The First Days (As the World Dies, #1)

by Rhiannon Frater

[kimbacaffeinate]

Original published in 2008, The First Days is perfect for fans of the Walking Dead TV series and the trilogy would make a great gift for any zombie fan. In this first tale we follow Jenni and Katie, two strangers who survive the first day in Texas. The two escape the city and we follow them as they meet others, build strong friendship and end up in a fortified rural town that besieged by zombies.

Frater can weave a tale and pull the reader in, from her easy descriptive writing style to the fast pace story, and developed characters. I am always fascinated by our reactions to sudden change and danger. It is interesting to see how humanity reacts from violence to emerging leaders.

Jenni loses everyone at the onset of this outbreak.  The imagery in the opening scenes are unthinkable. It all felt bloody real and in that moment I became immersed in the tale. Katie's story speaks of heroism, but also leaves her with survivor's guilt. It was powerful. We witness selfish acts and selfless acts throughout the story. It makes you realize those people that cut in line, cut you off and feel they are entitled to more.... will be horrible freaks if things go crazy and the world dies.

Frater brought everything to life and made it all feel surreal. She showed the good, the bad and the downright ugly side of humanity while introducing us to a group of characters you'll want to root for. It was an intense ride, but it was also grounded in reality from the logistics of keeping zombies out, to the subtle romances. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer