What do you think?
Rate this book
The Split
Not yet published
Expected 3 Mar 26One girl. Two rival factions. And a captor she can't ignore.
Kota is a scrappy 21-year-old who would do anything to keep her family safe—including the dangerous job of running goods across zombie-infested South Carolina. But when she’s kidnapped in a crumbling truce between two hostile settlements, she quickly finds herself as a political pawn in a brewing war that threatens the future of humanity itself.
A single wall divides Kota’s seemingly prosperous community from the anarchists on the other side. But when Jasper—Kota’s cunning and dangerously alluring captor—unearths shocking truths about her home, it will throw everything she believes into question…
She expected Jasper to kill her. But now their fates are intertwined.
Forced to team up with the enemy settlement, Kota plunges into a shadowy world of secrets, subterfuge, and political machinations—all while fighting her growing attraction to Jasper. As tensions spiral toward war, Kota must decide where she stands.
The Split is perfect for readers who love dystopian worlds, slow-burn romance, and high-stakes action.
Kota is a scrappy 21-year-old who would do anything to keep her family safe—including the dangerous job of running goods across zombie-infested South Carolina. But when she’s kidnapped in a crumbling truce between two hostile settlements, she quickly finds herself as a political pawn in a brewing war that threatens the future of humanity itself.
A single wall divides Kota’s seemingly prosperous community from the anarchists on the other side. But when Jasper—Kota’s cunning and dangerously alluring captor—unearths shocking truths about her home, it will throw everything she believes into question…
She expected Jasper to kill her. But now their fates are intertwined.
Forced to team up with the enemy settlement, Kota plunges into a shadowy world of secrets, subterfuge, and political machinations—all while fighting her growing attraction to Jasper. As tensions spiral toward war, Kota must decide where she stands.
The Split is perfect for readers who love dystopian worlds, slow-burn romance, and high-stakes action.
- GenresRomance
374 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 3, 2026
39 people want to read
About the author
Gigi Nally
2 books9 followersGigi Nally lives in Greenville, South Carolina, with her husband, two dogs, and three cats.
When she isn’t writing, she’s baking vegan banana bread, teaching a yoga class, writing with her gal pals (see also: gabbing), or reading in her yellow swing.
Gigi graduated with a B.A. in Communication Studies from Furman University.
The Split is her first novel.
When she isn’t writing, she’s baking vegan banana bread, teaching a yoga class, writing with her gal pals (see also: gabbing), or reading in her yellow swing.
Gigi graduated with a B.A. in Communication Studies from Furman University.
The Split is her first novel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 17, 2026
This book was action packed from the very beginning! You've got a post apocalyptic zombie infested world (think strong Walking Dead vibes) with a literal "split" separating what was once one community. On one side you have almost like a cult-like village that rations all of the food and resources and assigns jobs and responsibilities to each person living within it's walls (this is where our FMC is from), vs the other side where people fend for themselves and barter for goods yet have much more freedom than the other side.
When I tell you I was hooooked after about 25% of this book...I could not put it down! For a debut novel this is wonderful. The world building is so good, you've got not only zombie people but zombees, zomvines, zomboars....dang. So creative and original!
As for the characters, HANDS DOWN Greeley was my absolute favorite. I feel like she will be everyones fave. She was a trip and her character was so well developed. There are many lol moments mixed in with all of the traumatic events our FMC, Kota, goes through, and that was thanks to Greeley.
I also loved how loyal Kota was and I enjoyed watching her come into her own as she faced so many trials. It was apparent that her motives for anything that she did from the beginning to the end were purely out of dedication and loyalty to the people that mattered most in her life and I was cheering her on the whole way.
I cannot wait to see what's next in this series (if it's a series?) because the ending left me wondering where will these characters be going next?
Thank you to NetGalley and Gilly Publishing for a gifted copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
When I tell you I was hooooked after about 25% of this book...I could not put it down! For a debut novel this is wonderful. The world building is so good, you've got not only zombie people but zombees, zomvines, zomboars....dang. So creative and original!
As for the characters, HANDS DOWN Greeley was my absolute favorite. I feel like she will be everyones fave. She was a trip and her character was so well developed. There are many lol moments mixed in with all of the traumatic events our FMC, Kota, goes through, and that was thanks to Greeley.
I also loved how loyal Kota was and I enjoyed watching her come into her own as she faced so many trials. It was apparent that her motives for anything that she did from the beginning to the end were purely out of dedication and loyalty to the people that mattered most in her life and I was cheering her on the whole way.
I cannot wait to see what's next in this series (if it's a series?) because the ending left me wondering where will these characters be going next?
Thank you to NetGalley and Gilly Publishing for a gifted copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the perfect post apocalyptic book ive read in awhile. Koda is as apunky as they come. She is quick on her feet in a fight, but her one downfall was her love of breakfast bars. That is what got her into trouble. Now she has to get out of this mess and may have to hate herself for falling for the handsome Jasper ,who also loved the breakfast bars. I cant say anymore without giving anything away, but you have zombies what else could you ask for in a post apocalyptic book? They are the best part of any post apocalyptic book
January 23, 2026
I loved this book. Such a fun, action packed, story start to finish. I love Kota and how much she loves, and will do anything for, her family. I loved the political element - who do you trust? Who’s in it just for power? Things aren’t always what they seem - And I love the relationships and the characters she meets along the way.
The Split has all this character growth and strong relationships at the heart of it…but it’s also about freaking zombies and in a very cool/original way. Ummm zombie animals and trees?! Yes! So happy I got my hands on an early copy!
The Split has all this character growth and strong relationships at the heart of it…but it’s also about freaking zombies and in a very cool/original way. Ummm zombie animals and trees?! Yes! So happy I got my hands on an early copy!
Review of advance copy
“The two of us bear similar shields. One day, maybe, we could find solace in each other.”
“The Split,” by Gigi Nally
I loved the post-apocalyptic southern setting where survival isn’t just avoiding zombies but navigating people and lines between “enemy” and “ally”. It was gritty and grounded, not super flashy but dusty, dirty, and real. The zombie aspect was there but the relationships between the living was the true focus of the book. I loved how the FMC was emotionally strong and quick to adapt. MMC was brooding and complicated, and I was all in with it. I loved how they were forced (because he kidnapped her) to be together but they absolutely did not trust each other even a little. I loved the found family because it was more focused on accepting flaws and everyone’s different ways of coping.
4 out of 5 stars. Definitely stood out from other post-apocalyptic books but was more about the characters and not the world.
-Dystopian/ Post-Apocalyptic
-Forced Proximity
-Kidnapped
-Slowburn
-Enemies To Lovers
-Zombies
-Strong FMC
-Southern Setting
Thank you for the ARC, Booksirens.
“But that’s what happens when you live in a zombie-filled world. Even the irrational feels rational, sometimes.”
“We’re all lonely. All in search of someone to give us comfort— and that means something different to each of us.”
“And if I want to survive, I have to be willing to lose more.”
“The Split,” by Gigi Nally
I loved the post-apocalyptic southern setting where survival isn’t just avoiding zombies but navigating people and lines between “enemy” and “ally”. It was gritty and grounded, not super flashy but dusty, dirty, and real. The zombie aspect was there but the relationships between the living was the true focus of the book. I loved how the FMC was emotionally strong and quick to adapt. MMC was brooding and complicated, and I was all in with it. I loved how they were forced (because he kidnapped her) to be together but they absolutely did not trust each other even a little. I loved the found family because it was more focused on accepting flaws and everyone’s different ways of coping.
4 out of 5 stars. Definitely stood out from other post-apocalyptic books but was more about the characters and not the world.
-Dystopian/ Post-Apocalyptic
-Forced Proximity
-Kidnapped
-Slowburn
-Enemies To Lovers
-Zombies
-Strong FMC
-Southern Setting
Thank you for the ARC, Booksirens.
“But that’s what happens when you live in a zombie-filled world. Even the irrational feels rational, sometimes.”
“We’re all lonely. All in search of someone to give us comfort— and that means something different to each of us.”
“And if I want to survive, I have to be willing to lose more.”
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Came for the Zombies, stayed for the romance and the political theme.
Initially, I went for this book because I love post apocalyptic settings, and can't say no to zombies.
I found the beginning of the book to be a little slow getting fired up, and while it was useful for introducing characters and environment building, it very nearly lost me here.
I did decide to give it a good chance and thankfully, it didn't disappoint and turned out to be a pretty solid read.
I really liked that the zombie elements in this were a little different to what I'm used to.
I found a number of the characters to be super unlikable or just straight annoying, which was perhaps intentional on the author's front, but it did make their dialogues a little grating for me.
All said, I would recommend this book of you like a post-apocalyptic zombie based novels.
The Split has a heavily political theme throughout but also has an element of (slow burn) horrormance to it which, it transpires, I am becoming quite partial to.
3.5 ⭐
thank you to Netgalley for providing the ARC.
Initially, I went for this book because I love post apocalyptic settings, and can't say no to zombies.
I found the beginning of the book to be a little slow getting fired up, and while it was useful for introducing characters and environment building, it very nearly lost me here.
I did decide to give it a good chance and thankfully, it didn't disappoint and turned out to be a pretty solid read.
I really liked that the zombie elements in this were a little different to what I'm used to.
I found a number of the characters to be super unlikable or just straight annoying, which was perhaps intentional on the author's front, but it did make their dialogues a little grating for me.
All said, I would recommend this book of you like a post-apocalyptic zombie based novels.
The Split has a heavily political theme throughout but also has an element of (slow burn) horrormance to it which, it transpires, I am becoming quite partial to.
3.5 ⭐
thank you to Netgalley for providing the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In the crowded landscape of post-apocalyptic fiction, it takes a specific kind of grit to make a story stand out. Gigi Nally accomplishes this with her gripping debut, The Split. Combining the terror of a zombie uprising with the sharp social commentary of a dystopian future, Nally has crafted a survival story that is as much about the fractures in human nature as it is about the monsters lurking in the shadows.
The premise of the novel centers on a world that has been physically and metaphorically severed. Following a catastrophic outbreak that turned a vast portion of the population into mindless, flesh-eating threats, society retreated behind massive barriers. This "Split" created a stark divide: on one side, the relative safety of the fortified sectors; on the other, the lawless, zombie-infested wasteland where the forgotten are left to fend for themselves.
The atmosphere Nally builds is immediately claustrophobic. Whether the characters are navigating the cramped, tension-filled corridors of a "safe" zone or the wide-open, terrifying silence of the ruins, there is a constant sense of unease. The zombies here aren't just a background prop; they are a relentless, ticking clock that forces the characters to make impossible decisions in seconds because one wrong decision could cost them their lives.
At the center of this chaos is Kota, a protagonist whose journey serves as the emotional anchor of the book. When we first meet Kota, she is a survivor in the purest sense of the word. She is hardened, cautious, and driven by a singular, desperate goal: protecting her sister. and grandmother. Her life has been defined by loss and the rigid, often cruel rules of the post-Split world.
Kota’s character arc is a masterful exploration of what happens to the soul when it is forced into "survival mode" for too long. Throughout the story, we see her struggle. She begins the novel as someone who views others primarily as liabilities or tools to reach her goal. However, as she is forced to navigate the world of Macoby and she sees how different and freeing it is from Egal, her arc shifts from one of mere survival to one of reclamation.
The most compelling part of Kota’s development is her realization that surviving is not the same thing as living. As she encounters other survivors and faces the moral gray areas of the new world order, she is forced to decide what kind of person she wants to be in a world that has forgotten what it means to be human. Her growth is slow, painful, and incredibly rewarding to witness, making her a hero that readers will find themselves rooting for from the very first page.
While the action is frequent and the "scare factor" is high, *The Split* shines because of its dystopian elements. The zombies provide the horror, but the "Split" itself provides the tragedy. Nally explores themes of classism and the ethics of abandonment, asking difficult questions about who is "worth" saving when resources are low and fear is high. This elevated the story for me; it wasn't just about escaping a monster, but about navigating a broken system that used monsters as an excuse for cruelty.
The pacing of the novel is one of its greatest strengths. It is an incredibly quick read, with short, punchy chapters. The descriptions of the wasteland are well done, and the action sequences are choreographed with a clarity that keeps the stakes high without being confusing.
The Split is a standout dystopian that will appeal to anyone who loves a high-stakes, post-apocalyptic survival story. It hits all the right notes for fans of the zombie genre—the tension, the gore, and the constant threat—but it adds a layer of heart and social relevance that is often missing from "shambling corpse" narratives.
Gigi Nally is definitely an author to watch. Her ability to balance world-building with deep character work in such a fast-paced format is impressive. I finished the book in nearly one sitting, and the ending left me both satisfied and eager to see where this world goes next. If you are looking for a quick, gritty, and emotionally resonant read to add to your dystopian shelf, The Split should be at the top of your list. I will certainly be checking out more from this author in the future.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review
The premise of the novel centers on a world that has been physically and metaphorically severed. Following a catastrophic outbreak that turned a vast portion of the population into mindless, flesh-eating threats, society retreated behind massive barriers. This "Split" created a stark divide: on one side, the relative safety of the fortified sectors; on the other, the lawless, zombie-infested wasteland where the forgotten are left to fend for themselves.
The atmosphere Nally builds is immediately claustrophobic. Whether the characters are navigating the cramped, tension-filled corridors of a "safe" zone or the wide-open, terrifying silence of the ruins, there is a constant sense of unease. The zombies here aren't just a background prop; they are a relentless, ticking clock that forces the characters to make impossible decisions in seconds because one wrong decision could cost them their lives.
At the center of this chaos is Kota, a protagonist whose journey serves as the emotional anchor of the book. When we first meet Kota, she is a survivor in the purest sense of the word. She is hardened, cautious, and driven by a singular, desperate goal: protecting her sister. and grandmother. Her life has been defined by loss and the rigid, often cruel rules of the post-Split world.
Kota’s character arc is a masterful exploration of what happens to the soul when it is forced into "survival mode" for too long. Throughout the story, we see her struggle. She begins the novel as someone who views others primarily as liabilities or tools to reach her goal. However, as she is forced to navigate the world of Macoby and she sees how different and freeing it is from Egal, her arc shifts from one of mere survival to one of reclamation.
The most compelling part of Kota’s development is her realization that surviving is not the same thing as living. As she encounters other survivors and faces the moral gray areas of the new world order, she is forced to decide what kind of person she wants to be in a world that has forgotten what it means to be human. Her growth is slow, painful, and incredibly rewarding to witness, making her a hero that readers will find themselves rooting for from the very first page.
While the action is frequent and the "scare factor" is high, *The Split* shines because of its dystopian elements. The zombies provide the horror, but the "Split" itself provides the tragedy. Nally explores themes of classism and the ethics of abandonment, asking difficult questions about who is "worth" saving when resources are low and fear is high. This elevated the story for me; it wasn't just about escaping a monster, but about navigating a broken system that used monsters as an excuse for cruelty.
The pacing of the novel is one of its greatest strengths. It is an incredibly quick read, with short, punchy chapters. The descriptions of the wasteland are well done, and the action sequences are choreographed with a clarity that keeps the stakes high without being confusing.
The Split is a standout dystopian that will appeal to anyone who loves a high-stakes, post-apocalyptic survival story. It hits all the right notes for fans of the zombie genre—the tension, the gore, and the constant threat—but it adds a layer of heart and social relevance that is often missing from "shambling corpse" narratives.
Gigi Nally is definitely an author to watch. Her ability to balance world-building with deep character work in such a fast-paced format is impressive. I finished the book in nearly one sitting, and the ending left me both satisfied and eager to see where this world goes next. If you are looking for a quick, gritty, and emotionally resonant read to add to your dystopian shelf, The Split should be at the top of your list. I will certainly be checking out more from this author in the future.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Autor
Hi! What an awesome book! I've missed this style of writing and form of sci-fi/post-apocalyptic narrative; I couldn't put the book down all day (literally, I almost burned my food because of it). So, before I spoil any detail, let's start with the review.
--
I enjoyed the style of sarcastic, or (technically) raw approach to the post-apocalyptic narrative from our FMC. I'm used to that style, since one of my first series was Maze Runner, so I remember the way its main characters described surviving on a style of denial, which was portrayed from the start of our FMC's story.
--
Also, the comparison of what was before and after the apocalypse helped us (the readers) get caught up with the plot and the world-building without cutting the narrative's flow with an enormous amount of details that make the story harder to read.
--
Kota's an interesting FMC; she gave ADHD trying to survive the apocalypse (she has a lot of amazing abilities, but they're useless for an apocalypse), which is very funny; outside the survival skills she has, it was a nice touch to add to her character a strong moral sense of doing what's “right,” even though that could mean death for her, and the contrast of her admitting to herself she would do what's necessary to survive, which made her character development interesting and complex.
--
I loved that when she blew up (from emotions and the situation), she didn’t stop being sarcastic and used every ounce of self-preservation to survive on her own, and that she learned to be strong for her family.
--
I loved Jasper's personality, his relaxed or confident attitude, and his snarky comments; he was a very relatable MMC. I liked how he seemed dangerous at first (with a lot of reason) but ends up being the ironic “looks like he can kill” but a sucker for the FMC.
--
Now, this is a well-written rivals-to-lovers, not enemies, because he never (maybe just the first encounter) tried to kill her or never had the intention, but their dynamic was very rocky, so I've enjoyed the banter between the MCs. Also, because of their differences in personality, I think that made the romantic development.
--
Lately we have a lot of books of rivals-to-lovers or enemies-to-lovers with MCs that are made for each other, and that loses the sense of a rivalry or the emotion “hate” and honestly makes the book feel boring. But, since I said this respects the original concept of enemies-to-lovers, I was delighted by this plotline.
--
So, that's all for today's review. I hope this review inspires others to read The Split. Thank you to the author; I've enjoyed being an ARC reader for this book. With that said, I believe this could become the next hit, similar to what happened with Maze Runner.
--
Also, I almost forgot, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
--
I enjoyed the style of sarcastic, or (technically) raw approach to the post-apocalyptic narrative from our FMC. I'm used to that style, since one of my first series was Maze Runner, so I remember the way its main characters described surviving on a style of denial, which was portrayed from the start of our FMC's story.
--
Also, the comparison of what was before and after the apocalypse helped us (the readers) get caught up with the plot and the world-building without cutting the narrative's flow with an enormous amount of details that make the story harder to read.
--
Kota's an interesting FMC; she gave ADHD trying to survive the apocalypse (she has a lot of amazing abilities, but they're useless for an apocalypse), which is very funny; outside the survival skills she has, it was a nice touch to add to her character a strong moral sense of doing what's “right,” even though that could mean death for her, and the contrast of her admitting to herself she would do what's necessary to survive, which made her character development interesting and complex.
--
I loved that when she blew up (from emotions and the situation), she didn’t stop being sarcastic and used every ounce of self-preservation to survive on her own, and that she learned to be strong for her family.
--
I loved Jasper's personality, his relaxed or confident attitude, and his snarky comments; he was a very relatable MMC. I liked how he seemed dangerous at first (with a lot of reason) but ends up being the ironic “looks like he can kill” but a sucker for the FMC.
--
Now, this is a well-written rivals-to-lovers, not enemies, because he never (maybe just the first encounter) tried to kill her or never had the intention, but their dynamic was very rocky, so I've enjoyed the banter between the MCs. Also, because of their differences in personality, I think that made the romantic development.
--
Lately we have a lot of books of rivals-to-lovers or enemies-to-lovers with MCs that are made for each other, and that loses the sense of a rivalry or the emotion “hate” and honestly makes the book feel boring. But, since I said this respects the original concept of enemies-to-lovers, I was delighted by this plotline.
--
So, that's all for today's review. I hope this review inspires others to read The Split. Thank you to the author; I've enjoyed being an ARC reader for this book. With that said, I believe this could become the next hit, similar to what happened with Maze Runner.
--
Also, I almost forgot, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A relentless, action-driven ride from the very first page, The Split delivers a gripping blend of post-apocalyptic danger, political tension, and slow-burn romance that keeps the stakes high throughout. In her debut novel, Nally crafts a world where survival isn’t just about outrunning the undead, it’s about knowing who to trust when power and fear collide.
Set in a fractured society divided between Macoby and Egal, the story layers classic zombie horror with an inventive twist: it’s not just the people who’ve turned. Animals, and even plants, have succumbed as well, creating an ecosystem where danger lurks in every shadow. The added complication of food scarcity, with infected wildlife unfit for consumption, raises the tension and gives this familiar genre a fresh edge.
At the heart of the novel is Kota, a protagonist whose journey anchors the narrative. She begins uncertain of her own strength but grows steadily into her resilience, revealing a determination fueled by loyalty and love for her family. Her character arc is one of the novel’s strongest elements, offering satisfying development as she learns to navigate betrayal, shifting alliances, and her own self-doubt.
The supporting cast is equally compelling. Jasper’s relationship with Kota unfolds gradually, avoiding cliché insta-romance in favor of something more nuanced and hard-earned. Greeley, in particular, steals scenes with her unpredictable energy and layered personality. Even secondary characters leave an impression, adding texture to an already immersive world.
The political undercurrent, questioning leadership, loyalty, and the cost of control, adds depth beyond the action. While readers may wish for a deeper exploration of Macoby’s daily life and community dynamics, the time spent in Egal provides plenty of intrigue and character interaction to maintain momentum.
Told in present tense, the prose moves at a brisk pace, growing even more intense in the second half as assumptions are overturned and the plot sharpens in unexpected ways. The final chapters land on a perfectly timed cliffhanger that makes the wait for the next installment feel almost unbearable.
For readers craving a zombie story with inventive world-building, layered character dynamics, high stakes, and a romance that simmers rather than sizzles, The Split stands out as a strong four-star debut.
Set in a fractured society divided between Macoby and Egal, the story layers classic zombie horror with an inventive twist: it’s not just the people who’ve turned. Animals, and even plants, have succumbed as well, creating an ecosystem where danger lurks in every shadow. The added complication of food scarcity, with infected wildlife unfit for consumption, raises the tension and gives this familiar genre a fresh edge.
At the heart of the novel is Kota, a protagonist whose journey anchors the narrative. She begins uncertain of her own strength but grows steadily into her resilience, revealing a determination fueled by loyalty and love for her family. Her character arc is one of the novel’s strongest elements, offering satisfying development as she learns to navigate betrayal, shifting alliances, and her own self-doubt.
The supporting cast is equally compelling. Jasper’s relationship with Kota unfolds gradually, avoiding cliché insta-romance in favor of something more nuanced and hard-earned. Greeley, in particular, steals scenes with her unpredictable energy and layered personality. Even secondary characters leave an impression, adding texture to an already immersive world.
The political undercurrent, questioning leadership, loyalty, and the cost of control, adds depth beyond the action. While readers may wish for a deeper exploration of Macoby’s daily life and community dynamics, the time spent in Egal provides plenty of intrigue and character interaction to maintain momentum.
Told in present tense, the prose moves at a brisk pace, growing even more intense in the second half as assumptions are overturned and the plot sharpens in unexpected ways. The final chapters land on a perfectly timed cliffhanger that makes the wait for the next installment feel almost unbearable.
For readers craving a zombie story with inventive world-building, layered character dynamics, high stakes, and a romance that simmers rather than sizzles, The Split stands out as a strong four-star debut.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Split is Nally's debut novel and I would consider this a very strong debut. I read the sypnosis for this and was hooked right away -- a post-apocalyptic world, slow burn romance and zombies -- and I was ecstatic when I got the chance to read this arc.
I normally have a bit of a tough time reading novels written in the present tense, but I quickly got used to it and felt it flowed very well. I really liked Kota's voice and I blew through the first half of the book. Somehow, after 50%, the book got even better. I thought I had the book figured out at that point, but turns out I didn't at all!
The characters are lovely. I liked Jasper, and I liked that their romance wasn't insta-lust, but instead slow-budding with ups and downs. I liked Greeley. Honestly, loved her, and she quickly became my favorite character. I really enjoyed our main character as well, and even though Kota gives off slight damsel in distress vibes in the beginning (a lot of people in this book seem to trip over their shoelaces), she is no push-over and she gets more confident and assertive as the story progresses, despite not a lot of people believing in her.
And as for the the world of the Split, divided into Macoby and Egal, there are not only zombies, but zombie animals -- and plants! -- as well, which I thought was super interesting. I have not read a ton of zombie apocalypse novels before, so to me, this felt very fresh. I liked that it also played into their dire lack of food; zombie animals unfit for consumption. It added an extra layer of danger.
I kind of hoped to see more of Macoby than we did, as we only got to meet a few people. Through Kota's POV, we learn that Macoby is thriving (as much as you can in a zombie apocalypse), more so than Egal, but what is daily life like? People go for their own supply runs, are there are no food related conflicts? Is there a sense of community? I wish we had learnt more about Macoby, as I think her time in Egal was interesting to read about and I would have loved to read more about her interactions with the boys, Milo, Fred and Indy (not Peter, for obvious reasons).
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I think a lot of other people in the mood for a post-apocalyptic novel with slow burn romance, high stakes and zombies (and zomboars, zombirds, zombie snakes and vines) will devour this one. 4 out of 5 stars.
I’d like to thank the author, publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this arc.
I normally have a bit of a tough time reading novels written in the present tense, but I quickly got used to it and felt it flowed very well. I really liked Kota's voice and I blew through the first half of the book. Somehow, after 50%, the book got even better. I thought I had the book figured out at that point, but turns out I didn't at all!
The characters are lovely. I liked Jasper, and I liked that their romance wasn't insta-lust, but instead slow-budding with ups and downs. I liked Greeley. Honestly, loved her, and she quickly became my favorite character. I really enjoyed our main character as well, and even though Kota gives off slight damsel in distress vibes in the beginning (a lot of people in this book seem to trip over their shoelaces), she is no push-over and she gets more confident and assertive as the story progresses, despite not a lot of people believing in her.
And as for the the world of the Split, divided into Macoby and Egal, there are not only zombies, but zombie animals -- and plants! -- as well, which I thought was super interesting. I have not read a ton of zombie apocalypse novels before, so to me, this felt very fresh. I liked that it also played into their dire lack of food; zombie animals unfit for consumption. It added an extra layer of danger.
I kind of hoped to see more of Macoby than we did, as we only got to meet a few people. Through Kota's POV, we learn that Macoby is thriving (as much as you can in a zombie apocalypse), more so than Egal, but what is daily life like? People go for their own supply runs, are there are no food related conflicts? Is there a sense of community? I wish we had learnt more about Macoby, as I think her time in Egal was interesting to read about and I would have loved to read more about her interactions with the boys, Milo, Fred and Indy (not Peter, for obvious reasons).
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I think a lot of other people in the mood for a post-apocalyptic novel with slow burn romance, high stakes and zombies (and zomboars, zombirds, zombie snakes and vines) will devour this one. 4 out of 5 stars.
I’d like to thank the author, publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for having an ARC available for the zombie lovers out there.
I have such mixed feelings about this book.
I enjoyed the character development, found family, and emotional growth between characters. The premise was promising and I could see where this could be heading. Book two could be really cool if done right.
The zom- everything is a little weird, although it makes sense in a way and is original. I personally would have preferred to read about how inanimate objects were infected, not literally being called zombie trees. Though I did understand she sometimes referred to it that way as a character quirk.
There is no explanation as to where theyre getting insulin, as all types need to be kept refrigerated until opening. It can be held at room temp for up to 28 days *after* opening but its been 3 years since z-day..? No abondoned pharmacy would have power keeping insulin cold and therefore useful, potency deteriorates after only 1 year, and thats if its kept refrigerated. But it would most likely be subject to South Carolinas weather which includes extreme summer tempatures which would speed potency deterioration. It just really threw off the immersion.
A lot of scenarios were highly unlikely
For example Also, she
The ending was surprisingly gore-y which was unexpected but very welcomed. Unfortunately not enough plot holes were closed up, relying too heavily on book 2 to have a solid ending. It felt too open ended. I did appreciate that it is a close door romance, and the many action scenes were well detailed. In all, decent read, would probably read book 2 to see where the author takes us, but personally, not my favorite zombie novel.
I have such mixed feelings about this book.
I enjoyed the character development, found family, and emotional growth between characters. The premise was promising and I could see where this could be heading. Book two could be really cool if done right.
The zom- everything is a little weird, although it makes sense in a way and is original. I personally would have preferred to read about how inanimate objects were infected, not literally being called zombie trees. Though I did understand she sometimes referred to it that way as a character quirk.
There is no explanation as to where theyre getting insulin, as all types need to be kept refrigerated until opening. It can be held at room temp for up to 28 days *after* opening but its been 3 years since z-day..? No abondoned pharmacy would have power keeping insulin cold and therefore useful, potency deteriorates after only 1 year, and thats if its kept refrigerated. But it would most likely be subject to South Carolinas weather which includes extreme summer tempatures which would speed potency deterioration. It just really threw off the immersion.
A lot of scenarios were highly unlikely
For example Also, she
The ending was surprisingly gore-y which was unexpected but very welcomed. Unfortunately not enough plot holes were closed up, relying too heavily on book 2 to have a solid ending. It felt too open ended. I did appreciate that it is a close door romance, and the many action scenes were well detailed. In all, decent read, would probably read book 2 to see where the author takes us, but personally, not my favorite zombie novel.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 ⭐ (rounded up)
✨ Summary
Kota is a scrappy 21‑year‑old doing whatever it takes to keep her family alive in zombie‑ridden South Carolina — including running supplies through territory no sane person would step foot in. When she’s kidnapped in the middle of a crumbling truce between two rival settlements, she suddenly becomes a bargaining chip in a conflict way bigger than she ever signed up for. Her captor, Jasper, is meant to be the enemy… except he keeps revealing things about her home that don’t add up. With war brewing, secrets surfacing, and an attraction she absolutely did not plan on, Kota has to decide who she trusts — and where she stands when everything starts to fall apart.
✨ My Review
This threw me right back into my teenage zombie‑apocalypse phase in the best way. I’ve always loved dystopian stories, and this one had that same chaotic, slightly feral energy I used to devour.
Kota is such a fun protagonist. She’s strong even when she doesn’t believe it, a little unhinged (in a way that made me laugh), and completely unpredictable. You genuinely never know what she’s going to do next, or where the plot is about to swerve, and that kept me on my toes the whole time.
The worldbuilding was one of my favourite parts. Zombification affects everything:
- zombees (yes, zombie bees)
- zomtrees
- zombirds
- basically every creature and plant has a zombie version
It’s weird and quirky and I loved it.
Where I struggled a bit was with some of the character reactions and emotional beats. A few moments felt a little immature for a 21‑year‑old, and some decisions had me blinking like… girl, what are we doing? There were also plot points that should’ve hit harder emotionally but were skimmed over too quickly.
But overall? I had a really good time. It was fun, nostalgic, and full of creative zombie chaos. I’m definitely curious to see where the next book goes and whether we’re heading toward a zombie‑cure adventure 👀
Thank you to NetGalley and Gilly Publishing for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
✨ Summary
Kota is a scrappy 21‑year‑old doing whatever it takes to keep her family alive in zombie‑ridden South Carolina — including running supplies through territory no sane person would step foot in. When she’s kidnapped in the middle of a crumbling truce between two rival settlements, she suddenly becomes a bargaining chip in a conflict way bigger than she ever signed up for. Her captor, Jasper, is meant to be the enemy… except he keeps revealing things about her home that don’t add up. With war brewing, secrets surfacing, and an attraction she absolutely did not plan on, Kota has to decide who she trusts — and where she stands when everything starts to fall apart.
✨ My Review
This threw me right back into my teenage zombie‑apocalypse phase in the best way. I’ve always loved dystopian stories, and this one had that same chaotic, slightly feral energy I used to devour.
Kota is such a fun protagonist. She’s strong even when she doesn’t believe it, a little unhinged (in a way that made me laugh), and completely unpredictable. You genuinely never know what she’s going to do next, or where the plot is about to swerve, and that kept me on my toes the whole time.
The worldbuilding was one of my favourite parts. Zombification affects everything:
- zombees (yes, zombie bees)
- zomtrees
- zombirds
- basically every creature and plant has a zombie version
It’s weird and quirky and I loved it.
Where I struggled a bit was with some of the character reactions and emotional beats. A few moments felt a little immature for a 21‑year‑old, and some decisions had me blinking like… girl, what are we doing? There were also plot points that should’ve hit harder emotionally but were skimmed over too quickly.
But overall? I had a really good time. It was fun, nostalgic, and full of creative zombie chaos. I’m definitely curious to see where the next book goes and whether we’re heading toward a zombie‑cure adventure 👀
Thank you to NetGalley and Gilly Publishing for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Split cover is what drew me in and I’m glad it did. This isn’t a story I would normally reach for, it isn’t my favourite genre but I really enjoyed Kota’s journey through an evolving world post Z day.
For me, this was a wonderful mix of gore, realistic commentary and a budding romance between two people trying to survive. I loved the authenticity of this story - the descriptions were incredible and I loved the accuracy (or what I’d perceive to be accurate post apocalypse!). I particularly loved the mention of smell - I find so many fictions forget that people must smell horrendous when they stop having access to soap, deodorant and clean water!!
The story could be predictable, but I also didn’t know every little twist. I enjoyed the darkness of the story. It annoys me when only vague side characters die - come on! I want a bit of emotional damage with my read!
Overall, I enjoyed the rollercoaster ride alongside Kota. Her strength and determination is admirable and I enjoyed seeing her adapt and grow. I appreciated that she was written with flaws and hesitation, much like I believe I’d have been if I’d been in her shoes. I found Jasper refreshing and endearing.
I’m not sure if there is a book 2 coming - but if there is, I’ll be waiting!
Thank you NetGalley and Gilly Publising for allowing me to read this ARC. #NetGalley #TheSplit #GigiNally
For me, this was a wonderful mix of gore, realistic commentary and a budding romance between two people trying to survive. I loved the authenticity of this story - the descriptions were incredible and I loved the accuracy (or what I’d perceive to be accurate post apocalypse!). I particularly loved the mention of smell - I find so many fictions forget that people must smell horrendous when they stop having access to soap, deodorant and clean water!!
The story could be predictable, but I also didn’t know every little twist. I enjoyed the darkness of the story. It annoys me when only vague side characters die - come on! I want a bit of emotional damage with my read!
Overall, I enjoyed the rollercoaster ride alongside Kota. Her strength and determination is admirable and I enjoyed seeing her adapt and grow. I appreciated that she was written with flaws and hesitation, much like I believe I’d have been if I’d been in her shoes. I found Jasper refreshing and endearing.
I’m not sure if there is a book 2 coming - but if there is, I’ll be waiting!
Thank you NetGalley and Gilly Publising for allowing me to read this ARC. #NetGalley #TheSplit #GigiNally
Read
February 1, 2026This is going on the top of my list as one of my most favorite books. This post apocalyptic novel was a bit different than your usual dystopian novel.
Twenty-one year old Kota is feisty and safe in her corner of the world. Kota works with Peter and a couple of other people in her settlement to run for goods for their settlement. Her group is run by a very by the book boss who doesn't like guns and violence. They do carry around knives, but they rarely use them. Kota has never killed a zombie.
One day, on a run, her group runs into their rivals and Kota gets kidnapped. From the beginning of her capture, Jasper wants to keep her safe and Greeley just thinks Kota is to innocent. She learns a lot of things about "the other side of the wall." Her and Jasper grow very fond of one another and that sweet romance grows.
I think that my favorite part of this story was watching Kota grow into herself and finding out who she is and who she doesn't want to be. Watching her fight to become a newer version of herself that she appreciates much more was the most rewarding part for me.
Thank you to Gigi Nally and Gilly Publishing for allowing me to ARC read this post apocalyptic, slow burn romance dystopian novel.
Twenty-one year old Kota is feisty and safe in her corner of the world. Kota works with Peter and a couple of other people in her settlement to run for goods for their settlement. Her group is run by a very by the book boss who doesn't like guns and violence. They do carry around knives, but they rarely use them. Kota has never killed a zombie.
One day, on a run, her group runs into their rivals and Kota gets kidnapped. From the beginning of her capture, Jasper wants to keep her safe and Greeley just thinks Kota is to innocent. She learns a lot of things about "the other side of the wall." Her and Jasper grow very fond of one another and that sweet romance grows.
I think that my favorite part of this story was watching Kota grow into herself and finding out who she is and who she doesn't want to be. Watching her fight to become a newer version of herself that she appreciates much more was the most rewarding part for me.
Thank you to Gigi Nally and Gilly Publishing for allowing me to ARC read this post apocalyptic, slow burn romance dystopian novel.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I picked this up because I really love the zombie apocalypse or end of the world scenario and the dystopian backdrop with loyalties being tested sounded like my kind of fun.
• The initial 20% was hard to cross, but it also shows Kota trying hard to make herself less to be more palatable, to just survive for her family, then she meets Jason and suddenly everything she buried about herself cameback, she was herself around him and among the enemy she felt free.
• Kota is really hilarious and I loved watching her grow, though the romantic development isn't something that I was absolutely caring for, the chemistry didn't work for me.
• I was totally rooting Kota but aside from that I couldn't bring myself to care about anything.
• Greely..I mean, she's a vital character but I would've loved a lot more backstory to her rather than her just acting like an overgrown toddler. There wasn't anything that showed the depth of her character or how there might be more. I wanted glimpses of something amongst all of her craziness but couldn't see it.
• The dreadful atmosphere was done really well, and the writing was really gripping.
💌 Over-all, The book in itself is a really fun with still a lot of waiting however it just wasn't a hit for me.
💖 Thanks NetGalley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
• The initial 20% was hard to cross, but it also shows Kota trying hard to make herself less to be more palatable, to just survive for her family, then she meets Jason and suddenly everything she buried about herself cameback, she was herself around him and among the enemy she felt free.
• Kota is really hilarious and I loved watching her grow, though the romantic development isn't something that I was absolutely caring for, the chemistry didn't work for me.
• I was totally rooting Kota but aside from that I couldn't bring myself to care about anything.
• Greely..I mean, she's a vital character but I would've loved a lot more backstory to her rather than her just acting like an overgrown toddler. There wasn't anything that showed the depth of her character or how there might be more. I wanted glimpses of something amongst all of her craziness but couldn't see it.
• The dreadful atmosphere was done really well, and the writing was really gripping.
💌 Over-all, The book in itself is a really fun with still a lot of waiting however it just wasn't a hit for me.
💖 Thanks NetGalley for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a good zombie story and Nally has introduced a unique concept to a classic premise. I mean—this isn’t just a world full of zombies, it’s a world full of zom-everything!
Kota is an interesting lead. I was hooked on her journey from the start of the book and I loved seeing her growth. I like that she isn’t as helpless as she thinks she is; she just needs to realize her full potential. It was easy to root for her and I am anxious to see where the second book takes her!
Nally did an excellent job at creating engaging character dynamics between Kota and those she meets throughout this story, while also managing to keep an exciting pace that had me flipping through the pages to know what happened next. Excellent world building. A cast of characters that are fun and quirky and a little damaged and delightfully unhinged (I’m looking at you Greeley). Chef's kiss.
The ending of this book is the perfect cliffhanger, so if the author wanted to release book 2 immediately, I wouldn’t complain….
Kota is an interesting lead. I was hooked on her journey from the start of the book and I loved seeing her growth. I like that she isn’t as helpless as she thinks she is; she just needs to realize her full potential. It was easy to root for her and I am anxious to see where the second book takes her!
Nally did an excellent job at creating engaging character dynamics between Kota and those she meets throughout this story, while also managing to keep an exciting pace that had me flipping through the pages to know what happened next. Excellent world building. A cast of characters that are fun and quirky and a little damaged and delightfully unhinged (I’m looking at you Greeley). Chef's kiss.
The ending of this book is the perfect cliffhanger, so if the author wanted to release book 2 immediately, I wouldn’t complain….
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and the author Gigi Nalley for this ARC, which I received in exchange for my honest opinion. The Split is a gritty story about the end of the world. I happen to love dystopian/apocalyptic books, so this one was right up my alley. The world building was fantastic. An outbreak has turned a large number of the population into the living dead. The split is an actual divide, barriers erected to keep the living and the dead separate and keep the living safe. On one side, everything is regimented and controlled on the other people are free but have to deal with the zombies. Our FMC Kota really made the story for me. The character arc and the way she really came into her own was the best part. I also enjoyed the tension. You can almost feel a sense of dread as the characters go about their lives and have to make life or death decisions. All in all, I enjoyed this story. The pacing was fast enough to keep my attention, and this was a quick read, which was exactly what I was in the mood for.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Split is a heartfelt, emotional romance that dives deep into love, second chances, and the complexities of relationships.
Gigi Nally balances humor, tension, and emotional stakes beautifully. The story feels real—the kind where past mistakes linger, feelings are messy, and every choice matters. The characters are fully realized: the heroine is relatable and strong-willed, while the hero is layered, vulnerable, and utterly magnetic. Their chemistry feels authentic, simmering with both frustration and undeniable connection.
What really stands out is the emotional resonance. Nally doesn’t shy away from exploring the pain of heartbreak, the courage it takes to forgive, and the joy of rediscovering love. The pacing keeps the story engaging, blending sweet, swoony moments with meaningful reflection.
If you love contemporary romance with depth, humor, and heart, The Split is a moving, satisfying read that will stay with you long after the last page.
Gigi Nally balances humor, tension, and emotional stakes beautifully. The story feels real—the kind where past mistakes linger, feelings are messy, and every choice matters. The characters are fully realized: the heroine is relatable and strong-willed, while the hero is layered, vulnerable, and utterly magnetic. Their chemistry feels authentic, simmering with both frustration and undeniable connection.
What really stands out is the emotional resonance. Nally doesn’t shy away from exploring the pain of heartbreak, the courage it takes to forgive, and the joy of rediscovering love. The pacing keeps the story engaging, blending sweet, swoony moments with meaningful reflection.
If you love contemporary romance with depth, humor, and heart, The Split is a moving, satisfying read that will stay with you long after the last page.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Gilly publishing for providing me with this eARC.
Firstly, if you want a binge-able zombie novel and tend to enjoy quirky characters, definitely give this post-apocalyptic debut a try.
The Split is one of the more unique books I’ve read and I finished it in less than 24 hours. I requested this ARC after reading a blurb about this being for readers who enjoy The Walking Dead and a slow burn romance - which I do!
Sadly, I didn’t end up being obsessed with the execution of the romance, overall it felt a bit lukewarm and I would have loved some more yearning and tension from both characters, particularly from the mmc.
I enjoyed the post apocalyptic, dystopian setting, the unique characters, and action this first book brings.
The Split sets up nicely for a second book.
Firstly, if you want a binge-able zombie novel and tend to enjoy quirky characters, definitely give this post-apocalyptic debut a try.
The Split is one of the more unique books I’ve read and I finished it in less than 24 hours. I requested this ARC after reading a blurb about this being for readers who enjoy The Walking Dead and a slow burn romance - which I do!
Sadly, I didn’t end up being obsessed with the execution of the romance, overall it felt a bit lukewarm and I would have loved some more yearning and tension from both characters, particularly from the mmc.
I enjoyed the post apocalyptic, dystopian setting, the unique characters, and action this first book brings.
The Split sets up nicely for a second book.
February 28, 2026
Thank you Gigi Nally , Gilly Editing and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review! All information below is based off my own opinion of the book! I also like to keep my reviews short and simple as someone who looks at the short reviews before reading books. 💕⭐️
Book rating: ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Level Of spice: 🌶️
Favorite characters: jasper
This book was an okay book. The twist and turns are fun and the concept of not only human zombies but everything turning to a zombie was the best part! I wish there was more of a romance in this book I felt like we barely got to see the characters fall for each other. I felt like I was missing bits of the story sometimes and found myself confused in certain situations. Some of it was hard to believe but that’s not something I truly cared much about. I just was missing something in this book but overall it was a fun/good read
Book rating: ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Level Of spice: 🌶️
Favorite characters: jasper
This book was an okay book. The twist and turns are fun and the concept of not only human zombies but everything turning to a zombie was the best part! I wish there was more of a romance in this book I felt like we barely got to see the characters fall for each other. I felt like I was missing bits of the story sometimes and found myself confused in certain situations. Some of it was hard to believe but that’s not something I truly cared much about. I just was missing something in this book but overall it was a fun/good read
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kota’s voice had me hooked from the very first page. I love that she was different from most main characters we see nowadays in dystopian/fantasy books. She actually has things to learn and ways to grow, and she does so in such a satisfying way!
The setting/world-building of this story is the true star. It’s grim and dark but also has bright spots, especially thanks to some of the characters Kota meets along the way. I love the author’s sense of humor and the range of emotions she takes us on through the story. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time trying to figure out what was going to happen next.
The ending is WILD (no spoilers but iykyk!!) and I can’t wait to see where book 2 goes!
The setting/world-building of this story is the true star. It’s grim and dark but also has bright spots, especially thanks to some of the characters Kota meets along the way. I love the author’s sense of humor and the range of emotions she takes us on through the story. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time trying to figure out what was going to happen next.
The ending is WILD (no spoilers but iykyk!!) and I can’t wait to see where book 2 goes!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Everything I want in a zombie/apocalyptic romance novel — with the romance kept light. I loved every moment of this story. The characters were incredibly well written, even the ones I thought I’d hate (Gree Gree, babe, I’m talking about you). Somehow, you can’t help but like them.
The pacing was a real strength. The story has great momentum while still allowing room to breathe, with smaller subplots woven naturally into the main plot. The romance was also handled well — not insta-love, but something that felt authentic and earned. This is a fade-to-black book, which fit the tone perfectly.
I’m genuinely thrilled to see this genre coming back into trend, because stories like The Split are exactly what make me excited for more.
Easy 5 stars.
The pacing was a real strength. The story has great momentum while still allowing room to breathe, with smaller subplots woven naturally into the main plot. The romance was also handled well — not insta-love, but something that felt authentic and earned. This is a fade-to-black book, which fit the tone perfectly.
I’m genuinely thrilled to see this genre coming back into trend, because stories like The Split are exactly what make me excited for more.
Easy 5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really wanted to love this book. I couldn’t get into it from the very beginning. The characters and dialogue were extremely cringey to me. At 60% in, I thought to myself “i still don’t care about Kota and Jasper’s relationship”.
I felt like there were a lot of plot holes and believability issues.
I did give it two stars for two reasons:
1. I did not guess the twists
2. I really liked the concept of two different approaches to the same problem represented through the sides of the town
I didn’t find Kota likable and I didn’t feel Jasper had a real personality. It just really took me out of the story and made it hard to continue reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
I felt like there were a lot of plot holes and believability issues.
I did give it two stars for two reasons:
1. I did not guess the twists
2. I really liked the concept of two different approaches to the same problem represented through the sides of the town
I didn’t find Kota likable and I didn’t feel Jasper had a real personality. It just really took me out of the story and made it hard to continue reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Not typically a fan of zombie movies, tv shows, or books but this one kept my interest and didn’t make we want to DNF it. I was very interested to see how this book would end and I can see me picking up the next book once it is released (unsure how many are planned for the series). I did enjoy the slow burn closed door romance and I also enjoyed seeing Kota stand up for herself and learn to handle whatever situation on her own and not rely on others. The only thing that was weird to me was that this world included zombirds, zombees, zomboars, zomferns, etc. showing how the zombie infection affected more than just humans. I don’t think I have ever heard of a world that included references to zombies outside of just the human infections. Overall a decent post-appocolypic, zombie book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had a ton of fun reading The Split by Gigi Nally.
From the beginning, the story pulled me in with its fast pace, high-stakes tension, and the dynamic between Kota and Jasper. I found myself thinking about the book even when I wasn’t reading it, which is always a sign I’m genuinely hooked.
I also looked forward to picking it back up every time I had a chance to read, and once I got into it, I had a really hard time putting it down. I ended up reading it in about two days because I just wanted to know what would happen next.
It’s the kind of book that makes for a perfect plane read or beach read—engaging, exciting, and easy to get lost in.
Congrats to Gigi on a fantastic first book! I can’t wait for the second one.
From the beginning, the story pulled me in with its fast pace, high-stakes tension, and the dynamic between Kota and Jasper. I found myself thinking about the book even when I wasn’t reading it, which is always a sign I’m genuinely hooked.
I also looked forward to picking it back up every time I had a chance to read, and once I got into it, I had a really hard time putting it down. I ended up reading it in about two days because I just wanted to know what would happen next.
It’s the kind of book that makes for a perfect plane read or beach read—engaging, exciting, and easy to get lost in.
Congrats to Gigi on a fantastic first book! I can’t wait for the second one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Arc Review
The Split by Gigi Nally
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Gilly Publishing (Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op) for providing this book for review purposes via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
For a debut this was fantastic, think Walking dead but sooooo much better!!! The characters are fantastic and so well written my favorite is Greely, she was fantastic and her characterwas so developed. Just think if Gigi Nalley had this good of a debut what else is she gonna give us in the future??
I for one can't wait to figure that out, all I know is I'll be keeping my eyes open for anything else she may publish!!!!
#TheSplit #NetGalley
The Split by Gigi Nally
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you Gilly Publishing (Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op) for providing this book for review purposes via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
For a debut this was fantastic, think Walking dead but sooooo much better!!! The characters are fantastic and so well written my favorite is Greely, she was fantastic and her characterwas so developed. Just think if Gigi Nalley had this good of a debut what else is she gonna give us in the future??
I for one can't wait to figure that out, all I know is I'll be keeping my eyes open for anything else she may publish!!!!
#TheSplit #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of an ARC received through NetGalley. Thank you!
I really enjoyed this book. I believe it's the authors debut novel and I have to say, it's a strong one. It was action packed, fast paced and so much fun to read. The way things are written and explained in the book makes it very accessible for pretty much everyone. You don't need to know much about Zombies to enjoy this book, however if you do know a lot about them, then you can still enjoy this story.
I used to play a Zombie survival video game and this book reminded me so much of it and how much fun I had.
I hope there is going to be a sequel to this book. Thank you to the Author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
I really enjoyed this book. I believe it's the authors debut novel and I have to say, it's a strong one. It was action packed, fast paced and so much fun to read. The way things are written and explained in the book makes it very accessible for pretty much everyone. You don't need to know much about Zombies to enjoy this book, however if you do know a lot about them, then you can still enjoy this story.
I used to play a Zombie survival video game and this book reminded me so much of it and how much fun I had.
I hope there is going to be a sequel to this book. Thank you to the Author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Gilly Publishing, and Gigi Nally for allowing me to read and review the eARC for The Split.
This was fun! The plot was exciting and kept me hooked the entire time. The writing was very average but that’s not necessary a bad thing, although I had a problem with the characterizing of some of the characters. I absolutely hated how Indy, Fred, and Greely were written. Greely was a little hard to look past since she’s a pretty prominent character but Indy and Fred were easy to overlook. I’m a sucker for a zombie apocalypse story and this didn’t disappoint!
This was fun! The plot was exciting and kept me hooked the entire time. The writing was very average but that’s not necessary a bad thing, although I had a problem with the characterizing of some of the characters. I absolutely hated how Indy, Fred, and Greely were written. Greely was a little hard to look past since she’s a pretty prominent character but Indy and Fred were easy to overlook. I’m a sucker for a zombie apocalypse story and this didn’t disappoint!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So honored to have been given a chance to read this a little early! It quickly became a book I craved - I found myself leaving dishes in the sink or laundry in the dryer; this was a fun ‘take me from reality’ read full of action and quirks. I would recommend this book to anyone in need of something new. Nally does a remarkable job of bringing a fresh approach to the literary table and I’m overwhelmingly excited about seeing this book hit the shelves because I know that bibliophiles like myself are going to flock to it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I say I devoured this book, finished it in less than a day. I wish I were a writer so I could give this review that it deserves, but dang this was an amazing book!!! I’ve never had a thing for zombies but this book had me changing me mind. The banter. The zombie-dictionary. The quips. The yearning. The y2k references. UGH it was such an enjoyable read, and I can’t get enough of Kota and this whole world. Read it! Read it! Read it!!!!
January 28, 2026
I absolutely LOVED The Spilt! The characters felt so real and easy to connect with, and the story kept surprising me in the best way. I laughed, I held my breath, and I was fully pulled in from start to finish.
As a Greenville local, it was such a fun experience recognizing places and feeling completely immersed in the world you created - it made the story even more special. This book was exciting, heartfelt, and such a joy to read!!
I can’t wait to find out what happens in Maine…👀🧟♀️
As a Greenville local, it was such a fun experience recognizing places and feeling completely immersed in the world you created - it made the story even more special. This book was exciting, heartfelt, and such a joy to read!!
I can’t wait to find out what happens in Maine…👀🧟♀️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews