If you love character-driven survival stories, "Zombie Rules" delivers a refreshing spin on the zombie apocalypse. Instead of macho action heroes, the focus is on relatable, ordinary people - especially Zach, a resourceful 16-year-old who learns to survive in a chaotic world. Fans of "The Walking Dead" or anyone who likes rooting for underdogs will find plenty to enjoy here, from vivid post-apocalyptic challenges to memorable, quirky side characters (Bernie the Beekeeper, anyone?). It’s as much about people as it is about zombies, blending practical survival know-how with genuine heart.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If grammatical quirks, occasional clunky dialogue, or abrupt endings ruin a book for you, tread carefully - some readers found "Zombie Rules" a little rough around the edges, with obvious editing misses and a somewhat uneven writing style. It can also feel a bit like a setup for the next installment, rather than a complete story. If you want deep world-building or nonstop zombie action, you may miss the mark here.

A fun, character-focused take on the zombie genre - imperfect but addictive. If you don’t mind a few writing flaws and like survival stories with heart, give it a try (and be ready to binge the sequels!).

About:

'Zombie Rules' by David Achord is a captivating zombie novel that follows the story of Zach, a young protagonist who learns to adapt and survive in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. The book is praised for its engaging plot, relatable characters, and entertaining writing style that keeps readers hooked. The story unfolds with Zach facing not only the threat of zombies but also feral people, creating a thrilling and immersive reading experience. Despite some flaws in the writing, the book is commended for its easy flow, deftly handled dialogue, and the absence of cliched characters typically found in similar genres.

Characters:

The characters are relatable and flawed, with Zach leading the story as an adaptable and engaging protagonist.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style includes occasional verbosity and inconsistencies, which can disrupt the flow of the narrative, though character dialogue is generally effective.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features relatable characters, particularly Zach, who learns resilience amid a zombie apocalypse and forms meaningful relationships.

Setting:

The setting is a post-apocalyptic world dominated by zombies, primarily in rural locations, though environmental details are somewhat underplayed.

Pacing:

The pacing is mostly engaging but can feel abrupt at times, especially towards the ending.

Our house, in a manner of speaking, was a pig sty. I’m usually a clean person, but between Rick, the dogs, and me, the house was filthy. Cleanliness had not been much of a priority and was now proving...

Notes:

The main character, Zach, is a nerdy orphan who learns to adapt during a zombie apocalypse.

Zach develops a heartwarming relationship with a special person, showing emotional growth.

Supporting characters are flawed anti-heroes who teach Zach survival skills.

The book offers relatable characters rather than over-the-top heroes, which is refreshing for the genre.

Bernie the Beekeeper is a comic relief character known for using elaborate language.

The book is character-driven and focuses on personal interactions during the zombie crisis.

Environmental descriptions are slightly underplayed, focusing more on character dynamics than action.

The story leaves readers wanting more, as it ends abruptly without a clear continuation.

There are some repetitive writing issues noted, such as the author's tendency to use 'did not' instead of 'didn't'.

The zombies themselves aren't the main threat; it's the feral people that pose a bigger danger.

Readers found themselves hooked, with many purchasing the sequels after enjoying the first book.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include violence, intense themes of survival, and peril within a zombie apocalypse scenario.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance present, characterized by the development of the protagonist's relationship that becomes a central emotional element.

From The Publisher:

Zach Gunderson's life sucked and then the zombie apocalypse began. Rick, an aging Vietnam veteran, alcoholic, and prepper, convinces Zach that the apocalypse is on the horizon. The two of them take refuge at a remote farm. As the zombie plague rages, they face a terrifying fight for survival. They soon learn however that the walking dead are not the only monsters.

2013

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262 pages

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Zombie Rules

David Achord

Book 1 in the series:Zombie Rules

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