ARC Review of “Decay and Devour” by G. E. Masters
“I always thought the infected were the monsters, but maybe I’m one too.” - Kate
“Decay and Devour” by G.E. Masters was deliciously thrilling! I honestly don’t think there’s a genre that G can’t write, and I’m totally obsessed with her work. I want to thank her for allowing me to be on her street team and giving me an advanced peek at this post-apocalyptic sapphic romance! All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
“The self-hatred swirls around me over and over again, not letting up until it’s dug so deeply into me that I don’t even exist anymore.” - Kate
As stated above, “Decay and Devour” is a post-apocalyptic sapphic romance written in dual points of view that follows two main characters: Kate, an optimistic researcher working with a team to find a cure for the virus that has spread; and Jordan, one of the infected who somehow regained control over the beast within, yet still feels compelled to kidnap Kate.
“Want her, the beast snarls in my head. Want her, want her. All right, well, we have her now. The beast and I knew she’d never come willingly, so I had to knock her out.” - Jordan
Naturally, tension is high at first and Kate is terrified of Jordan. Eventually though, they make a deal: Jordan will bring Kate back to her safe zone to continue working on a cure, but once it’s found, Kate must return with Jordan. The journey is long and brutal. Along the way, they encounter other infected, merciless raiders, a religious cult in the mountains, and a shadow stalker (the most dangerous infected out there).
“No one is coming to save us. We’re on our own.” - Kate
On top of the physical threats, they also have to face their own inner demons. Though the journey is tough, they wind up working together, learning more about each other, and connecting in a way they never saw coming. Will they survive all that this world throws at them or will it tear them apart?
“I’ve ripped my chest open with my bare hands, fingernails digging into my flesh and bone to expose my broken core underneath.” - Jordan
In previous reviews of G’s work I’ve commented on her writing style and this book is no different. The writing is smooth and captivating, with every detail thoughtfully considered. I easily get lost in the story, joining the characters on their riveting journey. As usual, I look forward to more of her work!
Readers who love gripping dark romance with sapphic yearning, enemies-to-lovers tension, dystopian zombie chaos, flamethrowers, SPICE, and muscle mommies, will definitely enjoy “Decay and Devour”. Add this one to your TBR now! Expected release: spring 2026 (date TBD).
“But I don’t stop, holding steady as I set this motherf***er aflame.” - Kate