Wattys Shortlist 2022 - In the shadow of a ruined world, survival comes at a cost. Decades after modified radiation bombs decimated the earth, the survivors of New Australia live in fractured Zones-regions ruled by scarcity, controlled by gangs, and governed by fear. The bombs didn't just destroy cities; they unleashed two devastating plagues. D.V.B, a deadly airborne illness, wiped out millions. But M.A.D was worse-a mind- warping disease that turns victims into violent, flesh-hungry predators. In the RedZone, where hope is a luxury and danger is routine, Violet Warrendale has learned to hide in plain sight. By day, she's the reluctant daughter of a prominent gang leader. By night, she's Viper-a deadly ghost in the underworld, wanted for assassination. Vi has only one goal: escape Lake Darling and disappear. For good this time. But when the military storms the RedZone and abducts everyone under twenty-eight, her plan shatters. Imprisoned in a Reproduction Facility-where survival means obedience-Vi must conceal her identity from the enemy. Worse, her cellmate is the gangster responsible for her brother's disappearance. With enemies on every side, secrets buried deeper than the fallout, and a rebellion brewing in the blood-soaked cracks of the system, Vi has a choice: stay hidden, or burn it all down. ... Enemies to Lovers Young Adult Post Apocalyptic Mature (18+) ...

Avery's senior year is turned upside down when a kiss with her older brothers' best friend ignites a forbidden relationship tangled in danger, heartbreak, and family secrets that could destroy everything. *** "Aiden..." I shake my head, eyes fixed anywhere but the gorgeous man next to me. His hand grips my chin tightly, just enough to make me avert my eyes to his. "You know you want this as much as I fucking do. I want you to be mine. I want to be the one to hold you and kiss you the one you go to whenever you're happy or fucking sad. But let it be me, let me fucking show you that it should be me." He glares, jaw tensing. ...... ©hessaherophinelove