Day Zero (The Zero Trilogy, #1)

by Summer Lane

[shannonmiz]

This novella is extremely fast paced, a quick read, but fits quite a bit into its pages. Though it is set in the same world as the Collapse series, I don't think it is imperative for the reader to have read that series (though, since I really like it, I would recommend it!) to enjoy this one.

Day Zero features Elle, who has been living on her own in California during the majority of the time that has passed since the EMP strike. Elle stays by herself for self-preservation, and has no plans to seek companions any time soon. When we are first introduced to Elle, she is seemingly hardened and unfeeling, and not particularly likable.

But, Elle's best laid plans go astray, and she encounters a group of youths who have been sequestered in a bunker and have absolutely no idea about the horrors that lie in front of them. Even though Elle has survived thus far remaining alone, she shows that her humanity prevails as she helps the group navigate the harsh scene that awaits them as they try to escape the rampant criminal groups that have taken over Elle's one-time home. Elle has definite character growth, but in a subtle and believable way.

Day Zero starts the series off with a definite bang. While I would have liked some more insight on the characters, there is certainly only so much a book of this length can contain, and I am sure that more facts will be revealed as the series continues. I probably would sympathize with them a bit more if I knew more of their story, however. The book is non-stop action from start to finish, and even though the world is a mess, and a very dark and dismal place, there are glimmers of hope along the way that kept me from feeling overwhelmed. Overall, I enjoyed this story, and cannot wait for the next installment!

*Copy provided for review