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In the End #1
In The End: Their Fight for Survival is Only the Beginning
When humanity faces an undead nightmare, one man’s party turns into a race to survive.
Logan has always taken things a little too seriously. So when his New Year's Eve attempt to unwind descends into chaos, he's the first to realize it's no joke. After Logan and his friends miss the evacuation transport, he's given a choice: lead the group to safety or watch all of his friends come back from the dead…
When Logan discovers the military and government have no interest in saving them, making it to sanctuary alive may be their only hope. And after he learns his party of survivors might hold the key to a cure, the fate of humanity rests on his shoulders. But saving his species could mean sacrificing himself…
Can Logan stave off the end of the world or will one wrong decision doom humankind?
In The End is a fast-paced post-apocalyptic zombie thriller. If you like nightmarish settings, reluctant heroes, and action-packed adventures, then you’ll love GJ Stevens’ spine-chilling novel.
Logan has always taken things a little too seriously. So when his New Year's Eve attempt to unwind descends into chaos, he's the first to realize it's no joke. After Logan and his friends miss the evacuation transport, he's given a choice: lead the group to safety or watch all of his friends come back from the dead…
When Logan discovers the military and government have no interest in saving them, making it to sanctuary alive may be their only hope. And after he learns his party of survivors might hold the key to a cure, the fate of humanity rests on his shoulders. But saving his species could mean sacrificing himself…
Can Logan stave off the end of the world or will one wrong decision doom humankind?
In The End is a fast-paced post-apocalyptic zombie thriller. If you like nightmarish settings, reluctant heroes, and action-packed adventures, then you’ll love GJ Stevens’ spine-chilling novel.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 23, 2018
About the author
G.J. Stevens
31 books47 followersTo stay up to date with all the very latest news, and to get two FREE books, head to gjstevens.com
GJ Stevens started writing fiction at the age of thirty. His fast-paced thrillers are the culmination of many years of finding time from nowhere to learn the craft.
His fiction is often referred to as a refreshing break from the norm, whether it’s his apocalyptic creations, spy-thrillers or his twist on everyday life with just one difference, there’s something for everyone who likes to be kept on the edge of their seat.
Whilst working to independently publish and make a success of his novels, Gareth lays bare his publishing journey through his blog (gjstevens.com), drawing together advice and knowledge from those already in the industry.
As a lover of the outdoors, every year he spends weekends out in the desolate countryside of the UK hiking and camping with his long-time friends which he uses as inspiration for both his creative fiction works and the subject of many a blog post.
Why not check out his website where you can join his mailing list to keep in touch or grab yourself a little more than you expected.
GJ Stevens started writing fiction at the age of thirty. His fast-paced thrillers are the culmination of many years of finding time from nowhere to learn the craft.
His fiction is often referred to as a refreshing break from the norm, whether it’s his apocalyptic creations, spy-thrillers or his twist on everyday life with just one difference, there’s something for everyone who likes to be kept on the edge of their seat.
Whilst working to independently publish and make a success of his novels, Gareth lays bare his publishing journey through his blog (gjstevens.com), drawing together advice and knowledge from those already in the industry.
As a lover of the outdoors, every year he spends weekends out in the desolate countryside of the UK hiking and camping with his long-time friends which he uses as inspiration for both his creative fiction works and the subject of many a blog post.
Why not check out his website where you can join his mailing list to keep in touch or grab yourself a little more than you expected.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
October 31, 2021
Non stop action. Told from different points of view it gave different angles to the story. The pace was fast as the zombie apocalypse spread and the Government official and soldiers added an exciting dimension. I shall be reading the next one.
February 16, 2020
Action-packed, which I enjoyed. A large cast of characters, of whom the reader gets 3 different POV. An average, everyday guy is our hero - which is a nice change.
There are more than a few issues though. This really requires an editor for grammar, misuse of words, and cohesion. I could tell the author went back to rework parts of the story, and this left a little confusion as some scenes just don't flow properly.
The author could also use a dictionary and thesaurus, in particular, in use of the verb "flinch". The author apparently loves this word, even if they don't understand its meaning. It is, now, my least favorite word, because the author used it 38 times. I counted because it was EVERYWHERE, and because it was used incorrectly several times. I.e. "Cassidy flinched a look down at her sister", "his gaze flinched" A LOT, "the hound flinched my gaze from the body", "I flinched my view around", "... my gaze flinching to the lock", "I flinched the screwdriver down to his neck", "I couldn't stop myself from flinching around to the window", "I flinched a look and saw him rolling at my side", "increasing ferocity of the woman flinching toward me", "...all flinched in his direction", "I could flinch my gaze from the windowscreen", "his gaze flinched to my side ".
Flinch definition is - to withdraw or shrink from or as if from pain.
You don't flinch TO something, you flinch AWAY from something. Obviously, this bothered me a lot. Lol.
Most other issues stemmed from wrong word usage such as "scolding hot" instead of "scalding hot".
Despite the above mentioned problems. I did enjoy the story, even if I had to reread several parts to see who was "speaking".
There are more than a few issues though. This really requires an editor for grammar, misuse of words, and cohesion. I could tell the author went back to rework parts of the story, and this left a little confusion as some scenes just don't flow properly.
The author could also use a dictionary and thesaurus, in particular, in use of the verb "flinch". The author apparently loves this word, even if they don't understand its meaning. It is, now, my least favorite word, because the author used it 38 times. I counted because it was EVERYWHERE, and because it was used incorrectly several times. I.e. "Cassidy flinched a look down at her sister", "his gaze flinched" A LOT, "the hound flinched my gaze from the body", "I flinched my view around", "... my gaze flinching to the lock", "I flinched the screwdriver down to his neck", "I couldn't stop myself from flinching around to the window", "I flinched a look and saw him rolling at my side", "increasing ferocity of the woman flinching toward me", "...all flinched in his direction", "I could flinch my gaze from the windowscreen", "his gaze flinched to my side ".
Flinch definition is - to withdraw or shrink from or as if from pain.
You don't flinch TO something, you flinch AWAY from something. Obviously, this bothered me a lot. Lol.
Most other issues stemmed from wrong word usage such as "scolding hot" instead of "scalding hot".
Despite the above mentioned problems. I did enjoy the story, even if I had to reread several parts to see who was "speaking".
July 11, 2020
The beginning wasn’t smooth for me. With the given writing style I had a problem to get into the story. The sentences are choppy, and not really rolling into another.
In time i got the hang of it but it is not easy going. The writing needs improvement.
I liked the characters, the plot and the development.
But that’s it?
For me the story wasn’t finished at all.
The second book is about different characters that reveal the machinations behind it but sadly not what happens to Logan and his friends or their next adventure to find a place to settle.
So in the end that was disappointing. Maybe there is another book coming? So far nothing public towards it.
Otherwise it could have been easily a 5 star read.
Update: As the author has revealed that it wasn’t meant to be a standalone and a follow up book about Logan and his friends will be released in November 2020. I am adding one star I previously deduced, due to not finding any hint that there will be a follow up book.
In time i got the hang of it but it is not easy going. The writing needs improvement.
I liked the characters, the plot and the development.
But that’s it?
For me the story wasn’t finished at all.
The second book is about different characters that reveal the machinations behind it but sadly not what happens to Logan and his friends or their next adventure to find a place to settle.
So in the end that was disappointing. Maybe there is another book coming? So far nothing public towards it.
Otherwise it could have been easily a 5 star read.
Update: As the author has revealed that it wasn’t meant to be a standalone and a follow up book about Logan and his friends will be released in November 2020. I am adding one star I previously deduced, due to not finding any hint that there will be a follow up book.
June 5, 2019
This is the first zombie book I've read and I'm so glad I took a chance on a different genre.
I loved the fast pace and short chapters which kept me turning the pages. For the poor characters thrust into this nightmarish situation there is no let up. Even when you think they're safe to lie down and rest, just for a moment, another shocking twist is waiting around the corner.
Be warned, it ends with a cliff hanger and I can't wait to see what happens next!
I loved the fast pace and short chapters which kept me turning the pages. For the poor characters thrust into this nightmarish situation there is no let up. Even when you think they're safe to lie down and rest, just for a moment, another shocking twist is waiting around the corner.
Be warned, it ends with a cliff hanger and I can't wait to see what happens next!
May 1, 2019
In The End
Great book, great dark humor and great characters. Looking forward to reading more of this author's stories. Was a little confusing in places, but I am expecting it to all blend in the following sequels.
Great book, great dark humor and great characters. Looking forward to reading more of this author's stories. Was a little confusing in places, but I am expecting it to all blend in the following sequels.
October 3, 2020
Great story. It took a little while to get the lay of the land. It got really good towards the end. The narration was good but I speed it up to get it going faster. I’m looking forward to listening to the next book.
November 8, 2020
Needs an editor badly.
Dialogue is confusing as you often don’t know who is speaking, except for the main characters or their lovers, little character development so you don’t really have any investment in what happens to them.
A very typical zombie book.
Dialogue is confusing as you often don’t know who is speaking, except for the main characters or their lovers, little character development so you don’t really have any investment in what happens to them.
A very typical zombie book.
January 9, 2021
Another good book in the series!
I half expected an Amazon recommendation to barely squeak by in the zompoc as passable, boy am I glad I was wrong. This series exceeded my expectations. I am very pleased with this work.
I half expected an Amazon recommendation to barely squeak by in the zompoc as passable, boy am I glad I was wrong. This series exceeded my expectations. I am very pleased with this work.
January 18, 2019
Exciting book
I could not put this book down. I really hope there is a sequel. I want to find out happens.
I could not put this book down. I really hope there is a sequel. I want to find out happens.
May 21, 2019
Review to come.
Read
July 10, 2019This is good story. I like how the characters interacted. The author did a great job. The narrator was decent. I didn't get much diversity in the voices.
December 4, 2018
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review, but my opinions are my own.
In The End is a dystopian thriller set in southwest England and follows a group of friends after the power goes out on New Year's Eve and the world as they knew it no longer seems to exist. Logan, the narrator, does his best to keep his friends alive in a world where nothing is as it seems and the odds are stacked against them.
There was an awful lot to like about this book. The plot moves like a steamroller and I was completely caught up in the story. In fact, I contacted the author on Twitter to complain that I opened the book as I was getting ready to go to bed and 45 minutes later, I was still reading. The characters are well drawn out and I liked that we learned little bits about them, especially Logan, as the story progressed. It was clear the author really knew his characters and I felt that the narrative voices were well chosen and distinct.
I also very much liked the twist on the usual zombie apocalypse story. Whenever I read about the fungus in question, I keep thinking there must be a story there somewhere and clearly GJ Stevens agreed with me! There were plenty of complications along the way and the book follows Murphy's law to the letter: everything that can go wrong will go wrong. I enjoyed the varied threats and the different people's reactions to what had happened. There was plenty that was left unresolved by the end of this book, lots of questions still up in the air, all cleverly setting the scene for the sequel.
My only gripe with the book and the reason why I gave it four stars instead of five is that I frequently felt the author had sacrificed clarity for pace. Every time I had to go back and check something in case I'd missed a detail, every time I wasn't quite sure what was going on, it jolted me out of the story. As much as the characters and the plot stayed with me when I wasn't reading, so did the frustration of not knowing precisely why some of the people had died or which car had just blown up and so on. But I caveat my criticism by saying that as a writer myself, I read everything as an editor might and therefore judge books to a very high standard. The word choices that I questioned may not be noticed by other readers at all.
The issue with clarity aside, this is a very fine dystopian thriller and one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to the fans of the genre. In fact, I liked the book enough that I've already suggested a friend of mine gives it a try. I'm also very pleased to hear that there will be a sequel (or two), as I need to know what happens to the survivors next. In The End is an impressive debut novel and bodes well for the author.
In The End is a dystopian thriller set in southwest England and follows a group of friends after the power goes out on New Year's Eve and the world as they knew it no longer seems to exist. Logan, the narrator, does his best to keep his friends alive in a world where nothing is as it seems and the odds are stacked against them.
There was an awful lot to like about this book. The plot moves like a steamroller and I was completely caught up in the story. In fact, I contacted the author on Twitter to complain that I opened the book as I was getting ready to go to bed and 45 minutes later, I was still reading. The characters are well drawn out and I liked that we learned little bits about them, especially Logan, as the story progressed. It was clear the author really knew his characters and I felt that the narrative voices were well chosen and distinct.
I also very much liked the twist on the usual zombie apocalypse story. Whenever I read about the fungus in question, I keep thinking there must be a story there somewhere and clearly GJ Stevens agreed with me! There were plenty of complications along the way and the book follows Murphy's law to the letter: everything that can go wrong will go wrong. I enjoyed the varied threats and the different people's reactions to what had happened. There was plenty that was left unresolved by the end of this book, lots of questions still up in the air, all cleverly setting the scene for the sequel.
My only gripe with the book and the reason why I gave it four stars instead of five is that I frequently felt the author had sacrificed clarity for pace. Every time I had to go back and check something in case I'd missed a detail, every time I wasn't quite sure what was going on, it jolted me out of the story. As much as the characters and the plot stayed with me when I wasn't reading, so did the frustration of not knowing precisely why some of the people had died or which car had just blown up and so on. But I caveat my criticism by saying that as a writer myself, I read everything as an editor might and therefore judge books to a very high standard. The word choices that I questioned may not be noticed by other readers at all.
The issue with clarity aside, this is a very fine dystopian thriller and one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to the fans of the genre. In fact, I liked the book enough that I've already suggested a friend of mine gives it a try. I'm also very pleased to hear that there will be a sequel (or two), as I need to know what happens to the survivors next. In The End is an impressive debut novel and bodes well for the author.
December 9, 2018
Great Zombie Adventure
If you like books in the zombie genre, then give this author a try. The zombie apocalypse happened fast. It caught main character, Logan, unprepared and stuck behind in the zombie zone. Enjoyed the two types of zombies, fights to survive, evil government officials, soldiers caught in the middle, and hope for a cure. Characters were well written and each important character had a chapter written in first person. This helped the tr reader get to know them quickly and become interested in their plight. I look forward to the next book!
If you like books in the zombie genre, then give this author a try. The zombie apocalypse happened fast. It caught main character, Logan, unprepared and stuck behind in the zombie zone. Enjoyed the two types of zombies, fights to survive, evil government officials, soldiers caught in the middle, and hope for a cure. Characters were well written and each important character had a chapter written in first person. This helped the tr reader get to know them quickly and become interested in their plight. I look forward to the next book!
March 12, 2021
Plenty to like
Although the zombie apocalypse concept is fairly familiar, this is an engaging and enjoyable read. The characters are believable and well described, although, as it says on the tin, the focus is on action and gore. Some rough edges in certain scenes, but compared pretty well to traditionally published work of the same genre. Do read if you're a fast-paced action & gore fan. First person narrative, to give warning, but this is used pretty well.
Although the zombie apocalypse concept is fairly familiar, this is an engaging and enjoyable read. The characters are believable and well described, although, as it says on the tin, the focus is on action and gore. Some rough edges in certain scenes, but compared pretty well to traditionally published work of the same genre. Do read if you're a fast-paced action & gore fan. First person narrative, to give warning, but this is used pretty well.
March 27, 2019
This was a solid zombie apocalypse story. I only gave it four stars because it took me a long while to connect with the characters.
July 25, 2021
What an Ending!
In The End is an adrenaline-pumping zombie apocalypse adventure filled with frights, fights, flights, and occasional fun moments. I would recommend it to any fan of British zombie fiction.
The opening chapters are fast paced and exciting. The rapid collapse of everything is well described and shown through the events happening around the core group of friends who are the protagonists of this apocalyptic tale. The confusing evacuation and hints of extreme danger at the end of chapter 1 provide an excellent opening hook to this chilling zombie adventure.
Logan is the main protagonist, which is probably because he is so proactive rather than any qualification or status gained prior to this story beginning. Cassie is probably the second most important character in this novel but may well become the main protagonist in the sequel because she is also proactive and often is the one who comes to Logan’s rescue.
Cassie is much more likable than Logan, and that is mainly due to her relationship with her younger sister. However, Logan’s actions towards Cassie’s sister a short while after they meet really raised my initial opinion of his character.
I was confused by the initial descriptions of Logan’s and Cassie’s relative ages. It is mentioned that Logan has an ex-wife, and the way his group of friends is first described, I’d pictured him as middle aged. Cassie is introduced as a “young woman…having just left her teens” (page 43). However, later developments led me to rethink their relative ages.
I had no idea that Zoe and Naomi were a couple until page 159 when Logan briefly questions the nature of their relationship. I would have expected their relationship to show through their body language and speech, but instead Naomi is initially described as “Zoe’s best friend” on page 4. There is no hint of a love relationship until it becomes important for plot development.
Jack is my favorite character. Although he is a young child, he is courageous, resourceful, and proactive. Quite often he is the one who saves the adults from danger.
One of this book’s strengths is its multiple plot lines running side-by-side. You’ve got various interesting relationship plots and character development arcs that are really engaging. I particularly enjoyed Jack’s relationship arc with his sister and need to grow up quickly.
Important plot lines involve the need to escape from the danger zone, the search for a cure, the apportionment of blame, and the interesting relationship arcs. The conflicts are clear and important with high stakes all around. The whole adventure ends with quite the shock and a huge cliffhanger to be continued in the next book in this chilling series.
I loved the resolution because while certain plot lines are resolved and the conflicts overcome, there are others that are left flying loose like sparking electrical cables severed during a storm. It really made me want to begin reading the next book to discover what happens next.
The only thing I didn’t like about the resolution is that we appear to lose one of the main characters in the final moments. I had grown a little attached to that character and so was sad to see them depart the series.
It’s nice when authors add a few unique features to their zombies, a little like buying that new car fresh from the dealership and having a few extras thrown in for free. The zombies in this apocalyptic adventure differ a little from the standard, and the causes and symptoms are introduced smoothly into the story through action and dialogue.
The implied government corruption and incompetence is about right for the UK right now, and that’s something that makes this story feel all too real! I love the way in which this is demonstrated through the actions of the various military people we meet along the way.
Generally, the narrative taking us through this story is clear and immersive. It definitely shows rather than tells the story. However, sometimes during intense action scenes, the description became sparse and I sometimes became a little lost. I found myself turning back a page to try and figure out what had happened, which took me out of the story for a moment disrupting the suspension of disbelief.
For example, near the beginning from page 11 onward there is a scene where Logan, Andrew, and Toby leave their car and approach a checkpoint, leaving the rest behind in the car. Because the people left behind were not mentioned, and Andrew was only mentioned when Toby and Logan had almost reached the checkpoint, I thought they were all walking together.
However, these issues may only be mine. A lot of readers enjoy succinct prose in action scenes, and their imaginations will quickly fill any blanks.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading In The End. I read a lot of zombie apocalypse tales, so I can tell that this one is something special. I rate it 5 out of 5.
In The End is an adrenaline-pumping zombie apocalypse adventure filled with frights, fights, flights, and occasional fun moments. I would recommend it to any fan of British zombie fiction.
The opening chapters are fast paced and exciting. The rapid collapse of everything is well described and shown through the events happening around the core group of friends who are the protagonists of this apocalyptic tale. The confusing evacuation and hints of extreme danger at the end of chapter 1 provide an excellent opening hook to this chilling zombie adventure.
Logan is the main protagonist, which is probably because he is so proactive rather than any qualification or status gained prior to this story beginning. Cassie is probably the second most important character in this novel but may well become the main protagonist in the sequel because she is also proactive and often is the one who comes to Logan’s rescue.
Cassie is much more likable than Logan, and that is mainly due to her relationship with her younger sister. However, Logan’s actions towards Cassie’s sister a short while after they meet really raised my initial opinion of his character.
I was confused by the initial descriptions of Logan’s and Cassie’s relative ages. It is mentioned that Logan has an ex-wife, and the way his group of friends is first described, I’d pictured him as middle aged. Cassie is introduced as a “young woman…having just left her teens” (page 43). However, later developments led me to rethink their relative ages.
I had no idea that Zoe and Naomi were a couple until page 159 when Logan briefly questions the nature of their relationship. I would have expected their relationship to show through their body language and speech, but instead Naomi is initially described as “Zoe’s best friend” on page 4. There is no hint of a love relationship until it becomes important for plot development.
Jack is my favorite character. Although he is a young child, he is courageous, resourceful, and proactive. Quite often he is the one who saves the adults from danger.
One of this book’s strengths is its multiple plot lines running side-by-side. You’ve got various interesting relationship plots and character development arcs that are really engaging. I particularly enjoyed Jack’s relationship arc with his sister and need to grow up quickly.
Important plot lines involve the need to escape from the danger zone, the search for a cure, the apportionment of blame, and the interesting relationship arcs. The conflicts are clear and important with high stakes all around. The whole adventure ends with quite the shock and a huge cliffhanger to be continued in the next book in this chilling series.
I loved the resolution because while certain plot lines are resolved and the conflicts overcome, there are others that are left flying loose like sparking electrical cables severed during a storm. It really made me want to begin reading the next book to discover what happens next.
The only thing I didn’t like about the resolution is that we appear to lose one of the main characters in the final moments. I had grown a little attached to that character and so was sad to see them depart the series.
It’s nice when authors add a few unique features to their zombies, a little like buying that new car fresh from the dealership and having a few extras thrown in for free. The zombies in this apocalyptic adventure differ a little from the standard, and the causes and symptoms are introduced smoothly into the story through action and dialogue.
The implied government corruption and incompetence is about right for the UK right now, and that’s something that makes this story feel all too real! I love the way in which this is demonstrated through the actions of the various military people we meet along the way.
Generally, the narrative taking us through this story is clear and immersive. It definitely shows rather than tells the story. However, sometimes during intense action scenes, the description became sparse and I sometimes became a little lost. I found myself turning back a page to try and figure out what had happened, which took me out of the story for a moment disrupting the suspension of disbelief.
For example, near the beginning from page 11 onward there is a scene where Logan, Andrew, and Toby leave their car and approach a checkpoint, leaving the rest behind in the car. Because the people left behind were not mentioned, and Andrew was only mentioned when Toby and Logan had almost reached the checkpoint, I thought they were all walking together.
However, these issues may only be mine. A lot of readers enjoy succinct prose in action scenes, and their imaginations will quickly fill any blanks.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading In The End. I read a lot of zombie apocalypse tales, so I can tell that this one is something special. I rate it 5 out of 5.
December 5, 2020
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: In The End: Their fight for survival is only the beginning
Subtitle: (In the End #1)
Author: G.J. Stevens
Genre: Horror/Zombies
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series? N/A
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
A group of friends plans to spend New Year’s Eve together to unwind. But when they miss an emergency evacuation transport, their lives take a twist for the worst. Logan is the first to realise something is seriously wrong and becomes the reluctant hero in this book. It’s fast-paced and keeps you turning the pages.
What I liked about the book:
There was enough hope of a better outcome throughout the book to keep you wanting to read on.
What I didn’t like about the book:
At the end of the book, questions were still left unanswered. Will they get answered in the next book in the series?
My favourite bits in the book:
I loved the book in its entirety.
My least favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed the book in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
The author has written a second book in this series it appears from the ending of the book.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This series is like many other zombie stories. But unlike many of them, there is enough hope in the story to make you want to keep reading.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Maybe
Adult Yes
If you like zombie stories that are not only about the gore, this book may be the book for you.
Book Description by Author:
When humanity faces an undead nightmare, one man’s party turns into a race to survive.
Logan has always taken things a little too seriously. So when his New Year's Eve attempt to unwind descends into chaos, he's the first to realize it's no joke. After Logan and his friends miss the evacuation transport, he's given a choice: lead the group to safety or watch all of his friends come back from the dead…
When Logan discovers the military and government have no interest in saving them, making it to sanctuary alive may be their only hope. And after he learns his party of survivors might hold the key to a cure, the fate of humanity rests on his shoulders. But saving his species could mean sacrificing himself…
Can Logan stave off the end of the world or will one wrong decision doom humankind?
In The End is a fast-paced post-apocalyptic zombie thriller. If you like nightmarish settings, reluctant heroes, and action-packed adventures, then you’ll love GJ Stevens’ spine-chilling novel.
About the Author:
To stay up to date with all the very latest news, and to get two FREE books, head to gjstevens.com
GJ Stevens started writing fiction at the age of thirty. His fast-paced thrillers are the culmination of many years of finding time from nowhere to learn the craft.
His fiction is often referred to as a refreshing break from the norm, whether it’s his apocalyptic creations, spy-thrillers or his twist on everyday life with just one difference, there’s something for everyone who likes to be kept on the edge of their seat.
Whilst working to independently publish and make a success of his novels, Gareth lays bare his publishing journey through his blog (gjstevens.com), drawing together advice and knowledge from those already in the industry.
As a lover of the outdoors, every year he spends weekends out in the desolate countryside of the UK hiking and camping with his long-time friends which he uses as inspiration for both his creative fiction works and the subject of many a blog post.
Why not check out his website where you can join his mailing list to keep in touch or grab yourself a little more than you expected.
Basic Details:
Book Title: In The End: Their fight for survival is only the beginning
Subtitle: (In the End #1)
Author: G.J. Stevens
Genre: Horror/Zombies
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series? N/A
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
A group of friends plans to spend New Year’s Eve together to unwind. But when they miss an emergency evacuation transport, their lives take a twist for the worst. Logan is the first to realise something is seriously wrong and becomes the reluctant hero in this book. It’s fast-paced and keeps you turning the pages.
What I liked about the book:
There was enough hope of a better outcome throughout the book to keep you wanting to read on.
What I didn’t like about the book:
At the end of the book, questions were still left unanswered. Will they get answered in the next book in the series?
My favourite bits in the book:
I loved the book in its entirety.
My least favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed the book in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
The author has written a second book in this series it appears from the ending of the book.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This series is like many other zombie stories. But unlike many of them, there is enough hope in the story to make you want to keep reading.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Maybe
Adult Yes
If you like zombie stories that are not only about the gore, this book may be the book for you.
Book Description by Author:
When humanity faces an undead nightmare, one man’s party turns into a race to survive.
Logan has always taken things a little too seriously. So when his New Year's Eve attempt to unwind descends into chaos, he's the first to realize it's no joke. After Logan and his friends miss the evacuation transport, he's given a choice: lead the group to safety or watch all of his friends come back from the dead…
When Logan discovers the military and government have no interest in saving them, making it to sanctuary alive may be their only hope. And after he learns his party of survivors might hold the key to a cure, the fate of humanity rests on his shoulders. But saving his species could mean sacrificing himself…
Can Logan stave off the end of the world or will one wrong decision doom humankind?
In The End is a fast-paced post-apocalyptic zombie thriller. If you like nightmarish settings, reluctant heroes, and action-packed adventures, then you’ll love GJ Stevens’ spine-chilling novel.
About the Author:
To stay up to date with all the very latest news, and to get two FREE books, head to gjstevens.com
GJ Stevens started writing fiction at the age of thirty. His fast-paced thrillers are the culmination of many years of finding time from nowhere to learn the craft.
His fiction is often referred to as a refreshing break from the norm, whether it’s his apocalyptic creations, spy-thrillers or his twist on everyday life with just one difference, there’s something for everyone who likes to be kept on the edge of their seat.
Whilst working to independently publish and make a success of his novels, Gareth lays bare his publishing journey through his blog (gjstevens.com), drawing together advice and knowledge from those already in the industry.
As a lover of the outdoors, every year he spends weekends out in the desolate countryside of the UK hiking and camping with his long-time friends which he uses as inspiration for both his creative fiction works and the subject of many a blog post.
Why not check out his website where you can join his mailing list to keep in touch or grab yourself a little more than you expected.
May 19, 2019
Surprisingly good
Recommended by a friend, I was not disappointed in this new series. Many ZomPoc books have military heros/heroines or in some line of responder career, the main character Logan is neither. He and several friends are out celebrating the ending of one year and beginning of a new one. Little did he or any of them realize this new year was nothing they could celebrate as they are caught unaware and far from home when a Virus begins to rage out of control and help is from te government or military is not forthcoming. Unfortunately for Logan, when he tries to rouse interest and some sort of plan in an attempt to save them, he is looked upon as their leader, although they question his every decision as much as he questions himself. He is not leader material, he does not want to lead or be responsible for the lives of his friends and anyone else they chance upon. Logan is as lost as they and resentful at the way they demand he lead yet look at him with disdain yet question when he makes a decision. As time continues, danger all around them, they slowly begin to relize no one is coming to help and Logan, never a leader rises up to do what must be done to lead his small, and growing smaller, group. Along the way, they encounter a boy(possible spoilers) who might hold the secret of a cure. But can he entrust their safety or the boy to the people that were all too willing to sacrifice them?
Logan can only go by his concious and his desire to live ad help the woman that he has now fallen in love with as well as the others taht now look to him for a way out of the madness.
The story line was great, the reluctant hero was a different take on the ZomPoc heroes and since it is set in England, the locations to us Yanks are not familiar which is also refreshing.
In all, it was a very well done story line, great character; good, bad, weak or down right evil. They all come to together for a great story line. I for one am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
And for those who might not have the time to read, it is already on audible, buy the kindle edition and get the audible at a low price. You will not be disappointed in either the audible or the book.
Recommended by a friend, I was not disappointed in this new series. Many ZomPoc books have military heros/heroines or in some line of responder career, the main character Logan is neither. He and several friends are out celebrating the ending of one year and beginning of a new one. Little did he or any of them realize this new year was nothing they could celebrate as they are caught unaware and far from home when a Virus begins to rage out of control and help is from te government or military is not forthcoming. Unfortunately for Logan, when he tries to rouse interest and some sort of plan in an attempt to save them, he is looked upon as their leader, although they question his every decision as much as he questions himself. He is not leader material, he does not want to lead or be responsible for the lives of his friends and anyone else they chance upon. Logan is as lost as they and resentful at the way they demand he lead yet look at him with disdain yet question when he makes a decision. As time continues, danger all around them, they slowly begin to relize no one is coming to help and Logan, never a leader rises up to do what must be done to lead his small, and growing smaller, group. Along the way, they encounter a boy(possible spoilers) who might hold the secret of a cure. But can he entrust their safety or the boy to the people that were all too willing to sacrifice them?
Logan can only go by his concious and his desire to live ad help the woman that he has now fallen in love with as well as the others taht now look to him for a way out of the madness.
The story line was great, the reluctant hero was a different take on the ZomPoc heroes and since it is set in England, the locations to us Yanks are not familiar which is also refreshing.
In all, it was a very well done story line, great character; good, bad, weak or down right evil. They all come to together for a great story line. I for one am looking forward to the next installment in the series.
And for those who might not have the time to read, it is already on audible, buy the kindle edition and get the audible at a low price. You will not be disappointed in either the audible or the book.
July 13, 2021
Fast Paced and Full of Adventure and Surprises!
I liked Logan as the leader, he was kinda put In that situation by the rest of the group, but I thought Cassie was a teenager. “They were sisters, both too young to be anything else to each other, the woman having just left her teens, the kid only just turning double figures.” I don’t think her age was ever stated or the ages of our protagonist but I’m thinking 20’s because no wife or kids, his last “relationship”. It is interesting that Cassie becomes his love interest because I thought that Naomi or Zoe would fill that role, but we don’t find out till later that Zoe’s mind gets broken when something happens to Naomi, and their relationship which I don’t know if I noticed. I so hated Zoe for what she did, more than Lane who redeemed himself! Proved he honestly didn’t know, the media was keeping everything about the zombies quiet! So nobody really knew except Logan and the people who were stuck in quarantine zone trying to find the people behind the “virus” which is related Zombie Ants (I liked that idea). The ending was weird though.. so many secrets. I know that the reporter at the end segues into book 2 and having read some of it I didn’t like it because I wanted to know what happened to Jack, Logan, and Cassie and Shadow! Plus the I wasn’t warming to the new characters. So I wrote this in hindsight because I had to know what happened, so immediately skipped review and went to second book lol! So I’d definitely recommend this one to fellow zombie fans if they are looking for something with lots of action and surprises and a cool hero! I can’t give it more stars because there were too many questions left for me and I think it could be better. I didn’t love it but I liked it!
I liked Logan as the leader, he was kinda put In that situation by the rest of the group, but I thought Cassie was a teenager. “They were sisters, both too young to be anything else to each other, the woman having just left her teens, the kid only just turning double figures.” I don’t think her age was ever stated or the ages of our protagonist but I’m thinking 20’s because no wife or kids, his last “relationship”. It is interesting that Cassie becomes his love interest because I thought that Naomi or Zoe would fill that role, but we don’t find out till later that Zoe’s mind gets broken when something happens to Naomi, and their relationship which I don’t know if I noticed. I so hated Zoe for what she did, more than Lane who redeemed himself! Proved he honestly didn’t know, the media was keeping everything about the zombies quiet! So nobody really knew except Logan and the people who were stuck in quarantine zone trying to find the people behind the “virus” which is related Zombie Ants (I liked that idea). The ending was weird though.. so many secrets. I know that the reporter at the end segues into book 2 and having read some of it I didn’t like it because I wanted to know what happened to Jack, Logan, and Cassie and Shadow! Plus the I wasn’t warming to the new characters. So I wrote this in hindsight because I had to know what happened, so immediately skipped review and went to second book lol! So I’d definitely recommend this one to fellow zombie fans if they are looking for something with lots of action and surprises and a cool hero! I can’t give it more stars because there were too many questions left for me and I think it could be better. I didn’t love it but I liked it!
September 17, 2019
I was very lucky to receive a copy of In The End from the author.
This is the first book of a series and is available to buy now from Amazon. The second book is available for pre order and is due to be released on 8th Nov.
📚📚
I read a lot of zombie fiction and what I loved about this book is that the main characters were just your average people. A lot of books in this genre have a main character who is either military, ex-military, a survivalist, or they meet up with someone who is one of the above very quickly. This genre also easily lends itself to focusing on weapons/guns or lots of gore. However, In The End was refreshing in that we follow the story of Logan (and friends) who are normal members of the public trying to figure out how to survive when the world goes to shit! The story focused more on the people and the situation they were in rather than guns and gore (obviously theres some of those things as it's a zombie book).
I also really enjoyed the short chapters that kept you wanting to read more and kept the story moving quickly. And as readers we don't have to wait too long until the action starts - page 23 the first zombie makes it's appearance!
If you've never read zombie fiction before then I'd say this is a good book to start with, and seasoned zombie fans would appreciate the change in focus.
I've already added the second book in the series to my Amazon wishlist ready for release day!
This is the first book of a series and is available to buy now from Amazon. The second book is available for pre order and is due to be released on 8th Nov.
📚📚
I read a lot of zombie fiction and what I loved about this book is that the main characters were just your average people. A lot of books in this genre have a main character who is either military, ex-military, a survivalist, or they meet up with someone who is one of the above very quickly. This genre also easily lends itself to focusing on weapons/guns or lots of gore. However, In The End was refreshing in that we follow the story of Logan (and friends) who are normal members of the public trying to figure out how to survive when the world goes to shit! The story focused more on the people and the situation they were in rather than guns and gore (obviously theres some of those things as it's a zombie book).
I also really enjoyed the short chapters that kept you wanting to read more and kept the story moving quickly. And as readers we don't have to wait too long until the action starts - page 23 the first zombie makes it's appearance!
If you've never read zombie fiction before then I'd say this is a good book to start with, and seasoned zombie fans would appreciate the change in focus.
I've already added the second book in the series to my Amazon wishlist ready for release day!
November 2, 2020
I received this book via a promo code and this is my honest voluntary review. Narration: Jim Harbourne has done an excellent job of making the narration seem like a bleak campfire recollection of an individual retelling their apocalypse survival story. His voice is fantastic for this genre. Despite his melodic molasses tones, the chapters were still fast-paced. Some say the Zombie genre is over-saturated.. I say there are plenty of brains out there for everyone and mine thoroughly enjoyed this book. Being set in the UK was a lovely touch, so many of the ones I have read so far have been trying to get to Atlanta or dealing with the CDC, the writing was distinctly British, which was nice. Logan is an everyday average guy. He's not some super paranoid prepper with army hero skills... he's an ordinary guy trying to celebrate with his buddies and ends up thrust into a leadership role he never asked for. Now with all eyes on him he's in the middle of an exclusion zone and missed the last transports to safety with legions of zombies now out to rip him and his group to pieces. I enjoyed that it flicks between a few POV's to give us more depth into the events as they unfold. I really enjoyed the heightened danger the survivors faced from their own Government and the revelations about young Jack upping the stakes. I highly recommend checking out this story!
July 27, 2021
I really wanted to like this book. It had a good plot and it was fast paced. Unfortunately, the writing had some major flaws. The action was hard to follow and I found myself continually jumping back a few paragraphs to try and figure out what just happened. Some things were never explained and the author made a lot of assumptions about what his readers would know and their ability to jump to the same conclusions that he did. I wasn't able to do that. It was only midway through the novel that I finally got a handle on all of the characters and I still don't know what most of the characters looked like. I have always felt that it's difficult to feel empathy and get attached to characters in a book if you're not even sure what they look like. There was a big discrepancy in terminology as the author is British and I am American. Many times, I found myself looking words up so that I could understand what the author was talking about. Not his fault and I did not ding my review for that. I gave this book 3 stars simply because there were so many times in the book where I just didn't know what the heck was going on.
June 15, 2021
Loved it. I like zombie books that start in the very beginning. I want to know who was where and what they were doing when everything went down. Otherwise, I spend most of the book wondering stuff the author probably isn't going to tell me more than a smidge about.
This book gives a bit of a unique spin on the typical zombie book. It's nothing too outrageous, which makes it more plausible to me. It's much easier to picture yourself in the same situation when it's plausible, and therefore easier to connect with. These characters aren't perfect. Their flaws are obvious but relatable. I can't stand it when there's a character who just conveniently knows how to do everything or gets everything right the first time. These characters make mistakes, just as most of us would in that situation.
I LOVED that the characters had actually heard of zombies. In most of the zombie books I've read (as well as movies), it seems like they've never heard of zombies or headshots, and that drives me crazy.
This is the first book I've read by this author, and it certainly won't be the last.
This book gives a bit of a unique spin on the typical zombie book. It's nothing too outrageous, which makes it more plausible to me. It's much easier to picture yourself in the same situation when it's plausible, and therefore easier to connect with. These characters aren't perfect. Their flaws are obvious but relatable. I can't stand it when there's a character who just conveniently knows how to do everything or gets everything right the first time. These characters make mistakes, just as most of us would in that situation.
I LOVED that the characters had actually heard of zombies. In most of the zombie books I've read (as well as movies), it seems like they've never heard of zombies or headshots, and that drives me crazy.
This is the first book I've read by this author, and it certainly won't be the last.
Read
December 21, 2021Loved it!
Big fan of the Zompoc genre. As such, I feel like I've read the same book over and over, as many seem to rely on the same basic formula. Obviously I don't mind, because I keep coming back for more! Some how this particular story seemed a bit fresher and I honestly didn't know what to expect at any given moment. Mr Stevens isn't afraid to kill of characters, and I appreciate that. The characters are interesting and not all of them are all that likable, despite being "good guys". I appreciate the depth that gives the story telling, for sure. I'm really looking forward to continuing on with the series and really hope that I get to find out what happens with the original main character - and between the way the book ended and the glimpse into the second, I'm not 100% sure I will. Honestly, that's kind of refreshing
Big fan of the Zompoc genre. As such, I feel like I've read the same book over and over, as many seem to rely on the same basic formula. Obviously I don't mind, because I keep coming back for more! Some how this particular story seemed a bit fresher and I honestly didn't know what to expect at any given moment. Mr Stevens isn't afraid to kill of characters, and I appreciate that. The characters are interesting and not all of them are all that likable, despite being "good guys". I appreciate the depth that gives the story telling, for sure. I'm really looking forward to continuing on with the series and really hope that I get to find out what happens with the original main character - and between the way the book ended and the glimpse into the second, I'm not 100% sure I will. Honestly, that's kind of refreshing
June 24, 2021
Good read!
I love post apocalyptic books. Zombie books ...all I think about is Shaun of the Dead. But, I am always on the lookout for a good read. I was on a Facebook page where you can talk to the authors of PA. Gareth asked if I liked zombie books...so here I am reviewing his book.
First of all I was pleasantly surprised. I was thinking something similar to Shaun of the Dead. Nope! Not even close. It was entertaining , believable and well written. The only problem I had was his English. He doesn't write American English. It is Great Britain English. Hmmm... I read Chaucer's Canterbury Tales in Middle English, I can conquer "In The End". It was a breeze.
Do I recommend this book? I do. I have already downloaded book 2. Enjoy!!
I love post apocalyptic books. Zombie books ...all I think about is Shaun of the Dead. But, I am always on the lookout for a good read. I was on a Facebook page where you can talk to the authors of PA. Gareth asked if I liked zombie books...so here I am reviewing his book.
First of all I was pleasantly surprised. I was thinking something similar to Shaun of the Dead. Nope! Not even close. It was entertaining , believable and well written. The only problem I had was his English. He doesn't write American English. It is Great Britain English. Hmmm... I read Chaucer's Canterbury Tales in Middle English, I can conquer "In The End". It was a breeze.
Do I recommend this book? I do. I have already downloaded book 2. Enjoy!!
November 19, 2019
Really enjoyed this book, a first in a series (and you should definitely read book two). The pace is good, the chapters are short and leave you ready to read more, and the characters are interesting. I particularly like the way several characters take the lead perspective in different chapters; not switching every time, but only as needed. This story has all the zombie things I'm looking for when I read zompoc, of which I read a lot, but it's different enough that I was really looking forward to book two.
December 2, 2020
The addition of the dog is new.
This is another zombie book that manages to be slightly different by the addition of a good dog. I will admit that I didn't want it to end when it did. It does leave you wanting to get into the next book, but it still ends up being another zombie story. I read all I come across, and I realize it has to be difficult to come up with a really new plot. If not for the super foul language I wouldn't mind recommending it to those that enjoy this genre.
This is another zombie book that manages to be slightly different by the addition of a good dog. I will admit that I didn't want it to end when it did. It does leave you wanting to get into the next book, but it still ends up being another zombie story. I read all I come across, and I realize it has to be difficult to come up with a really new plot. If not for the super foul language I wouldn't mind recommending it to those that enjoy this genre.
December 18, 2020
Disjointed
I wanted to like this book. The setting was good (in the UK as opposed to the US like most apocalyptic fiction) but the narrative was very weak. I couldn’t work out what had happened to some people and others were never named e.g. ‘old woman’ making for very one dimensional characterisation. The reviews made the book appear much better than it was and I am usually a very generous reviewer!
I wanted to like this book. The setting was good (in the UK as opposed to the US like most apocalyptic fiction) but the narrative was very weak. I couldn’t work out what had happened to some people and others were never named e.g. ‘old woman’ making for very one dimensional characterisation. The reviews made the book appear much better than it was and I am usually a very generous reviewer!
Read
September 7, 2021Good start and interesting characters
This story is a good beginning. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I enjoyed the characters and want to see what adventures they survive next. I do wish they explained the virus more, but I understood where the names came from.
I am looking forward to seeing where the journey goes next. I hope to learn more about the characters.
This story is a good beginning. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I enjoyed the characters and want to see what adventures they survive next. I do wish they explained the virus more, but I understood where the names came from.
I am looking forward to seeing where the journey goes next. I hope to learn more about the characters.
June 20, 2022
Loved this book!
What a super start to what looks to be a great series! I like the way things take off, drunken buddies, out in the back country, getting ready to bring in the New Year. Things do not go as planned.
The cast of characters mesh well together, and the new members fill in some gaps made when the original gang start dying. Fair warning, there is a cliff hanger at the end of this book.
I’m looking forward to reading more!
What a super start to what looks to be a great series! I like the way things take off, drunken buddies, out in the back country, getting ready to bring in the New Year. Things do not go as planned.
The cast of characters mesh well together, and the new members fill in some gaps made when the original gang start dying. Fair warning, there is a cliff hanger at the end of this book.
I’m looking forward to reading more!
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