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Crimson: The Red Plague
Learning to survive this fallen world, avoiding the mutilated corpses inhabiting interstate 5 and its surrounding cities, is a lot like surfing. Some learn slowly, first mastering the shallow waves, while others are thrown into the depths and forced to tread water. Eighteen-year-old Bobby Stratton will never forget his first encounter. He was rubbing the thigh of his longtime girlfriend, scratching up and down her distressed denim. The final minutes of their 4th period biology class was drawing near when the piercing sirens ensued. The door hinges snapped, and without warning, they became submerged in the blood of their peers. They were…eating each other. Entrails splashed upon whiteboards and innards covered their wooden floors like fresh chum. Bobby peered from beneath his desk, unaware of what led to such mutilation, and was met with the unforgettable sight of his former teacher. His once innocent, blue eyes, now blanketed with a crimson sheet. Carnage hit their school in a wave. Only the quickest and most adept were able to escape the bloody riptide. Content This book contains violence, language, sexual assault, and stalking.
- GenresHorror
392 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2022
3 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 31, 2022
3.5 stars
This was an exciting read with plenty of action. While it had a slow start and there were a lot of characters to get to grips with, it did lead to an entertaining and interesting tale. It's easy for zombie stories to get lost in the masses because they follow a similar pattern each time, but this one held its own. I did, however, find some of the characters to be a little two-dimensional. I wasn't particularly attached to many of them. That said, Crimson has all the bones of a good zombie thriller!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a review!
This was an exciting read with plenty of action. While it had a slow start and there were a lot of characters to get to grips with, it did lead to an entertaining and interesting tale. It's easy for zombie stories to get lost in the masses because they follow a similar pattern each time, but this one held its own. I did, however, find some of the characters to be a little two-dimensional. I wasn't particularly attached to many of them. That said, Crimson has all the bones of a good zombie thriller!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a review!
December 3, 2022
Rating: 3.5 rounded up
I don't usually read this genre but I really enjoyed the tale! It's really hard to offer a new zombie tale in a saturated market, but Fisher gives it a good go!
The ensemble cast was interesting, highlighting their current predicament in the new 'zombified' world whilst offering flashbacks into their prior lives.
With so many characters, some were more developed than others, but the story was interesting and entertaining. Overall it's an excellent idea, could be developed further and be great!
It was an easy read and I finished it in one sitting, so it was captivating enough to hold my interest.
I don't usually read this genre but I really enjoyed the tale! It's really hard to offer a new zombie tale in a saturated market, but Fisher gives it a good go!
The ensemble cast was interesting, highlighting their current predicament in the new 'zombified' world whilst offering flashbacks into their prior lives.
With so many characters, some were more developed than others, but the story was interesting and entertaining. Overall it's an excellent idea, could be developed further and be great!
It was an easy read and I finished it in one sitting, so it was captivating enough to hold my interest.
May 7, 2022
Crimson is the first book in The Red Plague series and a great introduction to a brand new world filled with zombies. Crimson The Red Plague fits the story so well when the zombies take a bite out of their victims. Then there is red all over the place and everything and not to mention their insides come tumbling out for the world to see on occasion that is.
It is a world of red filled with lots of zombie killing, action, and horror like you’ve never seen before. The zombies are not the scariest thing that you have to worry about in this post-apocalyptic world, nope, the humans or the alive can be more deadly than the undead and sometimes way more scarier. The alive can turn the world just as red as the undead if they so choose.
Crimson tells the stories of high school students as they lay eyes on zombies for the first time. We get to see the world through their eyes as they watch as their friends are being eaten alive by their other friends.
After the virus sweeps through town chaos sets in. Everyone or at least the bad and evil people want to take over the world. They want to be in control of everyone and everything.
I love reading about zombies and watching TV shows about zombies. I can’t seem to get enough of zombies. So when I ran across Crimson I knew right away that I had to read it. I will have to say that Crimson is unlike any zombie book I have read before. It is unique in its own way.
I love the world that the author created for our little friends. I loved all the zombie scenes. They were so vividly written that I had no trouble whatsoever picturing it all in my head. But even so, I would still love to see Crimson on the big screen. I can’t wait for more from this world in the future.
I definitely recommend Crimson to all zombie fans! Grab your copy of Crimson today!
It is a world of red filled with lots of zombie killing, action, and horror like you’ve never seen before. The zombies are not the scariest thing that you have to worry about in this post-apocalyptic world, nope, the humans or the alive can be more deadly than the undead and sometimes way more scarier. The alive can turn the world just as red as the undead if they so choose.
Crimson tells the stories of high school students as they lay eyes on zombies for the first time. We get to see the world through their eyes as they watch as their friends are being eaten alive by their other friends.
After the virus sweeps through town chaos sets in. Everyone or at least the bad and evil people want to take over the world. They want to be in control of everyone and everything.
I love reading about zombies and watching TV shows about zombies. I can’t seem to get enough of zombies. So when I ran across Crimson I knew right away that I had to read it. I will have to say that Crimson is unlike any zombie book I have read before. It is unique in its own way.
I love the world that the author created for our little friends. I loved all the zombie scenes. They were so vividly written that I had no trouble whatsoever picturing it all in my head. But even so, I would still love to see Crimson on the big screen. I can’t wait for more from this world in the future.
I definitely recommend Crimson to all zombie fans! Grab your copy of Crimson today!
May 28, 2022
Thank you R.W. Fisher for sending me an e-copy of 'Crimson' to read and review!
I am having mixed feelings. I enjoyed it, but is it my new, all time favorite? No. The characters were decent, but majority of them, I feel, lacked depth. I understand what their personalities are supposed to be, but I don't really see it as the story unfolds. The best written character was probably Marcus (I honestly loved his character traits from beginning to end)! The story and descriptions of things seemed to get repetitive. I think that can sometimes happen when you have a story like this (with zombies in particular) because obviously the same kind of things will, realistically, keep happening. Like getting attacked by zombies, duh. Maybe also due to this factor it seemed longer than necessary. I liked the flashback style of writing to before and it was a nice way of getting background information without just stating the facts and it was used really well. I think I still have a few questions and based on the ending I assume there will be a book 2 that will go further into detail on some things. If there is a 2nd book I would honestly be tempted to pick it up! I think if you are a fan of zombies you may enjoy this read. I would be advised, though, that there are some potential TW including: abuse, rape, and sexual assault. (There may be others that I missed, but these were the main ones that I saw, however brief they may have been.) *Also, just a random little side note for the author: I hope that the mention of twinkies and Woody Harrelson were intentional references.*
I am having mixed feelings. I enjoyed it, but is it my new, all time favorite? No. The characters were decent, but majority of them, I feel, lacked depth. I understand what their personalities are supposed to be, but I don't really see it as the story unfolds. The best written character was probably Marcus (I honestly loved his character traits from beginning to end)! The story and descriptions of things seemed to get repetitive. I think that can sometimes happen when you have a story like this (with zombies in particular) because obviously the same kind of things will, realistically, keep happening. Like getting attacked by zombies, duh. Maybe also due to this factor it seemed longer than necessary. I liked the flashback style of writing to before and it was a nice way of getting background information without just stating the facts and it was used really well. I think I still have a few questions and based on the ending I assume there will be a book 2 that will go further into detail on some things. If there is a 2nd book I would honestly be tempted to pick it up! I think if you are a fan of zombies you may enjoy this read. I would be advised, though, that there are some potential TW including: abuse, rape, and sexual assault. (There may be others that I missed, but these were the main ones that I saw, however brief they may have been.) *Also, just a random little side note for the author: I hope that the mention of twinkies and Woody Harrelson were intentional references.*
May 17, 2022
The apocalypse started with a bang and a howl. The first sign is that their eyes turn red and then they start to hunt you and there is no reasoning with them, no bargaining with them - they are relentless. The country falls within days, the world within weeks. Groups of survivors band together to eke out an existence, trying to find supplies and not attract the attention of the Red Eyes. Be Quiet, Move Slowly, and Always Carry a Quiet Weapon - your life depends on it! Our band of survivors ( friends from high school ) just want to get to Portland and find one of their parents. Maybe then the world will be right again, parents always have the answers right?!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 19, 2022
I have so many mixed feelings about this. If i could choose one word that i think best describes this book it would be superficial . The characters weren't that likable (except for Marcus, loved him) , i was often doubting their logic and decisions. Even the antagonists were somehow dull. I felt like i was watching a movie in a book format. Also, i found the writing to be repetitive most of the time, from the personality to zombie descriptions . It should've been written just once then maybe occasionally hinted at through the story. Despite this, i think it's a nice zombie read without too much dialogue which i appreciate.
Thank you BookSirens for sending me ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you BookSirens for sending me ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2022
Crimson is the first in a series called The Red Plague. We see the story Through the eyes of a group of friends from High School who lay their eye upon these zombies for the first time. Watching as people they know are being eaten alive by other people they know.
It only takes days for the county to fall & just weeks for the world to follow.
A group of friends sick by one another’s sides to try to survive, staying Stealthy, to move to their next destination.
I want to say that it take a lot for me to actually enjoy an post Apocalyptic book, with that being said, I thought this book was great. I love Marcus so much. I cannot wait for book 2!!
It only takes days for the county to fall & just weeks for the world to follow.
A group of friends sick by one another’s sides to try to survive, staying Stealthy, to move to their next destination.
I want to say that it take a lot for me to actually enjoy an post Apocalyptic book, with that being said, I thought this book was great. I love Marcus so much. I cannot wait for book 2!!
June 4, 2022
“Learning to survive this fallen world, avoiding the mutilated corpses inhabiting interstate 5 and its surrounding cities, is a lot like surfing. Some learn slowly, first mastering the shallow waves, while others are thrown into the depths and forced to tread water.”
TRIGGER WARNINGS; sexual assault, stalking, language
This zombie apocalypse horror novel was wonderfully written - from solid character development to intense, vivid imagery, I was quickly drawn into the story unfolding.
While the characters were not equally likable, they were all given rather in depth backstories. These backstories were written mostly in flashbacks and memories replaying during some of the more difficult events the characters faced. Each character’s backstory gave readers great insight into why their choices were virtually predestined.
TRIGGER WARNINGS; sexual assault, stalking, language
This zombie apocalypse horror novel was wonderfully written - from solid character development to intense, vivid imagery, I was quickly drawn into the story unfolding.
While the characters were not equally likable, they were all given rather in depth backstories. These backstories were written mostly in flashbacks and memories replaying during some of the more difficult events the characters faced. Each character’s backstory gave readers great insight into why their choices were virtually predestined.
December 30, 2022
It’s been a few months since something called the red plague. The victims eyes turn red, they become violent and hungry for flesh. Bobby Stratton is barricaded in the old post office, along with 6 others. Marcus-his brother, Chloe-his girlfriend, Mr Reynolds-Chloe’s father, Dante-his best friend, Lisa Marie-high school cafeteria worker, and Paul-Mr Reynolds neighbor. They are leaving LA to take Dante to his father in Seattle. They lose several members along the way, and gain a few more. They run into a group calling themselves The Collective. Things get worse from there. The zombie kills were nice and gory. It could have been a little shorter, but overall a good read.
June 8, 2022
This is a fast paced thrill ride. In California is 18 year old Bobby Stratton, who leads a group with the help of Sean Reynolds. The group consists of brother, Marcus, friend Dante, girlfriend Chloe Reynolds, and resident Paul Goldean, all trying to survive. The world building is rich and descriptive. The characters were real and relatable. The plot is action packed with lots of zombie gore. I look forward to more from this author.
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this entertaining story.
It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this entertaining story.
July 26, 2023
So I was in the mood for zombies!
This is fast paced with lots of action throughout. However there was plenty of time to get to know the characters. Now, I didn't know if liked many of them but I did like learning about their history through flashbacks and so on. I particularly liked a father and daughter duo being in this as that's quite different!
I really liked how descriptive it was as it sets up the picture well. The writing style really pulls you in from the beginning. Just like a zombie would a human, I devoured this book pretty quickly. Recommend to thriller lovers!
This is fast paced with lots of action throughout. However there was plenty of time to get to know the characters. Now, I didn't know if liked many of them but I did like learning about their history through flashbacks and so on. I particularly liked a father and daughter duo being in this as that's quite different!
I really liked how descriptive it was as it sets up the picture well. The writing style really pulls you in from the beginning. Just like a zombie would a human, I devoured this book pretty quickly. Recommend to thriller lovers!
May 31, 2022
Crimson is the brand new zombie saga. I love me a good zombie read and this book did NOT disappoint. The characters are well developed and I really enjoyed learning their backgrounds through flashbacks. Towards the end we met another group and I’m really intrigued by them and hope to find out more in the second installment. Recommend this to anyone who loves zombies, dystopian, and post apocalyptic reads.
December 6, 2022
Such an amazing and vivid book! The story line was so entertaining and kept you guessing! A great suspense killer to read!
June 2, 2022
This was a wonderful book that brought every emotion. From fear and adrenaline to love and grief it was the perfect zombie novel from beginning to end! The character development was some of the best - and the author’s descriptive language pulls you right into their world. A unique take on the classic survival story - can not wait for the rest of the series!
December 6, 2022
The author took the classic zombie apocalypse theme and through his use of amazing character development and character relationships created a story that I couldn’t stop reading! From love, loss, family dynamics and psychological trauma, this book has it all.
I am so excited to see how these characters develop throughout this series!
Love this book!
June 4, 2022
So I'll just come right out and say it. This whole book might've been the best use of descriptive language I've ever read.
Sometimes, I feel like authors can get weighed down in their words trying to make you really *see* the scene. It ends up choppy and forced. In this case, the words are used so smoothly and effectively that it feels truly effortless to read. The author clearly took time and care to craft the imagery for readers.
Gore just for the sake of gore isn't my thing, but I did not feel that from this book at all. Honestly, I found myself curious for each next description of the "red eyes" and what was happening to their poor bodies as time went on.
Character development -- fantastic. The backstory of one character in particular just left me feeling so much, which was difficult because he's also got a severe personality disorder that causes a lot of problems in the story.
Friendship, family, and a taste of romance, plus some funny lines and an ill-timed rat appearance kept things just light enough for me, balancing the serious topics and situations throughout.
Sometimes, I feel like authors can get weighed down in their words trying to make you really *see* the scene. It ends up choppy and forced. In this case, the words are used so smoothly and effectively that it feels truly effortless to read. The author clearly took time and care to craft the imagery for readers.
Gore just for the sake of gore isn't my thing, but I did not feel that from this book at all. Honestly, I found myself curious for each next description of the "red eyes" and what was happening to their poor bodies as time went on.
Character development -- fantastic. The backstory of one character in particular just left me feeling so much, which was difficult because he's also got a severe personality disorder that causes a lot of problems in the story.
Friendship, family, and a taste of romance, plus some funny lines and an ill-timed rat appearance kept things just light enough for me, balancing the serious topics and situations throughout.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews