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Those Who Survive
Discover your new post-apocalyptic zombie obsession for fans of 28 Days Later and The Last of Us.
Tomorrow is Recruitment Day.
Or, as I like to call it, Sign Your Suicide Contract Day.
And like all the sane people alive—who are few, both in terms of sanity and life status—I don’t plan on sticking around for it…
The Sector Protection Force—SPORE—is all that stands between humanity and the infected. Like everyone else her age, fifteen-year-old Ashley is forced to join the training program to become a soldier – she just didn’t think her attempt to escape recruitment would backfire so badly. Left for dead by her own friends, Ash is rescued by SPORE – the very people who killed her father. Now, not only is she stuck with a bunch of suicidal recruits who worship everything she hates about SPORE, she also owes them her life.
On the bright side, Ash is perfectly positioned to get what she’s always wanted: an escape to the outside world.
🧟♀️🧟🧟♂️
Readers can't get enough of Ashley’s story:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘Omg! How can a person write a book like this? Is K.N. Milde a genius? Must be! It's a masterpiece!’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘This was everything that I was looking for … K. N. Milde has a strong writing style and am excited for more’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘I honestly loved this book … It was fast paced and clever and constantly kept me guessing. It was full of emotion and heart ache, whilst also being completely action packed and bad ass’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘It's been SO long since I read a good dystopian / post-apocalyptic book … This book has total The Last Of Us vibes … If you are a fan of zombies, dystopia and post-apocalyptic stories, make sure you give it a go’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘I love zombie stories! And more importantly, I love reading about how humans struggle, survive and find joy in the middle of the world falling apart. Milde did a great job with this world and these characters!’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘The story gripped me and left me wanting more’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘This story has all the elements of a sci-fi/fantasy/suspense. I appreciated all the effort that went into creating the world’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘There was a lot going on in this story, but it was really fun and kinda crazy! Romance, survival, a training academy … I think others would enjoy it a lot!’
Tomorrow is Recruitment Day.
Or, as I like to call it, Sign Your Suicide Contract Day.
And like all the sane people alive—who are few, both in terms of sanity and life status—I don’t plan on sticking around for it…
The Sector Protection Force—SPORE—is all that stands between humanity and the infected. Like everyone else her age, fifteen-year-old Ashley is forced to join the training program to become a soldier – she just didn’t think her attempt to escape recruitment would backfire so badly. Left for dead by her own friends, Ash is rescued by SPORE – the very people who killed her father. Now, not only is she stuck with a bunch of suicidal recruits who worship everything she hates about SPORE, she also owes them her life.
On the bright side, Ash is perfectly positioned to get what she’s always wanted: an escape to the outside world.
🧟♀️🧟🧟♂️
Readers can't get enough of Ashley’s story:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘Omg! How can a person write a book like this? Is K.N. Milde a genius? Must be! It's a masterpiece!’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘This was everything that I was looking for … K. N. Milde has a strong writing style and am excited for more’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘I honestly loved this book … It was fast paced and clever and constantly kept me guessing. It was full of emotion and heart ache, whilst also being completely action packed and bad ass’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘It's been SO long since I read a good dystopian / post-apocalyptic book … This book has total The Last Of Us vibes … If you are a fan of zombies, dystopia and post-apocalyptic stories, make sure you give it a go’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘I love zombie stories! And more importantly, I love reading about how humans struggle, survive and find joy in the middle of the world falling apart. Milde did a great job with this world and these characters!’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘The story gripped me and left me wanting more’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘This story has all the elements of a sci-fi/fantasy/suspense. I appreciated all the effort that went into creating the world’
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ‘There was a lot going on in this story, but it was really fun and kinda crazy! Romance, survival, a training academy … I think others would enjoy it a lot!’
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2025
14 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
K. N. Milde
2 books5 followersK. N. Milde is an Algerian writer and artist living in Germany. Her debut novel, THOSE WHO SURVIVE, is the first book in The Last Recruits series and a love letter to the zombie media. It was published in March 2025 with HarperCollins’s One More Chapter, and the series will continue in THOSE WHO FIGHT, scheduled for publication in March 2026.
K. N. graduated university in 2018 with a license degree in clinical psychology, and mental health tends to be a big focus in her writing. An avid lover of speculative fiction and the exploration of gray morality, whether she’s writing YA or Adult, K. N. strives to write accessible work that everyone can read and enjoy no matter their background.
When not writing, she’s either drawing, playing stressful or relaxing videogames (no in-between), or being a cat mama.
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/knmilde
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knmilde/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@knmilde
K. N. graduated university in 2018 with a license degree in clinical psychology, and mental health tends to be a big focus in her writing. An avid lover of speculative fiction and the exploration of gray morality, whether she’s writing YA or Adult, K. N. strives to write accessible work that everyone can read and enjoy no matter their background.
When not writing, she’s either drawing, playing stressful or relaxing videogames (no in-between), or being a cat mama.
Linktr.ee: https://linktr.ee/knmilde
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knmilde/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@knmilde
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 12, 2025
If you like fast-paced, YA, dystopia and zombies stories, this one is for you!! We follow Ashley, or Ash, as she learns to navigate a world where she can’t trust or anyone… or can she?
Let me tell you, this book was excellent. I sat down and then boom 6-7 hours after I raised my eyes and wonder what the hell just happened. I really hope there’ll be another book because there’s so much we could still learn of this world.
I loved that all characters were gray (except for Ro, she was perfect and I’ll never forgive you, KN Milde, for what you did to her) and it was hard to hate anyone, which I loved!! Like, who really is the villain? The system of course, but each individuals have their role in it.
I really loved the world-building too, I was into the story so much it was like watching a movie. Also, can we talk about the SNARK of these teenagers??? I was giggling and kicking my feet so much!! General Murderer and General Genocide made me laugh out loud XD
So that’s it, I’m so sad the story was so short, I could’ve read this story for hours!
OUT MARCH 12🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Thank you NetGalley and Onemorechapter for this ARC!
Let me tell you, this book was excellent. I sat down and then boom 6-7 hours after I raised my eyes and wonder what the hell just happened. I really hope there’ll be another book because there’s so much we could still learn of this world.
I loved that all characters were gray (except for Ro, she was perfect and I’ll never forgive you, KN Milde, for what you did to her) and it was hard to hate anyone, which I loved!! Like, who really is the villain? The system of course, but each individuals have their role in it.
I really loved the world-building too, I was into the story so much it was like watching a movie. Also, can we talk about the SNARK of these teenagers??? I was giggling and kicking my feet so much!! General Murderer and General Genocide made me laugh out loud XD
So that’s it, I’m so sad the story was so short, I could’ve read this story for hours!
OUT MARCH 12🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Thank you NetGalley and Onemorechapter for this ARC!
January 26, 2025
This book has total Last of Us vibes but with a different plot, so if you loved that show you will love this. Ash is human and lives in one of the five sectors which are kept separate from the 'outside' where the infected roam. SPORE are the sector protection force, and they hold the line between humanity and the infected. Years ago, Ash's dad was a celebrated soldier for spore, but he was killed and left for dead by his comrades, and ever since Ash has despised spore and all they stand for. But after her attempt to escape enlistment goes south, she is forced to join the one thing she truly hates...
I honestly loved this book. I thought it would be very YA as the main characters are teenagers, but it didn't read as YA at all. It was fast paced and clever and constantly kept me guessing. It was full of emotion and heart ache, whilst also being completely action packed and bad ass. I genuinely hope this book gets more traction as I think it is so well written, and a glorious debut.
If you are a fan of zombies, dystopia and post apocalyptic stories, make sure you give it a go.
I honestly loved this book. I thought it would be very YA as the main characters are teenagers, but it didn't read as YA at all. It was fast paced and clever and constantly kept me guessing. It was full of emotion and heart ache, whilst also being completely action packed and bad ass. I genuinely hope this book gets more traction as I think it is so well written, and a glorious debut.
If you are a fan of zombies, dystopia and post apocalyptic stories, make sure you give it a go.
Read
March 10, 2025Those Who Survive by KN Milde, in the world Ashley lives in at 15 you have to join the SPORES, to help defend your people from the zombies. Ashley has no plans initially of joining up with them because they are who she blames for losing her father. after a failed attempt at her own vision of freedom Ashley and her friends are in the SPORES. after joining the group she learns things she didn’t know and even find reasons to believe in their cause… If only she could stop freezing up when danger arrives. when I initially decided to request this arc copy from NetGalley I did not know it was going to be all teenagers in this little military but having said that I still found it very interesting and so worth reading. I just had to keep reminding myself that these were teenagers and I mean very young teenagers. I still think the author did a great job with world building creating tension with a great storyline. I did at first fear for Ashley when she kept freezing up and really thought she was doomed and didn’t know why she was the main character but as a story progressed and she went with the flow I totally get it. What a great read!#NetGalley, #OneMoreChapter, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #KNMilde, #ThoseWhoSurvive,
January 4, 2025
This is a post-apocalyptic story. I had always wondered what it would be like to live in a world where the unimaginable is the main theme and survival is of the utmost importance.
In real life, though, the unthinkable does happen but we are the zombies.
This story has all the elements of a sci-fi/fantasy/suspense. I appreciated all the effort that went into creating the world I just read about.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter for this #ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
#ThoseWhoSurvive #KNMilde
In real life, though, the unthinkable does happen but we are the zombies.
This story has all the elements of a sci-fi/fantasy/suspense. I appreciated all the effort that went into creating the world I just read about.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter for this #ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
#ThoseWhoSurvive #KNMilde
December 31, 2024
thank you netgalley and one more chapter
review to come because i’m trying to finish my 2024 books in the nick of time
review to come because i’m trying to finish my 2024 books in the nick of time
November 8, 2025
minus the predictable plot twist, I actually enjoyed the banter between the two main characters and the descriptions of the zombies though should be more detailed, reminds me of the run, hide, seek trilogy
March 18, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for providing with a free e-copy of “Those Who Survive” in exchange for an honest review!
We’re following a 15-year-old Ashley, who’s just trying to survive in this odd new apocalyptic world. Early in the book, Ash wrote her mother a letter, and that kinda sets the tone of what kind person the heroine is. She’s determined, and she will go to great lengths to protect the people she cares about. You can call this book Ashley’s coming of age story. As she experiences her first betrayal and heartbreak, we see her development and willingness to open herself to something (or someone) new.
The author did an amazing job writing the action scenes. I also loved the illustrations with the Sector logos, SPOREs’ uniform and their equipment etc.
Despite an interesting world-building, I can't say it was a unique setting. Probably, it felt that way, because we’ve seen it all by now, as the dystopian/ zombie apocalyptic novels are nothing new. And it seems like the names of the infected followed "The Last of Us" pattern.
The language. On multiple occasions we see the phase “bite me” and by the end of the book it was overused. I found some of the jokes a bit awkward, but maybe it’s because the vast majority of the characters are younger than me, or it’s simply because their sense of humour is different from mine. I’m not sure how I feel about the term “Tsunami” that was used to describe a bigger “wave” of the infected, maybe a “Tide” would be less epic, but more fitting.
A lot of characters and new terms were introduced all at once, and I found myself a bit confused. The SPOREs, The Pit, The Exiled, The Spheria, The Sears, The Sphere, The Sector, NERV, The Active, Tsunami etc.etc. Sometimes I couldn’t figure out if they were talking about a place or a person.
Maybe because of the fast-paced, short action packed chapters, they would sometimes feel a bit disconnected from one another; or as if there were no subtle transition from one scene to another. This made me think that this novel intended to be a comic book, but during the production something changed, and they decided to release a book instead.
As someone who watched almost every movie about zombie apocalypse and someone who's a fan of Naughty Dog’s games, this immediately caught my eye. It’s definitely a bold move to call something “perfect for The Last Of Us fans”, but hey, it caught my attention, so it’ll work for many more readers. It felt as if I was meeting a child of “Divergent”, “Days Gone” and maybe “Left Behind”, which’s a DLC to “The Last of Us”. Or if we look at the Dark Horse Books’ “The Last of Us: American Dreams”, it seems like “Those Who Survive” was heavily inspired by that comic book series’ art style too.
To sum up, it might be a good fit for readers who enjoy teen/YA dystopian books that have fast-paced, action packed scenes. And, although, it was probably targeted at a younger audience (15-19), overall, I enjoyed reading it. I could see the dedication, the way the heroine was putting herself fearlessly out there to protect her friends, oftentimes, not the smartest move lol, but praise her heart and her parents to raise such a good kid.
We’re following a 15-year-old Ashley, who’s just trying to survive in this odd new apocalyptic world. Early in the book, Ash wrote her mother a letter, and that kinda sets the tone of what kind person the heroine is. She’s determined, and she will go to great lengths to protect the people she cares about. You can call this book Ashley’s coming of age story. As she experiences her first betrayal and heartbreak, we see her development and willingness to open herself to something (or someone) new.
The author did an amazing job writing the action scenes. I also loved the illustrations with the Sector logos, SPOREs’ uniform and their equipment etc.
Despite an interesting world-building, I can't say it was a unique setting. Probably, it felt that way, because we’ve seen it all by now, as the dystopian/ zombie apocalyptic novels are nothing new. And it seems like the names of the infected followed "The Last of Us" pattern.
The language. On multiple occasions we see the phase “bite me” and by the end of the book it was overused. I found some of the jokes a bit awkward, but maybe it’s because the vast majority of the characters are younger than me, or it’s simply because their sense of humour is different from mine. I’m not sure how I feel about the term “Tsunami” that was used to describe a bigger “wave” of the infected, maybe a “Tide” would be less epic, but more fitting.
A lot of characters and new terms were introduced all at once, and I found myself a bit confused. The SPOREs, The Pit, The Exiled, The Spheria, The Sears, The Sphere, The Sector, NERV, The Active, Tsunami etc.etc. Sometimes I couldn’t figure out if they were talking about a place or a person.
Maybe because of the fast-paced, short action packed chapters, they would sometimes feel a bit disconnected from one another; or as if there were no subtle transition from one scene to another. This made me think that this novel intended to be a comic book, but during the production something changed, and they decided to release a book instead.
As someone who watched almost every movie about zombie apocalypse and someone who's a fan of Naughty Dog’s games, this immediately caught my eye. It’s definitely a bold move to call something “perfect for The Last Of Us fans”, but hey, it caught my attention, so it’ll work for many more readers. It felt as if I was meeting a child of “Divergent”, “Days Gone” and maybe “Left Behind”, which’s a DLC to “The Last of Us”. Or if we look at the Dark Horse Books’ “The Last of Us: American Dreams”, it seems like “Those Who Survive” was heavily inspired by that comic book series’ art style too.
To sum up, it might be a good fit for readers who enjoy teen/YA dystopian books that have fast-paced, action packed scenes. And, although, it was probably targeted at a younger audience (15-19), overall, I enjoyed reading it. I could see the dedication, the way the heroine was putting herself fearlessly out there to protect her friends, oftentimes, not the smartest move lol, but praise her heart and her parents to raise such a good kid.
February 9, 2025
Those Who Survive is a bit of The Last of US and The Walking Dead, with a bit of Attack on Titan. We follow Ashley, one of the Privileged in this apocalyptic society, who plans to escape the walled city with her friends, entering infected territory. They all have their reasons for wanting to leave the safety of the city but Ashley can’t forgive SPORE, the military that defends what’s left of humanity, for the death of her father. Unfortunately things go sideways after their group encounters infected after leaving the safety of the city. Ashley is saved by SPORE, but is forced to join their ranks and enter cadet training.
I flew through this book, the characters were lovable and complex and the mystery of the Exiled had me hooked. I felt that this novel avoids a lot of common YA tropes, such as a main character who is inexplicably good at everything and can do no wrong. I was invested in Ashley’s growth as she struggles with training and who she can trust in an environment of intrigue and difficult choices.
The setting of a military training academy was also a nice touch. It avoids the pitfalls of survivors on the run giving focus to the mysteries that will be explored. It was interesting to see the military training side of a zombie apocalypse story and the politics of surviving, the organization of the society, and the different types of zombies. I hope the author will revisit this world again. While story is wrapped up nicely, there is potential to follow-up on events that happened in the climax and conclusion.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and the publisher. I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I flew through this book, the characters were lovable and complex and the mystery of the Exiled had me hooked. I felt that this novel avoids a lot of common YA tropes, such as a main character who is inexplicably good at everything and can do no wrong. I was invested in Ashley’s growth as she struggles with training and who she can trust in an environment of intrigue and difficult choices.
The setting of a military training academy was also a nice touch. It avoids the pitfalls of survivors on the run giving focus to the mysteries that will be explored. It was interesting to see the military training side of a zombie apocalypse story and the politics of surviving, the organization of the society, and the different types of zombies. I hope the author will revisit this world again. While story is wrapped up nicely, there is potential to follow-up on events that happened in the climax and conclusion.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and the publisher. I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 20, 2025
Title: Those Who Survive
Author: K.N.Milde
Pages: 457
Rating: 5/5
Spice level: 🫑Plain but tasty
"Tomorrow is Recruitment Day.
Or, as I like to call it, Sign Your Suicide Contract Day."
It's been a while since I've read a zombie book, but when I read the blurb I just had to read it. It's everything my teen dystopian self adored! Forced into army recruitment. (I'm a sucker for films like private Benjamin, so this book was right up my street) Fraternising. Gory bits. Attitude and underdogs. The book itself is fast paced read and it was finished before I knew it.
The characters were fun. Teenage angst attitude and wanting to fix the world. The back stories were great and helped empathise with all the characters and seeing it from each perspective. There was so much emotion, misunderstood communications, and although slightly predictable, thoroughly enjoyable. The diagrams Of uniforms, equipment, and the different types infected were a really nice touch. I do hope there is a sequel as I have more questions and would love to know what happens to Lori!
You'll love this book if you like
- enemies to friends
- young adult dystopian reads
- zombie/infected
- secrets
- opposites attract
- underdogs
Author: K.N.Milde
Pages: 457
Rating: 5/5
Spice level: 🫑Plain but tasty
"Tomorrow is Recruitment Day.
Or, as I like to call it, Sign Your Suicide Contract Day."
It's been a while since I've read a zombie book, but when I read the blurb I just had to read it. It's everything my teen dystopian self adored! Forced into army recruitment. (I'm a sucker for films like private Benjamin, so this book was right up my street) Fraternising. Gory bits. Attitude and underdogs. The book itself is fast paced read and it was finished before I knew it.
The characters were fun. Teenage angst attitude and wanting to fix the world. The back stories were great and helped empathise with all the characters and seeing it from each perspective. There was so much emotion, misunderstood communications, and although slightly predictable, thoroughly enjoyable. The diagrams Of uniforms, equipment, and the different types infected were a really nice touch. I do hope there is a sequel as I have more questions and would love to know what happens to Lori!
You'll love this book if you like
- enemies to friends
- young adult dystopian reads
- zombie/infected
- secrets
- opposites attract
- underdogs
February 28, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an ARC for an honest opinion. Thanks One More Chapter and K. N. Milde!
First of all, wow. When I started reading it, it really felt like following the military in a post-apocalyptic world. As others have already said, it really does give TLOU vibes, but specifically the military part of TLOU Part II. (And that's a compliment!)
I also loved the addition of several drawings of tools, gear, etc. It really helped imagine the world and characters you've created.
The first few chapters felt slow, but after that, I steamrolled through them. I even read past midnight to finish it!
I hope there will be a second part! This can't be the end of Ash's story, can it? 🙏
First of all, wow. When I started reading it, it really felt like following the military in a post-apocalyptic world. As others have already said, it really does give TLOU vibes, but specifically the military part of TLOU Part II. (And that's a compliment!)
I also loved the addition of several drawings of tools, gear, etc. It really helped imagine the world and characters you've created.
The first few chapters felt slow, but after that, I steamrolled through them. I even read past midnight to finish it!
I hope there will be a second part! This can't be the end of Ash's story, can it? 🙏
June 18, 2025
I just devoured it and goshhhhhhh the charachters aahh. Read a zombie novel after so long and this one was definitely worth it. Also, love the illustrations. It's a riveting novel that masterfully weaves together themes of survival, camaraderie, and self-discovery in a dystopian world overrun by the infected. The story follows Ash and her friends as they're recruited by The SPORE to fight off the infected, exploring complex themes like friendships, assumptions, and humanity in crisis. With vivid descriptions and immersive storytelling, this book is an unputdownable read that will captivate fans of the post-apocalyptic genre.
January 29, 2025
I loved this book! At first it was slow to start and took me a while to get into it but when I got to the second part of the book, I was hooked. I love Cris and Ashley and their journey and all of the friendships. I am not normally a fan of zombie books but I have to say that I may be now because of this book. I was constantly on edge wondering what was going to happen next. I would definitely recommend this book to any dystopian lovers.
Thank you to net galley, the publisher and K. N. Milde for allowing me to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to net galley, the publisher and K. N. Milde for allowing me to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! I am usually not the biggest fan of apocalypse and zombie books but this book was definitely an exception.
I really loved the story, first of all, it felt so different from the typical zombie story and I really liked that. There were so many unique parts to this world and it felt really whole and interesting.
What I liked the most though were the characters. I really liked the MC, which isn't always the case, and the character relationships where the highlight of this book.
It was such a fun book and I enjoyed it a lot. I really recommend it.
I really loved the story, first of all, it felt so different from the typical zombie story and I really liked that. There were so many unique parts to this world and it felt really whole and interesting.
What I liked the most though were the characters. I really liked the MC, which isn't always the case, and the character relationships where the highlight of this book.
It was such a fun book and I enjoyed it a lot. I really recommend it.
February 11, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. I must say that I was not sure about this one when I started, not being much of a zombie fan overall, but I actually really liked this. I enjoyed the focus on the camaraderie and friendship rather than a romance. I also very much appreciated the detailed descriptions of the virus and all the different types of zombie. Recommend if you are a fan of the genre!
March 12, 2025
A nice, fun action-packed zombie novel, a bit reminiscent of The Last Of Us. The main character's evolution from rebel teenager to active duty soldier was very believable, and I had a hard time putting this book down at any point in the story. I really hope there is a second book on the way, though, as I felt like some plot points weren't quite resolved in the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the free Advanced Reader Copy 😊
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the free Advanced Reader Copy 😊
March 14, 2025
Oh how i missed reading good dystopian books! This to me was right up there with some of my favourites, Its fast paced and action packed and keeps you on the edge of your seat guessing what will happen next. love it!
March 14, 2025
Those Who Survive is a dystopian post-zombie-apocalypse YA sci-fi novel that is more enemies-to-lovers romance than military fiction.
The main character Ashley and a few friends try to flee from their district the night before they are supposed to conscribe for what equals as military service. Of course they are caught, of course their parents as legal guardians have to bear the brunt of their wrongdoing, by either being forced into serving the regime or by being exiled into the zombie-plague infested lands beyond the district's border. Which all makes just as much sense as forcing 15 year old teenagers into military service and keeping the general public in the dark about how the zombie plague works and how to avoid being infected.
After the first few chapters with logic holes the size of Schiaparelli Crater I skimmed the rest of the book. I am sure lots of people will like this novel, but I like my sci-fi with a large helping of "makes sense" and Those Who Survive unfortunately used this ingredient sparingly.
The main character Ashley and a few friends try to flee from their district the night before they are supposed to conscribe for what equals as military service. Of course they are caught, of course their parents as legal guardians have to bear the brunt of their wrongdoing, by either being forced into serving the regime or by being exiled into the zombie-plague infested lands beyond the district's border. Which all makes just as much sense as forcing 15 year old teenagers into military service and keeping the general public in the dark about how the zombie plague works and how to avoid being infected.
After the first few chapters with logic holes the size of Schiaparelli Crater I skimmed the rest of the book. I am sure lots of people will like this novel, but I like my sci-fi with a large helping of "makes sense" and Those Who Survive unfortunately used this ingredient sparingly.
February 28, 2025
Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for approving me to read this, I’m rating it 4.25 stars.
This is actually my 1st zombie read since I got back into reading and I was not disappointed. The style of zombies reminded me of the film Army of the dead. The book was informative and dystopian, it had me locked in pretty early due to the political aspects and betrayals.
I’m really intrigued to continue this story!
This is actually my 1st zombie read since I got back into reading and I was not disappointed. The style of zombies reminded me of the film Army of the dead. The book was informative and dystopian, it had me locked in pretty early due to the political aspects and betrayals.
I’m really intrigued to continue this story!
September 28, 2025
Such a good read!, so many cliffhangers and could not put this book down
July 20, 2025
In a world ravaged by a deadly virus that has turned millions into monstrous infected, humanity survives behind walled-off sectors. Ashley “Ash” is a Privileged—wealthy, protected and destined for leadership. But after a traumatic loss and a growing distrust in the regime that’s supposed to protect her, she tries to escape to the Outside. Instead, she’s captured and forcibly conscripted into SPORE, the brutal military organization tasked with fighting the infected.
K.N. Milde crafts a convincing dystopian landscape, blending elements of military science fiction, zombie horror and YA rebellion tropes. The system of Privileged vs. Outsiders, the mandatory conscription and the SPORE training academy feel immersive and believable. While many dystopias echo familiar structures, Those Who Survive stands out by focusing on trauma recovery, emotional detachment and the psychological effects of forced militarization.
The infected themselves are genuinely unsettling. They’re not just typical zombies; the novel introduces mutated variants and a hierarchy of threats, adding tension and a sense of unpredictability to the action scenes.
The first few chapters are a slow burn. Some early decisions by the characters—particularly Ash and her friends’ plan to escape—may stretch plausibility and the reader might need to suspend disbelief to get past it. But once Ash is taken by SPORE and enters training, the plot accelerates dramatically.
Those Who Survive is a gripping, emotionally layered addition to the YA dystopian genre. While it stumbles in the opening chapters and leaves some threads hanging, it ultimately delivers a dark, thoughtful exploration of trauma, identity and survival under authoritarian rule. Fans of The Maze Runner, The 5th Wave and The Last of Us will find much to enjoy here—especially those who appreciate character-driven apocalypse stories with more emotional weight than mindless action.
K.N. Milde crafts a convincing dystopian landscape, blending elements of military science fiction, zombie horror and YA rebellion tropes. The system of Privileged vs. Outsiders, the mandatory conscription and the SPORE training academy feel immersive and believable. While many dystopias echo familiar structures, Those Who Survive stands out by focusing on trauma recovery, emotional detachment and the psychological effects of forced militarization.
The infected themselves are genuinely unsettling. They’re not just typical zombies; the novel introduces mutated variants and a hierarchy of threats, adding tension and a sense of unpredictability to the action scenes.
The first few chapters are a slow burn. Some early decisions by the characters—particularly Ash and her friends’ plan to escape—may stretch plausibility and the reader might need to suspend disbelief to get past it. But once Ash is taken by SPORE and enters training, the plot accelerates dramatically.
Those Who Survive is a gripping, emotionally layered addition to the YA dystopian genre. While it stumbles in the opening chapters and leaves some threads hanging, it ultimately delivers a dark, thoughtful exploration of trauma, identity and survival under authoritarian rule. Fans of The Maze Runner, The 5th Wave and The Last of Us will find much to enjoy here—especially those who appreciate character-driven apocalypse stories with more emotional weight than mindless action.
March 8, 2025
A big thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and K.N. Milde for providing me with an ARC of Those Who Survive in exchange for my honest review.
Those Who Survive is a YA dystopian/post-apocalyptic novel that follows 15-year-old Ashley as she is recruited into the Sector Protection Force (SPORE), a group tasked with protecting the various sectors from "the infected" — zombie-like humans.
While the premise of the story holds great potential, I found the first half of the book to be rather slow-paced. However, things do pick up in the second half, with the action accelerating and the stakes rising. Unfortunately, I never quite felt the emotional connection to the characters that I was hoping for. There seemed to be little chemistry between them, and as a result, I struggled to become truly invested in their journey.
The ending, while intriguing, felt somewhat abrupt and left me wanting more. It concluded the story in a way that was unsatisfying, leaving many unanswered questions and a sense of unfinished business.
On a positive note, the world-building in Those Who Survive was strong. I found the post-apocalyptic setting immersive, and the political intrigue added an extra layer of complexity to the plot, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Overall, while the book had some promising elements, I wasn’t fully captivated by the characters or the story’s resolution. I think fans of YA dystopian fiction may still find some elements to enjoy, particularly if they appreciate intricate world-building and a tense, action-packed second half.
Those Who Survive is a YA dystopian/post-apocalyptic novel that follows 15-year-old Ashley as she is recruited into the Sector Protection Force (SPORE), a group tasked with protecting the various sectors from "the infected" — zombie-like humans.
While the premise of the story holds great potential, I found the first half of the book to be rather slow-paced. However, things do pick up in the second half, with the action accelerating and the stakes rising. Unfortunately, I never quite felt the emotional connection to the characters that I was hoping for. There seemed to be little chemistry between them, and as a result, I struggled to become truly invested in their journey.
The ending, while intriguing, felt somewhat abrupt and left me wanting more. It concluded the story in a way that was unsatisfying, leaving many unanswered questions and a sense of unfinished business.
On a positive note, the world-building in Those Who Survive was strong. I found the post-apocalyptic setting immersive, and the political intrigue added an extra layer of complexity to the plot, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Overall, while the book had some promising elements, I wasn’t fully captivated by the characters or the story’s resolution. I think fans of YA dystopian fiction may still find some elements to enjoy, particularly if they appreciate intricate world-building and a tense, action-packed second half.
January 4, 2025
Reads like a zombie comic with a hint of the movie Aliens. Themes similar to Fourth Wing-- enemies to lovers, never know who to trust, and a Draconian fascist government bent on stupidly destroying more humans than the enemy does. I may have missed something, but it looks like no people of color survived the apocalypse.
This is romance not military fiction, which consistently favors drama over logic. To save herself, the main character doesn’t bother to pick up her own shoes, a superior weapon, or any spare ammo when she has a chance, making me want to throw the book. Her frequent wounds conveniently go away and don’t cause issues. The SPORE are stuck at puzzling low tech (Civil War medicine) with no strategy. The arbitrary differentiation between types was not believable or consistent. When the “intelligent” person with medical training ignores the fifth type in her hands, it broke my suspension of disbelief altogether. I stopped recording logic issues somewhere around a dozen but won’t bore you. I will say that the portrayal of child-soldiers with PTSD even before serving seemed realistic.
This is romance not military fiction, which consistently favors drama over logic. To save herself, the main character doesn’t bother to pick up her own shoes, a superior weapon, or any spare ammo when she has a chance, making me want to throw the book. Her frequent wounds conveniently go away and don’t cause issues. The SPORE are stuck at puzzling low tech (Civil War medicine) with no strategy. The arbitrary differentiation between types was not believable or consistent. When the “intelligent” person with medical training ignores the fifth type in her hands, it broke my suspension of disbelief altogether. I stopped recording logic issues somewhere around a dozen but won’t bore you. I will say that the portrayal of child-soldiers with PTSD even before serving seemed realistic.
February 12, 2025
Typically one to read Romantasy and romance, I picked up Those Who Survive with zero expectations and it completely blew me away!
The story follows Ashley, who is forced to join the very organization she despises in order to save those important to her. I enjoyed seeing Ashley’s transformation throughout the book, and appreciated that she wasn’t immediately the best at everything and actually struggled a bit at the beginning during training.
The world building was *chef’s kiss*! I was completely immersed in the post-apocalyptic world K.N. Milde built, from the setting and how the training camp operated to the different types of zombies and how they functioned within the story.
An action-packed and emotional read, if you’re a fan of zombies or post-apocalyptic worlds, you have to read this one!
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for the arc!
The story follows Ashley, who is forced to join the very organization she despises in order to save those important to her. I enjoyed seeing Ashley’s transformation throughout the book, and appreciated that she wasn’t immediately the best at everything and actually struggled a bit at the beginning during training.
The world building was *chef’s kiss*! I was completely immersed in the post-apocalyptic world K.N. Milde built, from the setting and how the training camp operated to the different types of zombies and how they functioned within the story.
An action-packed and emotional read, if you’re a fan of zombies or post-apocalyptic worlds, you have to read this one!
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for the arc!
February 18, 2025
60/100 or 3.0 stars
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The world-building was done well and I did like our main protagonist, Ashley. There are things left to be desired with the world and characters, but this is a fine overall for a YA/Teen zombie apocalypse story.
The first 40% of the story was interesting and got my attention. Unfortunately, as the story went on, my interest and enjoyment decreased.
It is a pet peeve of mine when an author decides to use made up swear words. Each time I had to read "deaddamn," I wanted to scream. If you don't want to swear or use certain swear words for religious reasons...just don't include them. If it is to not age the book out of your target demographic...don't use them. It's really that simple.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The world-building was done well and I did like our main protagonist, Ashley. There are things left to be desired with the world and characters, but this is a fine overall for a YA/Teen zombie apocalypse story.
The first 40% of the story was interesting and got my attention. Unfortunately, as the story went on, my interest and enjoyment decreased.
It is a pet peeve of mine when an author decides to use made up swear words. Each time I had to read "deaddamn," I wanted to scream. If you don't want to swear or use certain swear words for religious reasons...just don't include them. If it is to not age the book out of your target demographic...don't use them. It's really that simple.
November 7, 2025
An excellent story with interesting characters and amazing world-building.
Even though I'm not much of a reader, the book got me hooked as Ashley's journey kept getting more interesting every time I turned a page, the plot felt fresh and original and I can't wait for the second book to come out!
I enjoyed the narration style and the world is described so vividly it felt like I was there myself!
Although I liked most of the characters, I did have some favorites besides Ashley. Specifically in that order as they stood out the most.
Overall, It was a great read indeed, it was interesting, thrilling and even funny at times! so it has something for everyone and I highly recommend this book even if zombie/Sci-Fi isn't your thing.
Even though I'm not much of a reader, the book got me hooked as Ashley's journey kept getting more interesting every time I turned a page, the plot felt fresh and original and I can't wait for the second book to come out!
I enjoyed the narration style and the world is described so vividly it felt like I was there myself!
Although I liked most of the characters, I did have some favorites besides Ashley. Specifically in that order as they stood out the most.
Overall, It was a great read indeed, it was interesting, thrilling and even funny at times! so it has something for everyone and I highly recommend this book even if zombie/Sci-Fi isn't your thing.
January 25, 2025
Those Who Survive is like The Last of Us mixed with modern tropes like enemies to lovers. The main character is relatable but can also make you frustrated with some of their decisions—or lack of decisions. The story jumps into the action quickly, which makes it a fast and enjoyable read.
There are some tougher themes, depending on your comfort level, but that’s expected in the post-apocalyptic world K.N. Milde has built. Fans of the genre will feel at home in this bleak but captivating setting.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There are some tougher themes, depending on your comfort level, but that’s expected in the post-apocalyptic world K.N. Milde has built. Fans of the genre will feel at home in this bleak but captivating setting.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2025
Milde brilliantly weaves together complex characters, intense emotions, and a storyline filled with suspense that kept me turning pages late into the night. The author's ability to create vivid imagery and descriptive writing made it easy to imagine the graphic-novelesque world depicted on its cover. Realistic situations make the book both engaging and relatable.
The constant threat of zombies and a leadership that isn't completely trustworthy adds depth and dimension to the struggles already facing the characters. Highly recommended to anyone who appreciates fast-paced action, compelling storytelling, and rich, nuanced characters—a definite five-star read!
The constant threat of zombies and a leadership that isn't completely trustworthy adds depth and dimension to the struggles already facing the characters. Highly recommended to anyone who appreciates fast-paced action, compelling storytelling, and rich, nuanced characters—a definite five-star read!
January 14, 2025
It was thrilling and enjoyable. I like post apocalyptic and survival books and I feel like this book scratched the itch of everything I love about this type of books. The story gripped me and left me wanting more. PTSD, you don’t know who to trust, it involves some themes that are scary close to reality.
Overall I’m happy I read the book.
Overall I’m happy I read the book.
May 18, 2025
An engaging plot and great worldbuilding
This book was hard to put down. The worldbuilding was well thought out and the plot was engaging. K. N. Milde has created complex characters with realistic flaws, and you can’t help but root for them. You’ll want to keep reading this book to see who has what it takes to survive in this zombie-ridden world.
This book was hard to put down. The worldbuilding was well thought out and the plot was engaging. K. N. Milde has created complex characters with realistic flaws, and you can’t help but root for them. You’ll want to keep reading this book to see who has what it takes to survive in this zombie-ridden world.
March 3, 2026
I love a good zombie story and this one did not disappoint. It was very refreshing to be on the side of the fighters and not the rebels for once too. I liked all the characters, liked the little twists in the story and going to dive straight into the next one!
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