Title: The Dead
Author: Donna Augustine
First published April 20, 2016
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.28
Overview
Being young and already having countless enemies is not something that anyone would want. But for me, the Skinners, Dark Walkers, and Wood Mist are just the tip of the iceberg.
The disease that transformed me into something else entirely is back, and it’s causing destruction and death wherever it goes. I’m at a loss on how to stop it, but there’s a faint glimmer of hope.
There’s talk of a cure, and it may be my only chance to save myself and those around me. But Dax, my ally in this savage land, has other ideas.
He seeks revenge, and I find myself torn between fighting for survival and staying by his side. As I prepare to take on the Bloody Death in any way possible, I may have to make a heartbreaking decision: abandon the only man who’s ever been there for me or fight this battle alone.
Editoral Review
Donna Augustine’s The Dead is a thrilling addition to the post-apocalyptic genre with a unique take on the zombie apocalypse. Augustine is known for her dark fantasy novels, and this book does not disappoint in delivering a hauntingly beautiful story filled with intense action and well-developed characters.
The story takes place in a future where a mysterious virus has turned most of the world population into flesh-eating monsters, leaving only a handful of survivors. Among them is Amelia, a young woman with a talent for survival and a reluctance to trust others.
Her journey through the treacherous world is not only a battle against the undead but also a battle against her own demons. Augustine’s writing style is gripping, with vivid descriptions that paint an immersive world that captures the reader’s attention from the very start.
The plot is fast-paced, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader on edge. The setting, although grim and dangerous, is also intricately detailed, making it feel like a character in itself.
The book’s characters are some of its most notable strengths. Amelia is a remarkable protagonist, with flaws and strengths that make her relatable yet intriguing.
The supporting characters are also well-developed, bringing complexity and depth to the story. One of the book’s main themes is the human instinct for survival and the lengths people will go to stay alive.
Augustine explores this theme in a unique way by delving into the psychology of the survivors and exploring how different personalities react to the apocalypse. The book also touches on themes of trust, forgiveness and redemption.
One of the book’s few weaknesses is the lack of world-building; while the author excels at creating a vivid image of the story world, some of the details are left unexplained. However, this is a minor issue, and it does not detract from the overall quality of the book.
Overall, The Dead is an excellent addition to the post-apocalyptic genre and a must-read for fans of dark fantasy and zombie fiction. The book is a rollercoaster of emotions, with an engrossing plot and lovable characters.
The Dead receives a rating of 4.5 out of 5 and is highly recommended for those who love thrilling, high-stakes stories with a unique twist.