I found this to be an entertaining gem in the Z genre. While it is not a truly realistic portrait of what the zombie apocalypse should look like it is a highly entertaining one. (Actually who really knows what a realistic portrait would be? Who has survived one?) I found this book to have realistic settings and plots that were presented with the dark humor I would expect may be found in an event like this. I know most people wouldn't expect that but I do. I think people are people and after the shock wears off the dark humor and sarcasm would set in. What wasn't realistic is the super human survival and/or skills of some characters. I, fortunately, am a reader who understands the concept of fantasy so this does not bother me. I mention it only because I know some people want only reality in this genre. I enjoy the mix and love humor so this book works well for me. There were some minor flaws in editing but those did not greatly affect me. I had fun with the book and am reading book 2 now. The cannibal family was absolutely brilliant. I just love Elsbeth! She is my female Darryl (from the Walking Dead TV Series). No this book isn't the Walking dead or World War Z. But it is an enjoyable read. If you are looking at a fun, fast, action packed, irreverent Zbook try this one.

Two favorite moments from the book, (to give you an idea of the writing):

“I hate clowns,” I say. “Why’d you have to bring up clowns? Zs aren’t enough? Gotta talk about the smiley creepy guys too?”
(Kindle Location 1414)

Holy shit, I think I brought home some cannibal savant or something. Rain Man with a taste for people.
(Kindle Locations 2158-2159)

I would recommend this book to the older crowd for language, sexual references and violence. I would think most adults would investigate a little if they are looking in the z genre for a book for their child but you never know. I think clowns should read it too. Yeah they should read them all. Holy cow I just had a thought...there will be clowns who become zombies!! I just know that will the zombie chasing me!



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I must’ve bought this as some kind of experiment. It’s a relatively straight-up zombie story where our protagonist is basically a fixer for a post-apocalyptic community where his wife is a teacher. They’re still operating as a homeowners’ association, which is kind of funny as a concept, but when a crime lord wants to move in, our hero and others have to fight back. If you like straight-up zombie apocalypse stories, this one is ok, though warning for the pubescent cannibal girl who is basically River Tam, but less well socialized, though tamed by the love of a good family. ( )

I thoroughly enjoyed Z-Burbia by Jack Bible. The story is much different from many of the other zombie books out there and focuses more on survival - years after the Z-Day of the apocalypse. Jace and his family live in a gated community managed by an association group - the leader, seemingly a dictator type woman. There is running water, electricity, fresh vegetables and meat, Wifi and other benefits available in this suburban community. Everyone contributes to the success of this community by participating in different capacities - either individually or within groups that work to sustain the whole. Neighbors help in scavenging, killing zombies, battleground clean-up crews, traders who travel outside the gate, guard duty, teaching, preaching, carpenters, electricians, medical, et al. Rules were voted upon, implemented, and strictly enforced to keep this group safe.

Jace and his best friend, John are asked to accompany another resident and former Army Ranger on a recon mission into the city of Ashville. What they witness is so different from anything they've ever seen. A group of bikers is holding thousands of zombies captive within the walls surrounding a dried lake bed. Discovered by guards, a chase begins. Reluctant to lead them back to the gated community, the three of them split up to lead the enemy in different directions before circling back. Only John doesn't make it back.

Little does the community know that the enemy group has been aware of the gated community all along and is just waiting for the right time to take it over and kill all of the inhabitants. The leader of the enemy group leads his followers to the community and gives them 48 hours to vacate the subdivision, or the captured zombies will be loosed upon them. For emphasis that they mean business, the group had earlier captured John and now summarily execute him in front of his neighbors and friends at the main gate. The war is on!

There are many surprises in the story as well as witty comments and conversations that take off the edge and allow readers a moment to catch their breath. There is some similarity to the "Walking Dead" TV series, however, Z-Burbia stands on its own two feet. I do recommend this series to anyone wanting to read a different kind of zombie book. There is still an abundance of blood and gore, cannibalism, and something for everyone. I will begin the next book in the six-book series once I finish here. Well done, Mr. Bible!

John Podlaski, author
Cherries - A Vietnam War Novel ( )

The content looked interesting. Received the book as a Christmas gift. Unfortunately, the perspective of the reading is 1st person, current tense. I prefer 1st or 3rd person, past tense, so I ended up almost forcing myself to read it. Sadly reminiscent of being tortured to read current tense books in high school. After about 20 pages, I had to put the book down. Maybe I will try to read it again in the future when other reading options are exhausted. ( )