Shadow Falling (The Scorpius Syndrome)

This is a great book; this is the second book in the Scorpius Syndrome series written by Rebecca Zanetti. Before the Scorpius Syndrome tore through North America and nearly wiped out the population, Vivienne “Vinnie” 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 trust in her fellow man had gone from shaky at best to nonexistent. Her mysterious rescuer wants to convince her he’s the exception. 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. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

I really enjoyed it. I loved the characters. You'll feel bad for both Vivienne and Raze. What they have been through and what's still to come is challenging for any relationship. How they get through it is what makes them the strong couple that they'll be.

Not only do I think you'll love them but that you'll enjoy all the characters in this series, or at least the good ones. The whole idea of this series is different yet not. I know, what do I mean? Well I'm pretty sure the idea of the world coming close to the end had been done, but the was Zanetti is doing it is what makes it different.

Shadow Falling is one of those books that once you start you won't want to put down because your afraid you'll miss something. And even though I read it in one sitting I'm sure I missed things. It was that good and I read it that fast.

I also loved how she came up with Raze's name. Very clever.

The only thing that had me a little bummed is that Shadow Falling isn't the first book in the series. There is a novella and a mass market before it. I'm sure I would have learned more about what happened instead of being dropped into the mayham. It might have slowed me down in the beginning of the story but I quickly caught on.

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.

This is book #2 in a series; I highly recommend that you read book #1 (Mercury Striking) first. It may not be mandatory but I think it sets the stage for the world in which our characters are existing. I liked this book even more than the first as the female lead here (Vinnie) is interesting and offbeat.

To really engage with this series you need to accept that a bacterial infection has killed 99% of the population. It strikes almost instantaneously after exposure and results in brain anomalies among the survivors. If you have a medical background and give side eye to that incubation period, you need to put that aside if you want to enjoy this series.

I really enjoyed the Raze/Vinnie relationship and his big secret was a surprise for me. These books have an awful lot of men throwing women over their shoulder kind of stuff and tiny big eyed women gasping at big strong men. The gender stereotypes are there although I do think Zanetti tries to make them more layered and complex.

This book is one action scene after another and there are no dull chapters. Zanetti outlines the Vanguard headquarters so well you can really see it in your mind. I very much enjoy this series and this book in particular. Explicit sexual scenes so know that going in.

If I had to compound a list of dark romances, I would have to add Rebecca Zanetti to the top of list.

In Shadow Falling we continue the saga in her apocalyptic romance. We see what the Scorpius Syndrome has left behind. I have to say that its bleak for us humans if this ever does happen, between fighting sociopaths and Rippers, the survivors must also contend with the uncertainty that the Earth may never be the same again.

When the world was normal Vivienne had a budding career as one of the top FBI profilers. But when the Scorpius virus ripped through the population, Vivienne was one of many who caught the virus, but she was also one of many for which the virus didn’t turn into a made killer. However, she must struggle with being a survivor and find where she belongs in this new world that has gone mad.

Shadow Falling maintained the same high level of excellence that started in Mercury Striking. This story was well worth the wait…now I must wait to see what Rebecca Zanetti has in store next for our intrepid heroes.

ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
loved this newest edition to Rebecca Zanetti's Scorpius series and have been as rabid as a ripper waiting to read it! Dr. Vivienne Wellington aka Vinnie was a highly regarded FBI profiler who was widely believed to be psychic due to her ability to get into her subjects minds and predict their next movements... but these days thanks to Scorpius and a wide variety of drugs she was subjected to after being tortured by the president, she's just trying to figure out what is fantasy and what's reality. Raze Shadow, her rescuer, is one of Vanguard's elite lieutenants and he has a secret that's tearing his loyalty in two... Raze's sister, Maureen Shadow, has been taken by Greyson Storm, the infamous leader of The Mercenaries, a rival group that want to trade her for Dr Wellington. Paired with a new threat from the Pure, a religious group formed from within their own ranks, the newest adventure in the series will leave you foaming at the mouth for more!

Raze is an excellent soldier but he's keeping secrets. And Vinnie has everything to do with those secrets. There's something between them but Raze cannot cross the line or his secret mission would be jeopardized. Vinnie was the FBI’s best profiler and she is discovering secrets of her own. The combination of Scorpius and mind altering drugs have done something to her and that puts her in even more danger. Or is she the dangerous one? She knows Raze is up to something, that he's got a plan for her but she can't stay away. Neither can he for that matter and the conflict of interest is just too much to bear. She is his weakness and he has too much to lose. Coming clean to Jax might save his life but it may just be the death of him.

Life in post-apocalyptic L.A couldn't get tougher than this as multiple issues arise and the safe haven that is their home gets caught in the crossfire.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from NetGalley for voluntary review consideration

In a world gone crazy where the rules no longer apply the only thing you can count on is loyalty – unless that loyalty is tested in the harshest way possible. Then all bets are off. It’s not necessary to be a reader of post-apocalyptic stories to enjoy this one. Shadow Falling is full of fast paced action, danger, intrigue and yes a very satisfying love story as well. Yet… I feel that you do really need to read them in order and that includes the prequel which sets the whole premise up for us. No, the world won’t fall apart if you don’t, but each story builds on things that happened before – so in order to get the whole world, reading in order makes the most sense.

We pick up pretty much where Mercury Striking left us. Vinnie has been rescued and brought back to the Vanguard compound. Raze has shown that there is more to him than meets the eye, or that he’s told Jax. Some of the tensions in the earlier part of the story come from waiting for Raze to make up his mind as to what he’s going to do… and hoping he makes the choice to fill Jax in on his situation.

During her time in captivity Vinnie had been fed a monstrous amount of drugs, most no one knew what they would do. Now she has hallucinations and talks to dead people.. in her mind at least. She’s been changed by events far beyond her control and now she’s not completely certain of her own sanity. Raze is her touchstone. He rescued her and their attraction to each other is off the charts. Still there are times when she feels she cannot trust him.

Shadow Falling is an intriguing story. I don’t think any of us know what we’d do if the world we knew changed overnight into a nightmare. And that feeling is there behind the other issues going on for all of these people. There is a nice set up to move us along to the next story in the series.

While I completely enjoyed this story, I had to keep telling myself that not everyone would react as I think I would. Every character acted in a way that was natural for the circumstances they faced at the time. Honestly, I do not know how I would have reacted, so I cannot judge anyone else.

If you enjoy intrigue, action, danger, a sizzling romance and a tight knit community of survivors then this series and this story in particular would be something you’d want to read. I would highly recommend Shadow Falling. Now comes the wait for Justice Ascending… it’s always difficult to wait for the next book.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*

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 virus 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 disease will develop in some of the characters. There's hints of extra physical and mental abilities that make this story that much more exciting.

ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Rebecca Zanetti continues her exciting world-building in the second novel of her post-apocalyptic series, Scorpius Syndrome. It’s centered around a group of people who are fighting to survive in a world gone mad. There are no rules, no wrong or right, just survival at it’s most basic level. A group called the Vanguard is led by an ex-special forces operative named Jax Mercury, whose story was in the first book in the series, Mercury Striking. In the end of that book, we see the heroine of this book getting rescued.

The conceit of this world is that there’s a dangerous virus called the Scorpius Syndrome that’s spreading throughout the countryside. Those who caught the virus either quickly succumbed to the initial high fever that it caused or had their brains completely rewired–some into serial killers, others into madness. Unfortunately, it was easily caught through body fluid transmissions like bites or kisses, and it could live on surfaces for a long time. So unless you constantly wore gloves and avoided most of the remaining population, you were certain to catch it.

Vivienne Wellington is a shadow of her former self. Once a lead FBI profiler who led teams to capture serial killers, she was captured by the President of the United States, Bret XX. She’d been infected with the virus and given mind altering drugs. The members of Vanguard had found and rescued her–but that didn’t solve all her problems. It was taking a long time to heal from both the virus and the dangerous drugs she’d been injected with. Plus, the President is now searching desperately for her because he believes she has information about the mysterious Bunker, which is said to contain supplies and a lab that was working on an inoculation and/or cure for the disease.

Her presence at Vanguard is not only putting everyone there at risk, but it’s having a strange effect on Raze, one of the men who’d saved her. He’s been a wild card from the beginning, with a secret agenda that’s not only going to get him thrown out or killed by Jax Mercury but cause him to jeopardize the safety of a woman he’s becoming to admire and…possibly love?

Great continuation of the first book and a sure bet for any urban suspense readers. Can’t wait for the next one, Justice Ascending, which is out in January 2017. Thanks!

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 c

aptivity, 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 Vinnie tells its own story. Whatever else Raze is concealing, he can’t hide his desire.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

I really enjoyed this book as far as suspense and excitement goes but as far as the cast and their personalities mine didn't quite mesh with Viv or Raze.

That caused me a lot of going back forth re-reading sections and skipping others just out of annoyance or because they didn't make sense.

I think there is quite a bit of potential here in this story but there is a lot that is missing in detail, development and not quite thought through.

I wanted to believe in the characters and their suffering and or their training but I couldn't get into either part of that. Viv was traumatized but she doesn't really show it aside from the panic attack/nightmare she has, and gets over what she's been through almost instantly and our specially trained team really doesn't do much or notice very much despite what and who they are.

I wanted so much more. Zanetti does a lot of build up but doesn't quite follow through on all the hopes I had for the book.

Even though I struggled with this issue I still believe that Zanetti can serve up even more in the next installment.

3 Stars

- Krissys Bookshelf Reviews

Disclaimer: Received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review

SHADOW FALLING is the second full length installment in Rebecca Zanetti’s THE SCORPIUS SYNDROME cross genre Sci-Fi/ UF/Dystopian series focusing on a biological pandemic sweeping the world that has already killed 99% of the US population. This is former US soldier and mercenary Raze Shadow, and FBI profiler Vivienne (Vinnie) Wellington’s story line that looks at life in the aftermath, and the fallout from an unknown bacteria-from space. The story line advances the series approximately one week. For more background information and some history, there is a prequel novella-SCORPIUS RISING-which can be found in the ON THE HUNT anthology (August 2015).

SOME BACKGROUND: Some of those infected with the biological virus have survived to become something known as a Ripper, but there are two types of Rippers inhabiting the world-one is a zombie like creature who feasts on the living; the other is a survivor whose brain has been altered resulting in a stronger, more powerful enhanced human being sometimes bordering on the sociopath ideology. If you are a fan of the series The Walking Dead, you will see many similarities in the story line premise including the search for food and supplies, attacks of the ‘undead’, and various groups of survivors vying for power and control.

Told from several third person points of view SHADOW FALLING focuses on Vinnie Wellington’s recovery following her harrowing ordeal as a prisoner of the newly self-declared President of the USA. A couple of weeks earlier, Raze Shadow rescued our heroine, and in the ensuing time found himself oddly attracted to the woman suffering with PTSD, hallucinations, an unfiltered brain to mouth loss of control, and some supernatural side affects following a regimen of drugs used to control her mind. What ensues is the building relationship between Vinnie and Raze, and a potential act of betrayal when Raze’s reason for returning to the Vanguard compound is soon discovered. Compound leader Jax Mercury doesn’t trust the newest arrivals, and Raze’s presence starts sending out too many red flags for the current team leader. Raze is a dominant force whose protective nature finds our hero struggling between right and wrong.

The relationship between Raze and Vinnie is one of mutual benefit. Vinnie suffers with PTSD, and Raze’s attraction to Vinnie finds our couple roommates in a compound with very little extra space for new arrivals. Vinnie needs the reassurance of Raze’s presence, and Raze is a man determined to complete his mission, and Vinnie is vital to the job. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of characters including Jax and Lynn (Mercury Striking #1), medic Tace, soldier Sami, and a host of secondary and supporting survivors at the Vanguard compound. There are three other factions vying for control including the current self-imposed US government; a group hoping to keep themselves ‘pure’ of the virus; and another compound that will come under fire when Raze sets out on his personal mission.

SHADOW FALLING is a fast paced, action packed story of survival in a post apocalyptic world destroyed by a space-born pathogen of unknown origin. The premise is imaginative and inventive; the characters are flawed and broken, energetic and dynamic-survivors in a world that challenges everything they had ever known; the romance is captivating, emotional and electric. Keep your mind open to the possibility that life as we know it can be gone in the blink of an eye.

I did have a couple of issues with believability as it pertained to a couple of events at the Vanguard compound but it is an urban fantasy story line where reality is subjective to the mind’s eye.

This is the second book of Rebecca Zanetti's Scorpius Syndrome and while I enjoyed it I felt like something was missing. I loved the prequel novella and I was so excited for the series, but the first one was a little disappointing and I really didn't like Jax (I thought he was a bit of an a**). This one I enjoyed the story, the romance and conflict between Raze and Vivienne; I also liked Raze so much more than Jax. I guess I wish it was all a little bit more science fiction than just dystopian/post apocalyptic action, that's just my preference the prequel was more sci-fi and I really enjoyed that one. One thing and really I'm nitpicking but it is a pet peeve, "bazooka", nope sorry I cringed it pulled me out of the story and just, nope. I really don't like that stupid name. Unless it's an M1, M9, M18, or M20 rocket launcher, or another variance of those, it wouldn't be called a bazooka. (sorry, it's just me) There were some, I think, unnecessary parts in the story that just made me question why was this happening? How is this important to the overall story? I hope it all comes together in the later books.

What I did like, Raze and Vivienne, Vivienne especially. She was previously infected early in the outbreak, and as the FBI's best profiler she was used to track down the survivors who turned into sociopaths. Her instinct and determination is what lead the crazy president to think she was psychic, so he kidnapped her and tortured her injecting her will all manner of drugs. This lead to her current state of semi-crazy, she sees her dead step mother who tries to convince her that she can read minds. The drugs also disintegrated the filter between her brain and her mouth and she says some of the most embarrassing things and she can make fun of herself for it; she has become more open, more relatable to the people around her. She never gave up. Raze has a secret and as much as he trusts Jax and the other Vanguards he feels like he has to do this himself. He's very independant and alpha but a big softy when it comes to Vivienne. He's protective but knows when to give in he knows her strengths and lets her do her thing. Raze is very loyal and what he is being forced to do is torturing him inside. The relationship between Raze and Vivienne is strained at first, the sexual tension is there and they would both act on it but Raze is uninfected. After Jax gets done being an ***hole it all changes and then there is no separating the two. Until Vivienne discovers the reason Raze is secretive, but even then it doesn't last long.

Overall, aside from the few things that I didn't like, this had some great action and suspense a very caring alpha male, Raze. It gave some clues as to what happened with the prequel couple Nora, Deacon and their psycho, but not near enough! I am desperate to find out what happened with them.

Can't wait for the next one.

Vivienne Kennedy has managed to survive Scorpius, the deadly plague bacteria working its way through what is left of the human race, and having been kidnapped, drugged, and tortured by the most vicious of Scorpius human turned Ripper—the President of the United States—but now she must survive the enigmatic, sexy, and possibly the most dangerous man, Raze Shadow. With her brain somewhat fried from whatever drugs Bret Atherton used on her as well as the after effects of Scorpius, her filters seem to be malfunctioning and she’s incredibly attracted to Raze, the man who rescued her from her torture. The only thing keeping her away from him is that Raze is one of the uninfected and being who she is as well as a doctor, she doesn’t want to be responsible for bringing harm to him through infecting him with Scorpius. But then it happens, he’s infected by a Ripper attack…now she’s free to jump the gorgeous man’s bones but should she, and does he want the same or is she just going mad?

Raze Shadow is usually a loner, a man with a conscience but he knows that sometimes the wrong choices have to be made for the right reasons. What he has to do in regards to Vinnie is necessary if he’s to get his sister back from the Mercs. He doesn’t want to trade her but he has no other choice. He also knows that Jax Mercury will probably kill him if he gets the chance but it’s a risk he has to take or so he thought. All hell starts to break loose for Raze. His heart begins to soften toward the somewhat crazy but beautiful head doctor, and then Jax does the impossible to save his life after a Ripper infects him. He begins to see that being a loner in this new and dangerous world no longer works well…trust becomes the new order of life after Scorpius.

The survivors of Vanguard are incredible characters, their hearts are huge, their bravery intense, and they continue to surprise me with their open caring for strangers and once trust is gained, they’d lay down their life for everyone around them. Rebecca Zanetti has conjured an incredible cast of characters, a dangerous and somewhat terrifying post-apocalyptic world akin to other plague driven themed stories such as Richard Matheson’s I AM LEGEND and television’s The Walking Dead, but with an intensity that keeps me glued to the pages and wishing the next book was ready as soon as I finished the current.

SHADOW FALLING, book two in the Scorpius Syndrome series pulls us deeper into the characters, the atmosphere, the craziness, and need to survive that would most likely exist after an apocalyptic event such as Rebecca Zanetti has created. Life isn't easy, danger exists around every corner and trust is hard to come by, but those under the charge of Jax Mercury become more than just good soldiers, they become family. This is something that Vinnie is seeking, but that Raze had never expected to find. It’s wonderful to see how both these characters, who want opposite things, journey to the point where they find the same thing and it satisfies them in a way neither expected.

I highly, highly recommend SHADOW FALLING by Rebecca Zanetti if you’re a fan of The Walking Dead. I’m not, by the way, but I am of this amazing series…it is way better!

SHADOW FALLING is an action-packed, character-driven, emotional adventure that will have you turning the pages late into the night and hanging on the edge of your seat so many times that you wonder if you’ll survive along with the characters. Although this is a series where it’s somewhat necessary to read them in order, it’s not impossible to pick up along the way but I wouldn’t advise it. SHADOW FALLING hooked me, took me hostage, infected me with the adventure and relationships, and then delivered me to the end of this book still wanting more. January is a long way off to get Tace and Sami’s story in JUSTICE ASCENDING…I hope I survive the wait.

***eARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest and unscripted review.

I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

America has lost 90 percent of it's population due to the Scorpius virus. Some have not contracted the virus while others have survived it. Some who have survived it have basically gone mad.

Vivienne, "Vinnie" was rescued from captivity by Raze and brought back to the Vanguard area. She is a former FBI profiler and her captor thought she knew the location of an extensive lab that many are searching for. Unfortunately, she was kept drugged for several weeks in hope of her disclosing the needed information.

Raze is fairly new to Vanguard and not really trusted. He claims he has no motive for being there but he is not believed. Raze has his secrets.

There is quite an attraction between Vinnie and Raze and they give into it. For them, they say it is just sex but that excuse is not what the others see.

Is Vinnie part of Raze's secret or does it involve Vanguard? Will he finally trust the Vanguard community?

I loved this couple! They are both very smart. Where Vinnie is a profiler, Raze is experienced in the acts of war and all aspects of it. He is a much needed addition to Vanguard. In a post apocalyptic era
her talents in profiling and body language are needed as much as military experience.

Raze's plans change soon after he meets Vinnie. He will find another way to meet his goals. He finds many of his opinions changing as he interacts with the population of Vanguard.

I think I fell in love with Raze when he was so accepting of Vinnie of her hallucinations and how he comforted her by reminding her they would get better as the drugs left her system when in all actuality neither knew how she would fare. He was possessive of her but also respected her thoughts and ideas as she did him.

I don't usually read post apocalyptic stories but I admit that this is one of my authors and I know she will carry me away from the first page! And that she did, by weaving Vinnie and Raze's story and incorporating them into Vanguard. I felt very comfortable with the characters because I was given all the necessary background on them prior to the story's beginning.

The country, and possibly the world, has basically started over again for these people and they have quite the fight in front of them: between the virus and containing it and the people who want power. This is a great read and I look forward to the next characters story!

Shadow Falling by Rebecca Zanetti blurs the lines between the good and the bad, just as I imagined the devastating crisis would have done. Still characters have hidden agendas; the post-apocalyptic world is cruel making it difficult for people like Vinnie to know who can be trusted. Raze is one of those characters. He is complex and complicated. Raze and Vinnie are multifaceted characters that Ms. Zanetti has clearly drawn for the reader. The supporting characters are just as interesting. She has done the same with the world that they now inhabit.

While Vinnie and Raze resolve some of their issues as the romance process, the main questions of the series is still heating up. Though there were parts of Mercury Striking that I didn’t approve of with the main male character, I still think this series is best read in order starting with Scorpius Rising.

Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.

I really love this series! It has action, suspense, and of course romance! I recommend reading the previous books in the series before this one because there is a continuation of a bigger story, and there are characters from the previous books involved in this book. In Shadow Falling, the survivors of the Scorpius Syndrome (a virus that either kills people, makes them rabid insane people, or turns them into sociopaths) are trying to survive in a world that has gone to hell, and not only do they have to deal with a deadly virus, but they have to deal with people who will go to extreme measures to come out on top in a world in chaos; even those living within their own compound. The POV is mainly from the 2 main characters, Raze and Vivienne (Vinny), but there is also a couple POV's from a couple other people; I could have done without POV from the president, but I liked the other POV's; it was great to see Jax and Lynne from the first book have a part in this book! Raze and Vinnie are part of Jax's compound, which is sort of a safe haven from the dangers of this new world, and they are also trying to finding a cure for Scorpius. Raze is a tough bad-ass, who helps with security at the compound, but he also has a secret that isn't in the best interests of the compound. Vinny is a psychiatrist that worked as an FBI profiler, who was captured and tortured by the President of the United States; the president got the virus, and turned into a sociopath, so Vinny is dealing with the trauma and consequences of what happened to her, and she's hoping to find a place to belong. Raze helped rescue Vinny, so he feels protective towards her, and they start to grow closer. I liked the progression of their relationship, and I definitely loved Raze's alpha-ness, they also have some really sweet moments, and the sexual chemistry between them was excellent! Both have reservations because it is definitely hard to trust anyone in this new world, and each is withholding parts of themselves from the other. This book is action packed, and was very entertaining, and I couldn't put it down! I'm really looking forward to reading the next book!

Rebecca Zanetti is becoming prolific and I heard a lot of good things about her, so I thought I would give her a try. I chose her Sin Brother series and I was hooked. Now in this Scorpius Syndrome series, the stories are just as action filled and the characters are darker and dangerous as they fight to survive.
The story takes place in the near future in L. A. after a virus has wiped out most of the population. With today's headlines, this is a real possibility as scientists and politicians are monkeying around with the future of humanity. And if there had been zombies in this story, I would have taken a pass. I can't stand zombie storylines! Yuck.
Now, people are having a hell of a time as they try to survive. Some of the survivors of the virus have turned dangerously aggressive, including the president. There are gangs roaming the streets and finding people to trust is getting harder and harder.
Raze rescued Vinnie, a former FBI profiler and psychologist and brought her back to the compound run by Jax Mercury. She had been drugged and needed to heal, but Raze is carrying secrets that involve her future. They also are also attracted to each other in this dangerous new world.
Raze and Jax are ultra alpha males. They are willing to kill anyone that threatens the survival of their group or those they care about. The women are brave and the brains and other factions always want their knowledge. They are also the ones that keep the moral compass alive.
These stories are so fast-paced. Raze and Vinnie have off the chart chemistry and when they finally get over their trust issues, they band together to find the solutions that can save humanity in the future. In a future so bleak, they are the spark that gives you hope for survival. This story was another exciting read that has you going from the first page to the last. Rebecca Zanetti doesn't disappoint in these sexy, suspenseful stories!

I received this book via NetGalley to give an honest review.

So I remember reading book one and really enjoying it so when I saw book two I knew I had to read it. It is awesome is what I have to say. The group is no more closer to finding a cure of the Scorpius syndrome but they may be getting closer to finding the bunker that they have been trying to find.
In this book we now introduced to Vivienne or Vinnie the woman that was saved from the president who is a serial killer via the Scorpius syndrome that he has. Though she is safe within the walls of the Vanguard compound her heart isn't safe from Raze Shadow and this story will deal with these two. Now Vinnie is a FBI profiler and ever since she was held captive by the president and pumped full of drugs her mind hasn't been the same and we get to see just what is going on with her. It is pretty neat and it seems she can help out the Vanguard with figuring out people. Then we have Raze who is not affected by the syndrome but is helping out the Vanguard though Jax doesn't trust him fully. Jax knows Raze is hiding something but what is it and what will the outcome be when Jax finds out the truth? I thought Raze to be a well developed character and how he has a strong loyalty to those he cares for.

I love how Vinnie and Raze just start clicking and they both can't hide or deny the feelings they have for each other though they really try. I loved how Vinnie doesn't let Raze tell her what to do and isn't afraid to kick him (there is a part in the story that mentions this and had me laughing.)
There is plenty of action, love scenes and drama within these pages. I think the author did an excellent job with giving us other characters stories and not just Jax and Blue heart (his nickname for Lynn.)
Bring me more of the Scorpius Syndrome and the world that is created!!!

This is the second book in a new series. I can't tell if it will be an ongoing series or a trilogy - I'm hoping for a shorter series that wraps things up in a believable way - but my recommendation is that the reader start with the first book, Mercury Striking. Shadow Falling's eponymous hero is Raze Shadow, taller (6'6") and darker than the usual tall, dark hero. The love interest is Vinnie Kennedy. He provides the muscle, naturally, while she provides extra-smart smarts - and perhaps a bit more. The background is relatively simple, a germ having wiped out almost everybody. Those who are left are competing for the scant resources available, wild animals are taking over, cities are crumbling for lack of maintenance, and there are madmen trying to rule, kill and destroy, while others are not mad but still trying to rule, kill and destroy. Very dark. I enjoyed it, mostly because the writing is pretty good, and there are touches of the paranormal to lift the story out of the usual post-apocalyptic grimness.

Shadow Falling by Rebecca Zanetti blurs the lines between the good and the bad, just as I imagined the devastating crisis would have done. Still characters have hidden agendas; the post-apocalyptic world is cruel making it difficult for people like Vinnie to know who can be trusted. Raze is one of those characters. He is complex and complicated. Raze and Vinnie are multifaceted characters that Ms. Zanetti has clearly drawn for the reader. The supporting characters are just as interesting. She has done the same with the world that they now inhabit.

While Vinnie and Raze resolve some of their issues as the romance process, the main questions of the series is still heating up. Though there were parts of Mercury Striking that I didn’t approve of with the main male character, I still think this series is best read in order starting with Scorpius Rising.

Copy provided by the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.

I really love this series! It has action, suspense, and of course romance! I recommend reading the previous books in the series before this one because there is a continuation of a bigger story, and there are characters from the previous books involved in this book. In Shadow Falling, the survivors of the Scorpius Syndrome (a virus that either kills people, makes them rabid insane people, or turns them into sociopaths) are trying to survive in a world that has gone to hell, and not only do they have to deal with a deadly virus, but they have to deal with people who will go to extreme measures to come out on top in a world in chaos; even those living within their own compound. The POV is mainly from the 2 main characters, Raze and Vivienne (Vinny), but there is also a couple POV's from a couple other people; I could have done without POV from the president, but I liked the other POV's; it was great to see Jax and Lynne from the first book have a part in this book! Raze and Vinnie are part of Jax's compound, which is sort of a safe haven from the dangers of this new world, and they are also trying to finding a cure for Scorpius. Raze is a tough bad-ass, who helps with security at the compound, but he also has a secret that isn't in the best interests of the compound. Vinny is a psychiatrist that worked as an FBI profiler, who was captured and tortured by the President of the United States; the president got the virus, and turned into a sociopath, so Vinny is dealing with the trauma and consequences of what happened to her, and she's hoping to find a place to belong. Raze helped rescue Vinny, so he feels protective towards her, and they start to grow closer. I liked the progression of their relationship, and I definitely loved Raze's alpha-ness, they also have some really sweet moments, and the sexual chemistry between them was excellent! Both have reservations because it is definitely hard to trust anyone in this new world, and each is withholding parts of themselves from the other. This book is action packed, and was very entertaining, and I couldn't put it down! I'm really looking forward to reading the next book!

Rebecca Zanetti is becoming prolific and I heard a lot of good things about her, so I thought I would give her a try. I chose her Sin Brother series and I was hooked. Now in this Scorpius Syndrome series, the stories are just as action filled and the characters are darker and dangerous as they fight to survive.
The story takes place in the near future in L. A. after a virus has wiped out most of the population. With today's headlines, this is a real possibility as scientists and politicians are monkeying around with the future of humanity. And if there had been zombies in this story, I would have taken a pass. I can't stand zombie storylines! Yuck.
Now, people are having a hell of a time as they try to survive. Some of the survivors of the virus have turned dangerously aggressive, including the president. There are gangs roaming the streets and finding people to trust is getting harder and harder.
Raze rescued Vinnie, a former FBI profiler and psychologist and brought her back to the compound run by Jax Mercury. She had been drugged and needed to heal, but Raze is carrying secrets that involve her future. They also are also attracted to each other in this dangerous new world.
Raze and Jax are ultra alpha males. They are willing to kill anyone that threatens the survival of their group or those they care about. The women are brave and the brains and other factions always want their knowledge. They are also the ones that keep the moral compass alive.
These stories are so fast-paced. Raze and Vinnie have off the chart chemistry and when they finally get over their trust issues, they band together to find the solutions that can save humanity in the future. In a future so bleak, they are the spark that gives you hope for survival. This story was another exciting read that has you going from the first page to the last. Rebecca Zanetti doesn't disappoint in these sexy, suspenseful stories!

I received this book via NetGalley to give an honest review.

So I remember reading book one and really enjoying it so when I saw book two I knew I had to read it. It is awesome is what I have to say. The group is no more closer to finding a cure of the Scorpius syndrome but they may be getting closer to finding the bunker that they have been trying to find.
In this book we now introduced to Vivienne or Vinnie the woman that was saved from the president who is a serial killer via the Scorpius syndrome that he has. Though she is safe within the walls of the Vanguard compound her heart isn't safe from Raze Shadow and this story will deal with these two. Now Vinnie is a FBI profiler and ever since she was held captive by the president and pumped full of drugs her mind hasn't been the same and we get to see just what is going on with her. It is pretty neat and it seems she can help out the Vanguard with figuring out people. Then we have Raze who is not affected by the syndrome but is helping out the Vanguard though Jax doesn't trust him fully. Jax knows Raze is hiding something but what is it and what will the outcome be when Jax finds out the truth? I thought Raze to be a well developed character and how he has a strong loyalty to those he cares for.

I love how Vinnie and Raze just start clicking and they both can't hide or deny the feelings they have for each other though they really try. I loved how Vinnie doesn't let Raze tell her what to do and isn't afraid to kick him (there is a part in the story that mentions this and had me laughing.)
There is plenty of action, love scenes and drama within these pages. I think the author did an excellent job with giving us other characters stories and not just Jax and Blue heart (his nickname for Lynn.)
Bring me more of the Scorpius Syndrome and the world that is created!!!

This is the second book in a new series. I can't tell if it will be an ongoing series or a trilogy - I'm hoping for a shorter series that wraps things up in a believable way - but my recommendation is that the reader start with the first book, Mercury Striking. Shadow Falling's eponymous hero is Raze Shadow, taller (6'6") and darker than the usual tall, dark hero. The love interest is Vinnie Kennedy. He provides the muscle, naturally, while she provides extra-smart smarts - and perhaps a bit more. The background is relatively simple, a germ having wiped out almost everybody. Those who are left are competing for the scant resources available, wild animals are taking over, cities are crumbling for lack of maintenance, and there are madmen trying to rule, kill and destroy, while others are not mad but still trying to rule, kill and destroy. Very dark. I enjoyed it, mostly because the writing is pretty good, and there are touches of the paranormal to lift the story out of the usual post-apocalyptic grimness.

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

I was very intrigued by Raze in 'Mercury Striking', so I had high hopes that I would like him and his story in 'Shadow Falling'. I'm happy to say that I did! I loved Raze and Vinnie!

Raze has secrets, and this is where we find them out. Of course we are suspicious of his motives in the beginning. But the way his troubles are revealed made me realize I had to trust him. And he had to learn to trust those around him. As his loyalties shifted and were built up, and his world started to center around Vinnie herself, we got to see Raze's heart. And I loved it! He's a protector and a fighter, but he's also a lover and learning how to be a real friend.

Vinnie, having surived the president's torture, brought her own unique personality to the story. I liked her ramblings, her sensitivity, yet her boldness to put her training and skills into practice even in dangerous situations. She may have latched onto Raze quickly, but I found their relationship quite sweet. Yet they also had lots of heat and passion, and I loved that they brought out the best in each other. I genuinely liked them as individuals and as a couple.

Beyond the complications of Raze and Vinnie's romance, Raze is facing an outside threat and Vanguard is facing both outside and internal threats. And let's not forget the virus and trying to find a cure. Yes, there's a lot going on. But I liked the extra problems thrown in there. These couples still manage to get their sexy time in though. But I like that they have to stay on their toes with all the craziness, making the series really exciting. I look forward to wherever the series goes next, especially the next book!

Overall: 4.5 Stars

Shadow Falling is the second book in Rebecca Zanetti's Scorpius Syndrome Series, and though I haven't read the first book, I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to go back and read Mercury Rising. Set in a post-apocolyptic world where the majority of the human race has been infected by a mysterious virus that has killed many, left many completely crazy and out of their mind, others partially insane, and some sane, but dependent on vitamin B to survive. The few that haven't been infected are few and far between. Raze is a mercenary and the hero of this book. Vinnie is the female lead who he has rescued and is falling for, despite his attempts not to. He has a secret agenda, however, one he doesn't want to carry out, yet one he has to, despite his growing feelings for this woman.

They live on a compound which is comprised of those not infected, and those sane, but dependent on the serum in order to continue to be that way. Danger lurks at every corner and requires constant vigilance, determination, and battle in order to survive. Raze finds himself in one of the fiercest battles of all, along with his new companions, as they work together to both save and keep safe those they love. They find themselves in an alliance with those they aren't sure they can trust, in the middle of a battle they aren't sure they can win.

Shadow falling has danger, excitement, suspense, and romance all wrapped up into one. If you enjoy post-apocolyptic novels, then the Scorpius Syndrome Series by Rebecca Zanetti is one you most definitely will want to check out.

I had not read the first in this series, but I will now. Characters interact from the previous story, but I did not feel lost in the story. All aspects are explained as this book unfolds. This story is mainly about Vinnie and Raze. Vinnie wants to find a purpose after surviving her torture. She is not intimidated easily, and Raze is intrigued. There are many adventures and dangers in this world they live in, and I loved how they worked their way to admitting love for each other. I look forward to the next installment, and I highly recommend this book.

I received a copy of this story through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I don't know how much to stress, but read the first book and novella. Don't be like me and start with Shadow Falling, you will be missing some key elements and have to play catch up. You all have been warned. With that said, I did finish Shadow Falling. For an apoplectic-end of the world situation Shadow Falling is a pretty good read. It had me wanting to go back to see how this all went down. If you jump in the middle of the story, and it grabs you to go back, it's a pretty good read.

Basically, we have world in chaos. Different groups trying to survive, while you have one crazy dude who has his own agenda. You have a group that wants to make the world habitable. I mean the Scorpius bacterium isn't going away, not they need to find a way to live with it and survive. Which they are making slight progress. You all also have a relationship developing between Vivienne Wellington and Raze Shadow. With the world being in such chaos is it a good idea for these two to get together. Anyway, the story continues to build while they try to take down President Atherton while figuring out to survive. So far there are only one group which are the Pure which do not have the bacterium. How long before that group doesn't get the bacterium? The importance to find a way to live Scorpius. The double D's are in Shadow Falling Danger and Drama. Overall, a pretty good read. This read like it could be post-apoplectic movie. So, if you are into that kind of thing, Shadow Falling is your read.

Copy provided by Kensington via NetGalley

Rebecca Zanetti does not disappoint. Shadow Falling, the second book in The Scorpius Syndrome series, is just as exciting, as full of life and death, of shocks and aww, with a few humorous moments to lighten the dark and hard world.

I really liked Raze. He's smart and strong and uber-protective. He's also stuck between a rock and a hard place. He came to the Vanguard for a reason - a really good one - but now that he's there, working, helping, protecting and with Vinnie, things aren't so simple and he's got a fight on his hands to not lose everything.

Poor Vinnie. She's been through the ringer. She's safe now - mostly - but she struggles to find her place, to belong, to feel worthwhile. I adored her spirit and drive to survive. Raze and Vinnie are so perfect together, the chemistry is great, their banter and ways of challenging each other are fun.

I also enjoyed the sub-plot with the Reverend (which was super well crafted - and creepy) and the teasers about what we'll see in book three, Justice Ascending.

Disclosure: eARC provided in exchange for an honest review

After the Scorpius spread through the world. If it doesn't kill them, it turns them into Rippers who kills anything or anyone. Some come out of it fine and others not so fine. Vinnie is a doctor of psychology, who was rescued by Raze. She was kidnapped by the President and pumped full of drugs that messed with her brain. Raze is ex military and has his own mission: trade the doctor for his sister. But the more time he is around her, the more he knows he'll have to come up with another plan for getting his sister back.
This is the second book in the Scorpius series. Vinnie I absolutely adored. She is funny, stronger than she thinks, and just a little crazy. Raze is a macho, loyal, sexy warrior with trust issues. Some pretty steamy sex scenes. Get to visit with Jax, Lynne, and others from the first book.
*RECEIVED A COPY FROM NETGALLEY*

NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
Shadow Falling is the second book in Mrs. Zanetti’s Scorpius Syndrome series. I thoroughly enjoyed this second installment. In SF we pick up shortly after the events of Mercury Striking (bk 1 *you need to read book 1 before this book) with Vinnie trying to find her place in this new world. Not an easy thing to do when you are not right in the head anymore. And you have a hulking babysitter that follows you around like a shadow.
Raze has been on a mission since the moment he stepped in to Vanguard’s territory. A mission that involves one Dr. Wellington. But the more that Raze spends with Vinnie the harder it gets for him to complete his mission.
As I said earlier I really enjoyed this book. I liked the twists and turns the book too. There were a few questions answered, a few problems solved but many many more just surfaced. I can’t wait to see what is next in this series and how everything will work out.
If you have not given this series a try and like post-apocalyptic stories you need to pick up a copy of Mercury Striking (and Shadow Falling. Oh and the novella found in On the Hunt) and get to reading. Until next time Vanguard!!!!

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

I liked this book, even if I think the first one was slightly better, but still the tension is high and the background (post apocalyptic, crazy zombies, psychopathic presidents) is super good. The characters were nice but I keep on reading mostly for the whole story behind them and their classic love story. One of the best moment of R.Zanetti as far as I'm concerned.

Mi é piaciuto questo secondo volume della serie, anche se continuo a pensare che il primo fosse leggermente meglio, comunque la tensione resta alta e lo sfondo delle storie (post apocalisse, zombi impazziti e presidenti psicopatici) è veramente figo. I protagonisti non sono male ma la ragione per continuare a leggere é proprio la storia nella sua interezza a prescindere dalle storie d'amore che si susseguono ad ogni volume. Uno dei migliori libri della Zanetti secondo me.

I voluntarily reviewed my honest opinion of an Advanced Reader Copy from the publisher.

Picking up right where the previous book "Mercury Striking" left off, we find Vivienne having a hard time recovering from her time in captivity. She is having nightmares, and whenever she wakes up she finds Raze Shadow nearby looking after her. He was the one who essentially saved her, and she struggles to decide whether her feelings are real or if they are only because of his rescue.

She used to be a profiler before Scorpius hit. Scorpius is a bacteria that spread across the US like fire where once infected a person either dies, becomes a serial killer, becomes zombie like wanting to kill and bite people (except they're not dead), or with Vitamin B infections stay mostly normal except with enhanced abilities. Because of the high quantity of serial killers forming from the bacteria, Vivienne is a huge asset. And since she survived Scorpius, her profiling skills have been magnified.

Raze is a man with a hidden agenda, and so he isn't completely trusted by the leader of the sanctuary he and Vivienne currently reside. He struggles with an internal dilemma, because he is being forced to do another person's bidding. He is strong and capable having some past military experience. While he secretly knows he has to basically kidnap Vivienne, he has this need to protect her and he can't help starting to fall for her.

Rebecca Zanetti knows how to make an intense fast paced romance. I again was on the edge of my seat for the entire book. The romantic struggle was well written and it corresponded fluidly with the Scorpius plot. Raze's struggle to do the best thing in a situation with no straightforward right solution was interesting to read. I am excited to read the next in the series!

Shadow Falling by Rebecca Zanetti is the second book in her The Scorpius Syndrome series. I had not read the first book in the series but I never felt lost.

Well developed characters, action, suspense, some snarky banter, hot sexy times and a apocalyptic world that was so detailed that it became very believable. I liked all of characters. The women are strong, smart and dedicated to helping their new world to survive. The men are all Alpha with strong protective instincts for their "family" and their women. I plan on reading the first book in the series, MERCURY STRIKING, so I will be ready when the next book becomes available.

I received an ARC from Zebra via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

... action, adventure, sex, and intrigue are all at the forefront of these stories. Larger than life alpha males and the brilliant, strong women who bring them to heel.

Raze - a mysterious man whom no one is truly sure is 100% on their side - is driven to protect Vinnie from the first moment he lays eyes on her, but is his protection self-driven or is there something else behind his interest?

Vinnie - a brilliant woman made all the more brilliant by Scorpius - is pulled inexplicably toward Raze despite her reservations about his motivations. Wanted by many, but treasured by one, can she overlook split loyalties to see what lies beneath Raze's rough exterior?

Theses stories will suck you in, wring you out, and leave you wanting more! The characters are well-developed. The world they live in is brilliantly crafted. Overall this series screams MOVIE! Don't wait - read this now!

**I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from NetGalley.**

This is the second book in what is called the Scorpius Syndrome series. I was given the opportunity to review this book for free and chose to also order the first book to step fully into the story-line. This book starts off with a degree of explanation of the post apocalyptic situation of the story setting, but not a lot......... I first read "Mercury striking", but this book, "Shadow Falling" does stand well on it's own and could easily be read 1st. These books both sizzle with sexual tension, romance, and a serious tension from the setting of life in a world torn down by a devastating bacteria. I preferred this book over the 1st, the characters were more appealing to me as well as it having a more intense plot. Can't wait for the next in this series!

I love this series! While the heroes are all male, believe me the ladies are not ones to let them run all over them. They are spunky and Zanetti has a way with her dialog that will have you snorting with laughter frequently while reading this awesome series. I have loved dystopian books for ages now and feel like the Scorpius Syndrome is one of the better written series. It has romance, action, suspense, humor--
all the ingredients for an exceptional storyline.
As with the Walking Dead, you quickly realize that the zombies are not the real bad guys, it's the sociopaths running things that you need to watch out for. The research that Zanetti has done for this series is down
right scary as so many of the possibilities she has made up aren't really that far a stretch. So if you want some kick ass romance and some science that will scare the crap out of you, check out this series. Oh, and the best part-there's another book, Justice Ascending due out at the end of January.

I love how Zanetti continues to develop the dystopian world that she began to create in the 1st novel in this series. Vibrant descriptions bring this torn world to life in vivid Technicolor. The plot becomes even more exciting as more characters and events become involved. Zanetti kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.

Not only are the characters well developed, but they’re the type of individuals that you really want to get to know. I loved the variety of different ways that they were introduced and that they carried the story forward. I thoroughly enjoyed the way that the two main characters came together. Their differences were as apparent as their similarities. And the chemistry between them? Well, just read it to find out.

This novel is definitely a great second instalment in this series. It was a one of a kind tale that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.

This is the first book I have read by Rebecca Zanetti and I wish I had read the first book in the series because they refer to that book and what happened in it a lot. I wasn't lost just missed out on some amazing action.
The men where a little took much Cavemen for me personally and it made them a little one sided. With that being said they did what I think most Alpha males would do when faced with the end of the world and trying to protect those around them.
The story flowed well, the writing is what you expect for this genre face pace, lot of spicy but I enjoyed the twist when it came to the disease they were fighting. Find of Zombie/Crazies.
The book held to the traditions of dystonia but the characters were memorable and full of fight.
The ending happened a little to fast as if the author was over her word count.

This book is action, hot sex and alpha males with feisty woman.
ARC from Netgalley

Action, suspense and gritty post apocalyptic romance, SOLD! Shadow Falling, book two in the Scorpius Syndrome series, presents an addictive dose of story! Rebecca Zanetti continues the rapid momentum of this series as she forges forward with an expertly developed plot line. As this author digs deeper into the politics of the new world order that she has created and further expands and reveals its characters and the mysteries they hold close the result is riveting. Raze and Vivienne share an immediate bond that only grows stronger as they spend more time together causing conflicting emotions and contrary objectives. Intense and fate driven this relationship steams up the pages. As the leads learn to trust and build on it this book with it's great writing and absorbing tale will keep its audience to the end.
*I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*

Rebecca Zanetti does it again with another thriller ride in Shadow Falling. It picks right up where the first book ended. Could be read as a stand alone but the first book laid down a lot of the background for this book. There was a lot less time spent on explanation in this book, which facilitated a faster paced story. As always, this author delivered a hot romance balanced with action and a large cast of secondary characters.
The relationship in this novel between Vinnie and Raze, unfortunately, felt eerily similar to that in the first book in the series. Certainly it’s an interesting dystopian world which leads characters to have a do-it-now-because-we-might-die-tomorrow mindset in a time after humans were decimated by a deadly bacteria. There are a lot of side stories that can be seen are set ups for future books/novellas.

Did I like it? Yeah. Will I be picking up the next one: Yep.

I loved this second book in the Scorpius Syndrome even more than the first! The Scorpius virus has killed most of the population or turned them into hideous Rippers and left the survivors scrambling to stay alive. Vinnie, once an FBI profiler who specialized in serial killers and sociopaths, was rescued from a torture chamber by Raze. Raze, ex-military, is as tough as they come but there's something about Vinnie that calls to him. Great story of betrayal, horror, survival, redemption, and love!

Fabulous book! I could not put it down. Raze and Vinnie (Vivienne) make this a thrilling book. Jax, Tace, Lynne, Samiwhere very prominent in this book and a few new characters joined to make the story more interesting (if that’s possible). Intrigue, mystery, secrets, secret agends, romance, sex, this book has it all. I’m off to get the next Rebbeca Zanetti book. Terrific author! I love her stories, second to none.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review.

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.

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

This series just gets better and better. I am just wondering if there is this many alpha males in the apocalypse I look forward to it. Raze and Vinnie were a great addition to this series. What I loved even more was that we still get to see what is going on with our other favorite couples in this world.
Raze has his secrets and Vinnie is a big part of it. VInnie knows she is a big part of why Raze is not telling her everything. But that doesn't seem to matter when Raze looks at her the way that he does.
I can't wait to see what comes next in this Scorpius ridden world.

I am not usually a fan of post-apocalyptic dystopian fiction. Rebecca Zanetti’s Scorpius Rising books are a very strong exception. I am a huge fan of Zanetti’s Sin brothers series so I opted to give her new series a try. I am very, very glad I did. Mercury Rising, the first book in the series pulled me fully into the world. The second book, Shadow Falling only reinforced how much I love Zanetti’s world building and writing style. She’s crafted a world that is recognizable, with shades of the Stand and Firefly, while still making it totally fresh and new. The characters are well-developed and each book adds more to the overarching story. Once I start I want to keep reading.

I received a copy in return for an honest review. I have yet to read a book of Rebecca's that I did not love. Shadow Falling is a perfect example of how an author can go from leaps to bounds when it comes to a series. Book 1 in The Scorpius Syndrome introduced us to a new world where what we knew no longer existed and the apocalypse has become the new way of life. Enemies are not just out in the open but hidden, danger lurks around each and every corner but with the world all but destroyed, love finds a way and in the most unlikely of couples. I can't wait to see where Rebecca takes us on the next book in the series.

Raze Shadow has the military and combat experience to be an asset to the Vanguard in the post-Scorpius world that has everyone fighting for survival and answers. His secret mission involves the petite Vinnie Wellington, a psychologist and a former FBI profiler, and Jax as leader is ready to eliminate him because of his secrets.

This is also a fast paced story and I think it's best (maybe not necessary) to read the first book in the series first to understand some of the troubles and conflicts.

I received an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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. Plus I want one with Mo and him.

I really like post-apocalyptic stories, but I did have a hard time getting into this story. There is a lot of action and the possibility of a betrayal in the future. The reader is also able to learn more about the demons that plague Raze and Vinnie, as well as what they are hiding. Even thought that did disappoint me, the book was not bad. Even though I had a hard time getting into it, I would still recommend the story for a nice post-apocalyptic read. I would rate this as a 3.5.

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

Shadow Falling is the second installment in the Scorpius Syndrome series by Rebecca Zanetti(the first book is titled Mercury Rising)
This book was an amazing rollercoaster of a ride! I loved every single page of it! Such a great plot and very thorough, interesting plot and very thorough, interesting world-building. It also has some amazing characters and great sexual tension! If you're looking for an action packed series look no further than this one! Urban Fantasy at it's finest! A new favorite for me for sure! Can't wait for the next installment!

This is a nice followup to book one in The Scorpius Syndrome. Much of the back story and world building is in book one so I recommend reading that book first. Shadow Falling can stand alone but I think you might be a little lost if you read it first. Great characters, interesting action, building tension and of course a romance. There is a great cast of characters to carry the story. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

The story keeps getting better and better. It blew me away. The book is such page turner. It is intense funny unpredictable great. I loved Raze and Vienne. Both well develop interesting with their own agenda. Vienne and her mouth are so funny. Raze is so hot. And their relationship hot hot hot. I loved how possessive was Raze for Vienne and thoughtful. And of course he would do anything for the one he loves.
I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Great book. Recommended!
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly

Wow if this was the 2nd one in the series, the next is going to blow my mind. Loved that Lynne & Jax have made it and that she is still working so hard on finding a cure. Vinnie has found her place well she think so but Raze won't leave her alone, she is scared and she know that the President will come for her & Lynne. Can she survive this time? Our favourite members are still there and growing.
Full of action, suspense and a love story that isn't a typical everyday thing.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.

Vinnie had been an FBI psychiatrist who chased down serial killers and had a pretty good success rate. But that was before the Scorpius virus. Vinnie had been kidnapped by the president who since his recovery from the virus was a sociopath who believed Vinnie was a psychic. There were also people who had become crazed and called rippers who tried to eat other humans. There had been a large percentage of the population of North America who had not survived the virus. The President had filled Vinnie with all kinds of CIA drugs and she felt like she was going insane she now heard voices and hallucinated. She had been rescued one week ago by Raze and he had taken her to Vanguard where Vinnie could be safe. But Raze was holding a big secret back he was to take Vinnie to the head of the Mercs as he had Raze’s sister Maureen there was suppose to be an exchange. Vinnie had been staying in an abandoned apartment away from headquarters but Raze was moving her and then the leader assigned Vinnie to share Raze’s apartment. He offered to bunk elsewhere but couldn’t find a place to sleep and he had been awake a long time. Raze and Vinnie become involved but none in Vanguard knows that Raze is to take Vinnie and trade her to the head of the Mercs for his sister Maureen but will Raze be able to do it …..
I loved this story, it was excellent as far as I was concerned I didn’t want to put the book down once I started reading it. I usually don’t like post apocalyptic stories but this one did WOW me. It was a tad slow in the beginning biut did not take long for things to start happening and for me at least it was worth the wait. I loved the : action, intrigue , suspense, secrets, heros, rescues, and all that happens and is involved in this story. I loved the twists and turns in this story and I highly recommend.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.

After being rescued by Raze and team Vinnie is trying to find her place. But there a lot of secrets going on -and Raze may be holding back on the biggest. As the survivors try to find a cure and deal with everything going on- Can Raze trust Jax with his secrets ? And will his new relationship with Vinnie win out? Read this exciting book and find out all the answers to these questions . Make sure you have read the first book-Mercury Strike to get the full background of this story. Mercury Strike

A net galley copy

Shadow Falling by Rebecca Zanetti is another fabulous read in the Scorpius Syndrome series. The characters are flawed and real. The situation is dire and getting worse. They still fall in love, make and break alliances and ultimately decide on the fate of others. They are gritty and gorgeous and I can't wait to read more about them and their world. This book ventures out more into the post apocalyptic southern California. A treat if you are familiar with the area.

Fabulous read that I couldn't put down!

I'm generally annoyed by an overabundance of sex in a novel, but this one is an exception. It's the second book in a post apocalypse series and it's really a dilly. It's fun and it's fast reading. Surprisingly, it definitely stands alone. It's not necessary to read the earlier book first. However, this one will likely make you want to read first one. Whatever, this is highly recommended.

This book is about more than yummy men although this series has serious alpha men with qualities all woman look for in their relationships. this is a well thought out interesting series about what would our world become after an attack. What it would take to survive and live. And what would really be important.There are enough twists and turns to keep you interested in the outcome.And Rebecca gives you characters who you want to see succeed and be happy.This book and series has it all.Five stars isnt enough.

It's important to know that this is the second book in Zanetti's "Scorpius Syndrome" series. You need to read the first book before this, or you'll have trouble understanding who is who and what's going on. Scorpius is a disease that has decimated the world's human population. Most who catch the disease die or become vicious psychopaths called "rippers".This is a post-apocalyptic story series, with "normal" people trying to survive and get control of a world that is being run by rippers. The protaganists in "Shadow Falling" are Vivienne (Vinnie), a psychologist with psychic abilities and Raze, a freedom fighter. They are the main focus of the book, but a great deal of time is spent in world building and filling in details about other characters. There is also explicit sex. Getting to know both Vinnie and Raze takes a long time, with their personalities and characters getting fleshed out in dribs and drabs. I would have preferred more details earlier in the story as the lack of them made it hard for me to get particularly vested in either character until late in the book. If post-apocalyptic fiction is your thing, the plot, drama of the situation and the atmosphere may trump this weakness. There's plenty of suspense and a dark atmosphere, with villains and anti-heroes to make things interesting.

Wow. This was the first book I've read by this author but it definitely won't be the last. I loved all the characters & the world that the author created is horrible & amazing at the same time. I can't wait to find our what happens next. I would highly recommend this book to everyone, seriously read this book :-)

*I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

*SBB Reviews*

I Couldn't Stop reading the book. It was So Good. This Genre is something i rarely read but this book and the story will make me read more in the future.

Shadow Falling had everything from Romance, Hot and Sizzling Chemistry between both lead characters and Full of Action in it. I Would Like to Give it A 6 STAR READ AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT TO THE READERS.

Book 2 in the Scorpius series was just as good as book one. These alpha men in post-apocalyptic US are over the top hot; protective, demanding, and sexy as hell. No soft women for them. Only strong, smart women can survive and that's what it takes for Raze Shadow to fall. That and a little bit of post-Scorpius, post-drug crazy.

Vinnie is a sociopath profiler for the FBI and uses her skills a lot to survive, to help Vanguard, to get out of sticky situations. But even she knows she's a bit crazy, what with seeing and talking to dead people. But she is equally as beautiful, soft and giving, which speaks to Raze.

Can he continue his mission? He has to. There is no choice. Is there?

Greyson Storm. There is an interesting man. Dangerous leader of the Mercs. But there is something unexpected about the man and how he treats women, or at least one woman. He's someone I want more of.

More questions were raised about Sami and her past. And Tace? He's cold but not quite as unfeeling as he believes. Oooooh, there's so much more to discover.

Bret Atherton, President of the US, Ripper extraordinaire, is evil and elusive. I want him gone, but that's not going to happen yet. Too much to learn about the others in Vanguard and Mercs to kill him off yet.

The story is and exciting action-thriller, with a good amount of lust and hot sex, and just the right amount of sweet.

Hot hot hot. I really liked the first book in this series and the second doesn't disappoint. Here is a warning. there is hot sex, non-consensual spanking, hot alpha males, smart females and if you don't like this sort of scenario you will not like this bodice ripping dystopian novel.

Raze has rescued Vivienne, who we met at the end of the first book. Viv was an incredibly intuitive, almost psychic FBI profiler and was drugged to the gills with classified drugs, so she has a few issues. Raze also has issues, including a murky past and an agenda with Vinnie (Vivienne's nick name)

Lyn and Jax are also back, although they aren't the featured couple. A few baddies are back also.

It's hard to go into much more detail without spoilers, but the book is well written, well edited, the plot line holds although, as with all plots, some people have to do stupid things to be put in situations that advance the story. If you're a fan of both hot bodice rippers and dystopian worlds, this one will be right up your alley and well worth reading.

I can't wait for the next one! While each individual story line is resolved there is an over-arcing big bad and larger story line dealing with the end of the world and the agenda of the different groups of survivors.

Raze and Vinnie's story is another great installment in The Scorpius Syndrome series. This is an action packed, edgy series with strong characters that you would want on your side in any given situation. This author has become an auto but for me. Love her books.

This book is the perfect follow up to the first Scorpius Syndrome book. It had just as much energy and excitement, just as much unlikely romance and lots of suspense! I love the whole concept, this is by far one of the best dystopian series I've read in a long time and there are no limits to where it can go. I'm looking forward to the next installment!

I love Rebecca Zanetti, and I love this series. Intense post-apocalyptica. Everything is intense. The action, the violence, the love scenes. Definitely not for under 18s, graphic everything. Great plot line, but not a stand alone; this was the second in series. Can't wait for the next one. Dangit, why can't she write as fast as I can read?

This series is so engrossing. I love the strong women and the hot alpha men don't hurt. The books have a really interesting storyline and build on each other. Looking forward to reading the next book.

Enjoyable. Gritty, post armegaddon novel. Unfortunately, no longer that great a leap, a virus infecting and killing a majority of the human population. Great character development, recognizing new, defining relationships with unlikelly bed fellows. I really liked how everyone at Vanguard interacts and works together.

Military romance and post-apocalyptic story meet seamlessly in Shadow Falling. Loads of excitement and some amazing romance. You will fall in love with the characters from page one and the pages will just go flying by.

I love all Rebecca's books and this series is awesome!! Loved the post apocalyptic world, the heroes, all the action and the HOT love scenes...grab a fan or your man because this one hot and wild action packed series!

Shadow Falling was a great prequel in this series. It was actually the first book I read in the series, and it explained the beginnings of the outbreak so well. Rebecca keeps your attention with the story and her characters.

As usual Rebecca Zanetti writes a story full of complex, totally human characters. I look forward to each of her new releases, and make a point to pre-order whenever possible. The Scorpius Syndrome is a great series.

Basically a typical romance. I was hoping there was more to it since the premise was suppose to be about post apocalyptic virus that killed off most of the population. Yet, in this novel, it seemed that the majority of the population was holed up in this community. It seemed strange that so many people were living together when so many were supposed to have been killed off. Basically the book consisted of a lot of sex, men claiming to distrust each other, pretend torture, and people killing more people. I found it dull and too unrealistic.