’re gonna need him. In a world where nobody is safe, and nobody can be trusted. In this series there is a flu virus that wiped out all but a couple percent of the population. And most people died very quickly after getting it, and some went violent and killed people. So you can imagine what a cluster the situation is. Everyone is desperate, either for power or just to survive, and it makes for some crazy ass situations. Her ex Kyle doesn’t make it home, ends up meeting a well known rodeo cowboy named Bear, and makes his way back to Kenzie. And yes, this does make for an awkward situation since she is clearly into Ripper, my Ripper. And yes that was my subtle way to call dibs and claim him. I mean have you seen this cover? Um, yeah claiming is done. The city ends up literally burning, so they are going to make their way to Bear at Valhalla Ranch….for some more of an already wild shit show.
Phenomenal series, I couldn’t put them down, and didn’t want to. Lost a lot of sleep and it was all worth it. So much loss, sadness and chaos. These two are smoldering hot, their chemistry is amazing, and they will stop at nothing to get to each other. Phenomenal book crack series. So damn addicting.
Kenzie’s at college when a flu hits, she, her bestie, her besties boyfriend, and her ex-boyfriend leave college to be with their family. She goes to stay with her prepper cousin, Myles, and her friends and ex go back home. This is where she meets Ripper, former military turned motorcycle club badass, who is her cousin’s neighbor. Oh let’s not forget his awesome dog Hector too. So you know the saying that says “don’t take a knife to a gun fight”, well don’t go to any fight in this new world, without a Ripper of your own, because you’re gonna need him. In a world where nobody is safe, and nobody can be trusted. In this series there is a flu virus that wiped out all but a couple percent of the population. And most people died very quickly after getting it, and some went violent and killed people. So you can imagine what a cluster the situation is. Everyone is desperate, either for power or just to survive, and it makes for some crazy ass situations. Her ex Kyle doesn’t make it home, ends up meeting a well known rodeo cowboy named Bear, and makes his way back to Kenzie. And yes, this does make for an awkward situation since she is clearly into Ripper, my Ripper. And yes that was my subtle way to call dibs and claim him. I mean have you seen this cover? Um, yeah claiming is done. The city ends up literally burning, so they are going to make their way to Bear at Valhalla Ranch….for some more of an already wild shit show.
Phenomenal series, I couldn’t put them down, and didn’t want to. Lost a lot of sleep and it was all worth it. So much loss, sadness and chaos. These two are smoldering hot, their chemistry is amazing, and they will stop at nothing to get to each other. Phenomenal book crack series. So damn addicting.
August 19, 2020
This is the debut novel for Susanna Strom. Kenzie is a college student whose only plan is passing her college exams. Unfortunately, a flu pandemic sweeps the country and ruins that plan. When Kenzie's friends show up to take her away from school, Kenzie is reluctant to go. She has exams! The warning signs around the dorm, can't be ignored so she reluctantly leaves the school. Instead of leaving town with her friends, she decides to stay with her shut in cousin, Miles who lives near the school. Once she arrives at Mile's house, she's astounded at the level her cousin has gone to to prep for "the apocalypse." That turns out to be a good thing as life around the town devolves S the flu spreads. Kenzie is introduced to Mile's, neighbor, Ripper, in the worst way as she thinks he's breaking into the house.
Kenzie and Ripper have an immediate intense attraction and have some pretty hot moments. I loved the interactions with Ripper and Miles. They have a special friendship. This rag tag group goes through some extreme trials and tribulations and really sad moments. Will they all come through it in the end?
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and can't wait for the next installment of the series.
I received the ARC of Pandemonium in exchange for this review.
Kenzie and Ripper have an immediate intense attraction and have some pretty hot moments. I loved the interactions with Ripper and Miles. They have a special friendship. This rag tag group goes through some extreme trials and tribulations and really sad moments. Will they all come through it in the end?
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and can't wait for the next installment of the series.
I received the ARC of Pandemonium in exchange for this review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
gave-up
January 19, 2022I got up to 25% but I don't think this book is for me.
Apparently there's such thing as TOO much communication. The hero and heroine have a really annoying dynamic where the hero is always giving her lessons on how to improve herself as a person. A little bit of that is fine, but it's their entire dynamic.
Like...... is that your therapist? Your controlling but emotional father? Wtf is this?
And the heroine for her part has serious foot in the mouth syndrome, so she deserves some of this drive by therapy. But it's so annoying being in the head of someone who is constantly in the wrong, just so Mr. Mansplain can correct her and prove what a good partner he is. Maybe this is some kind of shame kink.
On top of that, the emotions in the story don't align with what's going on. For example, the heroine finds 2 of her friends dead and never thinks about it again. And the plot doesn't make much sense either.
Apparently there's such thing as TOO much communication. The hero and heroine have a really annoying dynamic where the hero is always giving her lessons on how to improve herself as a person. A little bit of that is fine, but it's their entire dynamic.
Him: "How are you doing?" 🥺
Her: "Fine considering the world is ending haha"
Him: *fatherly look of disappointment*
Her: oh no, I've disappointed him again. He deserves to know every single thought that runs through my head.
Like...... is that your therapist? Your controlling but emotional father? Wtf is this?
And the heroine for her part has serious foot in the mouth syndrome, so she deserves some of this drive by therapy. But it's so annoying being in the head of someone who is constantly in the wrong, just so Mr. Mansplain can correct her and prove what a good partner he is. Maybe this is some kind of shame kink.
On top of that, the emotions in the story don't align with what's going on. For example, the heroine finds 2 of her friends dead and never thinks about it again. And the plot doesn't make much sense either.
May 22, 2021
Although it might be cliched, because we are in a pandemic, I really enjoyed this story. The virus brought several people, who likely without it, would never have really interacted together. How Ms. Strom created characters of such differing personalities and backgrounds, who had to learn how to survive such dire situations on top of getting along with each other was really well done.
I loved Ripper and seeing how Mac changed and developed while being with him. I think that was the best part of this story. Mac clearly had issues and made mistakes that are relatable; so seeing her mature for the better was really nice.
I think Ms. Strom has started a very solid series with great characters and smooth writing that makes this an easy to recommend story.
I loved Ripper and seeing how Mac changed and developed while being with him. I think that was the best part of this story. Mac clearly had issues and made mistakes that are relatable; so seeing her mature for the better was really nice.
I think Ms. Strom has started a very solid series with great characters and smooth writing that makes this an easy to recommend story.
June 23, 2021
I discovered this book from a recommendation, and it sounded like my kind of story, so I checked it out in KU. I did not even make it two chapters before I had to have it in my hands, LOL. Once it arrived, I DEVOURED it in one glorious afternoon.
This book is an apocalyptic/flu pandemic story intertwined with romance and heart. The story starts out with a very tense day and then thrusts the characters, long with the reader, into a new and scary world.
The way the story is presented, allows the reader to get adjusted to the story, it lulls them into the safety of a safe space with trustworthy friends only to remind them that this new world is not as safe or secure as in the past. I loved the emotional ride the story took me on as well as the depth and heart of the characters. There were many moments I was wrought with tension only to catch my breathe before another tension filled event.
The story is told from multiple POVs, so the story has dimension as well as validity. I loved the way the characters came to live and just how real they felt. Mac is a 21-year-old college student with her head down and her focus on her studies. She is so caring and kind and even a bit naive and soft. Ripper is older (my guess is late 20’s) an Army Ranger and Enforcer for The Janissaries Portland, a 1% biker MC. Mac described him best, he is the “moral center, a brave and loyal heart (page 180).” He also has a ridiculously awesome German Shepherd pup named Hector. Then we have Miles, Mac’s cousin, and prepper. Miles is a very cool character in that he is very prepared, loving, and protective. He knows his what is needed and is willing to share with his friends and family. There is also Kyle, oh Kyle… He is Mac’s ex-boyfriend and well, he has his own views on people, life, and the current situation.
The setting drew me in as it is not only set in my state of Oregon but in a town, I am awfully familiar with Portland. For any reader who would like a mini tour of Portland and of Oregon this is a fun story to map out. It even mentions my hometown, whoop. Also, while Ripper is in an MC there is little MC in the story so if those are not your favorite reader you will still enjoy this story.
The author did an amazing job of researching and presenting her version of a pandemic. There is an author’s note that states that she wrote this before 2020 and so it is in no way influenced by that year, but I have to say if a reader is upset by aspects of quarantine and 2020 then they might want to shelf this book for another time. It reads just what I imagine 2020 would have been if it were just a bit worse.
The story is continued in the next book so it does end in a continuation (I would not call it a cliffhanger) and it makes the reader want more. I cannot wait to jump into the next book and see where this adventure takes not only the characters but me as well!
One more thing that was extremely fun for me, my name is mentioned! It is the name of a commune, not related to me in any way, but still a fun surprise!
Triggers: rioting and violence, death, and intense situations/pandemic.
This book is an apocalyptic/flu pandemic story intertwined with romance and heart. The story starts out with a very tense day and then thrusts the characters, long with the reader, into a new and scary world.
The way the story is presented, allows the reader to get adjusted to the story, it lulls them into the safety of a safe space with trustworthy friends only to remind them that this new world is not as safe or secure as in the past. I loved the emotional ride the story took me on as well as the depth and heart of the characters. There were many moments I was wrought with tension only to catch my breathe before another tension filled event.
The story is told from multiple POVs, so the story has dimension as well as validity. I loved the way the characters came to live and just how real they felt. Mac is a 21-year-old college student with her head down and her focus on her studies. She is so caring and kind and even a bit naive and soft. Ripper is older (my guess is late 20’s) an Army Ranger and Enforcer for The Janissaries Portland, a 1% biker MC. Mac described him best, he is the “moral center, a brave and loyal heart (page 180).” He also has a ridiculously awesome German Shepherd pup named Hector. Then we have Miles, Mac’s cousin, and prepper. Miles is a very cool character in that he is very prepared, loving, and protective. He knows his what is needed and is willing to share with his friends and family. There is also Kyle, oh Kyle… He is Mac’s ex-boyfriend and well, he has his own views on people, life, and the current situation.
The setting drew me in as it is not only set in my state of Oregon but in a town, I am awfully familiar with Portland. For any reader who would like a mini tour of Portland and of Oregon this is a fun story to map out. It even mentions my hometown, whoop. Also, while Ripper is in an MC there is little MC in the story so if those are not your favorite reader you will still enjoy this story.
The author did an amazing job of researching and presenting her version of a pandemic. There is an author’s note that states that she wrote this before 2020 and so it is in no way influenced by that year, but I have to say if a reader is upset by aspects of quarantine and 2020 then they might want to shelf this book for another time. It reads just what I imagine 2020 would have been if it were just a bit worse.
The story is continued in the next book so it does end in a continuation (I would not call it a cliffhanger) and it makes the reader want more. I cannot wait to jump into the next book and see where this adventure takes not only the characters but me as well!
One more thing that was extremely fun for me, my name is mentioned! It is the name of a commune, not related to me in any way, but still a fun surprise!
Triggers: rioting and violence, death, and intense situations/pandemic.
July 19, 2020
3.5 stars
Pandemonium is the debut release by Susanna Strom. First let me start by saying this book is very similar to what is happening currently in our world. Although it's the darker side of what could happen it's still very much reminded me of our current events. Now the author states she wrote this book before the current Pandemic but if your sensitive to what's going on you may want to skip this one. Personally I wasn't bothered and really enjoyed the story. Ripper and Mackenzie were an unlikely but awesome couple. I enjoyed them together and loved their little group. I felt the author did a good job connecting me to all the characters because my heart broke with the loss of one. Now while I enjoyed this book there was just something missing for me. I felt that to much time was wasted on doing odd jobs around the house. There is some interaction with the outside but pretty much what's actually happening is glossed over. I look forward to the continuation of Ripper and Mackenzie's story and hope there is more excitement since they are now on the road.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Pandemonium is the debut release by Susanna Strom. First let me start by saying this book is very similar to what is happening currently in our world. Although it's the darker side of what could happen it's still very much reminded me of our current events. Now the author states she wrote this book before the current Pandemic but if your sensitive to what's going on you may want to skip this one. Personally I wasn't bothered and really enjoyed the story. Ripper and Mackenzie were an unlikely but awesome couple. I enjoyed them together and loved their little group. I felt the author did a good job connecting me to all the characters because my heart broke with the loss of one. Now while I enjoyed this book there was just something missing for me. I felt that to much time was wasted on doing odd jobs around the house. There is some interaction with the outside but pretty much what's actually happening is glossed over. I look forward to the continuation of Ripper and Mackenzie's story and hope there is more excitement since they are now on the road.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
August 20, 2022
Pandemonium by Susanna Strom is book one in her World Fallen series.
Kenzie and Ripper are living through a flu pandemic. There’s attraction on both sides, but is now really the time to start a romance?
Pandemonium is a well-written sci-fi thriller. The plot is intriguing and, as we all know, believable. Susanna Strom has done her research and gets the details of pandemics, prepping, weapons, personal defense, and other technical aspects right, or so it seemed to me. The characters have complete believable backstories. The romance aspect works well with the rest of the story. I found the pace to be somewhat slow, but I enjoyed the story and will read the next in the series. I give this novel 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it to readers of sci-fi and romance.
My thanks to Independent Publishers Group, Cougar Creek Publishing LLC, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Kenzie and Ripper are living through a flu pandemic. There’s attraction on both sides, but is now really the time to start a romance?
Pandemonium is a well-written sci-fi thriller. The plot is intriguing and, as we all know, believable. Susanna Strom has done her research and gets the details of pandemics, prepping, weapons, personal defense, and other technical aspects right, or so it seemed to me. The characters have complete believable backstories. The romance aspect works well with the rest of the story. I found the pace to be somewhat slow, but I enjoyed the story and will read the next in the series. I give this novel 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it to readers of sci-fi and romance.
My thanks to Independent Publishers Group, Cougar Creek Publishing LLC, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
March 30, 2021
Is this really your debut novel Susanna Strom? It was really good!! Nothing like reading about a pandemic flu that causes an apocalypse during an actual pandemic caused by the flu!
The writing was steady, the story kept me engaged and I really liked all the characters. There is a TON of action, but nothing too over-the-top. I wished for a bit more depth with Kenzie and Ripper's relationship. It was sweet, but I felt like I was missing something. Absolutely loved Miles, what a complete sweetheart.
I had to laugh at one point when Kenzie is making food with TVP (textured vegetable protein). I haven't heard of that stuff since my childhood! Let me tell you, from someone that was forced to eat that crap as a kid, yuck, it's awful but a good way to get extra protein in your diet. :)
A fabulous first book, already got the second one downloaded and ready to read!
The writing was steady, the story kept me engaged and I really liked all the characters. There is a TON of action, but nothing too over-the-top. I wished for a bit more depth with Kenzie and Ripper's relationship. It was sweet, but I felt like I was missing something. Absolutely loved Miles, what a complete sweetheart.
I had to laugh at one point when Kenzie is making food with TVP (textured vegetable protein). I haven't heard of that stuff since my childhood! Let me tell you, from someone that was forced to eat that crap as a kid, yuck, it's awful but a good way to get extra protein in your diet. :)
A fabulous first book, already got the second one downloaded and ready to read!
May 27, 2021
There are enough significant differences between our current Covid-19 pandemic and the flu pandemic in this book that reading it did not bother me. It was actually a great escape from reality. I loved the story and its characters and I'm now eagerly waiting for the next book, Maelstrom.
Thank you to Cougar Creek Publishing LLC and NetGalley for access in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Cougar Creek Publishing LLC and NetGalley for access in exchange for my honest review.
July 27, 2020
Susanna Strom owes me a couple of nights sleep! This book captures you on so many levels and her excellent character development is a pure pleasure. The timing of this story will become stunningly evident from the first page and I can’t wait for the sequel!
July 27, 2020
This author does a great job building characters that you care about and who are not just cookie cutter stereotypes but who have depth in layers. The story is original and well put together. I really enjoyed all aspects of this book.
June 27, 2023
I was riveted.
Scratches the itch I have for this subgenre.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
Scratches the itch I have for this subgenre.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
August 21, 2020
This book was SO GOOD. I fell in LOVE with Ripper and MacKenzie. This was so knowledgeable about prepping. I even wrote down some stuff because my husband and I like to be prepared.
I’m definitely going to share this book with my friends. Susanna did a fantastic job. I highly recommend this book.
I’m definitely going to share this book with my friends. Susanna did a fantastic job. I highly recommend this book.
August 20, 2020
This was so good, my cats hated me. I forgot to stop reading and feed them. No worries, they reminded me!
Pandemonium World Fallen - That's right Pandemic time and Susanna wrote this last year before Covid!! It was so close sometimes it raise the hairs on my arms. DELICIOUS! But really, let's get into the meat of it! This is her first book Guys, and her writing was truly phenomenal. She writes books with the little extras that happen day to day and make us feel comradery with our characters. Like we could be sitting next to them playing Gin Rummy and eating tomato soup hoping our buddy comes back from his run around this crazy Flu infested town.
The diversity of characters are great. A tough seasoned ex Ranger turned biker in a Biker Club. Family loyalty is everything. - An Autistic Young man living alone after his parents died but a long time fanatic of preparing for the worst of Pandemics. - His girl cousin who is totally obsessed with getting through college and making her life 1000% times better. And her ex-boyfriend, with family money and Country Club snobbish ideals. Here they are in PORTLAND! (I know! RIGHT?) People dying by the 1000's. How will this little group find their will through? Or will they succumb to the Pandemonium?- See what I did there? ...
I highly recommend this. My cats? Not so much.
Edited for spelling... geesh!
Pandemonium World Fallen - That's right Pandemic time and Susanna wrote this last year before Covid!! It was so close sometimes it raise the hairs on my arms. DELICIOUS! But really, let's get into the meat of it! This is her first book Guys, and her writing was truly phenomenal. She writes books with the little extras that happen day to day and make us feel comradery with our characters. Like we could be sitting next to them playing Gin Rummy and eating tomato soup hoping our buddy comes back from his run around this crazy Flu infested town.
The diversity of characters are great. A tough seasoned ex Ranger turned biker in a Biker Club. Family loyalty is everything. - An Autistic Young man living alone after his parents died but a long time fanatic of preparing for the worst of Pandemics. - His girl cousin who is totally obsessed with getting through college and making her life 1000% times better. And her ex-boyfriend, with family money and Country Club snobbish ideals. Here they are in PORTLAND! (I know! RIGHT?) People dying by the 1000's. How will this little group find their will through? Or will they succumb to the Pandemonium?- See what I did there? ...
I highly recommend this. My cats? Not so much.
Edited for spelling... geesh!
Want to read
October 15, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (7/7/2021)!🎁
September 6, 2020
I am blown away by how ... AMAZING this was! Honestly, this is huge! I've never read a book like this before and I've read a LOT of romance in just about every possible genre. Not to mention I swear there must have been a crystal ball somewhere when this was being written. I don't think there's anything else like this out there, and with the timing....this book should blow up. I've loved all the other books I've read, but this needs to be seen and go straight to the top. It's sexy as hell. Ripper...oh dear lord. I haven't been lit on fire by a book in quite a while, at least not like this. Mac and Ripper are my new "it" couple. I loved the honesty and balancing of so many diverse characters and real life problems...in most of the other romance novels I've read the other characters usually aren't this involved in the story or if they are, I just can't wait for them to get back to main couple. The balancing of them all from Miles to Jason to Kyle...they became essential but not intrusive. I was never desperate to get back to the Mac and Ripper bc it all worked together seamlessly. Do you remember how fascinated we all were when The Walking Dead came out and couldn't take our eyes away from this complicated new dystopian world? But now, it's 2020 and I wish sometimes there were zombies bc I feel more prepared to handle them than the real world we're living in. Bc of what all of us have gone thru this year it was sort of comforting to read about hope in a world so similar to ours right now, but without the zombies. But I digress.....
Anyway, my point is that TWD gave us a dystopia that we couldn't get enough of bc it was so different than anything else on TV. I feel like I got that same wow factor with this book and characters I fell in love with, but....holy hell it was hot! This is going to be huge. Everyone needs to see this book. And when do I get to scratch my itch with book 2?
Anyway, my point is that TWD gave us a dystopia that we couldn't get enough of bc it was so different than anything else on TV. I feel like I got that same wow factor with this book and characters I fell in love with, but....holy hell it was hot! This is going to be huge. Everyone needs to see this book. And when do I get to scratch my itch with book 2?
December 21, 2020
Although the guy on the cover is hot, don't be fooled into thinking this is your typical romance. I was more drawn to the apocalyptic story going on around the sparks of attraction.
Kenzie is a college student dedicated to her success. While on a deadline for an important paper, she turns off her phone and shuts out the world. But when she emerges from her solitude, she finds the world in chaos. A flu virus with a very small survival rate is sweeping the nation. Kenzie escapes to the only family she has left, her autistic cousin Miles. He has always been into conspiracy theories and has built a compound with high tech security and all the supplies they'll need for years. Ripper, a member of a nearby motorcycle gang, lives next door to Miles and had become friends with him, looking out for him. After a rough meeting between Kenzie and Ripper, she judges him by his gang affiliation, but soon realizes there's kindness under his tough exterior. And she's always had a thing for the bad boy bikers in her favorite books.
I love Kenzie and Ripper! I can't wait to find out what happens next with this virus in the next book, Maelstrom.
Thank you to Susanna Strom and Cougar Creek Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The views and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Kenzie is a college student dedicated to her success. While on a deadline for an important paper, she turns off her phone and shuts out the world. But when she emerges from her solitude, she finds the world in chaos. A flu virus with a very small survival rate is sweeping the nation. Kenzie escapes to the only family she has left, her autistic cousin Miles. He has always been into conspiracy theories and has built a compound with high tech security and all the supplies they'll need for years. Ripper, a member of a nearby motorcycle gang, lives next door to Miles and had become friends with him, looking out for him. After a rough meeting between Kenzie and Ripper, she judges him by his gang affiliation, but soon realizes there's kindness under his tough exterior. And she's always had a thing for the bad boy bikers in her favorite books.
I love Kenzie and Ripper! I can't wait to find out what happens next with this virus in the next book, Maelstrom.
Thank you to Susanna Strom and Cougar Creek Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The views and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
November 15, 2020
Why on earth would I think reading about a flu like virus, that’s very similar in a lot of ways to Covid, would be a good idea? No freakin clue...but it ended up being the best idea ever. I was smitten as a kitten when it came to PANDEMONIUM. And I was happy to be excited over an apocalyptic read once again. Seeing as my interest in my most favorite genre took a nose dive around the start of April.
This book will have you up in all your feels by the time you finish it. Seriously. Love, lust, heartbreak. They all makes the rounds. One of my only cons is there wasn’t any zombies. Man, do I love a good zombie. But we can’t all be perfect now can we. Kidding aside, I still loved this book and I absolutely cannot wait to see what happens next. This new to me author just got herself a new fan!! 5 Glorious Stars!! Now where is the hand sanitizer?
This book will have you up in all your feels by the time you finish it. Seriously. Love, lust, heartbreak. They all makes the rounds. One of my only cons is there wasn’t any zombies. Man, do I love a good zombie. But we can’t all be perfect now can we. Kidding aside, I still loved this book and I absolutely cannot wait to see what happens next. This new to me author just got herself a new fan!! 5 Glorious Stars!! Now where is the hand sanitizer?
November 3, 2024
I liked this book. I loved the hero. What got me was the h. She was annoying at times and she always jumps to conclusions that are wrong. I really didn’t like the h ex boyfriend Kyle at first, but around half way through he gets better.
Safety
Safe. No ow/OM drama. H only has eyes for h.
November 19, 2024
I really liked this book
But what is this cover🤚🏻 I think a lot more ppl would give this really good dystopia book with (a dash of) romance a chance if it looked more like it's content
And yes I know that it's basically a MC romance. That's why I read it.
My favourite part were the last few pages bc I was literally on the edge of my seat
But what is this cover🤚🏻 I think a lot more ppl would give this really good dystopia book with (a dash of) romance a chance if it looked more like it's content
And yes I know that it's basically a MC romance. That's why I read it.
My favourite part were the last few pages bc I was literally on the edge of my seat
September 10, 2020
Sexy, sexy!! This book was hotness from the first chapter with great characters and a just as great storyline!!
December 29, 2020
2.5 stars
This was just okay for me. Unlike others, I didn't think it was great and I just had a hard time making myself want to pick it back up (as evidenced by taking 2 freakin' weeks to finish!). Once I did, it was enough to keep me engaged but never was I excited about finding out what happens next. I think part of the problem was how slow things seem to progress. A lot of time passes, but nothing really seems to happen. Just too much filler. Plus, I really didn't like Kenzie. She was too naive and immature. And honestly, there is nothing badass about a girl who thinks she's a badass or wants to be more badass. Really, the best part of this whole book was the last few chapters.
At first this reminded me of Willow. A disease decimated the human population almost over night, the male MC is a biker, and the female MC a college girl with a sketchy mother. But that's about were the similarities ended. Where that series keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering if this group will survive and how, this one has them holed up inside a safe guarded house with all the food, water, and amenities one would need. Sure, there were a couple instances of excitement but they were wrapped up quick. With one of them being Kenzie's own stupid ass fault.
So like I said, what happens here is that a killer flu has infected the majority of the population almost over night. Kenzie gets dragged out of her dorm room by her best friend in a desperate attempt to get home and safe. Immediately they are confronted by the violent realities of what's happening. Fortunately for Kenzie, she has a cousin near by that is doomsday preper and she convinces her friends to drop her off there. Miles is a man with whole ton of quirks and baggage, but he was a great guy and I liked the kind of character he was. His neighbor, Ripper, is a former ranger who is now in a motorcycle club. Ripper isn't at all what one would expect from this and the way he knows how to handle Miles was just as impressive. Obviously, with the world gone to hell, it doesn't take long for Ripper and Kenzie to get together. And basically what we get from there is a long book about these two building a relationship, Ripper teaching Kenzie how to protect herself (seriously though, where the heck are they getting so much ammo that they have no issues doing target practice all the time?), and the three of them living their lives in the relative safety of this house. Eventually Kenzie's ex shows back up to add some tension and drama, which was super annoying, but thankfully didn't last too very long.
The ending was much better because their home is no longer safe. Not from the disease and not from a situation that is out of their control. With no choice, this group must flee to what they hope will be a new safe place.
If I didn't have an ARC of the next book, I probably would not be reading it. I am that uninterested in the rest of their story. But as I do, I'm seriously hoping it's better than this one.
Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley.
This was just okay for me. Unlike others, I didn't think it was great and I just had a hard time making myself want to pick it back up (as evidenced by taking 2 freakin' weeks to finish!). Once I did, it was enough to keep me engaged but never was I excited about finding out what happens next. I think part of the problem was how slow things seem to progress. A lot of time passes, but nothing really seems to happen. Just too much filler. Plus, I really didn't like Kenzie. She was too naive and immature. And honestly, there is nothing badass about a girl who thinks she's a badass or wants to be more badass. Really, the best part of this whole book was the last few chapters.
At first this reminded me of Willow. A disease decimated the human population almost over night, the male MC is a biker, and the female MC a college girl with a sketchy mother. But that's about were the similarities ended. Where that series keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering if this group will survive and how, this one has them holed up inside a safe guarded house with all the food, water, and amenities one would need. Sure, there were a couple instances of excitement but they were wrapped up quick. With one of them being Kenzie's own stupid ass fault.
So like I said, what happens here is that a killer flu has infected the majority of the population almost over night. Kenzie gets dragged out of her dorm room by her best friend in a desperate attempt to get home and safe. Immediately they are confronted by the violent realities of what's happening. Fortunately for Kenzie, she has a cousin near by that is doomsday preper and she convinces her friends to drop her off there. Miles is a man with whole ton of quirks and baggage, but he was a great guy and I liked the kind of character he was. His neighbor, Ripper, is a former ranger who is now in a motorcycle club. Ripper isn't at all what one would expect from this and the way he knows how to handle Miles was just as impressive. Obviously, with the world gone to hell, it doesn't take long for Ripper and Kenzie to get together. And basically what we get from there is a long book about these two building a relationship, Ripper teaching Kenzie how to protect herself (seriously though, where the heck are they getting so much ammo that they have no issues doing target practice all the time?), and the three of them living their lives in the relative safety of this house. Eventually Kenzie's ex shows back up to add some tension and drama, which was super annoying, but thankfully didn't last too very long.
The ending was much better because their home is no longer safe. Not from the disease and not from a situation that is out of their control. With no choice, this group must flee to what they hope will be a new safe place.
If I didn't have an ARC of the next book, I probably would not be reading it. I am that uninterested in the rest of their story. But as I do, I'm seriously hoping it's better than this one.
Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley.
August 31, 2020
Love it. From beginning to the end!
One of my favorite reads of this year!
There's a HFN. (Didn't know that Rippers & Mac story will continue in Maelstrom)
I can't wait for the next one and I'm glad that I don't have to
wait so long for Maelstrom! <3
One of my favorite reads of this year!
There's a HFN. (Didn't know that Rippers & Mac story will continue in Maelstrom)
I can't wait for the next one and I'm glad that I don't have to
wait so long for Maelstrom! <3
July 20, 2020
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and am providing an honest review.
I'm a bit of a junkie for dystopian stories, so requesting to read Pandemonium, a book in which a pandemic leads to the collapsing of society, was a no-brainer for me. Overall, I enjoyed this read, but I will say it had a bit of a slow start for me. As I think about it, I don't know if I've read many, if any, books that start at the downfall. I usually come into these stories after people have "adjusted" to their new lives and we get to see what that looks like.
However, here, for about the first 25% of the book, it's Kenzie in denial about what's going on and they group trying to set their lives up for this new reality. Then there's Kenzie and Ripper's budding romance, including a couple of date-like activities that felt really out-of-place in the backdrop of a world in ruin. Even Ripper taking Kenzie to the shooting range -- an activity meant to develop some survival skills -- seemed more like an opportunity for him to feel her up. And while we're on this subject, they did daily target practice for over a month. Did they not feel like they should be saving ammunition?
Needless-to-say I was a bit nervous for the first quarter of the book because I was expecting more action than I was getting. Luckily things picked up from there and kept a pretty steady rhythm. As is always the case, other humans are almost more of a threat than the disease. That lead to the need to navigate a few precarious situations. Through it all, Ripper was steady and Miles was incredibly prepared. I think Ripper and Miles were my favorite parts of this book, specifically how Ripper interacted with Miles. It made my heart melt.
I was quite apathetic to Kenzie and I wasn't fully sold on her relationship with Ripper initially. Time after time she underestimated Ripper's character, which resulted in him making her feel like crap about it. It always seemed like Kenzie didn't feel good enough and was trying to prove herself to Ripper, which didn't seem like a healthy basis of a relationship. Eventually, they grew on me, though.
I'd like to briefly talk about how wordy some scenes were (as my review gets incredibly wordy). The first sex scene was constantly interrupted by random thoughts from Kenzie, completely ruining the mood (not for them, I guess) and drawing that scene out to be much longer than necessary. There's also the scene where Kenzie saves the doctor from two guys who were attacking and trying to rob him. They then sit there talking. Exposed. At night. While her cousin and ex are dying from the flu at home. You know? The whole reason she left the house. The whole time, I'm anxious because Miles had a fever of 104 when she left. They couldn't have talked while they were walking back to the house?
How did Miles even get the flu? Was it just floating in the air? Unless it goes unmentioned (which I highly doubt because everything is mentioned), I don't think he had left the compound recently or encountered anyone. I mean, if he had left, I could totally see him getting it. None of them took precautions against it, despite the flu's mortality rate having to be at least above 90%. No masks. A general attitude that they probably had already been exposed, so why try to prevent anything (*eye roll*). Kenzie had even kissed a flu-stricken Miles on his sweaty forehead. What?
Despite the aforementioned gripes, I still enjoyed the story the author crafted. It kept me invested in everyone's outcomes. I'm even considering what the author might have planned for the next book in this series. There was no cliffhanger and everything was nicely wrapped up, so I'm not sure what's in store for them next, but I'd like to know ;-).
I'm a bit of a junkie for dystopian stories, so requesting to read Pandemonium, a book in which a pandemic leads to the collapsing of society, was a no-brainer for me. Overall, I enjoyed this read, but I will say it had a bit of a slow start for me. As I think about it, I don't know if I've read many, if any, books that start at the downfall. I usually come into these stories after people have "adjusted" to their new lives and we get to see what that looks like.
However, here, for about the first 25% of the book, it's Kenzie in denial about what's going on and they group trying to set their lives up for this new reality. Then there's Kenzie and Ripper's budding romance, including a couple of date-like activities that felt really out-of-place in the backdrop of a world in ruin. Even Ripper taking Kenzie to the shooting range -- an activity meant to develop some survival skills -- seemed more like an opportunity for him to feel her up. And while we're on this subject, they did daily target practice for over a month. Did they not feel like they should be saving ammunition?
Needless-to-say I was a bit nervous for the first quarter of the book because I was expecting more action than I was getting. Luckily things picked up from there and kept a pretty steady rhythm. As is always the case, other humans are almost more of a threat than the disease. That lead to the need to navigate a few precarious situations. Through it all, Ripper was steady and Miles was incredibly prepared. I think Ripper and Miles were my favorite parts of this book, specifically how Ripper interacted with Miles. It made my heart melt.
I was quite apathetic to Kenzie and I wasn't fully sold on her relationship with Ripper initially. Time after time she underestimated Ripper's character, which resulted in him making her feel like crap about it. It always seemed like Kenzie didn't feel good enough and was trying to prove herself to Ripper, which didn't seem like a healthy basis of a relationship. Eventually, they grew on me, though.
I'd like to briefly talk about how wordy some scenes were (as my review gets incredibly wordy). The first sex scene was constantly interrupted by random thoughts from Kenzie, completely ruining the mood (not for them, I guess) and drawing that scene out to be much longer than necessary. There's also the scene where Kenzie saves the doctor from two guys who were attacking and trying to rob him. They then sit there talking. Exposed. At night. While her cousin and ex are dying from the flu at home. You know? The whole reason she left the house. The whole time, I'm anxious because Miles had a fever of 104 when she left. They couldn't have talked while they were walking back to the house?
How did Miles even get the flu? Was it just floating in the air? Unless it goes unmentioned (which I highly doubt because everything is mentioned), I don't think he had left the compound recently or encountered anyone. I mean, if he had left, I could totally see him getting it. None of them took precautions against it, despite the flu's mortality rate having to be at least above 90%. No masks. A general attitude that they probably had already been exposed, so why try to prevent anything (*eye roll*). Kenzie had even kissed a flu-stricken Miles on his sweaty forehead. What?
Despite the aforementioned gripes, I still enjoyed the story the author crafted. It kept me invested in everyone's outcomes. I'm even considering what the author might have planned for the next book in this series. There was no cliffhanger and everything was nicely wrapped up, so I'm not sure what's in store for them next, but I'd like to know ;-).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2020
I really enjoyed the debut release from Susanna Strom. The world-building was great and the characters really pulled me in.
Kenzie Dunwitty is an average college student getting ready for finals when a fatal flu epidemic rips the world apart. She seeks out her cousin Miles, after turning down an offer of shelter from her friends, to make sure he is okay and to stay with family as the world crashes around them. Miles is easily my favorite character - a "prepper" with some distinct personality traits and a healthy distrust of strangers.
I wasn't too sure of the biker character - Ripper - but he won me over with this friendship with Miles. When Kenzie and Ripper meet - fireworks happen.
The world-building is excellent and really pulls you into the confusion and terror of the events. I enjoyed the relationships between the characters - both established and new ones that were built. Kenzie adapting to the new realities as the known world falls apart kept me on the edge of my seat. There are a few moments that suspend belief but they are few and far between.
I enjoy a good apocalypse story and this one really pulled me in. I look forward to the next installment in the series.
Kenzie Dunwitty is an average college student getting ready for finals when a fatal flu epidemic rips the world apart. She seeks out her cousin Miles, after turning down an offer of shelter from her friends, to make sure he is okay and to stay with family as the world crashes around them. Miles is easily my favorite character - a "prepper" with some distinct personality traits and a healthy distrust of strangers.
I wasn't too sure of the biker character - Ripper - but he won me over with this friendship with Miles. When Kenzie and Ripper meet - fireworks happen.
The world-building is excellent and really pulls you into the confusion and terror of the events. I enjoyed the relationships between the characters - both established and new ones that were built. Kenzie adapting to the new realities as the known world falls apart kept me on the edge of my seat. There are a few moments that suspend belief but they are few and far between.
I enjoy a good apocalypse story and this one really pulled me in. I look forward to the next installment in the series.
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