Shadow Falling

Scorpius Syndrome #2

by Rebecca Zanetti

Before the Scorpius Syndrome tore through North America and nearly wiped out the population, Vivienne Wellington was the FBI’s best profiler. The bacteria got her anyway. But she survived. She recovered. And when she woke up from a drug-nightmare of captivity, her skills as a hunter of men had gone from merely brilliant to full-on uncanny. Her mysterious rescuer wants her to put them to the test. But no matter how tempting he is, with his angel’s eyes and devil’s tongue, Vinnie knows she shouldn’t trust him.

If the FBI were still around they would rate Raze Shadow as one of the bad guys. His military training can’t wipe out his association with the Mercenaries, the most feared gang in a thousand miles. His loyalties are compromised. He won’t even tell Vinnie his real name. But there’s no FBI in the new America of fear and firepower, only instinct and risk. And the way his arms wrap around her tells its own story. Whatever else Raze is concealing, he can’t hide his desire . . .

Genres: Romance, Dystopia, Romantic Suspense, Post Apocalyptic, Science Fiction, Military Fiction, Paranormal

400 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 30, 2016

About the author

New York Times, USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than seventy novels and novellas, which have been translated into several languages, with millions of copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus starred reviews, favorable Washington Post and New York Times Book Reviews, and been included in Amazon best books of the year.

Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest.

Reviews

[Val ⚓️ Shameless Handmaiden ⚓️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

***Full Review Now Posted***

3.5-3.75 Stars

Sooooooo.

I still liked this one. In fact, I liked the main couple here just as much - if not more - than Jax and Lynne from book one.

However, there was one thing - that was comprised of several things, actually - that kept me from loving or "really liking" it, as they stay in 4-star lingo.

So let's get started, shall we?



In book one, one of my only..."complaints" I guess, what that there were too many enemies, and thus plot lines, to focus on.

We had the Twenty gang, the president dude that's coming after Lynne, and the Rippers.

Well, something I forgot to verbalize in that review is that, in ANY book in this series, the first and most deadly enemy of all is the Scorpius Syndrome itself.

AKA



That alone is enough to deal with...

...But in book one we also had the above mentioned pain in the asses as well.

AKA



Well in THIS book?

Not only do we have:



We have:



And:



And:



And even:



^^^That's SIX for those who don't understand the Blossom reference.



Seriously though, I'm all for action and exciting plot happenings, but let's list all the "enemies" and issues in just this book alone:

1) The Scorpius syndrome that has killed over 90% of the population and still infecting people...

2) Rippers and their tendency to want to eat your face off...

3) Raze's secret agenda and the issues that arise within Vanguard as a result of that...

4) The Mercenaries and their agenda...

5) The President dude who still wants to capture Lynne and Vinnie for his own nefarious purposes...

6) The Twenty Gang, who seeks revenge against Vanguard and Jax even more now for the happenings in book one...

7) The "Pure" catastrophe that arises WITHIN Vanguard and against whom Jax and the boys must now also fight..

I mean, phew, people!

For realz though, this was me reading this book:










AKA


"Wow, there's so much going on, where the fuck do I look?"

I mean, holy shit.

I'm all for action and excitement, but this wasn't even that.

This was just plain too many lines of plot for me.

And as a result, some of them felt fractured.

I would prefer it if there were less plot lines and enemies and more attention and development bestowed on those plot lines and enemies.

But maybe that's just me.

All in all, this was still a great read and a really entertaining series, and I am definitely looking forward to book three.

Find this and other reviews and shenanigans at:

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raze saves Vinnie and brings her into Vanguard where he fights his attraction to the pretty doctor. Vinnie is experiencing some strange side effects since being infected and doesn't want to expose the sexy soldier, even if distance is the last thing her heart and body want from him. Raze has secrets and one of them doesn't spell good news for Vinnie. The plot is very interesting. This post-apocalyptic world is well detailed with a clear major plot supported by individual stories. The main characters' development was paced well. Raze was alpha but definitely had a weak (sweetly vulnerable) spot for his Vinnie. Vinnie was smart, perceptive, and just a little bit crazy lol These two together were so sexy! /fans self. The secondary characters are fleshed out well. I am really excited to see where the author goes with the two couples she was able to set up during this story because both have very unique traits that will add some interesting concepts to the future of this world. Safety: No OW/OM/Sharing, though there's a crazy man that wants Vinnie. No rape/abuse.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Denisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a feeling you'll love this one!


The characters are amazing, I enjoyed them so much. But the thing that made this series stand out is the world builder. If you're looking for an interesting, fun dystopia, this is the one for you (better if you read book no. 1 first, though).

[Jilly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alpha males. Sometimes I love them. Sometimes I want to cut off their testicles and use them like those squeezy stress balls while I'm reading about them.


Tell me again about how women have to obey their men?

I have noticed there are two types in books: the tough-guy who will protect his woman at all costs with a heart of gold, and the borderline abuser guy who treats his woman like an errant child. The first two books has Alpha number ones. This book had the second guy and I spent much of my time simmering in boiling hatred of him.



The series itself is really cool. It is dystopia, with smut. Smutopia. And reminds me a little bit of the Beyond series by Kit Rocha. The survivors in this post-apocalyptic world are trying to survive - as their name implies, and it ain't easy because the bacteria that killed most of the population turned some of them into psychotic killers. Some are just bat-shit crazy, and some are organized serial killers who love to inflict pain. Sounds fun, huh? Oh, and the president is one of the second kind. He is a total sadistic lunatic. Good thing this is fiction. It would suck to have a crazy president, wouldn't it?


Damn. Well, maybe tomorrow...

In this series we are following a group of survivors in a camp that has soldier-types protecting a large group of civilians, including women and children. The main characters are all interesting and well-developed. But, in this book we are focusing on the guy who never really talks. He's a badass. But, to me, he is boring as hell. I see nothing attractive in a man who refuses to speak more than two words at a time. And, this isn't because he lacks the ability to speak or anything. He just chooses to be an asshole. It's his love-story. Yay.

So, our asshole is named Raze, and his love interest is Vinnie (a girl). Vinnie was in the last book being tortured by the president of the United States and the group rescued her. She is a bit messed-up from the experience, so what does she need now more than anything? A guy to push her around, threaten to beat her, and tie her to a radiator to make her stay in her room. Yup, he's a gem... How could she resist falling for him?



Now, Vinnie is no prize herself. She has crazy moments when she hallucinates, but she is lucid most of the time. She was a brilliant profiler for the FBI before society collapsed - a doctor of psychology. So, we expect some sort of brains from her, right? yeah, no. Vinnie may have a PHD, but she calls her vagina her "girly parts". She also uses the medical terminology of "looney" when describing a patient's mental status. Combining that with her choice in men and I am wondering if anyone asked to see her identification to prove who she was. I'm thinking some bimbo on the street looked similar and took her place. There is no evidence to support this woman's claim of intelligence.



Still. Does she deserve to be tied to a radiator by her "boyfriend"?
Okay. Maybe.

So, I truly hated the main couple in this book, but I still enjoyed the story overall. I like all of the other characters and the world. And, I'm really looking forward to our funny Texan guy's book next.


We're ready. Bring it...

[Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Badass Stars

Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books

While reading this series I have been asking myself repeatedly what I would do if I was a survivor of an infection that killed most poeople in your country. Living in a world in which you have to fight every single day for your survival can bring out the worst but also the best in people. I hope that I would still be a good person but who knows...

This installment starts where we left off. After her rescue by the Vanguards from the president's insane torture Vinnie thinks she is crazy. Hearing voices is only one of her problems. Vinnie was a profiler with the FBI's BAU. Jax Mercury, leader of the Vanguards, sees the potential benefit his vigilante group can gain from having a psychologically trained specialist. She is asked to use her professional skillset to profile and shrink the emotionally shaken community and Vinnie is happy to oblige, her desire is to belong.

Raze Shadow is a soldier, through and through. His ulterior motives for joining the Vanguards are his secrets and he will keep them as long as he can. When this blonde and beautiful and slightly crazy firecracker sweeps into his life his plans take a major hit. Vinnie is a huge part of them but falling for her is not. Yet, with every day his need to protect her grows. The camaraderie he feels with this fellow soldiers adds to the remorse he feels because he will betray everything and everyone he starts to care about.

Vinnie is an endearing heroine with a strong will and a sweet that reels you in from the start. Since her captivity she has lost the filter for her mouth and blurts out the funniest things. Having said that, I'm still not entirely clear if it makes sense for somebody as educated as this heroine to sometimes say partially inane things. She showed strength for the most part but in some situations she seemed a little to eager to forget about the brutish things Raze does to her. One moment she was super-pissed, the next it was pretty much off the table. Still, her quirkiness and dorkiness make Vinnie a lovable heroine.

Raze is a badass. His protective and possessive streak when it comes to his woman sometimes border on brutish and chauvinistic. Although he knows he will betray his friends he tries to do everything to help them until he can't any longer. I loved this about him. What I didn't get is why he held on for so long to his secrets. Jax is a fellow soldier and being open about his mission would have gone a long way to gain his friends' trust and support. I know that it needed to go that way to build up the tension between the chacracters but I think it just went on too long. Having said that, once things were out in the open Jax and his people really came through.

The story developed a little slower than I would have liked in the first half, when it picked up it was all drama and action and suspense. There were some eyeroll moments about some situations I didn't quite get, like, why would nobody notice a fence being erected by an outsider group within Vanguards when the area is being patrolled around the clock? They also made off with essential supplies and nobody sees it?

Over all this was still an extremely enjoyable, action-packed and thrilling read. The badassry of the Vanguard soldiers, although sometimes a bit OTT, is hot and makes for some hilarious moments. The chemistry between our two main characters is scorching and the story certainly doesn't lack in the sex department. Yummay is all I say. The relationship development might have been a liiiiittle bit too insta. Then again, who knows what our hormones would do if our survival was highly questionable.

We get to meet all the side characters from book 1 and are also introduced to some new ones who we will find again in their own story, I'm sure. Next up is Tace's and Sami's story and I can't wait to see what Rebecca Zanetti has for those two in store!

Note: I'm sorry I'm not posting any quotes or teaser pics, I'm on vacation so time is a little bit limited ;)
ome!

[Wanda Pedersen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, that was fun, but it's obvious that this author writes the same plot over and over, using different characters. The romance element is entirely too easy. Two are sufficient, I think.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything on earth can be explained in terms of atoms and matter…… except love. – Dr. Franklin X Harmony –

I’m a huge fan of dystopian books especially if they are done right and this is one of my favorite series. Ms. Zanetti does it right.

We meet the characters in the first book and I just knew that they were going to be good together.

"What's your last name?" "Shadow"
"You feel good can I keep you?" she mumbled.
Raze sobered. "No, but we can negotiate later."

Dr. Vivienne “Vinnie” Wellington worked for the BAU before the virus struck. She also successfully captured Rippers after the virus hit. Kidnapped by the president, tortured and pumped full of CIA unknown drugs. She is having some issues in the sanity or insanity.

Vinnie is intelligent, strong, adorkable and since the first time I met her I like her. Slight girl crush going on here. . She is compassionate, funny and overall a great character in the book. See slight girl crush. She has had many challenges that she has had to overcome but her biggest one is yet to come.

Raze Shadow is controlled, possessive, strong, silent dangerous type. He is a fantastic Hero you can really feel him struggling with his split loyalty and what he wants to do and what he should do. It keeps on getting harder and harder for him. Another huge crush on going on here. He is the tortured soul you want to knit back together again. For all his flaws and cracks he is loyal to a fault and doesn’t take anything easily. He is all in when it really counts. He is so sweet with Vinnie.

“Because I care about you, and the idea of you being harmed makes me want to blow up the entire Mercenary organization just to ensure your safety.” The words hit her dead center. She held out a hand. “Please don’t be sweet. I can’t take sweet.”

Vinnie is the light to his dark, he has an intensity that makes you get all hot and bothered. She is slightly crazy in a good way.

She cannot be held responsible for what comes out of her mouth.

“Morning,” Vinnie said as she passed. “Don’t worry. We didn’t have sex, although he had a raging erection.” She gasped and jerked free of his hold, running for the landing.

He tries to fight his attraction to Vinnie but he is succumbing to everything that is Vinnie. Vinnie knows that it is a bad idea especially the hallucinations and conversations she has with her step mom. They are there for one another and have such a strong connection with each other. They are explosive together.

Slowly, deliberately, he slid his hand down her back and flattened his palm over her firm ass, pressing her into his aching cock. “I like you a lot,” he rumbled.

Vanguard & Jax know that he has a hidden agenda so the pressure is on to see what it goes. In the end he comes clean and they figure it out together. Although Vanguard is strong they are accumulating a lot of enemies. But alliances will be formed. Raze is working for the mercenaries particularly Greyson Storm as he has Raze and his sister Maureen ‘Moe’ an agriculture expert. I’m using the term working for loosely here as it is more like blackmail. Vinnie for Moe.

Vinnie is filled of nightmares with her time being tortured by the president of the United States. One of the most stable yet dangerous rippers out there after the virus. But only Raze can remind her of her femininity while surrounded by such destruction.

With everything that happens in the book and the world building I feel as if I’m right there with them every step of the way. The book and the plot in the book is cleverly orchestrated by Ms. Zanetti that you are feed information on what is going on and can keep up rather than having an information overload.

Great character development. But hey we’re talking about Ms. Zanetti here so that is a given. The MC grow individually throughout the book as well as being a couple.

Review can be found at http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...

Book received by Kensington Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Vivian · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's all about priorities.

Dire straits: A virus killed over 90% of the people on the planet, others infected are insane--lacking the ability to empathize becoming sociopaths. Apparently, only some of them, the others are slobbering renditions of rabidity. A lucky few have other alterations.

Vivienne Wellington, ex-FBI psychiatrist. And this is the one part that is not working for me. She's processing night terrors, visual and auditory hallucinations fine, but her sexualized reaction to Raze after a sever trauma belays that Ph D. No, even someone less trained would see how this is a problem.

Enter the Alpha--Raze Shadow, all around military BAMF.

Bit quick on lighting the sexual tinder between the main characters. One week after being rescued from torture is really not the timescale for "girly parts" to start tingling again, especially after a night terror. A psychologist for the FBI does not refer to the female anatomy, even her own, as "girl parts" like a tween--no.

Settled into a base in Los Angeles... even the setting couldn't save it for me. I usually like jaunts to well known spots and how they're represented. These could have been almost anywhere, just change the names of the places.

Raze's POV chapters--great. Vinnie's POV chapters--let me out, let me out! She says the most inane things that sound pubescent in their unrealized sexual yearning and angst. I find it really hard to believe she's an adult let alone one with a post graduate degree in psychology.

In a reality where there isn't enough vitamin B to stop people's brains from degrading after exposure and not a single live birth, this seems a reasonable priority: waxing one's legs. Or that Vinnie smells like calla lilies to Raze, without scented lotions, in a place with no running water or showers. Being disgruntled that there's no petite clothing, because food, medicine, and weapons aren't critical. Placing a priority on retrieving a library, fiction, while the species can't procreate, no running water, and food has to be hunted or gathered? The books aren't going anywhere.

The hackneyed aphorisms opening each chapter do nothing except remind how watered down this story is. The dumbass decision making by "trained" SEAL and Black Ops--laughable. Patrols 24/7, yet they don't see an entire section being fenced off with pilfered materials--come on. Enemy combatants, regardless of age, are enemy combatants; no one gets a thrill out of killing unless they're a sociopath, but there's choice and duty. Bullshit, wa wa waaa, is a no go for elite military team members.

DNF @ page 195. I have hard time believing most of these characters. I was hoping for a gritty, pull-oneself-up-by-the-bootstraps kinda of story, not this. I want to feel good about myself as a female when I read books, not want to smash my head against a wall. This might be a good fit for other readers, but the inanity and vacuousness of Vinnie, the heroine was too much for me.

~ARC provided by NetGalley~

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 - "I'm Vanguard now." Stars!

The second full length book in Rebecca Zanetti’s Scorpius Syndrome series gives us the elusive and brooding Raze Shadow’s story.



You know who his leading lady will be after the events at the end of Mercury Rising, and the author didn’t disappoint in that regard. But I do have to say that for me this book was approaching the 70% mark before anything of real note actually happened in relation to the story-line as a whole, and there were parts of the book especially when it came to interactions between Raze and Vinnie that felt eerily similar to Lynne and Jax from the previous book.

"It isn’t safe out there…"

"It isn’t safe anywhere"

I suppose you have to give the author respect in that I got that far and didn’t feel bored, but the action definitely played out in the latter stages of the story, for me it almost felt like she was setting up the series again in the early stages of Shadow Falling in that there was another injection of new characters and plot twists that going forwards in future books I am expecting to play out and then develop into more pivotal story-lines.

"Sometimes the end justifies the means."

Raze Shadow has joined Jax and the Vanguard team for more than he initially reveals, Jax knows that Mr. Shadow is in camp for reasons that are his own, and it means that the lines between them are more than a little blurred, Jax needs capable men, and Raze is that and more, but if he cannot trust the man at his back there is only so far their allegiance will ever go, add into the fact that Raze is rapidly falling into a relationship with Dr. Vinnie Wellington, a woman that also offers up added value in her position in camp, and he is stuck with keeping the man around for his strengths, but not trusting him because of his secrets.

"Don’t trust me, and for gods sake, don’t give yourself to me."

This makes for quite the game of cat and mouse between the two men for most of the book, and it’s not until the truth is fully revealed between them, that I actually felt much of an emotional connection between Raze and the rest of the Vanguard crew.

"I can’t hurt you…"

"Not true. You’re the most dangerous woman I’ve ever met."

The same can be said a little for his relationship with Vinnie, Rebecca always offers up determined and resourceful alpha males, and they are always on the dominating side, but at points for me he came over a little brutish more than anything. The push and pull between him and Vinnie was also very reflective of the relationship arc between Jax and Lynne as previously mentioned, but to the more extreme of the spectrum.



A lot goes on in this book, even though the main tropes played out in the latter stages, as readers we aren’t left on a cliffy per se, I’d say it’s more of a HFN, with a plethora of questions, and a list of people still due to get their stories told as the Series progresses.

"I’m glad I found you."

Tace Justice is up next with Justice Ascending due for release in 2017, this is certainly a series that is keeping me on my toes, both in story-line and characters, and if you had told me twelve months ago I’d be reading romance Zombie apocalypse style I would have told you, that there was no chance.

"My loyalty is yours."

But Rebecca Zanetti is one of my go-to authors, I love her books so I had to give it a try, this series has got a vibe to it a little like with her Dark Protectors books in that I feel it has enough going on with it that it could run, and run for many books and novellas to come, and I am just going to sit back and enjoy the crazy ride the author will take me on with its progression.

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Action-packed, Romantic, Intense, Badass Stars

This is the second full-length novel in the Scorpius Syndrome series, and like the first it’s one hell of a ride! This book picks up pretty much straight after the end of Mercury Striking, and I would definitely recommend reading these books in order so that you understand the world, the characters who inhabit it and the intricate politics and dynamics at play.

I love Rebecca Zanetti’s writing and she has created a detailed, slightly terrifying post-apocalyptic world where 99% of the population of the US has been killed off by the Scorpius virus. Life on earth now is made up of the few that have remained uninfected and those who have been infected and survived. However those survivors are left with permanent damage – ranging from mild behavioural and physical alterations to sociopathic behaviour to the full-on crazed zombie-ism of the Rippers from which there is no return. It’s a scary world, and in the last book we met Jax Mercury who has set up and leads the Vanguard compound in the middle of what used to be LA for survivors to band together to survive. They hunt and scavenge for supplies, and Jax’s partner, brilliant scientist Lynne Harmony, works towards finding a cure for the virus, or at least a way to survive once infected.

Raze Shadow is one of Jax’s lieutenants. He is highly trained and absolutely deadly, but the man is a mystery. He has secrets he has no intention of sharing and keeps to himself most of the time. In the exciting climax of Mercury Striking Raze was involved in the dramatic rescue of renowned FBI profiler Dr Vivienne ‘Vinnie’ Wellington. Now safely back at the Vanguard compound, things are about to get all kinds of complicated for them all.

During her captivity, Vinnie was tortured and injected with experimental drugs. Her ability to understand and interpret behaviour has gone from skilled to partially psychic, and she is terrified that she is starting to go crazy. But she finds comfort in the presence of the enigmatic soldier who saved her. Raze is equally as attracted to Vinnie, but he is on a secret mission and he can’t let himself get too close to anybody.

It’s a great dynamic between the unexpected couple. Vinnie is a bit quirky and part of her post-Scorpius/drug side effects is the fact that she blurts out pretty much every thought that comes into her head. It’s funny and endearing, and her candour and obvious affection for him softens the hardass Raze who realizes that he can’t resist her any more than she can resist him.

“You feel it too, right?” As impossible as the world had become, this feeling between them, whatever it was, felt good. There was actually something good. She began to lean back, but he stopped her with both hands on her hips…
“I feel it. Us.” His hold tightened with definite strength. “I’m not the good guy who’ll tell you to go once we get started, Vinnie. You give me one taste of you, and I won’t let you leave until I’m done. Until I have all of you. I’m not that strong.”
“You’re strong.”…
“Not strong enough to let you go.”

I really like this couple together. Their coming together is hot and intense with great banter and all of the outbursts and arguments inherent when you get a strong heroine who goes after what she wants, and a super-possessive badass. The super-passionate sexy time brings intensity to everything that is developing between them, and their bickering adds a sense of fun and lightness, and there’s an emotional connection between them which is really sweet.

“You can’t heal me.”
“I can,” she said. “I don’t know how, and you’re a threat to my heart, but I can heal you. I can make you feel better.”

All of this unfolds amidst the drama and danger of life for our survivors. The ever-present risk of the virus and the mad race to find a cure, threats from the gangs and Rippers that inhabit their surrounds, a new threat developing right inside the walls of the compound and the sociopathic President wants both Lynne and Vinnie back and will do anything to get them. Add to that Raze’s secret mission and the danger that that brings to the group. It’s a rollercoaster of death, danger and deception, and the action is full on.

It’s a fallacy to believe that man is at his most dangerous when he has nothing to lose…the most ferocious of predators emerge when a man has everything to lose.

And through it all the characters and their unique personalities absolutely shine! From the ruthless badassery of Jax and Raze (and newly introduced Greyson), the flirtatious and filterless Tace and the intelligent, smartass women, I really enjoyed them. I loved the camaraderie between them and the dynamics between the group is fantastic. And in the dark and dangerous world they inhabit, the developing friendships and moments of lightness are a real highlight.

“Girlfriend? You need to get yourself a gag.” Lynne Harmony murmured from her perch on the love seat.
Vinnie faltered and then continued in to flop into her leather chair. “I screamed his name. He said I was going to scream his name, and I actually did it.” She shook her head.

It all blends wonderfully to give us a well-balanced read that is exciting, dramatic, suspenseful, romantic, sexy and action-packed. There’s a lot going on but it’s well paced so it doesn’t overwhelm, and it makes for a great read. The set-up is there for at least two more books, both of which I can’t wait to get my hands on!

I loved it – 4 stars.

Advanced Review Copy generously provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even since the ending of the previous book I have been eagerly anticipating Raze and Vivienne’s book. Vivienne is a brilliant FBI profiler that was kidnapped by the current president who is also one of the most dangerous Rippers. She was infected with the Scorpius virus, and given truth serum drugs, which has either increased her already brilliant profile abilities, or is making her crazy.

Luckily Raze and his fellow Vanguard soldiers saved Vinnie from her abductors. But Raze has a hidden agenda for saving Vinnie. He’s also working with the Mercenaries, a ruthless gang, who is blackmailing Raze to bring Vinnie to them. His loyalty is only with one person, but every moment spent with Vinnie threatens this loyalty, and makes him more protective of her.

“I’m not the good guy who’ll tell you to go once we get started, Vinnie. You give me one taste of you, and I won’t let you leave until I’m done. Until I have all of you. I’m not that strong.”

I loved Raze and Vinnie together. He’s so tough and so determined to use Vinnie, but at the same time also so unwilling to hurt her. All he wants to do is protect Vinnie and to make sure she finally has the one thing she craves, a home. I loved Vinnie and how calm and rational she was especially when Raze was all snarky and angry when she defied his orders. And I loved how protective Raze was over Vinnie. The sexy times were hot and I just loved the romance.

The plot keeps getting more intriguing especially with all the different groups that are intent on finding the bunker where it’s rumored the remaining scientists are, and where Lynn can work on getting a better solution for getting Vitamin B into people. Plus she needs to work on why the infected pregnant women don’t carry to term.

I also like that there are so many key players: the two different type of Rippers, the ones under the control of the president, who still has control over themselves, but who has little empathy, and the other Rippers, who basically have become the serial killers of this time; then there’s the Mercenaries, whose led by the very mysterious and sexy Grayson Storm; and the Vanguard community, who is led by Jax.

I also liked that there seems to be two potential future love interests. The sparks between Greyson and Maureen was definitely hot, and I can’t wait to see what is going to happen there. Then there’s Sami, a brilliant Vanguard soldier who is excellent at fighting but who is keeping many secrets and Tace, who is the right-hand man of Jax, and the medic of Vanguard. Ever since being infected in the previous book and not getting his shot of vitamin B soon enough, he has been slowly losing himself, losing his empathy. Which is probably why he’s turned into such a manwhore. I’m not sure about their romance, seeing as he’s sleeping with so many other women, but I do like him, so I hope that Sami can help him.

This is action packed romance at its best with a fascinating dystopia world and hot romance. And I’m so loving it!! I can’t wait for the next book. A must read for all romance fans.

[Tanja ~ KT Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The newly made apocalyptic world created by the Scorpius Syndrome is one filled with so much deceit, uncertainty, and death; people will do anything to survive and save the ones they love. Raze Shadow will certainly do anything for those he is loyal to, including betraying the people who have taken him in.

Raze Shadow is a solider. He’s one of the best and he is beginning to feel cracks in his armor for the one person he needs in order to finish his hidden mission. It will be an epic betrayal and he’s certain he won’t survive the fallout.

Vivienne Kennedy, an FBI profiler who was drugged, beaten, and tortured by the crazed president is now living in Vangaurd. She stays on the outskirts away from the others, hiding from the pain and hiding her own screams that wake her nightly. Is she going crazy? All the drugs still coursing through her veins make her feel on edge, hear voices, and see people she knows no longer live. One man is making an effort to help. He is gruff and strong. He also makes her feel something other than terror. Her aftermath is a struggle for sanity, belonging, and ultimately for survival.

Living in a world torn apart by this virus and watching those infected with it having to cope with the aftermath is a telling of human nature. Bringing out the best and absolute worst in people. It’s a harrowing journey. One filled with action, mystery, and intrigue.

Shadow Falling has a sense of familiarity in the plot, but has a nice twist that makes it fresh and highly engaging to read. Add in the always present alpha males and smart capable women. It’s a signature Zanetti read.


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[London · Rating 3 out of 5]

HELLO, HBO? Can we please turn this into a new series? Ugh so damn good! I seriously could not put this book down. I read it on the metro, in line at the grocery store, at work, and I would have read it in the shower if I had a waterproof phone.

Action packed and full of suspense with some major alpha male lovin romance too. Loved the heroine and the hero and the fact that it was in multiple POV. In a lot of books it gets confusing but I loved having multiple POV and catching up with characters from the previous book.

I'm a little unsure of how I feel about Tace and Sami being the couple in the next book. However, I love this series and I'd miss crucial information if I skipped a book so I'll probably read it anyway. I didn't like knowing that they'd both been living at Vanguard and had no connection until after he was infected. Some safety issues with this couple but I'll take one for the team and read it anyway. The series is too damn good to skip it so I'll just read it as a suspense/action rather than romantic action. I'm extremely excited for Maureen and Greyson's book though! Woweeee

[CD {Boulder Blvd} · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was so looking forward to this book that I bumped it ahead of some other books on my TBR. Unfortunately, in the end (well actually quite a bit before the end), I was disappointed.

First the good: I like this author's writing voice. I also liked the world building that she was doing - it had so much potential and I was looking for a change of pace to my normal reading genres. At first I was pulled into the story, but…

I was hoping for strong characters in a gritty setting and I felt like all I got were cavemen. There was a lot of chest pounding but very little solid military action. There were so many times when I was thinking how could this happen if they have all these military men watching over the compound? And the romance really didn't work for me as I'm not into caveman and the little woman relationships. I got a little tired of the men knowing what's best for the little women and playing the heavy dominant alpha role. I like strong men, but not ones who think overpowering is an aphrodisiac.

Which leads me to the lead male characters. I didn't really like Jax or Raze. The book tried to make it OK that they were cavemen because they admitted it and the women loved them in spite of it; but I don't want my book boyfriends to be cavemen - not even cavemen with honorable intentions. Granted it's a post-apocalyptic novel where you need to be tough and other readers say you have to expect it and it is what it is. But why should I accept it? You can write strong alpha characters without making them cavemen. The men are throwing the women over their shoulder and slapping their a** and the women are like they don't like it but they understand it and they love the men anyway. UGH, my frustration level was so high during so much of this book.

I'm also getting tired of the constant nod to BDSM that keeps appearing in romantic novels. There is a strong nod in this book and it really dragged my enjoyment down. One of the characters is partially defined in his change in sexual preferences since Scorpius. In other situations there is the nod with the tie me up, kink talk, and spanking - not to mention the constant references to physical overpowering. Would you really think being tied to a radiator is a turn on? I pretty much skipped the sex scenes.

I also don't like it when writers make characters who are written as smart be stupid. For me Vivienne did not come across as this really intelligent woman.  I had to take a break from the book when Vivienne thinks in terms of "girly parts". This phrase is a pet peeve of mine in general but I definitely didn't think it fit the professional who this character should have been. The book made a big point of saying that due to her trauma she tended to spit out whatever was on her mind. Most of the time she seemed more like a high schooler. And then when she doesn't want Raze to train her she says self-defense is stupid, however that wasn't even what she was thinking. And in this world self-defense is paramount.

I know I am in the minority with these thoughts. I'm just one voice among many, but if I don't voice my likes and dislikes, then how can publishers and authors target me as an audience?

I do want to thank Net Galley and Zebra publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Celestine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Make way for the machismo.

Let’s talk about what Shadow Falling is and what it is not. This novel is a celebration of the alpha male; it is not going to set the post-apocalyptic genre on fire. It has a strong appeal for romance fans who like possessive military men falling for gutsy cuties. The Scorpius virus devastation is the framework that allows these modern warriors to rise to prominence and make good protective matches for all the stunning young women still running around with the PhDs that make them so useful to the new world order. Realistic? No. Romantic? For some.

Although I haven’t read book one in this series, Mercury Striking, Ms. Zanetti does a fine job of transitioning a new series reader into this second book. I could tell I had missed some action and character development, but explanations were enough to situate me satisfactorily into post-apocalyptic Los Angeles and the Vanguard compound. In fact, it was kind of exciting to clearly be part of the tail-end of a big action scene in the previous book, but taking off with a new couple, FBI profiler Vinnie and Navy SEAL Raze.

The main characters from book one, Jax Mercury and Lynne Harmony, are prominent characters in book two. I’m not sure I feel compelled to read their book, though, since I feel as though Jax and Raze are cut from the same cloth. In fact, Lynne and Vinnie struck me as remarkably similar characters, except Lynne is klutzy and Vinnie runs off at the mouth while simultaneously seeing hallucinations of her long-dead stepmom. (Okay, the visuals of stepmom are hilarious). Both women are brilliant, but their men manage to publicly humiliate them with their machismo. Apologies are done in private, but I don’t know too many highly educated women who wouldn’t feel lingering anger, not to mention feel permanently devalued, at being carried from a strategy meeting over the shoulder of a man she had slept with and slapped on her butt as he did it.

As you can tell, I had some serious issues with the representation of women in this book. Vinnie gets to profile, but only so much as Jax or Raze allow it. The few times she steps outside their concept of what she should be doing, they treat her like a child. I never felt there was equality to the relationships and definitely not parity of opinion. It was all about protecting the women, with little appreciation for what they could bring to the table.

“You have to stay safe tomorrow. I need you.”

That said, I highlighted a lot of romantic (and a few corny) moments between Vinnie and Raze. They “get” each other, although the initial attraction seems to flow from Raze’s need to protect and Vinnie’s desire to feel protected. She has just escaped horrific torture, and Raze was her rescuer. On the one hand, falling quickly in love and lust after such treatment seemed odd, but security was also a powerful aphrodisiac for Vinnie, especially since her personality had changed from cool and collected to a little spastic after Scorpius infection and hallucinogenic drug torture. “There was no crying after the apocalypse.”

The setting is militaristic, taking place several months after the majority of the population has either died or been converted to zombies or sociopaths. The details on the fall of mankind are sketchy. Even catching the virus gets little page time relative to falling in love. The Vanguard contingent is searching for a cure and maintenance drugs for those infected. These operations move the plot forward, but the focus is on the romance and the action-adventure that shows off the prowess of the heroes.

Many alpha-male romance lovers will really enjoy this book. A gorgeous, dangerous man doing the honorable thing and saving the day is downright sexy. It is also sexy to be the center of the world for one special man. That he is magnificent between the sheets is just icing on the cake. Too bad they don’t value their women for their brains quite as much as their bodies.

I received this book from Kensington via NetGalley for an honest review

[Nicola · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rebecca Zanetti set the scene in Mercury Striking hugely so I was pretty excited to dive into Shadow Falling to see what lay in store for the Vanguards and their fight against the rapidly spreading Scorpious syndrome.



In comparison to the first book I found this much steadier to get going and lacking the emotion of book 1. At the 30% mark I was starting to become a bit bored with weaker character development and I wasn't feeling much chemistry between Raze and Vinnie; it lacked any build-up and was a little too insta.



But it did pick up as the action side of the story entered the mix and the continuing fight for survival in the post-apocalyptic world and this was when my enjoyment levels cranked up a few notches. Zanetti has woven several smaller character driven storylines together, including Jax and Lynne's continuing relationship, and all these elements held it together for me, more so than the romance between Raze and Vinnie. Although that too did pick up much later on and their connection was far more believable.

"She’d burrowed so far inside him, he didn’t feel whole unless she was next to him."

However, once again my sticking point came in terms of a certain character trait that Zanetti has included: manhandling in the way she's painted it, with both Jax in the first book and Raze this time around, isn't alpha, hot or protective, and let's not romanticise here, regardless of high emotions or scenario, it's abusive. Take that away and absolutely nothing is missing, they're still alpha and dominant, so I'm at a loss at why she's so adamant that these men need to act this way. It did nothing to add to the chemistry between Raze and Vinnie and all it managed to do was make me question if they were even good for one another, leave a bad taste in my mouth and spoil my enjoyment.

"I do not need ice for my balls."

All things said though, I do like the raft of characters, old and new, and when the action hits it's gripping, satisfying, page turning and has done enough to for me to want to read Tace Justice's story in January. He's a character I've warmed hugely to and I'm hoping for some fireworks between him and Sami and plenty more action overall as the story continues.

Copy received courtesy of Kensington via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.

[Marta Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book detailing the aftermath of the Scorpios Syndrome and boy is it a doozy. At the end of the last book whilst rescuing Lynn aka Blue Heart , the raiders found the profiler Vinnie tied up , abused and clearly drugged . Now we learn of the tragic effects Vinnie is left with as she battles for her sanity whilst trying to hold her own in this new and violent world . Surviving both the disease and her kidnapping Vinnie is adrift but there's one person who is there for her and that's the enigmatic Raze but just where do his loyalties really lie?
I was so intruiged by Raze and he's everything I wanted him to be and oh so much more. Yes he has his own agenda and we learn pretty early on what he intends to do but can he really be so cold as to betray Vinnie? Vinnie has verbal diarrhoea at times which is so funny and Raze just handles it and no messing! Loved seeing him take in his stride Vinnie talking to what could be imaginary friends but for Vinnie it's a terrible secret she's desperate to hide. The Scorpius Syndrome changes people but it's different for everyone and I'm still not sure exactly what's happened in Vinnies brain but whatever is going on it's not over yet.
Fighting to survive in this inhospitable post apocalyptic environment is definitely not easy. Food supplies are dwindling, deadly Rippers are roaming the streets ,other factions and gangs are all seeking territory, oh and not to forget that the President is insane . Amidst all this we get not just Vinnie and Raze but the hint of other relationships brewing and it's a wonderful amalgamation of so many plot lines. Everyone and I do mean everyone is searching for the mysterious bunker. To some it's sanctuary , to others the possibility of a cure but essentially it's where all their hope comes home to roost! Loving these characters, the tension that builds and underlying danger. The author turned just a few short days into a riveting read that never felt rushed and I'm so looking forward to the next instalment
I was gifted a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Carole (Carole's Random Life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/

I enjoyed this second installment in the Scorpius Syndrome series. This is a series that I would recommend reading in order since the events from the previous book impacted this story. Each book in the series features a different couple but the couple from the first book played a significant role in this story. I was hooked by this story and couldn’t wait to see how things would work out for Vinnie, Raze, and the rest of the group.

Before the world fell apart, Vinnie worked as an FBI profiler and was very good at her job. So good, that some people believed that she must be psychic which got her in some trouble in the world ravaged by the bacteria. Raze feels protective of Vinnie since he rescued her but also has some less than honorable motives. Raze has his own secrets but can’t help what he feels for Vinnie. I thought that Vinnie and Raze had fantastic chemistry and their personalities were a very good match. I really enjoyed watching them figure things out.

The world-building in this book was very well done. The world is a desperate place and the group has a lot of things that they are going to have to figure out in order to survive. They need a significant amount of vitamin B to remain healthy after being infected. All resources are limited so there are threats from other groups that they must deal with sometimes closer to home than they think. There was a lot of action and excitement in the story which kept things very interesting.

Michael Pauley did a great job with the narration. I think that the voices that he uses for both the male and female characters were very well done. He is able to add just the right amount of excitement and emotion in his voice to really bring the story to life. I am certain that his narration added to my overall enjoyment of the story.

I would recommend this story to others. This book has the perfect combination of romance, action, and end of the world excitement which made this book very hard to put down. I cannot wait to read the next book in this exciting story.

I received a digital review copy of this book from Kensington Books via NetGalley and purchased a copy of the audiobook.

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I simply love this series. The Scorpius Syndrome series features a post-apocalyptic world where a bacteria killed 99% of the US populations, those who survived and receive B-12 shots are carriers, require less sleep, suffer from headaches are unable to reproduce (not confirmed) and can affect others. Some who survive become what is known as Rippers. Much like zombies, or worse become mentally unhinged serial killers. Sweet right? These stories should be read in order and I strongly recommend the prequel The Scorpius Syndrome #0.5 found in the anthology The Hunt.

Most of our story takes place in the crumbling remains of Los Angeles and picks up right where Mercury Striking lets off. The story has an overall story ARC revolving around the Ripper president, finding a cure and surviving to live another day. Each of the books features movement in the overall ARC, a romance and side threads containing danger and action scenes that will delight action moviegoers and gamers.

Raze Shadow is or was a part of the military. Raze is highly skilled and is a known associate of the Mercenaries a ruthless gang. In Mercury Striking, he aided in an attack on the President’s compound where he rescued Vivienne Kennedy a former FBI Profiler. Vivienne was tortured and experimented using drugs that have affected her in unsettling ways. If Alpha men make you swoon, Raze will knock your socks off. He is possessive of loved ones, loyal until the end but also willing to compromise.

Vivienne Kennedy has a career I find completely fascinating. If you follow Caffeinated, you know I have a thing for serial killers. I love shows, books, and documentaries about them. Twisted right? The Vivienne we first meet is unhinged. Not surprising considering what she went through. We slowly see her regain her confidence and witness the emergence of her snarky and a feisty personality.

We see advancement regarding the overall story arc, but I still have questions and my only complaint was my thirst for more details regarding the virus. We meet other groups, get perspectives from the President's camp and gain insight into the general direction book three will take us. We learn about those within the compound, and I love this motley crew of survivors. Tace and Sami have a little spark igniting and I cannot wait for their story. Zanetti did a great job of sharing this apocalyptic world along with the fears, needs and daily bullshit necessary to survive.

Aside from the overall ARC, we had two intense threads. The reason Raze joined the group and a group of unaffected humans within the compound who refer to themselves as the “Pure”. Both threads were developed. I particularly liked seeing Raze open up and trust. His secret led us to other discoveries and new characters. The leader of the “Pure” was freaky, and this is exactly the kind of stuff I could see happening in this type of world.

Zanetti delivered a fully developed romance with snarky, humor, bite and delicious heat. Balanced moments of tenderness, playfulness and explosive passion had me rooting for this couple. Even when Raze went into Alpha mode, you had to love his reasoning. These two traded barbs and had fantastic chemistry. One of the things I like about this series is the romantic thread tucked within the post-apocalyptic world where every day you struggle to live another day. It nicely balances out the intense action scenes and climatic battles.

Copy Provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer

[maggieandteddy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, here's my rating: 4.25 stars & my review:


I was so anxious for this book to come out. I kept checking a couple of times a week.
The book cover revealed........Yum, loved it. MY Shadow is a bigger, LOL.
Then, I was able to score an ARC of this book!
This is Blaze Shadow and (Vinnie) Vivienne's story. It starts off almost where book 1 "ended".
Vanguard is the compound for the "good guys"-our heroes that are trying to survive in their community. Most are infected with the Scorpius bacteria. I was still a little confused. Scorpius seems more like a virus. Once a person gets it, they either die OR have some kind of extraordinary powers OR the Scorpius infects their brains and nervous systems & they become something like a rabid dog ("rippers"). As mentioned before, Vitamin B taken at the onset of infection seems to keep the infection from spreading & making them a monster or dying.
As the blurb says, Vinnie is infected. She was held captive and had been rescued at the end of book 1.
Life is still fairly bleak. Different groups try to battle for what little there is to go around. Supplies and food are "raided" from abandoned homes and office buildings.
Jax is still the head of Vanguard. He and Lynne are still very much in love.
Blaze is the Hero of this story. He's into Vinnie from day one of their "meeting". They have some very HOT, uh chemistry.
There's humor. Very dry humor (gallows humor most of the time).
Blaze's main goal is to rescue his sister Maureen. Blaze keeps secrets but does reveal that he will do almost anything to get her back. I liked Blaze. He's alpha and mysterious. Jax is suspicious of him. Alliances have to be made in order to defend their colony & to go on living.
Vinnie was an FBI profiler at the time of the Scorpius outbreak. She has great skills which make her a target of the enemy---- same as in book 1--- so ironic at this time in history.
Towards the middle, the story was going in 2 or 3 directions.
So many enemies to fight. Not to worry Vinnie and Blaze ("Shadow") had each other.
The supporting cast was really good. I liked the role that Tace played. I think that his book is next. He had an interesting part in this book. Sami, will be the h in book 3-I'm pretty sure. There's a cult leader that I was trying to figure out if he was symbolic of someone out there in real life.....
This is 3rd person POV. Takes place in So Calif. How ironic.
The ending sort of ended. A happy for now. Yeah, I'm still hooked. Not my usual genre, but I want more Scorpius!
I'll say it again, please don't make this series like the TV series "Lost". yikes.
ARC provided by NetGalley. Thanks!

[J Kiwibooknerd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advanced Readers Copy Courtesy of Netgalley....:)

I absolutely adored the second book in this series...... I went back and re-read book 1 before starting this one, so it was nice to indulge in both books for a few days, and get lost in this post apocalyptic world that Ms Zanetti has created.

This is the story of Raze and Vinnie. We met both characters in book 1. Raze is a solider who showed up at the Vanguard Compound with a agenda that Jax and his top soldiers are still trying to figure out. He is good at what he does, yet not knowing why he is there has them all on guard.

Vinnie used to be a FBI Profiler before Scorpius. She was kidnapped and held for over a month by the President of the US. She was beaten and given lots of drugs in order for them to get what they want out of her. When Jax and his men rescued her, Raze's agenda started to come to light. He wants the good doctor in order to exchange her for his sister, that is curretly being held by a bunch of Mercs.

This book is full of action and its hard to put it into a review, and still do it justice..... but I can honestly say this is one of the best post apocalyptic books I have ever read. It would honestly make a awesome TV series....

I cannot wait for Tace and Sami's book, as there are lots of secrets being held there!!! Roll on February!!!!

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book reminded me a lot like the tv show The Walking Dead. I love that show, so this is a compliment for sure. A bacteria has spread that turns people in different ways. Some resemble Zombies, some return to almost normal with a boost to their system and then some turn into sociopaths. It kept the story line flowing and on the move constantly. I would recommend reading book one first. This is a continuous series that seem to focus on one couple but all the key players are just as much in this book that were in the first book. It ended with a HFN ending. I look forward to the next in the series because I not only enjoy the continuous evolving plot, but I love the super strong Alpha men the author creates. Plus, I'm intrigued to find out what this desease will develop in some of the characters. There's hints of extra physical and mental abilities that make this story that much more exciting.

[Izy · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC was provided by the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was a great follow up to Mercury Striking!

Vivienne Kennedyused to one of the best profilers in FBI, helping track down sociopath/serial killers was just a normal day for her but that was before Scorpius Syndrome destroyed almost all of the population leaving a few survivors, even fewer sane ones. After being kidnapped and abused at the hands of the current President who believes that she's some psychic who can help him find the bunker where the answers to Scorpius Syndrome lies. She is no longer the same person as she used to be. Infection with Scorpius and later the chemical concoctions used has left her thinking she's crazy. Now rescued, Vinnie has no idea how difficult her life can get.

Raze Shadow is one of the Vanguard's Lieutenants (a camp of survivors in LA), he also happens to between a rock and a hard place. He doesn't want to betray Vanguard or hurt Vinnie but he would do what he needs to be done. No matter what the cost. His conflicting loyalties between the Vanguard and the mercenaries and his growing feelings towards Vinnie are making everything difficult.

Everything on earth can be explained in terms of atoms and matter…… except love. – Dr. Franklin X Harmony

Vinnie and Raze had a abundant of chemistry. Vinnie is extremely attracted to intense and brooding Raze, she knows she shouldn't trust him but can't help but be compelled and comforted by his presence. Raze couldn't help but fall for this little blonde with her feisty attitude and a kind heart. They were very good together, an unlikely duo with one hiding so much while the other has no filter at all which made for some fun banter between the two. They were at times intense, other times sweet and then passionate. I really liked their relationship, Vinnie bought out the softer side of Raze and Raze made Vinnie feel less crazy.

I really liked Vinnie, the girl has been through a lot but she's a fighter. Jax giving her position of the compound psychiatrist helped her feel useful, settled and made her like she finally belonged I loved her blurt out moments, they made for hilarious moments and lowering the tension in the some situations. Raze on the other hand, was possessive and protective.

....Whatever happens, Vinnie. It's you and me. Forever. - Raze Shadow.

There is action and adventure as usual, with suspense peaking in the second half. With internal conflicts arising as well as the enemies beyond the border of Vanguard, finding the cure, protecting the survivors as well as finding the bunker with limited supplies and information is getting harder by the minute. I really like the way the action and suspense is written, it made me feel the urgency of the situation. I also loved the budding camaraderie between Jax and Raze as well as the dynamic between the secondary characters.

I also loved those quotes at the start of each chapter!
Only the insane truly fall in love. -Dr. Vinnie Wellington, Perceptions. 

Quibbles: I do wish that Vinnie's whether or not she's psychic bit was explored a bit further as well as maybe some information about how Scorpius is effecting people in different ways giving them unique abilities? and less time on the issue with the preacher. Also at times Raze's behaviour was quite close to being barbaric towards Vinnie which I wish was slightly toned down. But apart from that it was great addition to the compelling plot line of the series.

I'm really looking forward to the next one which involves a hero, Trace who after the infection seems to no longer feel much and is kind of becoming a sociopath and Sami the lieutenant who is hiding quite a lot from her fellow survivors at vanguard (Side Note: I KNEW IT about Sami I mean). That is all sort of exciting stuff there.  I'm also hoping that we get Raze's sister and the Mercenary leader's book as well. Can't wait for more from this series!

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the teaser chapter at the end of Mercury Striking, I was well-primed to get Raze and Vinnie's story. It's after 'the end of the world'. People either get tough or die and they do it in interesting ways. Rebecca Zanetti has captured a dark, gritty atmosphere, planted solid characters who blend with the setting well, and given the dire situation a series and book plot to keep the reader at it late into the night and wishing the next book was available now.

This is book two in the Scorpius Syndrome series and builds on the prequel and book that came before it. I include the prequel because it really does set up this series and what is to come not to mention a key player from the prequel is now brought back into the picture.

Shadow Falling opens right on the heels of the story before it. Jax has returned to Vanguard with Lynne, but Raze, the enigmatic and quiet, yet capable warrior has returned with an unexpected rescued woman, Vivienne Wellington. Jax is happy to have the fragile woman around to act as profiler and shrink since that was her career with the FBI, but for Raze, she is the key to getting his captured sister back from the Mercs another survivor group like Vanguard.

Vinnie was drugged to the hilt and she's pretty sure it fried her brain. She hears voices and is hallucinating about a step-mother who died years ago. Her nightmares are fierce, but she is happy to be in a relatively safe place and be needed by the people around her. Raze is the hero of her rescue, but she can tell that the man is conflicted about something and she's part of it. Between helping Jax and the crew figure out a conflict between the Pures and the Infecteds led by a delusioned new 'preacher', and helping those who are on the edge of sanity from all they are going through, she shouldn't be falling for a shadowy man with secrets.

Meanwhile, President Atherton and his group continue to search for the Bunker just like everyone else since it looks more and more like it contains the answers to Scorpius. On a side agenda, he has dark plans for when he recaptures Vinnie Wellington and Lynne Harmony and smashes Jax Mercury.

Alright, so I probably tipped my hand there with that intro. Yes, this was a fantastic read and I am thirsty for more. I love how the author engages me deeply and leaves me curious to the get the answers to my questions while excited to see more post-apocalyptic action and romancin'.

The set up of this one had me going right away since I knew Raze was stuck between a rock and a hard place when it came to Vinnie and his sister. Trade one life for another? It was an easy decision before he got to know Vinnie.
And Vinnie, she did indeed make things tough for Raze. She was so cute and adorable when most people are running around serious and grim. She babbles, she laughs and smiles, and she really cares for those around her.

This pair were a delight. I've always loved it when tough, hardened warrior types fall for the adorable, soft opposites. I laughed so hard when he pulled an alpha-move on her and she kicked him in the nuts before racing away knowing she was going to get it when he recovered.

Beyond this pair, the Vanguard cast of characters introduced in the first book are a wonderful group of friends and family of a new sort. Jax and Lynne still get page time in the background as well as Tace and Sami. I am so intrigued by the hints that the original pair from the prequel are still out there and busting up Atherton and the other deadly Rippers' plans. But I also enjoyed the inclusion of a new pair of intriguing characters in Raze's sister and her Merc captor.

The hope and mystery of The Bunker has everyone's interest and things are converging as the hunt is on for this promised place with all the answers. Things are building for something pretty intense in this series. Can't wait!

In summary, dark, gritty, suspense, action, and romance in a post-apocalyptic world was abso-fab and my only frustration is I want Jupiter Ascending now. I recommend this series whole-heartedly to those who enjoy zombie-apocalypse romances.

I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC received for review

4.5 stars

Raze is seriously all kinds of yummy. Vinnie is great for him. She doesn't let him get away with being overbearing protective alpha male. There's still unrest in Vanguard coming from all kinds of directions.. The Pure, Mercs, Twenty, and of course the President. Loved seeing more of Jax and Blue. What's going on with the Pure? Where's the Bunker located? Where's the Brigade? Where's the President? so many questions to be answered

Looking forward to the next book, Sami (who is she really) and Tace (he's a little bit kinky, ok maybe a lot). Plus I want one with Mo and him.

[Varied Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

8/28/17 Ammy sale .99.

3.5 stars

[Cheryl La Pa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadow Falling has everything I want in a post-apocalyptic/romance novel— a sexy, badass hero, action that kept me on the edge of my seat, hot, sizzling romance and a cast of unique and intriguing characters.

Ms Zanetti creates a realistic, merciless world with her beautiful, detailed writing and right from the start I was swept away into this fast-paced and suspenseful ride with Vinnie, Raze and rest of the Vanguard clan.

While Shadow Falling can certainly be read as a stand-alone, I recommend reading Mercury Striking first for a deeper understanding of the characters and their world.

Every character in this book is complex and believable, and their dynamics are fascinating. Vinnie and Raze won me over right away. Vinnie is a strong, stubborn, headstrong heroine whose past holds her hostage and Raze is a tough, sexy, alpha male who has to rethink his secret mission when Vinnie comes into his life. Their passion is real and raw in the midst of the uncertainty and danger of their new and ruthless world.

I’ve fallen head over heels in love with these characters and this world, and I cannot wait to continue on with this series in Justice Ascending.

[Carolyn Reilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadow Falling is book 2 in the Scorpius Syndrome series by Rebecca Zanetti. I haven’t read book 1 - Mercury Rising - yet so I might have missed some background info but I had no trouble following the storyline.
I loved Raze and Vinnie as a couple and found both their characters believable and relatable. They had great chemistry between the sheets and I loved their arguments and bantering.
There is a lot going on in this novel and we have multiple viewpoints to follow but everything is perfectly paced and balanced.
I really enjoyed this fast-paced, super-steamy and action-packed read. Highly recommended!

* An ARC has been provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Anna's Herding Cats]

It took me a while to get into book one but I'm looking forward to book two and seeing where things go :D

[Briar's Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rebecca Zanetti's Shadow Falling is a fun little book packed full of dystopian, sci-fi romance.

To be blunt, this genre is not my go to. Science fiction books tend to not sit high or well on my shelf, but I do like to dip my toes in the water once and a while. Changing my reading habits up makes life a little more exciting and let's me see into some of the other genres I don't frequent. That being said, I am not the ultimate science fiction lover so my review will not reflect as well as other reviewers.

In this dystopian world, Vivienne was a former FBI profiler. After this world has had a massive wipe over with some crazy bacteria (which got Vivienne), she must now live and see the man who was her rescuer (from the last book). Her rescuer? Oh yeah, Raze is basically a bad guy.

The worst part about this book for me was that I didn't read the first one, so I wasn't entirely sure what was going on. I felt like Rebecca gave me enough to go on, but I still felt mighty lost. After peeking at other reviews, a different couple was followed in book but, yet I still think reading the first one would have prepared me better for this book.

Like most science fiction books, Shadow Falling has a lot going on. There's lots of plots and drama to follow along the way, so it's not a casual reading book. You need to be invested and want to devour all of the insanity that's going on. That was another place where I faltered - I just wanted to casually stroll through this book, and then I realized it was as complicated as Game of Thrones and the other amazing books out there. I got lost easily and had to put down this book a lot and almost DNF it. I just wasn't prepared AT ALL. So, buyer's beware! Do a little research before you throw yourself in a book.

All that being said, I think this book was still super well written. Rebecca's style is to die for and I'd highly recommend this book for romance, sci-fi and dystopian book lovers. It's honestly a great ride if you like books like this. Since this isn't my primary genre, I didn't appreciate it as much. I can totally see this book flying off the shelves. It's amazing!

Highlights:
1. The whole sexy, alpha male thing is going on
2. Lots of action and plot lines to keep you busy and occupied
3. Totally binge worthy - fast paced, great timing, excellent writing style that's engaging
4. Gritty, dark and absolutely insane plot

Three out of five stars.

I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.