A review by patelyne
Monsters Within Men by TJ Rose

adventurous dark hopeful tense
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

If you’re looking for an action packed monster hunting read, in a setting heading into post apocalyptic despair, with a pinch of love and hope then you’re going to want to check this one out! 

I’ve watched a few of zombie shows/movies, but I don’t think I’d ever read a book about them before now - following the general rule they aren’t called zombies here either though, they’re called types. 
Type a is stronger but more feral, and type b is more intelligent but not quite as strong. Both are more than dangerous enough though.

It’s been a decade, and with staff and supplies both dwindling and infrastructure failing, tensions are rising. Especially as it comes to light the higher ups have not been entirely honest and forthcoming.

Unlike some who signed up for the fight/defense, Frankie and Zeke were ‘drafted’ and put into squad E when their employment exemptions ended. The squad, like many others, is dealing with losses and their uncertain future, and being led by CO Noah who is hanging by a thread but doing his best to keep them safe. 

In the midst of all the training and then fighting, CO Noah and new ‘recruit’ Zeke have an initially reluctant but gradually building attraction leading to some mutual pining and then more. This is made all the more difficult in that it has to be secret because fraternization is Not Allowed. 

Love after loss on one side, Bi awakening on the other, slow burn to fire, and the tension of a hidden relationship keeps this all interesting in between the sections of action and searching for answers to the government secrets. 

Check your CWs  - *know* there’s going to be a deal of violence and gore here - and buckle up for a wild ride
I thought this was an excellent read for spooky season!

Thanks to the author for the arc!
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