What do you think?
Rate this book
The Guardians #1
The X-Variant
This is a science fiction tale about a girl, a zombie apocalypse, and a mission back in time. The book will be released on Amazon April 14, 2017, in paperback and eBook. SPECIAL $6.99 paperback and 99 eBook from launch date through end of April only! Sorry, no pre-order is available on this title.
With her peaceful utopian world crumbling and humanity’s very existence under threat, Kala must travel back in time to 2079—when a global viral pandemic is raging—in a desperate attempt to change the course of the future.
Enter the Goodreads Giveaway to win a paperback copy!
CURRENT GIVEAWAY March 30
NEXT AND FINAL April 7-14
Check out the (can't-put-it-down) reviews on Goodreads, and read an EXCERPT on the author's website. Reviewers and bloggers, PM the author to arrange for an advance reading copy!
With her peaceful utopian world crumbling and humanity’s very existence under threat, Kala must travel back in time to 2079—when a global viral pandemic is raging—in a desperate attempt to change the course of the future.
Enter the Goodreads Giveaway to win a paperback copy!
CURRENT GIVEAWAY March 30
NEXT AND FINAL April 7-14
Check out the (can't-put-it-down) reviews on Goodreads, and read an EXCERPT on the author's website. Reviewers and bloggers, PM the author to arrange for an advance reading copy!
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 6, 2017
4 people are currently reading
786 people want to read
About the author
Rosemary Cole
14 books35 followersRosemary Cole was born in a small New England town. She has loved science fiction and fantasy since she was old enough to go to the library and take out a tall stack of books from the children's section. Since then she's been in many places around the world and done many things, but still loves working and playing with words. Her other interests are good food, good people, and the outdoors, separately or together, and she spends whatever time she can indulging in her strange obsession with post-apocalyptic themes. Her first book, The X-Variant, a sci-fi novel about a time-traveling girl and a zombie apocalypse, is available on Amazon.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 15, 2016
**Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC in return for an honest review.
4 stars!!!!
When I first started reading this book, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. But, I have to say I am pleasantly surprised. The worldbuilding is pretty phenomenal. I especially loved reading the world in which the Unathis lived in. It was rather immersive. Rosemary has a wonderful way of writing. So, the descriptions are rather vivid. I was immediately reeled in.
The MC Kala is a pretty feisty and resourceful girl. She tends to care deeply about those around her especially her loved ones. The book shows a lot of diversity in relationships which would definitely appeal to a lot of people.
On the other hand, the story progression was quite brisk. We come across a variety of characters that play different roles which are pivotal to the storyline. The story also tends to switch viewpoints within a chapter. This takes a while to get used to but it's a minor criticism. There's a lot of action but it's not of a violent nature. I would have liked to see more fight scenes with the zombies. The story is based more on the people and how they deal with their changing world. It's a story about survival. We also see quite a few plot revelations towards the end of the story which is rather interesting. But I would say that the twists and plot devices used are more subtly done than in other books of the same genre.
Overall, I would say the concept is highly original and is a great jumping off point for the rest of the series. It's a great addition to the zombie genre. I look forward to reading the sequel.
4 stars!!!!
When I first started reading this book, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. But, I have to say I am pleasantly surprised. The worldbuilding is pretty phenomenal. I especially loved reading the world in which the Unathis lived in. It was rather immersive. Rosemary has a wonderful way of writing. So, the descriptions are rather vivid. I was immediately reeled in.
The MC Kala is a pretty feisty and resourceful girl. She tends to care deeply about those around her especially her loved ones. The book shows a lot of diversity in relationships which would definitely appeal to a lot of people.
On the other hand, the story progression was quite brisk. We come across a variety of characters that play different roles which are pivotal to the storyline. The story also tends to switch viewpoints within a chapter. This takes a while to get used to but it's a minor criticism. There's a lot of action but it's not of a violent nature. I would have liked to see more fight scenes with the zombies. The story is based more on the people and how they deal with their changing world. It's a story about survival. We also see quite a few plot revelations towards the end of the story which is rather interesting. But I would say that the twists and plot devices used are more subtly done than in other books of the same genre.
Overall, I would say the concept is highly original and is a great jumping off point for the rest of the series. It's a great addition to the zombie genre. I look forward to reading the sequel.
October 6, 2017
A unique sci-fi novel where a virus meant to fight terrorist genetically mutated into a virus called SHAV that almost wipes out humankind in 2079. SHAV mutates again to be beneficial to humans and saves them.
In 2616 Kala is a Unathi, a mutated symbiotic post-human utopian like race. The symbionts communicate through drones that connect every Unathi in the world. Kala hosts the only sentient symbiont in the world named Araka. Kala was brought to the year 2600 by Araka when she was an infant. Little does she know the plans Araka has for her.
Suddenly some unathi's drones stop connecting to the Dronet and relaying information. When an inspection is done if these Unathi's drones they are normal except they cannot pass information.
Now people were disappearing rapidly, drones searched for them but it was like they were never there to begin with. The symbionts were mutating again and causing the sick people to attack healthy Unathi. They called this strain of symbiont the X-Varient.
The Unathi have to learn how to survive on the basic level in this new environment. Over half the population has been lost and it seems there is no cure. A Symbiopathologist finds that in the various symbiot strains one does not hold the variation that causes the virus, the beta strain. They decide they must got back to 2079 and change the past to save the Unathi race. Otherwise they have no hope.
Kala joins other volunteers for the mission and begins training. Araka continuously tells Kala she is stronger than she thinks but Kala will only truly understand once she has been tried to her limits what she is truly capable of.
I don't want to spoil anything else but this is a great sci-fi read! Would be a great movie!
Copy given by author for a fair and honest review.
In 2616 Kala is a Unathi, a mutated symbiotic post-human utopian like race. The symbionts communicate through drones that connect every Unathi in the world. Kala hosts the only sentient symbiont in the world named Araka. Kala was brought to the year 2600 by Araka when she was an infant. Little does she know the plans Araka has for her.
Suddenly some unathi's drones stop connecting to the Dronet and relaying information. When an inspection is done if these Unathi's drones they are normal except they cannot pass information.
Now people were disappearing rapidly, drones searched for them but it was like they were never there to begin with. The symbionts were mutating again and causing the sick people to attack healthy Unathi. They called this strain of symbiont the X-Varient.
The Unathi have to learn how to survive on the basic level in this new environment. Over half the population has been lost and it seems there is no cure. A Symbiopathologist finds that in the various symbiot strains one does not hold the variation that causes the virus, the beta strain. They decide they must got back to 2079 and change the past to save the Unathi race. Otherwise they have no hope.
Kala joins other volunteers for the mission and begins training. Araka continuously tells Kala she is stronger than she thinks but Kala will only truly understand once she has been tried to her limits what she is truly capable of.
I don't want to spoil anything else but this is a great sci-fi read! Would be a great movie!
Copy given by author for a fair and honest review.
April 18, 2017
This deceptively simple read is wonderful. The X-Variant is enjoyable on two levels and they both work. On the surface, a plague is wiping out a future version of humanity and volunteers have to travel back in time to fix the problem to save society. Full of swashbuckling action, this space opera at its best. A truly great beach read, yet treating this as only a beach read does a true disservice to the book.
Rosemary Cole has done a remarkable feat. She stuck in a truly deeply thoughtful look into humanity within an action novel. The questions are asked, what is human, what are relationships, and why do I get to play God? She also looks at humanity at war and the loss of innocence. The veterans show a cynicism that is bred by surviving in impossible situations and the true tragedy of inhumanity masked within trying to accomplish a mission of humanity. It is an amazing feat and a wonderful metaphor.
Be forewarned, this is the first of a trilogy and there are a few loose threads. However, the internal voice is consistent and moves along very nicely.
I have one question, when is the next book due? I do not want to wait. Great read.
Rosemary Cole has done a remarkable feat. She stuck in a truly deeply thoughtful look into humanity within an action novel. The questions are asked, what is human, what are relationships, and why do I get to play God? She also looks at humanity at war and the loss of innocence. The veterans show a cynicism that is bred by surviving in impossible situations and the true tragedy of inhumanity masked within trying to accomplish a mission of humanity. It is an amazing feat and a wonderful metaphor.
Be forewarned, this is the first of a trilogy and there are a few loose threads. However, the internal voice is consistent and moves along very nicely.
I have one question, when is the next book due? I do not want to wait. Great read.
September 28, 2017
Kala and the other Unathi are perfect. That is, until a defect in the genes starts to turn them into violent monsters. As the Unathi race are facing extinction, the only solution is to go back in time and eradicate this faulty gene.
I recieved a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
In the future, humans have evolved to become Unathi. A genetically engineered race that exists with a symbiont. These symbionts heal wounds and sicknesses, prolong life, inject necessary adrenaline or chemically balance any panic. They communicate with others on the dronenet, which also provides the host with information.
The Unathi are perfect. The race is intelligent and open. Feeling anger or hate is a foreign concept; and things like racism and wars are relegated to the history books.
But suddenly they are not perfect. A dormant gene has been triggered, and the Unathi are changing into Xin.
The futuristic zombies are an impressive creation. I liked that, in Cole's world, it isn't about infection or viruses. Instead, it's a genetic certainty, a time-bomb. You're never safe, because even in your group of friends, every single one is a potential Xin.
They quickly discover that there is no cure, and the Unathi will become extinct. The only solution is a radical gamble - the have to travel back in time to stop the faulty gene becoming dominant, by promoting a beta version that has no flaws.
Which all sounds nice and logical, but the truth is, their mission is to go back in time and kill all faulty gene-carriers.
It's really interesting to watch the peaceful and passive Unathi become ruthless killers. They may do it in a "humane" way, and for the greater good; but there is the question that hovers, over what right they have to interfere.
Kala, our main character, is in an even harder position. She is different to the other Unathi, she is stronger, heals faster, and has an instinct to fight and kill to defend her friends. But she is still a pacifist, and she becomes attached to the humans that the others treat as cattle.
She doesn't want to kill, even though she is the one most suited to it.
I think Cole does a really convincing job at presenting these tests of morals verse survival.
The downside:
I found the pacing very slow. There is a lot of musing, and it gets heavy explanations - ok, you need some in a sci-fi zombie story; but it felt like the writer was double-guessing how well her world would be understood, especially in the first half. There's also a fair bit of repetitiveness, as it's stressed that Kala is special, but her symbiont won't tell her why, etc.
Despite their troubles, the Unathi always came across as very bland. That's to be expected in a blended race with essentially a shared conscious; but because they were major players in this book, the blandness bled through a lot of the scenes.
I wasn't entirely convinced by the final setting. After spending so long avoiding humans and avoiding all contact with her SanFran Unathi, I found it hard to believe that Kala suddenly decided to contact the other Unathi group. There was no mention of seeking them out, or why they should be more open-minded or lenient on the humans in her group. It just sorta happened.
Overall, it was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. It ended on enough of a cliff-hanger that I'm intrigued to find out what happens next.
I recieved a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
In the future, humans have evolved to become Unathi. A genetically engineered race that exists with a symbiont. These symbionts heal wounds and sicknesses, prolong life, inject necessary adrenaline or chemically balance any panic. They communicate with others on the dronenet, which also provides the host with information.
The Unathi are perfect. The race is intelligent and open. Feeling anger or hate is a foreign concept; and things like racism and wars are relegated to the history books.
But suddenly they are not perfect. A dormant gene has been triggered, and the Unathi are changing into Xin.
The futuristic zombies are an impressive creation. I liked that, in Cole's world, it isn't about infection or viruses. Instead, it's a genetic certainty, a time-bomb. You're never safe, because even in your group of friends, every single one is a potential Xin.
They quickly discover that there is no cure, and the Unathi will become extinct. The only solution is a radical gamble - the have to travel back in time to stop the faulty gene becoming dominant, by promoting a beta version that has no flaws.
Which all sounds nice and logical, but the truth is, their mission is to go back in time and kill all faulty gene-carriers.
It's really interesting to watch the peaceful and passive Unathi become ruthless killers. They may do it in a "humane" way, and for the greater good; but there is the question that hovers, over what right they have to interfere.
Kala, our main character, is in an even harder position. She is different to the other Unathi, she is stronger, heals faster, and has an instinct to fight and kill to defend her friends. But she is still a pacifist, and she becomes attached to the humans that the others treat as cattle.
She doesn't want to kill, even though she is the one most suited to it.
I think Cole does a really convincing job at presenting these tests of morals verse survival.
The downside:
I found the pacing very slow. There is a lot of musing, and it gets heavy explanations - ok, you need some in a sci-fi zombie story; but it felt like the writer was double-guessing how well her world would be understood, especially in the first half. There's also a fair bit of repetitiveness, as it's stressed that Kala is special, but her symbiont won't tell her why, etc.
Despite their troubles, the Unathi always came across as very bland. That's to be expected in a blended race with essentially a shared conscious; but because they were major players in this book, the blandness bled through a lot of the scenes.
I wasn't entirely convinced by the final setting. After spending so long avoiding humans and avoiding all contact with her SanFran Unathi, I found it hard to believe that Kala suddenly decided to contact the other Unathi group. There was no mention of seeking them out, or why they should be more open-minded or lenient on the humans in her group. It just sorta happened.
Overall, it was a 3.5 out of 5 for me. It ended on enough of a cliff-hanger that I'm intrigued to find out what happens next.
October 10, 2019
I'm not a huge follower of science fiction, reading only parts of the genre. I generally stick to dinosaur planets, spaceships being stalked by monsters or killers, dangerous colony adventures and a bit of the dystopian Earth side of things. This one was way outside of what I normally read as I don't really go for time travel or anything with a lot of advanced technology but the addition of a form of genetic zombie type apocalypse that the group go back in time to stop did sound intriguing and it was also an X title for my alphabet challenge! I'm very glad I took a chance on this book!
In 2079 a synthetic virus destroys most of humanity. It evolves into something that spawns a superior adapted human with everyone created from this genetic material and they are hosts for symbionts that can heal them (think Teal'c from Stargate SG1). Drones from each person connect to an advanced internet called Dronet which allows instant communication between each person and access to information without an external computer. In 2616, people are becoming suddenly disconnected from Dronet, leaving them disorientated and then they turn violent and attack and kill others. This is the X-Variant. A plan is constructed to send a team of volunteers back to 2079 and kill anyone who carries a range of genes that can become the X Variant, and protect the lives of those immune to turning X. This will stop anyone from living long enough to turn dangerous and save the future by wiping out the remaining dangerous people in the 2616 timeline.
Kala is one of the few who was able to kill an attacker so she is one of the team to go back in time. She is capable and determined to do her duty but when she actually starts to meet and talk to those with the deadly genes, she finds it a lot tougher to just execute them, even to save the future. Now she is faced with the choice of either killing her new friends to save the future or saving their lives, knowing they could destroy the future while she becomes the enemy of her former colleagues. I liked Kala. She does what she needs to do in her present when her society breaks down, so she can protect those she loves. It is when faced with ordinary humans that she starts to have the doubts about killing these people even though she has seen what will happen if she doesn't. I liked that she showed these ordinary human traits and had her issues trying to follow very difficult orders.
I liked the idea of the various genes in each human determining who was going to create a line of genetics that will threaten the future. Only those with Beta genes survive the plague without causing this X-Variant so as many of them need to be saved as possible. The other versions like Alpha, Delta and Gamma all die out in the plague with none surviving into the future so they are just left alone. It is the Epsilon gene that survives the plague and causes the X-Variant and they must be executed. There are also others who in 2079 are already deadly like X-Variants and roaming the land so they need to be dealt with too (Ghals). I really enjoyed this science stuff and it was explained nicely so that people without scientific brains like me could easily understand what was going on! I also really enjoyed the tech side of things, especially the personal drones they had which can be used for tracking, communication and defence. That added a new element to the book for me.
There was enough action in the book to keep me happy. The first third of the book was the disaster in Kala's present where they were trying to evade the enemy and get to a safe place, while realising that family and friends were being eliminated. The second third goes into the mission in the past which is like a war zone with the executions, the infected roaming around, betas being rescued. That was filled with tension and dealing with Kala'sw changing attitude and relationships fracturing. We also meet the family that Kala wants to save. Brandon is Beta but his partner and child are Epsilons and are supposed to die. Smuggling them into the complex to hide them in plain sight is dangerous and against everything Kala is meant to be doing. The third part is like the zombie road trip with the added worry about being tracked by those who were your friends. It also looks at finding allies and enemies as they go along. There was a bit of everything to enjoy.
Trigger warning. Kala is in a same sex relationship with girlfriend Liet and they enter a three way relationship with a male. The relationship between the three is explored on an emotional and mental level rather than a sexual manner but I know that I have followers who don't read books with this kind of plot. We see how the close bonds between the three help them to cope with the horrors they face in their time but Liet becomes upset with Kala's ability to kill when necessary and that threatens their bonds. I can understand why Kala is upset at the lack of understanding from Liet, when all she did was protect her loved ones. This changing dynamic causes Kala a lot of pain but she also discovers what it is like to have real friends too.
I so much enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to getting the next in the series, which I think is a trilogy.
In 2079 a synthetic virus destroys most of humanity. It evolves into something that spawns a superior adapted human with everyone created from this genetic material and they are hosts for symbionts that can heal them (think Teal'c from Stargate SG1). Drones from each person connect to an advanced internet called Dronet which allows instant communication between each person and access to information without an external computer. In 2616, people are becoming suddenly disconnected from Dronet, leaving them disorientated and then they turn violent and attack and kill others. This is the X-Variant. A plan is constructed to send a team of volunteers back to 2079 and kill anyone who carries a range of genes that can become the X Variant, and protect the lives of those immune to turning X. This will stop anyone from living long enough to turn dangerous and save the future by wiping out the remaining dangerous people in the 2616 timeline.
Kala is one of the few who was able to kill an attacker so she is one of the team to go back in time. She is capable and determined to do her duty but when she actually starts to meet and talk to those with the deadly genes, she finds it a lot tougher to just execute them, even to save the future. Now she is faced with the choice of either killing her new friends to save the future or saving their lives, knowing they could destroy the future while she becomes the enemy of her former colleagues. I liked Kala. She does what she needs to do in her present when her society breaks down, so she can protect those she loves. It is when faced with ordinary humans that she starts to have the doubts about killing these people even though she has seen what will happen if she doesn't. I liked that she showed these ordinary human traits and had her issues trying to follow very difficult orders.
I liked the idea of the various genes in each human determining who was going to create a line of genetics that will threaten the future. Only those with Beta genes survive the plague without causing this X-Variant so as many of them need to be saved as possible. The other versions like Alpha, Delta and Gamma all die out in the plague with none surviving into the future so they are just left alone. It is the Epsilon gene that survives the plague and causes the X-Variant and they must be executed. There are also others who in 2079 are already deadly like X-Variants and roaming the land so they need to be dealt with too (Ghals). I really enjoyed this science stuff and it was explained nicely so that people without scientific brains like me could easily understand what was going on! I also really enjoyed the tech side of things, especially the personal drones they had which can be used for tracking, communication and defence. That added a new element to the book for me.
There was enough action in the book to keep me happy. The first third of the book was the disaster in Kala's present where they were trying to evade the enemy and get to a safe place, while realising that family and friends were being eliminated. The second third goes into the mission in the past which is like a war zone with the executions, the infected roaming around, betas being rescued. That was filled with tension and dealing with Kala'sw changing attitude and relationships fracturing. We also meet the family that Kala wants to save. Brandon is Beta but his partner and child are Epsilons and are supposed to die. Smuggling them into the complex to hide them in plain sight is dangerous and against everything Kala is meant to be doing. The third part is like the zombie road trip with the added worry about being tracked by those who were your friends. It also looks at finding allies and enemies as they go along. There was a bit of everything to enjoy.
Trigger warning. Kala is in a same sex relationship with girlfriend Liet and they enter a three way relationship with a male. The relationship between the three is explored on an emotional and mental level rather than a sexual manner but I know that I have followers who don't read books with this kind of plot. We see how the close bonds between the three help them to cope with the horrors they face in their time but Liet becomes upset with Kala's ability to kill when necessary and that threatens their bonds. I can understand why Kala is upset at the lack of understanding from Liet, when all she did was protect her loved ones. This changing dynamic causes Kala a lot of pain but she also discovers what it is like to have real friends too.
I so much enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to getting the next in the series, which I think is a trilogy.
June 16, 2017
In 2079, humans have developed a cure for cancer, and seem to be on the route to a healthier future. In a roundabout way, they sort of are – it’ll just take a few centuries to get there. See, this miracle cure mutated into SHAV, a virus that went airborne and turned many people into a sort of zombie. This catastrophe ended up having a surprisingly positive benefit: the survivors evolved into a race of superhumans, with symbionts living inside them that boost their strength, awareness, and overall health. By 2616, this new race – the Unathi – have a utopian society free of hatred, jealousy, inequality, or sickness.
That is, until some of them begin to inexplicably change into feral cannibals called Xin. Scientists scramble to find answers, and determine that all the Xin have a particular variation of SHAV (the epsilon strain) that is now sparking a second worldwide apocalypse. The solution? Travel back to 2079, after SHAV was viral, and wipe out all the epsilons so they never exist in the Unathi future. We follow one particular group of Unathi (Kala and her bondmates, Liet and Crisfer) as they travel into their past – and potentially erase their future.
This may seem complicated or far-fetched, but the plot of The X-Variant is actually very convincing and well explained. Rosemary Cole does a superb job providing background info throughout the story without hampering the plot or character development. At first, the Unathi seem rather sterile – they’re all so passive and “perfect” that they were rather helpless when things became chaotic. However, every time I felt like things were about to get dull or predictable, Cole would bring out a new side of Kala, who grows into an interesting and complex character. The only downside to this was that it never felt like Kala was truly in peril, even when the existence of humanity (Unathi-ty?) was at risk – she’s beyond superhuman, so difficult situations often became very easy for her to power her way through.
The cast of characters were mostly fleshed out, with the humans being the most engaging. Kala’s bondmate, Liet, has journal entries scattered throughout the chapters that provide a little more personality and help break up the rather formal Unathi tone. Cole put a lot of research and work into the technology of the two time periods and the biology of the Unathi (and their biomechanical drones), and it pays off with a very coherent world. This coherence, along with a lively plot, places this book very high in my esteem – especially since this is not usually my preferred genre. “Zombie apocalypse” storylines are a dime a dozen these days, but Cole really provides a unique perspective that keeps things tense without getting too bogged down in the depressing stuff.
I don’t want to spoil the ups and downs of this genuinely gripping novel, so I will simply say the book is very hard to put down once you start it. The only time I felt like the story was losing steam was during the last thirty pages, but Cole brought it all together by the end, leaving me desperate to read the next installment. (I also want to say that the cover looks spectacular!) The X-Variant is pretty much the total package for a solid, creative sci-fi story!
That is, until some of them begin to inexplicably change into feral cannibals called Xin. Scientists scramble to find answers, and determine that all the Xin have a particular variation of SHAV (the epsilon strain) that is now sparking a second worldwide apocalypse. The solution? Travel back to 2079, after SHAV was viral, and wipe out all the epsilons so they never exist in the Unathi future. We follow one particular group of Unathi (Kala and her bondmates, Liet and Crisfer) as they travel into their past – and potentially erase their future.
This may seem complicated or far-fetched, but the plot of The X-Variant is actually very convincing and well explained. Rosemary Cole does a superb job providing background info throughout the story without hampering the plot or character development. At first, the Unathi seem rather sterile – they’re all so passive and “perfect” that they were rather helpless when things became chaotic. However, every time I felt like things were about to get dull or predictable, Cole would bring out a new side of Kala, who grows into an interesting and complex character. The only downside to this was that it never felt like Kala was truly in peril, even when the existence of humanity (Unathi-ty?) was at risk – she’s beyond superhuman, so difficult situations often became very easy for her to power her way through.
The cast of characters were mostly fleshed out, with the humans being the most engaging. Kala’s bondmate, Liet, has journal entries scattered throughout the chapters that provide a little more personality and help break up the rather formal Unathi tone. Cole put a lot of research and work into the technology of the two time periods and the biology of the Unathi (and their biomechanical drones), and it pays off with a very coherent world. This coherence, along with a lively plot, places this book very high in my esteem – especially since this is not usually my preferred genre. “Zombie apocalypse” storylines are a dime a dozen these days, but Cole really provides a unique perspective that keeps things tense without getting too bogged down in the depressing stuff.
I don’t want to spoil the ups and downs of this genuinely gripping novel, so I will simply say the book is very hard to put down once you start it. The only time I felt like the story was losing steam was during the last thirty pages, but Cole brought it all together by the end, leaving me desperate to read the next installment. (I also want to say that the cover looks spectacular!) The X-Variant is pretty much the total package for a solid, creative sci-fi story!
June 13, 2017
I really enjoyed this slightly different take on the Zombie genre. The X-Variant presents us with multiple worlds. The near future where an engineered virus is killing humanity and a far future world where the survivors have built a utopian society. Rosemary has done a great job of creating characters that I wanted to root for and see succeed. Without giving much away, the "end of the world" virus that causes all of the issue has multiple engineered mutations. Some of them have a strain that causes humans to mutate into zombies. There is plenty of action but the violence is not over the top. There are indirect references to sex but nothing that would make me upset if my teen child read it.
This novel kept my interest and I really want to get the rest of the series. It is a really good story. Good job.
This novel kept my interest and I really want to get the rest of the series. It is a really good story. Good job.
October 1, 2017
Review: THE X-VARIANT by Rosemary Cole (THE GUARDIANS #1)
Welcome to the Hive Mind! Usually, such a phrase elicits terror, as when we think of The Borg {"Resistance is futile!"} or we remember "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" or "The Blob." However, Rosemary Cole's version, the Dronenet, is actually positive, and the society is utopian. This fact is even more amazing given that it is the outgrowth of a viral pandemic apocalypse, nearly 5.5 centuries earlier.
Not only did I applaud the outcome; THE X-VARIANT is a tremendously fast-paced sci fi thriller, with tons of suspense and empathetic characters. I finished eager to read the sequel (in 2018).
Thanks to author Rosemary Cole and Goodreads Group Shut Up and Read, for so generously providing a digital copy at no cost.
Welcome to the Hive Mind! Usually, such a phrase elicits terror, as when we think of The Borg {"Resistance is futile!"} or we remember "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" or "The Blob." However, Rosemary Cole's version, the Dronenet, is actually positive, and the society is utopian. This fact is even more amazing given that it is the outgrowth of a viral pandemic apocalypse, nearly 5.5 centuries earlier.
Not only did I applaud the outcome; THE X-VARIANT is a tremendously fast-paced sci fi thriller, with tons of suspense and empathetic characters. I finished eager to read the sequel (in 2018).
Thanks to author Rosemary Cole and Goodreads Group Shut Up and Read, for so generously providing a digital copy at no cost.
April 8, 2017
From the first page to the last it had my interest.
Loved the concept and I really enjoyed reading it.
I received this book from the author in return for my honest opinion.
Loved the concept and I really enjoyed reading it.
I received this book from the author in return for my honest opinion.
April 14, 2017
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
First Impresson: I really appreciate well-done covers, and this one is intriguing!
Characters: The future humanoids are advanced in some ways, and like children in others. They learn complex emotions from humans, and provide advanced technologies in return. I wanted to see more character development...to care about Kala and her team more.
World Building: Most of the story focuses on interaction and dialog. However, there are pieces mixed in of a believable old and new Earth. The symbionts' origin story and description are fascinating, almost as if they are separate characters in the story.
Writing Style: Cole has a honed ability using metaphor and imagery to paint a picture. This was the main feature that stood out to me, and I think it could be used to develop the characters and relationships a bit more.
What I Enjoyed: The dystopian, post-apocalyptic meets zombie survival story mixed with enough science to be plausible if yet fiction. The symbiotic host factor was interesting...I would have like to know more about where Kala's came from, but I suspect that is reserved for the second installment.
Deal Benders: I didn't care about the characters, so I give this book a solid three stars. Hopefully as the story progresses we will get to know them better. I also found myself with more questions than answers.
Overall Rating: 3 stars.
First Impresson: I really appreciate well-done covers, and this one is intriguing!
Characters: The future humanoids are advanced in some ways, and like children in others. They learn complex emotions from humans, and provide advanced technologies in return. I wanted to see more character development...to care about Kala and her team more.
World Building: Most of the story focuses on interaction and dialog. However, there are pieces mixed in of a believable old and new Earth. The symbionts' origin story and description are fascinating, almost as if they are separate characters in the story.
Writing Style: Cole has a honed ability using metaphor and imagery to paint a picture. This was the main feature that stood out to me, and I think it could be used to develop the characters and relationships a bit more.
What I Enjoyed: The dystopian, post-apocalyptic meets zombie survival story mixed with enough science to be plausible if yet fiction. The symbiotic host factor was interesting...I would have like to know more about where Kala's came from, but I suspect that is reserved for the second installment.
Deal Benders: I didn't care about the characters, so I give this book a solid three stars. Hopefully as the story progresses we will get to know them better. I also found myself with more questions than answers.
Overall Rating: 3 stars.
April 10, 2017
I was a beta reader, and it is really hard for me to write negative review, but I have to, because this book is bad.
Pros: The idea of post apocalyptic world is really great! All this stuff about Drones and Dronet, people of the future - is really cool!
Cons: Obviously, this book doesn't pretend to be a high literature (it is not bad, of course), but the language is way too primitive.
This book looks very similar to Walking Dead without zombies.And in the future. But these facts don't change anything.
Dialogues repeat each other and are very boring...
You can read just first and last sentence of each paragraph and you will not miss anything (just try! It's fun!)
This is only the 1st book of many others (it means it doesn't tell the story by itself, it is ended when the main story about virus is just started). I think it is not very good start for such a book, but it is very trendy now (look at Divergent and all the other wastepaper).
I don't like this book. However, I am very-very-very picky reader, so maybe you will like?
Pros: The idea of post apocalyptic world is really great! All this stuff about Drones and Dronet, people of the future - is really cool!
Cons: Obviously, this book doesn't pretend to be a high literature (it is not bad, of course), but the language is way too primitive.
This book looks very similar to Walking Dead without zombies.And in the future. But these facts don't change anything.
Dialogues repeat each other and are very boring...
You can read just first and last sentence of each paragraph and you will not miss anything (just try! It's fun!)
This is only the 1st book of many others (it means it doesn't tell the story by itself, it is ended when the main story about virus is just started). I think it is not very good start for such a book, but it is very trendy now (look at Divergent and all the other wastepaper).
I don't like this book. However, I am very-very-very picky reader, so maybe you will like?
March 8, 2017
The X-Variant is definitely a wild ride through both a post-apocalyptic world and through time. The premise of the book intrigued me when I first read it, and I wanted to see how exactly the book would play out. I was definitely not disappointed.
The book starts with a bang, and then immediately changes things in the next chapter. It's a pretty unique way to begin, and I felt myself being drawn in right away. After the craziness at the very beginning, the book surges ahead to the year 2616 and sets the plot that will carry you through. Once Kala and the other characters travel back in time to 2079, the rest of the book stays there, playing out in all its complete and utterly insane glory. It's a beautiful thing to behold.
What starts as a mission to change the future ends up becoming a battle of morals; of good versus evil; of what it really means to be human.
I really, really enjoyed The X-Variant. It's got all the elements I like in a sci-fi story: time travel, apocalyptic themes, a mutated virus, etc. It's thrilling, and definitely worth reading.
The characters are all pretty great. Kala is the main one, and you feel a connection with her as she struggles to come to terms with what's being asked of her, and what she actually feels is the right thing to do. There are characters who start out as good people (they're Kala's friends), but by the end, you absolutely despise them. One in particular. I also felt a strong connection to the main human character (I think her name is Jenny, but I'm drawing a blank) because of her circumstances.
The plot is paced in a quick, but steady way, and you'll find yourself speeding through, eager to see what might happen next. By the end, I was an emotional wreck. Tears were shed, my heart was pounding, and I felt eager for more. I'm so looking forward to the next book!
If you like post-apocalyptic sci-fi with zombie-like creatures, then The X-Variant is definitely the book for you. I highly recommend it. 5 well-deserved stars!
The book starts with a bang, and then immediately changes things in the next chapter. It's a pretty unique way to begin, and I felt myself being drawn in right away. After the craziness at the very beginning, the book surges ahead to the year 2616 and sets the plot that will carry you through. Once Kala and the other characters travel back in time to 2079, the rest of the book stays there, playing out in all its complete and utterly insane glory. It's a beautiful thing to behold.
What starts as a mission to change the future ends up becoming a battle of morals; of good versus evil; of what it really means to be human.
I really, really enjoyed The X-Variant. It's got all the elements I like in a sci-fi story: time travel, apocalyptic themes, a mutated virus, etc. It's thrilling, and definitely worth reading.
The characters are all pretty great. Kala is the main one, and you feel a connection with her as she struggles to come to terms with what's being asked of her, and what she actually feels is the right thing to do. There are characters who start out as good people (they're Kala's friends), but by the end, you absolutely despise them. One in particular. I also felt a strong connection to the main human character (I think her name is Jenny, but I'm drawing a blank) because of her circumstances.
The plot is paced in a quick, but steady way, and you'll find yourself speeding through, eager to see what might happen next. By the end, I was an emotional wreck. Tears were shed, my heart was pounding, and I felt eager for more. I'm so looking forward to the next book!
If you like post-apocalyptic sci-fi with zombie-like creatures, then The X-Variant is definitely the book for you. I highly recommend it. 5 well-deserved stars!
June 22, 2017
This was a hit/miss for me. It squeaks to a 4-star due to rounding up. Okay, with that out of the way...
The concept is what sells me, overall. In the near-future, a man-made virus creams Earth and humanity. The only saving grace is that the virus mutates and half a millennium later, a new race has evolved; peaceful, open (hippies!), heavy-tech, and co-existence is had.
But - utopia doesn't last and mutation begins again. This time, the only way to save the Unathi is to travel back in time. The kicker, though: The peaceful Unathi must kill all humans infected with the strain that ultimately would destroy all living forms. A little trippy. A little more juxtaposition between hippy commune and waging war for the greater good. That is as deep as I want to go so I don't spoil all that unfolds.
The book was pretty slow going for me, but it does pick up. There is a 'conclusion' to this book so readers aren't totally left waiting for book 2. Of course, there is plenty of story left. I think the remaining, untold story could prove to be pretty fun.
ARC provided.
The concept is what sells me, overall. In the near-future, a man-made virus creams Earth and humanity. The only saving grace is that the virus mutates and half a millennium later, a new race has evolved; peaceful, open (hippies!), heavy-tech, and co-existence is had.
But - utopia doesn't last and mutation begins again. This time, the only way to save the Unathi is to travel back in time. The kicker, though: The peaceful Unathi must kill all humans infected with the strain that ultimately would destroy all living forms. A little trippy. A little more juxtaposition between hippy commune and waging war for the greater good. That is as deep as I want to go so I don't spoil all that unfolds.
The book was pretty slow going for me, but it does pick up. There is a 'conclusion' to this book so readers aren't totally left waiting for book 2. Of course, there is plenty of story left. I think the remaining, untold story could prove to be pretty fun.
ARC provided.
May 18, 2017
Futuristic Perfect Utopia? Time travel? Zombies?
What more could you ask for!
I got this book through a giveaway! And I was not disappointed!
What would you do? To save the human race you have to go back in time and kill humans with a certain strain, your and your friend's ancestors.
You succeed, you save the world and human race but you also wipe you and everybody you know from existence!
What's more important?
The survival of the human race?
Or everybody you know and love?
This book was awesome. Well written, just enough excitement and intrigue to keep you reading.
I recommend anybody who love sci-fi to pick this book up.
Very good.
What more could you ask for!
I got this book through a giveaway! And I was not disappointed!
What would you do? To save the human race you have to go back in time and kill humans with a certain strain, your and your friend's ancestors.
You succeed, you save the world and human race but you also wipe you and everybody you know from existence!
What's more important?
The survival of the human race?
Or everybody you know and love?
This book was awesome. Well written, just enough excitement and intrigue to keep you reading.
I recommend anybody who love sci-fi to pick this book up.
Very good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2017
I was sent this book for an honest review...this is what I think.
It is the first installment of the story of a virus that endangers the human race. There are two timelines to consider. The protagonist must travel back in time to put things right.
There is great world building and some good character development, although it is confusing at times. It was interesting to note that there was no longer individuality or relationships in the old sense. It did become more involved about halfway through the story.
Overall, a well-told dystopian tale.
It is the first installment of the story of a virus that endangers the human race. There are two timelines to consider. The protagonist must travel back in time to put things right.
There is great world building and some good character development, although it is confusing at times. It was interesting to note that there was no longer individuality or relationships in the old sense. It did become more involved about halfway through the story.
Overall, a well-told dystopian tale.
May 13, 2019
Disclaimer: I received this ebook free from an online contest. I do not know the author and have received no solicitation for a review.
This book has an apocalypse, time travel, not-so-typical zombies, advanced tech, social issues, and more, which is why I can't quite categorize it. I guess it's a zombie apoca-sci-fi action social commentary. Yeah, I think that covers it.
Despite my snarky comments, this is a well written book that held my attention throughout. The characters are three dimensional and likeable. The time travel twist is reminiscent of The Terminator, but is much more interesting. Overall, a very good effort, and I plan to read more from this author.
This book has an apocalypse, time travel, not-so-typical zombies, advanced tech, social issues, and more, which is why I can't quite categorize it. I guess it's a zombie apoca-sci-fi action social commentary. Yeah, I think that covers it.
Despite my snarky comments, this is a well written book that held my attention throughout. The characters are three dimensional and likeable. The time travel twist is reminiscent of The Terminator, but is much more interesting. Overall, a very good effort, and I plan to read more from this author.
May 8, 2017
received a free copy,voluntarily reviewed unique fast paced, book
takes several surprising twists,
look forward to reading more of this series highly recommend it.
takes several surprising twists,
look forward to reading more of this series highly recommend it.
June 14, 2017
I am not a big fan of dystopias however this is really a fine work.
October 31, 2021
This was way better than I expected. The world building of the Unathis and the human and the interaction of the two is great.
October 31, 2016
A thoroughly enjoyable read!
March 1, 2017
In 2079 a cure for cancer was discovered but instead of curing cancer a virus was unleashed onto the world causing a zombie apocalypse which wiped out most of humanity.
In 2616 a new and stronger form of humans has been created. No longer do women become pregnant but babies are born in a tube which are then adopted and given to what are called care parents.
In 2616 strange things are happening to people all over the globe people are changing. The world is in danger of being wiped out again by zombies. To stop humanity from being wiped out again a group of people are sent back in time to the year 2079 in hopes of stopping the virus that is causing people to change.
Kala along with her bondmates all volunteer to go back to 2079 to help stop the virus from reaching their time and hoping to save humanity from the zombies.
Kala is very tough cookie and knows exactly what she wants and she can also take care of herself. Kala is a little different from anyone else but who or what she maybe is not clear. But I have some theories of my own on the matter. So what is Kala or who is she? What makes her different from others like her?
I have truly enjoyed the world that the author has created for The X-Variant. I love that the zombies are way different than any zombies that I have read before. I know that they don’t actually call them zombies but I do love me some zombies so I kind of like calling them that. I also love knowing how the zombie virus was created.
If you love zombies then come on and team up with Kala on her adventures from 2616 to 2079. If you like zombies and the apocalypse then I think you will probably love The X-Variant. So pick up your copy today and get started reading!
In 2616 a new and stronger form of humans has been created. No longer do women become pregnant but babies are born in a tube which are then adopted and given to what are called care parents.
In 2616 strange things are happening to people all over the globe people are changing. The world is in danger of being wiped out again by zombies. To stop humanity from being wiped out again a group of people are sent back in time to the year 2079 in hopes of stopping the virus that is causing people to change.
Kala along with her bondmates all volunteer to go back to 2079 to help stop the virus from reaching their time and hoping to save humanity from the zombies.
Kala is very tough cookie and knows exactly what she wants and she can also take care of herself. Kala is a little different from anyone else but who or what she maybe is not clear. But I have some theories of my own on the matter. So what is Kala or who is she? What makes her different from others like her?
I have truly enjoyed the world that the author has created for The X-Variant. I love that the zombies are way different than any zombies that I have read before. I know that they don’t actually call them zombies but I do love me some zombies so I kind of like calling them that. I also love knowing how the zombie virus was created.
If you love zombies then come on and team up with Kala on her adventures from 2616 to 2079. If you like zombies and the apocalypse then I think you will probably love The X-Variant. So pick up your copy today and get started reading!
February 3, 2017
This is a time travel sci-fi story set in the future. A previously deadly now symbiotic virus starts to mutate and becomes lethal once more, only in a different way this time.
I think this book would make a good movie! The story is quite unique in my opinion. Finally an author who has her own ideas and her own tale to tell! (This is quite rare nowadays unfortunately)
The writing style of Ms Cole is flawless and vibrant, it is very easy to be there with the characters. I liked how she focused on the people and their ways of dealing with the changes in the world they had known until the mutation. Changing the point of views was a good idea I think, it was easy to understand everyone's motivations. One character even wrote a diary which I loved!
The main character, Kala, is very well described. She has her struggles and doubts but these make her stronger and she fights for what she thinks to be right. It was nice to be with her on this journey and to see her grow and change. The supporting characters also have their own personalities and their own unique ways to change their world or at least try to live through the changes. I liked almost all of them. There was only one who I loved not to like :)
The ending is good, with some cliffhanger, but this is going to be a series afterall so I don't find it to be a problem. There is also a twist which wasn't expected.
There were only some minor inconsistencies in the story because of time traveling, but they were not disturbing.
I would recommend this book to everyone who likes a good dystopia and talented new authors :)
*I have recieved this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I think this book would make a good movie! The story is quite unique in my opinion. Finally an author who has her own ideas and her own tale to tell! (This is quite rare nowadays unfortunately)
The writing style of Ms Cole is flawless and vibrant, it is very easy to be there with the characters. I liked how she focused on the people and their ways of dealing with the changes in the world they had known until the mutation. Changing the point of views was a good idea I think, it was easy to understand everyone's motivations. One character even wrote a diary which I loved!
The main character, Kala, is very well described. She has her struggles and doubts but these make her stronger and she fights for what she thinks to be right. It was nice to be with her on this journey and to see her grow and change. The supporting characters also have their own personalities and their own unique ways to change their world or at least try to live through the changes. I liked almost all of them. There was only one who I loved not to like :)
The ending is good, with some cliffhanger, but this is going to be a series afterall so I don't find it to be a problem. There is also a twist which wasn't expected.
There were only some minor inconsistencies in the story because of time traveling, but they were not disturbing.
I would recommend this book to everyone who likes a good dystopia and talented new authors :)
*I have recieved this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
January 18, 2018
En voilà un livre qui ne m’a aussi surprise de par son histoire.
The X-Variant est une pure sci-fi comme je les aime. Il y a de l’action, une très belle intrigue et surtout un putain d’univers de ouf. Bon ok, j’exagère avec le mot « ouf » mais… whoua quoi !
On connait tous un monde post-apocalyptique où il y a des humains qui tentent de survivre ou qui fontt tout pour sauver leur monde en remontant dans le temps (petite pensée à l’armée des douze singes). Eh bien, ce roman est dans cette optique. Il y a eu une catastrophe à grande échelle car l’homme pensait bien faire (pour une fois que le gouvernement n’y est pour rien… enfin pas totalement) en voulant décimer le cancer mais voilà, il y a eu un couac et des siècles plus tard, ça a donnéune nouvelle race d’individus : les Unathi. Et notre histoire suit une Unathi du nom de Kala qui a été envoyé dans le passé afin de sauver l’humanité.
Que dire ce personnage ? On pourrait dire pas mal de choses sur elle mais ça serait un chouilla spoiler l’histoire. Mais en résumé je dirais que c’est une fille qui a du caractère, le sens du courage qui est souvent mis à rude épreuve et… une personne dont j’ai eu un peu mal à voir les émotions. D’ailleurs, je me suis demandé si ce n’était pas à cause de son symbiose. Car quand elle est face à un humain, elle parait froide mais quand elle parle à son symbiose du nom Araka, ben elle semble être plus douce avec lui.
Et là vous vous demandez : mais est-ce qu’il y a une romance dans cette histoire? Je vais vous rire au nez en vous disant : non. Il y en a eu mais sincèrement, elle n’avait pas sa place dans l’histoire. Disons qu’elle a disparue très rapidement. Oui Kala avait un chéri du nom Liet mais ce dernier… ben… voilà quoi.
Je vous ai parlé de Symbiose. Alors je ne vais pas entrer dans les grands détails mais sachez qu’il s’agit d’une espèce de chose qui s’est développé dans le corps de l’individu. Grace à cela, l’humain peut communiquer avec lui et aussi avec les autres par télépathie. Et en plus de cela, l’humain peut créer des « drones » (ils sont assez petit) qui sortent de leur peau. Ouais bon ça parait chelou ce que je dis, c’est vrai mais rien que ça, je trouve que Rosemary à une imagination débordante ! Et franchement J’ADORE !!!
Et comme toute histoire, il y a des méchants mais là encore, ceux-là sont très particulier.
The X-Variant est un super roman à lire. Il se lit très rapidement, il y a pas mal d’explications sur la situation humaine passée et future (et c’est pas assommant). Il y a aussi des protagonistes qui sont intéressant comme Jennie et Brandon, deux rescapé du passé que Kala va s’occuper avec leur bébé (retenez bien qu’il y a un bébé).
Bref, il y a de quoi faire et apprécier.
Surtout avec cette fin… mais cette fin… j’ai une seule théorie du chaos en tête (il me parait la plus logique mais… What quoi !).
The X-Variant est une pure sci-fi comme je les aime. Il y a de l’action, une très belle intrigue et surtout un putain d’univers de ouf. Bon ok, j’exagère avec le mot « ouf » mais… whoua quoi !
On connait tous un monde post-apocalyptique où il y a des humains qui tentent de survivre ou qui fontt tout pour sauver leur monde en remontant dans le temps (petite pensée à l’armée des douze singes). Eh bien, ce roman est dans cette optique. Il y a eu une catastrophe à grande échelle car l’homme pensait bien faire (pour une fois que le gouvernement n’y est pour rien… enfin pas totalement) en voulant décimer le cancer mais voilà, il y a eu un couac et des siècles plus tard, ça a donnéune nouvelle race d’individus : les Unathi. Et notre histoire suit une Unathi du nom de Kala qui a été envoyé dans le passé afin de sauver l’humanité.
Que dire ce personnage ? On pourrait dire pas mal de choses sur elle mais ça serait un chouilla spoiler l’histoire. Mais en résumé je dirais que c’est une fille qui a du caractère, le sens du courage qui est souvent mis à rude épreuve et… une personne dont j’ai eu un peu mal à voir les émotions. D’ailleurs, je me suis demandé si ce n’était pas à cause de son symbiose. Car quand elle est face à un humain, elle parait froide mais quand elle parle à son symbiose du nom Araka, ben elle semble être plus douce avec lui.
Et là vous vous demandez : mais est-ce qu’il y a une romance dans cette histoire? Je vais vous rire au nez en vous disant : non. Il y en a eu mais sincèrement, elle n’avait pas sa place dans l’histoire. Disons qu’elle a disparue très rapidement. Oui Kala avait un chéri du nom Liet mais ce dernier… ben… voilà quoi.
Je vous ai parlé de Symbiose. Alors je ne vais pas entrer dans les grands détails mais sachez qu’il s’agit d’une espèce de chose qui s’est développé dans le corps de l’individu. Grace à cela, l’humain peut communiquer avec lui et aussi avec les autres par télépathie. Et en plus de cela, l’humain peut créer des « drones » (ils sont assez petit) qui sortent de leur peau. Ouais bon ça parait chelou ce que je dis, c’est vrai mais rien que ça, je trouve que Rosemary à une imagination débordante ! Et franchement J’ADORE !!!
Et comme toute histoire, il y a des méchants mais là encore, ceux-là sont très particulier.
The X-Variant est un super roman à lire. Il se lit très rapidement, il y a pas mal d’explications sur la situation humaine passée et future (et c’est pas assommant). Il y a aussi des protagonistes qui sont intéressant comme Jennie et Brandon, deux rescapé du passé que Kala va s’occuper avec leur bébé (retenez bien qu’il y a un bébé).
Bref, il y a de quoi faire et apprécier.
Surtout avec cette fin… mais cette fin… j’ai une seule théorie du chaos en tête (il me parait la plus logique mais… What quoi !).
February 12, 2017
**** 4.5 Cranky Stars ****
In the year 2079 scientists developed a viral strain intended to heal cancer but it ends up being used as a weapon instead which turns into an international pandemic which almost wipes out the human race.
600 years down the line the descendants of these humans have learned to lead a symbiotic life with this virus which has evolved to be beneficial to them. Known as the Unathi, they are all test tube babies, there are no pregnancies, couples become care parents. There is little disease as each person has a symbiont being living in them who heals them, they do not have cell phones or computers, they communicate with each other as well as the community at large via personal drones and the dronet.
They are human but they also aren't. They are complacent in this ideal life when without warning the virus again mutates and the Unathi are almost wiped out.
Kala and her two bond-mates are among a group of young people who volunteer to time travel back to 2076 to change the past and save humanity.
Initially I found it hard to connect with Kala as a "person" although I found the story riveting from the word go, it was a bit clinical and documentary like, however as the story unfolded, Kala became real to me and I thoroughly enjoyed the story and award it 4.5 stars
May 15, 2018
First, my apologies to the author, who probably thinks I'm the world's biggest git for not getting this review out months ago, despite how much I LOVED this book. As a matter of fact, I'm pretty sure this is my favorite book of the year. Though I haven't read as much as I usually do, X Varient still beat a LOT of other books! Reading the book was just bad timing - I read it right before I had surgery, and though I thought I was going to be laying around in bed, bored out of my mind recovering, in fact all I did was sleep, and then sleep some more, and then went right back to work, when all I did for another 6 weeks was work, and sleep, and then sleep some more. Then it was getting read for vacation & taking vacation, the end of my band concert season for another year, our anniversary, etc etc... and I just never got around to the review. Please know, the author was amazing and has been very patient in dealing with pain in the butt me and the delay was not due to how amazing the book was!
So, all of that to say the book was great. I mean, a time traveling zombie book? Who knew? This is the first book of a series & I can't wait to read the next one & I hope the author is kind enough to let me get my hands on a review copy...
Kala is just the right kind of heroine - she's brave - but not crazy ridiculous brave so you don't believe it brave, and smart, but not that annoying kind of smart where you can't even talk to the person. She's confident, but not full of herself. She has flaws, which makes her human and relatable and likable. Most of the other characters are that right blend of qualities that makes you like them, believe in them, root for them. That's what makes a book a five star book to me, it's the characters that make you fall in love with them.
The world building in this is just amazing too - I hate books that you can't picture the world around you, those books just fall flat for me, but from the very beginning you can see the action happening, and i kept thinking what a great movie this would make, because I could see the movie forming in my head.
If you aren't a big fan of the zombie genre, this book is a good one for you to get your feet wet - yes, it's a zombie book and yes, you will see zombies, but the book is about the people and survival, and not the big gruesome blood & guts scenes you see in shows or comics like the Walking Dead.
This review was originally posted on Rambling Reviews
So, all of that to say the book was great. I mean, a time traveling zombie book? Who knew? This is the first book of a series & I can't wait to read the next one & I hope the author is kind enough to let me get my hands on a review copy...
Kala is just the right kind of heroine - she's brave - but not crazy ridiculous brave so you don't believe it brave, and smart, but not that annoying kind of smart where you can't even talk to the person. She's confident, but not full of herself. She has flaws, which makes her human and relatable and likable. Most of the other characters are that right blend of qualities that makes you like them, believe in them, root for them. That's what makes a book a five star book to me, it's the characters that make you fall in love with them.
The world building in this is just amazing too - I hate books that you can't picture the world around you, those books just fall flat for me, but from the very beginning you can see the action happening, and i kept thinking what a great movie this would make, because I could see the movie forming in my head.
If you aren't a big fan of the zombie genre, this book is a good one for you to get your feet wet - yes, it's a zombie book and yes, you will see zombies, but the book is about the people and survival, and not the big gruesome blood & guts scenes you see in shows or comics like the Walking Dead.
This review was originally posted on Rambling Reviews
January 12, 2017
I recently read the ARC for the first of The Guardian Series by Rosemary Cole. It is called The X Variant and frankly, I could not put the book down once I started it. It made me curious and that made me keep reading it. I am a huge fan of thrillers and things somewhat dystopian. It kind of makes me imagine a world which is not the way it is currently but is somewhat plausible. So was the case with this book. Once I started reading, I sort of knew it would probably be a bit of a cliché but then, it was way too engrossing to put down.
The plot revolves around the life of Kala – an Unathi (yeah, one of those tribes humans have transformed into way into the future). How she time-travels from a dystopian world and interacts with human beings to fight for a cause is the overall theme. Now the thing is that I don’t want to let out more about the plot since the book is yet to come out in the markets.
So let’s get rightaway to what I liked about the book. For starters, I think the author’s flawless writing style makes the book quite an easy yet interesting read. It may be a while before you realize about the time-travel aspect but then that’s not too bad either. I liked the way the author has etched out Kala’s character to the maximum detail. I could so very well imagine and picturize the entire story as I read it. In fact, I do believe the book could be turned into a good movie. Yeah, I could so see that happen! It’s a good sci-fi story with a strong female protagonist leading the plot for almost all of it.
At the same point of time, there are a few things that were not quite there! For instance, what led to the entire debacle could have been explained better. Now while the plot is unique in singularity, I felt it was a tad bit predictable (or maybe it was just me). The cliffhanger that the author leaves us with at the end was something I anticipated happening when I was only mid-way though the book. I wish it hadn’t been that obvious.
Having said that, I strongly feel this book is an interesting read which I definitely enjoyed. Well, enough to want to read the next one in the series. This one was the first in the Guardian Trilogy. As of now, I can only hope that the second one comes out soon enough.
The plot revolves around the life of Kala – an Unathi (yeah, one of those tribes humans have transformed into way into the future). How she time-travels from a dystopian world and interacts with human beings to fight for a cause is the overall theme. Now the thing is that I don’t want to let out more about the plot since the book is yet to come out in the markets.
So let’s get rightaway to what I liked about the book. For starters, I think the author’s flawless writing style makes the book quite an easy yet interesting read. It may be a while before you realize about the time-travel aspect but then that’s not too bad either. I liked the way the author has etched out Kala’s character to the maximum detail. I could so very well imagine and picturize the entire story as I read it. In fact, I do believe the book could be turned into a good movie. Yeah, I could so see that happen! It’s a good sci-fi story with a strong female protagonist leading the plot for almost all of it.
At the same point of time, there are a few things that were not quite there! For instance, what led to the entire debacle could have been explained better. Now while the plot is unique in singularity, I felt it was a tad bit predictable (or maybe it was just me). The cliffhanger that the author leaves us with at the end was something I anticipated happening when I was only mid-way though the book. I wish it hadn’t been that obvious.
Having said that, I strongly feel this book is an interesting read which I definitely enjoyed. Well, enough to want to read the next one in the series. This one was the first in the Guardian Trilogy. As of now, I can only hope that the second one comes out soon enough.
November 23, 2016
A great read and a very interesting concept.
i'll admit I had my doubts when I first started reading, but they were quickly overshadowed by everything else.
I don't want to give anything away but I would recommend this to all the sci-fi fans out there. I feel like each part of the book comes together to form the story perfectly so I don't want to ruin anything but they are very developed characters and a well planned and structured storey.
i'll admit I had my doubts when I first started reading, but they were quickly overshadowed by everything else.
I don't want to give anything away but I would recommend this to all the sci-fi fans out there. I feel like each part of the book comes together to form the story perfectly so I don't want to ruin anything but they are very developed characters and a well planned and structured storey.
April 27, 2017
Loved this story! Great characters and intriguing plot. Enjoyed the combination of zombies and futuristic human race as well as the science element of the symbionts and drones! The most extraordinary feature was the blurring of science and religion highlighting the false distinctions society has placed between the two. It has adventure, romance and suspense, and just enough dystopian dread to make us wish for the next one!
August 28, 2022
The plot is created in almost a list format - 1 futuristic fact after another without enough background. I mean I need background or history to create a complete picture of their current 2676 world. What detail is given isn't scene building. They characters, however, are fun and strong and quirky. The adventures they go through while trying to save humanity are exciting.
November 20, 2016
An imaginative and inventive sci-fi story, with a strong female lead and plenty of action.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews