The First Days: As the World Dies
Rhiannon Frater
Tor, Jul 5 2011, $14.99
ISBN: 9780765331267
Texas housewife Jenni watches in shock as her abusive husband Lloyd eats their three years old child while their other child twelve year old Mikey is already turned into a zombie. As tiny fingers grab the bottom of the door to get Jenni, a driver shouts at the stunned woman to get into her car. Katie explains she was on her way to work when she was almost bitten. A zombie plague has humans reeling. As Katie hits and runs over the brainless beasts, both are elated to have a companion while driving through the horrific landscape and grieving for loved ones.
The two women rescue Jenni’s stepson Jason who was at a sleep away camp while fighting zombies. The trio obtains shelter at Ashley Oaks, a human encampment in which high fortifications are being constructed. The zombies are increasingly becoming more intelligent with their attacks increasingly sophisticated and strategic, which frightens the nervous residents although their charismatic leader Travis tries to keep them safe.
Jenni and Katie make this urban horror fantasy fun to read as their bond is forged over the gruesome destruction of loved ones and their civilized world. Neither one is prepared to be alone. Although they differ in background, each proves to have the right stuff while covering each other’s back. Filled with graveyard survivor humor, fans will enjoy this Z thriller that explores the implosion of Texas society mindful of On the Beach (by Nevil Shute), zombie style.
Harriet Klausner
