In this zombie apocalypse, the fight for survival begins after you’re cured.In a world ravaged by the Wormwood Prion, millions are consumed by an insatiable hunger for human flesh. Survivors, like Allison Rose, awaken in Recovery Centers, their bodies cured but their minds tormented by monstrous memories. When Allison teams up with the enigmatic Will Taylor, they soon realize the cure isn't the end of their nightmare—it's just the beginning.**For more information about this series, including trigger warnings, please visit the author's website at
Zombie books are my guilty pleasure, though finding a good book in a sea of mediocre if abundant offerings is usually an epic quest of its own. This is a middle of the road book, as far as zombie fare goes. It's sufficiently well written that it kept me interested, and the characters weren't so cringe as to want me to gauge my eyes out.
I was attracted to this book by the description - that we would follow this epidemic through the eyes of one of the victims after they were cured. That's not an approach I've seen before in zombie books. Usually authors assume that's once you are a zombie, there is not turning back. So that's something I was really looking forward to exploring.
What happens in a world that got decimated by a zombie-like virus where people became ravenous mindless monsters, but then were cured? I was looking for an exploration of trauma and guilt.
I was looking forward to see how these people would try to reintegrate back into society. How would they behave when reuniting with surviving family? Trying to piece their lives back after the horrors seen and committed? What are the after-effects of this prion virus? Physical, mental, etc.? It seems like the infected aren't walking corpses, yet they don't die unless you shoot them in the head, even when they chewed themselves up to pieces.
Unfortunately, the author chose not to explore that at all. We have a road movie instead, with our characters trying to make it to Pennsylvania through hostile country where Normals are more likely to shoot the former Biters on sight than help them. Why are they going there? That's not explained.
Why did the government just let the cured Biters go without any control or supervision? They know that the cure is not 100% effective and that relapse is possible. Yet they are let loose in a desert with the orders to report to the nearest registration center within 74 hours or they will be shot on sight. Where are those centers? Who knows. How they are going to make it there with 99 dollars and no transportation? Not the government's problem. To say that I have questions is an understatement.
Maybe there will be more explanation in Season 2, but so far this is a an okay-ish zombie story that's better written than most. Plus, it's only 100-some pages long, so it's a quick read.
This book is fantastic! From page one straight through to the last page, there is so much tension! It is so fast paced and there is never a moment that I felt bored with it because something interesting is always taking place. The writing style is straightforward and easy to read. I love how the chapters are initially divided up by character, which allows the reader to get to know them on a more personal level without interference from others. The characters are also really well developed and likeable, even though they are also flawed in ways. The settings are intense, and you are always waiting for something or someone to jump out at the characters from behind every shadow.
This book is extremely well done, and I can easily see a movie or series being created from it. The best word that I can think of to describe this book is cool. This book is just COOL! I am impatiently waiting for the next book to come out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I must say that this was one of the best “kind of” zombie fiction that I have read, its different because it show us a cure that doesn’t really mean that they are cured but can think again, and is told in a way that gives us a bit of an inside into our main characters. Allison, kid and Luke, I will leave Will out of the main characters because when Allison, kid and him where in the recovery center, he seemed something but when they got out I felt he is another whole thing… I really don’t trust him… maybe its only me…
Peter (Luke, I don't know why I see Luke as Peter) is a nurse that was in one of the hospitals during the outbreak, and we don’t really know the true beginning of Allison and kid, but that's OK, we learn that is kind of a bedside manners not to talk about the before, and kid she doesn’t talk, but she ends up communicating with peter and that was something that made me really like him.
I really love the way the author tells the story, and I can’t really wait to read more of the universe of chew, highly recommend this to people who wish to read a different take in a zombie cure.
I got a free ARC from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m really into zombies but for some reason this one couldn’t hold my interest. I forced myself to finish reading it. Not sure why I wasn’t into it though, maybe not enough gore, not sure.
“Allison saw herself reflected in Gary’s dark pupils—she was as wild and desperate to survive as Gary was to chew through her.”
I loved this zombie-esque post apocalyptic serial story! So far there are two books collecting the all the stories together.
Readers will appreciate this unique spin on a well used zombie trope; the tale begins following cured biters as they reintegrate into society.
It was an interesting perspective to see all the hatred towards those that have just had their humanity restored. Plus, the cured Biters carry guilt for their actions while previously infected.
I really enjoyed the variety of characters, the obstacles they encountered (especially the Carnival of Carnivorous Delights), and how they overcame their own fears and self doubts. A very well done, entertaining, and quick read.
Rating 4.5 This one is pretty fascinating since it started on kindle vella as more or less in the same vein as webtoons but it’s being transferred for ebook/ print format. Which totally glad for cause this is definitely one that you wanna read straight through without waits. It’s reaalllly good. Zombies but also zombies that have been cured and are being fixed. Society is still really pissed that they are being cured, a lot of anger if you will at the unjustified not enough repercussions of those who are cured and then get a free pass back to normal. But if anything they have to suffer, suffer with memories of the chewing, and senses seem to be heightened. Ali seems to have a scent thing and will I’m not too sure on his but kid can see in the dark and the whole thing is bonkers but I really enjoyed little bits that we got like the fact each is a person, with a story even though it was a zombie we are made to have a feeling for them. This reviews fresh off reading and I’m mildly exhausted so forming sentences are struggle will clean up an polish with notes. But if you’re reading the unedited just know this right here is fucking amazing and I’m stoked to get right into the second
I was able to ARC read this and it was absolutely fantastic! I was sucked in from the first chapter and binge read this book in one sitting! I'm not spoiling anything because you need to read this and find out for yourself how wonderful it is!
I received a copy of this book from Book Sirens in exchange for an honest review.
The Wormwood Prion infected millions, turning them into monstrous beings unable to recognise friend from foe. Causing the insatiable need to chew, preferably human flesh. Allison Rose is lucky. She's one of those that the cure worked on, residing now in a recovery center with others who are also lucky. The problem is that cure doesn't take away the memories. When Allison teams up with fellow Recovery Center inmate Will, they discover that the cure isn't the end of their nightmare, it's just the beginning.
I was super interested in this one because it shows life AFTER the zombie apocalypse. I've only read one other book that was set after the events of one, and I absolutely loved it (World War Z for anyone curious), so when I saw this I just HAD to give it a go.
Initially I was a little disappointed and wondered whether I was actually going to enjoy it. This is a serialised story, so an 'episode' is released on Kindle Vella twice a week. This is the collection of season one episodes in one volume, I highly recommend getting these in their full season releases if you're like me and need to know what's going to happen next. Believe me when I say that this will drag you in and you'll devour it (no pun intended). The first episode is told in second person, this threw me, I was concerned that the entire season was going to be written this way. I've only read one other book written in second person and it took a bit to get used to. I honestly thought I was going to end up DNFing this. I was wrong and I am SO glad. So if you're struggling with that initial chapter, stick with it because it soon changes POV from the second episode onwards.
We meet Allison Rose who is a cured biter in a recovery center, she's just trying her best to survive each day, though she doesn't hold out any hope of them making it out alive what with the unruly people also in the RC and the experiments being conducted on them. She ends up making a deal with Will, another cured biter, he says he'll watch her back inside the RC as long as she helps him build what they need to survive once they're set free. When this time come Allison stays true to her word though she doesn't know how they're going to survive this changed world. They're the enemy. There are many normals who are looking for someone to take their anger and grief out on, but there are also those that sympathise with the cured biters and want to help them make a life. This story follows Allison, Will and Kid as they try and navigate life post apocalypse.
After a couple of episodes I was absolutely hooked. Ault's narration and voice was wonderful, easy reading yet incredibly immersive. I felt like I was going along for the ride with Allison and Co. and I really felt for their plight. Imagine being able to remember what you did when you were no longer in control of your own urges, body or mind. Having to live with the awful things that this Prion made you do when it activated. These characters were so real, I enjoyed every single one of them, and I really hope we see Luke again, I loved his story so much and his character. I loved that even though Will and Allison were written technically as morally grey, I still backed them 100%, I never once questioned their choices. They're strong characters who are incredibly damaged from their experiences, yet they refuse to give up.
The world building was done brilliantly and it really gave the feel of a world and people trying to rebuild after the storm. I feel like the world itself was so rich and that the stories of our main characters have so much yet to tell us. I'm also keen to see what other people we meet along the way because I just know there is so much more yet to happen and I am here for it. By the last page, I was so invested and devastated that this season was over. I'll definitely be continuing with the story. I need to know whether Allison, Will and Kid reach somewhere they can live safe if not happy. And I have no doubt that there will be many trials and awful experiences along the road to get there, but I look forward to seeing how they overcome each one.
I love all things zombie, so I was excited to get this one. There are so many positives with this book, starting with the different approach to how they become infected. I also enjoyed the ability for the zombies to be cured and to be put back into society. Naomi does a good job with showing how the Biters are discriminated against after the fact. I feel like this is definitely a simulation of how it would be if something like this were to ever really happen. While I love Allison and her attachment to Kid, I just wasn't sure what to think about Will. I feel like his standoffishness was meant to keep readers up in the air with their opinions of him, but I also felt like he could have done more, been more, and made me like/dislike him more. I really liked Luke, and I enjoyed his reaction to Kid and Allison, so having Luke in the picture made me feel even weirder toward Will. It's hard to explain it, but I felt like Will just wasn't fleshed out enough (no pun intended 😃). One thing Naomi did very well was leave me wanting more. I cannot wait to get my hands on Season Two. I need to continue this journey with Allison, and I'm hoping to get a lot more of Luke as well. If you enjoy apocalyptic fiction, want something a bit different from the normal zombie stuff, and you want an overall good read, pick this one up!
Great book! Total change to the zombie genre (are they zombies in this though?!) Having been able to cure the ‘biters’ of their fetish they are studied for weeks before being let out into the world to work for the government for a while. We follow Ali, Kid and Will. As they struggle to make it back in the world amongst the lucky ones who weren’t turned into flesh eating monsters, being berated and made to feel like second class citizens. You can’t help but like these three! Then there is Luke, a doctor having been made to join the army much to his dismay. Having met the other three briefly before he signed up he finds himself with feelings for Ali. But Luke was never a biter… I really enjoyed this book and read it twice before starting the second season. I do hope there is another coming up! If you enjoy the zombie genre you really aught to read this lil beauty of a book! You won’t be disappointed!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Well, this one was definitely dark but because not the ratings,, I persevered and I am glad I did! Definitely a commentary here on the inhumanity of humanity along with the humanity of the monsters! Regular people struggling to come back to something resembling " normal " after a cannibalistic plague that while partially under control cannot restore those who were " cured " to who they once were or make even those who once loved them accept and forgive them for what happened while they were infected. Persecution, loathing, loss of the most basic rights and privileges of America…. what us left for the survivors and will humanity ever recover…. A well written and moving tale that I ended up enjoying very much and will be following… but be prepared as it is dark, particularly in the beginning,the middle, etc. etc.
Never before have I ever read a book like this!! "Zombies" aren't usually my thing, but this wasn't your typical zombie story!! Right from the beginning, the author draws you into their dystopian world and keeps you there until the very end. I actually read this in one go, not stopping once I had started it. It's action-packed and fast-paced, so you're never bored. And the chapters are set up to focus on certain characters, so you get to know them better as an entire chapter is focused on just them and their lives. It was a really unique way to write. The storyline is one that is intense, mystifying and leaves you wondering, long after you've finished the book!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Subtly different take on zombies - the 'infection' is caused by a prion (cf 'mad cow disease' that is switched on by a flu-like viral episode after which the infected are overcome by an overwhelming urge to chew. There is a cure of sorts (for some) after which sufferers are released back into the general population with several restrictions, with most infractions being punishable by death...
The opening chapter follows one of those being treated before release. We later learn more about him as the subsequent narrative follows two other 'cured' individuals after their release.
Intriguing - the 'season' is a collection of Vella episodes; Season Two is lined up ready and I'll look out for Season Three when i is released in this format.
I literally FLEW through this book it was so good.
Naomi Ault not only created a unique twist on the classic zombie apocalypse theme, but also incorporated the most bewildering events and characters (especially in the second half of the story 😳). The concept of uncontrollably eating people is terrifying…
I absolutely loved Kid’s relationship with Georgie, it was a refreshing detail that Ault added! Each of the characters had their own distinct personalities and the way they all worked in a group had me smiling multiple times! Plus, there was a ✨spicy✨ scene that had me giggling to myself in excitement.
Long story short I’m extremely excited to buy Chew: Season Two soon! Props to Naomi for writing such an addictive story 😩
I have always been facinated with zombies ever since I saw George A. Romero's Night of the Living Dead one afternoon when I was home sick from school. This is a refreshing new take on the genre and one I really enjoyed. Told in a straight forward orderly style which I greatly appreciate. Makes it so much easier to just get lost in the story when there are no unnecessary distractions. I also really enjoyed the little insights into some of the characters backgrounds told in separate chapters. All in all, just really good storyt telling, so settle yourself down in a comfy chair for this one because you are going to just want to keep reading until the very last word.
This was a fresh take on a genre that’s been done a million ways over the years. The plot is fast paced and full of action that draws you in from the start. I feel that the author could have spent more time developing the characters - their background, motivation and overall personalities but with more books in the series I’m hoping to see the characters fleshed out. It was really interesting to read about zombies from a different perspective and I look forward to the rest of the story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Naomi Ault’s CHEW: Season One is an inventive and gripping twist on the zombie apocalypse genre. In a world where survivors are cured but still haunted by their monstrous past, the real horror begins after the cure. Allison Rose is a compelling protagonist, navigating a post-cured society alongside Will Taylor, where they soon discover the nightmare is far from over.
With sharp writing, relentless suspense, and vivid setting development, Ault crafts a thought-provoking and chilling story. If you love dystopian fiction with psychological depth and high stakes, this is a must-read. Five stars!
Magnificent! The story is simply amazing, the writing is top-notch, and the whole idea is original and quite unsettling. For a zombie story, it is absolutely realistic and never repeats itself. The characters are captivating, you start caring for them before you know it and you simply need to know what happens next (and what happened to them before!). I devoured the book in a day! Very highly recommended.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I wasn't sure about this one when I started it, but it was so good. I love the characters the world building and the story telling. I can't believe it's over I need more I need answers !! I don't normally read books like this but I cannot wait for more !!! I enjoyed it throughly. It does jump around a little bit but once the pieces fit together you realize you need those jumps to make the connections, they help map the story.
A very different take on the zombie genre! This story is fast-paced, the characters well developed and you become invested in their survival right from the first page! I want to read the next in this series, please write faster!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a brilliant set to read. Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start. Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable. Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously. Can't wait to read the next set! Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
This was a really good read! I did really enjoy this! Good selection of characters, in a completely different situation & the nightmare of trying to reintegrate into society as previous zombies! Brilliant! I did really like all about this story & will definitely look forward to the next part! I do recommend for all that love this genre!
This book was amazing! The way it starts out with Allison’s pov from the beginning was great . I love the gory parts such great description. Having to try and be normal after a supposed cure and so many rules can be such a pain. Yet Al will and kid are true rebels. Even going through Clive’s wicked games was awesome. I can’t wait to see what comes up next with this trio.
Oh wow!! I love this book, being told from her prospective makes you feel you have stepped into her shoes and you want to solve the problems for or with her. I can't wait to read more! Thank you Naomi Adult for giving us a new story for us to become so involved in.
I recieved this ARC from the Author for an honest review. I know I will be reading more of her books.
A must for lovers of Resident Evil. Although the infected are definitely smarter. Nobody knows how people first got infected, which adds suspense. Considering the past 2 years, it definitely makes one see there are worse things than getting sick and gives a new meaning to masking. The story itself has a nice flow. I was rooting for the characters to win.
I've had a soft spot for zombie apocalypse types of books. And this one was such a fun twist, with the perspective from an infected that was actually cured. The writing style was engaging and I easily got drawn into the story, quickly wanting to find out more. I will definitely have to check out Season 2 next!
I burned myself out on zombie fiction awhile ago, indiscriminately devouring (haha) every bit of it I could find. These days, it takes quite a lot to get me to read one. Luckily, Chew has my perfect trifecta for zombies - an interesting premise, extremely well-written, and interesting, fleshed-out characters. I immediately bought Season 2 as soon as I finished.
I'm a sucker for a good zombie book. And this was very good. The virus has turned the sick into zombies...and this is a story of what happens to the sick after they are cured. This is a fast paced thriller that you won't be able to put down. I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read book 2.
A decent post-cure zombie book where the previous biters are prejudiced against, sorta, but it's pretty light after a little character development and then a pretty nasty climax in a torturous crazy person's entertainment. Interesting enough to read the second one, especially since they're pretty short.