Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale

by Solomon Petchers

Hope. Each night, in this Post-Apocalyptic zombie world, teenage vampires, Kieran, Emily, and Andrew, search for hope. Hope that one day, all of this will be over. Hope for anything other than the Feasters that roam the land. When an unscheduled "rescue run" isn't all that it appears to be, they will have to rely on their close family bond and primitive instincts in order to survive.

180 pages, Paperback

First published March 30, 2020

Reviews

[Jerry Roth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale is a young adult novel from Solomon Petchers.

Can you remember what it was like to be a teenager? Now imagine if you were a vampire as well.

The heart of the story involves three adolescent vampires Kieran, Emily, and Andrew surviving the aftermath of a devastating zombie outbreak. With their loved ones gone—civilization in ruins, and optimism running low—this band of friends struggle to navigate the horrors around them and fight to keep alive what little trust they have in others.

At the heart of any novel is the story, and what Solomon does with Feasters is deliver a satisfying tale that proves that it’s possible to blend the zombie and vampire genre seamlessly into a believable, engaging premise. Although he reveals horrific scenes of a world gone mad, he also finds a way to let the innocence of his characters shine from cover to cover.

Solomon proves, page after page, that he knows his audience well. There’s a simplicity to Solomon’s writing that will appeal to the young in all of us who seek adventure. But what fascinated me most is his ability to weave mature situations into the narrative. His imaginative writing tests his characters but also gives more sophisticated readers a powerful connection to their youth. Solomon has tapped into what it means to be a family, even under the most challenging situations. And in the bleak world of his creation, his optimistic tone—maintained throughout—is one of the most impressive feats that I have seen in a long time.

If you are a fan of zombies and vampires the way I am, you have no choice but to see for yourself why this is such an impressive accomplishment. Do you have a reader in your life that is ready to take the next step toward slightly more mature content? Have you been searching for the perfect mixture of adventure, tension, and heart? If so, look no further than Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale.

[Mariel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale by Solomon Petchers
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
An apocalyptic world where humans co-exist with vampires against the influx of flesh-consuming zombies. Vamps having to exist on the blood supply from what animals they have managed to keep alive and the possibility of a “run” made during the night.
Emily and Kieran are two such vamp teenagers along with Andrew-a human teen they convert,even though conversion is against the rules and risking the guaranteed death sentence if discovered. One night they notice a light flashing in the distance, someone in distress or possibly a trap?
This is what I believe to be a strong look at life after an apocalypse where survival is the key, the end of humanity as we know it and what is left of civilization. I found this to be an interesting alternative to the usual apocalyptic reads with the struggle being from the aspect of vampires and not humans. Emily, Kieran and Andrew are very likeable characters, striving to survive in this world and the problems that ensue.
This book is easy to dive right into, it is well-explained as is the story outline. I enjoyed how the three of them are very family orientated and even though they are vamps, theirs is a real fight to survive without ruling out the possibility that other life is out there.
My overall thoughts on this book: I was extremely surprised, expecting the usual description of vampires – super strength, speed, these invincible larger than life characters…but this is not the case. What I did discover were three very humanlike young people with concerns for each other’s safety and a real genuine feeling of love for one another as a family should. This was a riveting read and by the end I felt that even though there had been such loss, the family solidarity was still ever-present which coincided with hope.
Lovers of vampires,fantasy and apocalyptic books should definitely pick this up!

[Angelica Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Solomon for letting me beta read this for an honest review.

I could not put this down. Having read many vampire centered books before, I was pleasantly surprised to read Petchers' take on them and how they fit (and didn't fit) into society. He not only kept me rooting for the vampires in their struggle to survive in this apocalyptic world, but he also made me appreciate the value of family and caused me to think about what I'd do to save the ones I love. This dystopian / Sci-Fi story will have you saying "just one more chapter" up until you've turned the final page.

[Abbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cousins Emily and Kieran are Vampires who, with their families once lived among humans as normal people. Are now without their family’s, trying to survive through an apocalypse of Feasters who threaten their existence. Along with newly turned vampire Andrew, the three of them have to learn how to fend for themselves at only 15/14 years old. Trouble arises when they try and save the Coragan family and learn secrets about the terrible stuff they have done.

I love the character of Emily, she has a great balance of sarcasm and confidence. You can tell that emotionally she is a very strong character and doesn’t show a lot of signs weakness, but when she does it doesn’t undermine her character.

Even though it’s from Kieran’s POV you don’t really get to know what he’s thinks and feels some things. He’s very compassionate to Emily and Andrew, always making sure their okay but also giving them space to work out their own problems. He’s also very kind and forgiving.

Andrew is a very conflicted person, who’s grateful for being changed but always had wonders what his life would be like if he could turn back into a human. Even though he has only been with Emily and Kieran for around a year he still seems them as him family and would do anything to save them.

A very quick and good read!

[Christopher J · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this read through. This is a post apocalyptic YA thriller that follows three teen vampires trying to survive in a world that has been overrun by zombies that have be labeled "Feasters".

I am typically not a huge fan of zombie books, but i absolutely loved this take on the trope. Solomon did a fantastic job keeping me hooked beginning to end.

I think my one major critique was in the portrayal of Emily in the first half of this book. I kept noticing her being portrayed as a jealous angry teenage girl due to the guy she has a crush on, being acknowledged by another girl. For me, it kind of straddled the line of harmful stereotypes a bit too close. I do think Emily was portrayed significantly better in the second half of the book.

Overall, very enjoyable read and I'm excited to read more in this series, as well as other books by this author.

[Farah Naz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tells the story of three teenage vampires, (one they had to convert) and tells the tale of survival ands hope after an apocalypse and the obstacles they face. It was nice to see the main characters have a close family bond with each other and are always at each other’s side. This is my first time reading this genre and i was impressed at how easy it was to read. The book instantly engages you within the first chapter. It was a change to see the story being told in the eyes of vampires instead of humans

[Priya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely amazing! Thank you for letting me read this in exchange for an honest review! I love how you got straight to the point in the book without dragging out the plot. The ending of the book was similar to the ending of a another post-apocalyptic book I read before this one called “In the After” by Demitria Lunetta but other than the similar endings, the story lines for both books are different. Overall I really enjoyed reading this book. Kudos Solomon 👏🏽

[Stacy Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a post-apocalyptic story of three vampire teenagers trying to survive in a world filled with zombies (feasters).
They are all that's left of their family and will do anything to protect each other.

Author Solomon Petchers is somehow able to make the vampire/zombie story work!

This was a super fun, easy read YA book. Comparable to an R. L. Stine book.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great post-apocalyptic story about three teenagers trying to survive after the Feasters have taken over! However, sometimes, there is more to be cautious about than just the zombies.

I really enjoyed this book! There are zombies and vampires, and lessons to be learned!

[Heather Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely want to read more

Kept me interested throughout! It was fun to have teenage vampires during a zombie apocalypse. I kinda of wish there had been a little more about their lives before the breakout though.

[Watt Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exciting, character-driven zombies vs vampires story with excellent pacing, relatable characters and a wonderful, timely message about sticking together no matter what. Petchers is on his game with this one. Worth the read!

[Fate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely unexpected!! I was completely taken aback by the end. The story is technically short but the story line itself is not!!

While reading it I thought it will be the typical apocalyptic survival story, but it had a lot of pleasant and unpleasant twists.

Each character is given such a depth that made me wish the story was longer so I can get to know them better. Although it was a short story I able to learn about their personality and way of thinking which is very nice. I especially liked how each of them were given human aspects and how they’re a complicated beings just like humans and humans in turn can be so shallow and resort to basic instincts as oppose to logic and compassion.

My heart was beating so fast for Andrew!! The way he was written his personality and wit made me have a crush on him and I love how Em was not turned into damsel in distress with overflowing emotions and suddenly lacking her skills.

The ending was completely unexpected, I was hoping they’d wipe everything out of that area and move to another but now I’m left wondering how their life is going to change. I really hope there will be a sequel to the story because this universe is genuinely very interesting!!

[Kimberley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for free in exchange for a free and honest review so thank you!

Right off the bat, you're thrown into suspense and action which I loved. I love apocalyptic books anyway and this was really enjoyable. Even though the book was short, there was so much context that gave you a great insight into the world and lore which is essentially vampires vs zombies with a small dose of humanity.

It may not be for everyone but the book is really well written. The pacing is smooth and consistent and it kept me wanting to keep reading. Especially as the writing and the style of the book was fluid and easy to read which made it memorable for me as you didn't have this unnecessary amount of information (which is funny because I love lore dumps.)

I was so happy because I loved the protagonists. It's sometimes really hard to get into books purely based on the MC but I loved all of them. I loved the fact that they were family as well. I prefer protagonists have a close bond rather than a romance one (although Emily and Andrew's little romance I didn't mind too much).
They were humorous and kind and I like how they deal with being vampires. For them, it's not something bad but it's who they are and they're just trying to survive in a world that has drastically changed. I just want them to be happy lol.

Towards the end of the book was definitely my favourite part of the book and was a nice twist that you didn't expect and opens the door for a sequel if that is in the works.

I think this book can be targeted for both YA and adults so in short, I recommend it to everyone that likes vampires written well.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many thanks to Solomon Petchers and Booktasters for providing a copy of this book for an honest review. Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale tells the story of three close-knit vampires Kieran, Emily, and Andrew surviving in a world filled with flesh-eating zombies better known as Feasters.

One night, a light flashing in a window catches Kieran's attention. Curious and in need of replenishing supplies, the trio head out to check on the situation. They find a terrified girl staring out the window of a house surrounded by Feasters.

After debating the pros and cons of assisting her, they dispatch the Feasters through skilled teamwork. After an awkward introduction, the girl's father Harold invites them inside. They soon realize that they are in a precarious situation with people who have an ulterior motive that endangers Andrew.

Throughout reading this story, I couldn't help but feel how timely this story is in capturing the unease and fear of a world turned upside down by a contagious threat that doesn't discriminate between humans or vampires. I rooted for Kieran, Emily, and Andrew to beat the odds against them in a scary world.

Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale is a tightly written roller coaster ride with plot twists that keeps you guessing until the very end. It's a story I recommend adding to your collection.

[Muyiwa Augustine · Rating 4 out of 5]

You might imagine, how at a time like this, i have just one means for survival; not the sullen movies nor the catchy rom-com film series produced every minute nor the mouth-watering game consoles that keeps ones thoughts at bay. Books! And only books! You might also imagine, how choosy one can be, when there's a pandemic (of which i fell victim) to think about. You will then realise what my choice of a book like this is most likely to mean. It means it kept me company in all the while i battled an imposed extinction where you might want to get your hands laid on the best things produced. And it was a company i wouldn't lie of not loving. I've read this, and i think its safe to say we have another "Twilight".

[Jenipher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feasters An Apocalyptic Tale tells the tale of 3 teens doing they best to survive in a tragic and horrific time. I truly enjoyed this book, the story was too short so I hope this means that a sequel is in the works, it also shows the strength and resilience that kids have. It has adventure, twist and turns.

[Christie Powell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zombies and vampires aren't my usual thing, but I thought I'd give it a try. I enjoyed the relationship between the main characters. I thought that the way vampires were handled--how they assimilated into human culture--was an interesting new take. This was a good mashup of zombie apocalypse with vampire genres, and those who like either genre will enjoy this book.

[Jesse Roth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Thrilling Read


Kieran, Emily, and Andrew are the protagonists in this story. Their importance is
incredibly significant, with them being the main characters and fighting off the hordes of
Feasters (Zombies in this universe) and trying to live in a world of flesh eaters. The main
characters in this story are teen vampires struggling to find food and supplies and living together
in a house by themselves. To survive, they feast on the blood of animals.
During the day, the vamps cannot leave because the sunlight would kill them. I feel their
age in this story really matters. That they are teens makes the story so much better and because
they have no family after the apocalypse, they must stick together. What made these characters
believable is that they are alone in this post-apocalyptic world. Their bond as a family makes
them believable as they fight to survive. They just want to make it out alive, and in one piece.
The environment in the book helps the plot move along well. The setting of a post-
apocalyptic world makes the story fast paced and adventurous. But the thing that makes it so
adventurous is that zombies and raiders attack them at every turn which progresses the book
greatly. Moreover, the day night cycle really changes the atmosphere, because during the day the
vamps cannot go outside and at night the feasters are ready for food.
Most of the action takes place outside which gives the characters more freedom to fight
and explore as well as try to survive in this zombie infested world. The plot of this book was
amazing! Solomon Petchers mixes two genres, zombies & vampires. What comes out at the end
is a brilliant book with a plot that makes you want to read more of this ruined world filled with
amazing characters. The writing in this book was descriptive so that as you read the book you
understood everything the writer was attempting to convey. This choice of writing style worked
well in this book because, as you read it, you know what is happening inside this zombie-
vampire universe. This kind of writing helps the reader imagine the story.
Character dialogue dragged me into the book and brought the characters to life. They actually
talk to each other as a family. They communicate as a group and have a bond stronger than most
teens because they only have each other. Some scenes that drew me into the story were the use of
pivotal dialogue to tell the background of one character. Every word the characters said in that
scene made sense. It captivated me and made me like the characters.
One way that Solomon Petchers changed our perception was when he had us thinking a
character was friendly and then flipped our view on the character as we watched them turn evil.
The twists in this book were extremely exciting! They made the story more captivating because
you were thinking one way and then all of a sudden you are following this story down a different
path, trying to think where it is all going to lead?
The ending of this book had a great payoff, because after all the hardships the character
went through you know they will be changed forever. This story left me feeling satisfied. I can
rest at night knowing that Solomon is taking great care of these characters. The parts of this story
that worked enormously for me are their hardships—becoming vampires—the zombie
apocalypse, and them being alone in the world. They may battle but I know these characters are
going to be okay because they have survived this much, and they will stick together. I really thought this was a great book. But don't take my word, grab a copy above and see for yourself! 4.5 stars

[Richard K. Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading Solomon Petchers book 'A Ghost in The Attic' and with it going to be in the top 5 of my favorite reads of 2021, and it ripping my heart out till I was sobbing.....I thought i would not like this one as much. I am NOT the zombie fan......but don't let that Z word fool you! This was a great coming of age in the world of horror book! Loved it!

While i was reading this tale of 2 teenaged cousins Kieran and Emily (who just happen to be Vamps); I thought how is this book going to work being both a blood sucker AND zombie book? Well, let me tell you, no other author BUT Petchers could have pulled this off any better! He knows exactly who is reading his work, whether it being a kid, a teenager or even an adult, that reader is going to take something completely different out of the book and will remember it for a long time. Now, with me not being a Zombie fan, this book was something that I was not expecting.....it is a tale of loss, horror, and friendship, all in a world of an outbreak worldwide that no one saw coming.

So cousins Keiran and Emily become friends with a teen boy by the name of Andrew whom they have to 'turn' before he dies and becomes a feast for a flesh eater. Now you have to stop and think, so we know vampires cannot come out in the sunlight, and usually a zombie feasts whenever they want, and this is where I thought that Feasters really proved it was going to work.

The scenes of when the horror happens, it is done in a way that is not stomach churning, and there is no graphic sex or language. The book is labeled a YA novel, and it was only 163 pages so it is a quick read, but it appeals to anyone who just loves a great fast paced and action/horror story. As in 'Ghost in The Attic' there is scene involving a pet that made me think.....Solomon; do you not like dogs? There are a couple images of blood and drinking of blood, but it is all done in a very non gory way.....but it still works. The book really pulls you into believing who these teens are and what they are doing is the right thing.......
If you have never read anything by Petchers, I highly recommend either 'A Ghost in The Attic' or 'Feasters: An Apocolyptic Tale'. I love this man's writing. You got me again, Solomon! Now I need to finish the 2nd book in this tale of bloodsucking and Zombie killing teens; "Feasters: The Circle"

4.5 🧛‍♀️🧛‍♀️🧛‍♀️🧛‍♀️

[Reader Views · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale” by Solomon Petchers is a vampire vs. zombie story during apocalyptic times. Three Vamp teens: Kieran, Emily and Andrew become a family after losing their loved ones to the zombie apocalypse. Before the collapse of society, vampires had been assimilated into human culture and most no longer feared them as it had been decades since vamps fed on humans. This has been possible because vampires kept themselves in check in order to control their nature to the point that for generations their vampire powers had not been used to their full potential. When the zombie outbreak happened, vampires were targeted and turned along with humans. Three teens were doing well though. They found a home and even animals that could serve them as companions and food as they fed on them without killing them; until one they saw a flashing light on a house at the other side of the wall.

“Feasters” was such a fun book to read! I loved Solomon Petchers’ writing style. The plot was interesting (not a vampire cliché), the action was great, pacing on point, loveable fun characters, and readers really felt like they were in the story. I gotta be honest, I have never liked zombie stories because zombies scare me too much, so I really picked the book for the vampires (I love vampire stories), but for some reason I was okay with the zombies. Don’t get me wrong they are disgusting and gruesome still in this book, but it wasn’t overdone. I think the author really knows what he is doing.

I really enjoyed reading “Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale” by Solomon Petchers and was sorry to finish it. I think it is a great adventure for teens because it is captivating, easy to read, fast paced and with a lot of humor and action and easy to read. I can’t wait to see another story from this author; or maybe a book 2 on Feasters!

[mrsGraveIllusions · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre- young adult

Humans co-exist with vampires while trying to survive in a world over run by flesh eating zombies known as Feasters.

This ya sci/fi novel follows cousins (and vampires) Emily and Kieran and newly turned vampire Andrew as they learn to survive alone in a world full of Feasters. Things are going relatively ok for our trio. They have learned how to survive off of animal blood and routine night runs for supplies. And have worked hard to fight back the Feasters. until a mysterious flashing light draws their attention to a home where a father and daughter are living with the seriously sick mother and our protagonists lives are very quickly turned upside down. I love how Petchers manages to give you an incredibly detailed book in only 195 pages! You learn quickly about how close of a family Emily and Kieran had before the zombies ripped their whole lives and family apart. He manages to give background and insight in how life for the vampires was before the apocalypse hit and how blending in to the human world wasn’t always the easiest. And how they had to make the hard choice to tap into long forgotten abilities to save their friend Andrew.

The novel does have a bit of body and zombie horror but nothing extreme and is more than appropriate for readers 10 and up. I had the privilege to receive a free copy of the audible version and I have to say.. I really enjoyed it. The narration by Todd Waites was fantastic! He managed to voice each character well and kept a great pace keeping me interested the entire time. Honestly if you have a chance to give the audiobook a try… take it. You will enjoy it!

[Jennifer (MamaBookwormReads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feasters: An Apocalyptic Tale is a YA horror story about vampires. These vamps aren't like anything you've ever read about before; they've assimilated with humans and have become accepted members of society. That is...until bloodthirsty Feasters populate the Earth and start feeding on humans and vampires alike. Three teenage vampires keep hope alive as they find themselves in a precarious and life-threatening situation.

More than anything, this is a story about sacrifice, friendship, and hope. The three MCs - Emily, Andrew, and Kieran - only have each other. They're family now. One of the things I loved most about this book was the relationship among these characters. Emily is whip smart, sassy, and strong. Andrew is charming and funny, while Kieran provides the voice of reason. Their back and forth banter really brings this story to life.

Petchers flips the vampire genre on its head with Feasters, and I'm here for it. This book will satisfy readers of YA action & adventure, YA horror, and YA coming-of-age. Did I mention there are some sweet twists coming at you toward the end of this book? Who doesn't love a well done plot twist? Lucky for us, the sequel to Feasters is tentatively set to release this summer.

[Arpit Srivastava · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was given this book on behalf of an honest review through BookTasters.

The book was overall quite okay. I like the straight and smooth writing of the author. Though the plot was really nice and kinda cool and distinct with the mix of different species in its own way, it ofcourse had some cliché stuffs but apart from that, I guess I was expecting more in character building and friendship, plus, the relationship between them. And similarly, less in some of the parts which seemed kinda unnecessary to stretch upon.

kinda lil Spoiler from here ~

My favorite scene will be the first meeting of Emily and Andrew.
We got to hear as a narration end from both the guys but the same I was expecting from Emily's end too. I wanted to know what's in her mind.

[Life in books Ric · Rating 4 out of 5]

ⓇⒺⓋⒾⒺⓌ

Feasters - Solomon Petchers

Will you have gory nightmares after reading Feasters? No.

Will you shit your underwear whilst reading Feasters? Unlikely. Unless you’ve eaten some bad grub!

Will you enjoy Feasters? Yes. Absolutely you will.

Look, let’s be honest, Feasters is a YA novel so you’re not going to get that scare factor (as an adult) but what you will get is a well written story of 3 teenage vampires and the struggle they face in an apocalyptic world suffering a zombie outbreak.

I would of liked some more character building, but with the fast pace plot it’s not totally necessary.

Very good Mr Petchers!

Thank you for providing me with this paperback in exchange for an honest review.

I’ll look forward to the sequel.

4/5

[Angel (Bookn.All.Night) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A favorite author of mine has been recommending this YA Apocalyptic read for a while and I finally decided to take the plunge. I'm glad I did. So let's see...we've got zombies called Feasters. Vampires and "end of the world" chaos. Yep, this is definitely my kind of read.

Feasters reminds me of a more vamped up (get it 🤓🤓) Walking Dead, albeit teen style, and I think that's what made me love this so much. Plus the main MCs are great and the way they interact with each other makes sense AND fits with what's going on around them.

I already snagged the second one in this series, thanks Kindle Unlimited, and will read that one hopefully soon. The way this first one ended I'm extremely curious to see where it's going to continue.

[Jeffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

It wasn’t what I expected, which isn’t a bad thing. I’ve a habit of attempting to predict what will happen when I read a book.
I enjoyed this story. The characters are nicely defined and do develop during the story. My favorite is Kieran, there seems to be more to him than presented.
The story has a good flow. I’d like to learn more of the pre-history between vampires and humans, beyond the hints and brief, though important facts provided.

The writing style easily had me seeing most of the scenes in my mind, giving me the felling of being there.
Looking forward to continuing this series.

[Melissa Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Three adolescent vampires struggling to overcome an apocalyptic zombie attack. Sticking together, they reconstruct life using what little life skills they could to survive. Running low on trust and possibilities they prove to be natural born survivors. Emily, Kieran, and Andrew, teen vampires, and best friends set the stage for this exciting tale of survival and the importance of sticking together to make things happen! Well done Soloman Petchers!

[Christi Randazzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read this book already but I wanted to do the re-read because it was so good. I don’t believe I have ever read a young adult book that was so action packed. Literally every page. This book had me laughing at times, biting my fingernails, and flat out crying. This little book has everything. This a I five star read once again for me.

[Lisa Bedisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so much fun! I listened to it via Audible on my short drives to work and it left me wishing I had more time in the car so I could keep listening. There are twists and turns that keep you guessing, and I can't wait to see what happens next. A perfect read for any middle or high school kid!

[Scott Lovelace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an awesome story about two cousins that happen to be vampires. They have managed to survive a zombie apocalyse. They have taken a younger human under their wing. When they lose there home they must face the challenge of finding shelter and food. The violence is not graffic and there is no excessive gore. A very enjoyable short novel.