It's hard to do something unique with a zombie book. There are the usual tropes and plot devices, and well-employed, they can be very effective in the hands a skilled writer. But what Camille Picott has done is truly unique.
I had never heard of Ultra Marathons before reading this book. Picott imparts enough knowledge to let people like me gain an appreciate of the sport, yet doesn't go overboard, which is a tricky balance to strike but strike it she does. The idea of running hundreds of miles to escape zombies and reach a loved one; I never would have thought of this in a million years, and it works. She also has her zombies display characteristics that I have not seen before, and it makes for unique challenges.
The characters are great! Kate is plucky, but grieving a recent loss. Her confidence in everything but running has been shaken. Again, Picott skillfully threads the needle of demonstrating Kate's shaken confidence without her becoming whiny. Frederico, her best friend and running partner, is great! He has his own demons and flaws, but a great counterpoint to Kate's intermittent lack of confidence in herself. They complement one another well, and are well-developed, multi-dimensional, real people. The obstacles they face are both universal and particular to running, and I was literally on the edge of my seat so many times, truly fearful of what would happen next. I was also impressed with Kate's determination.
There was only one thing that really bummed me out, and that's just because I am a particular kind of sucker. It worked in the context of the story, but I wish it had turned out differently. But it's not a detraction, just a harsher take on the apocalypse than I want. :-( The conclusion was very satisfying, and I'm looking forward to the next book and audiobook!
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Top reviews from other countries
Kindle Customer
Such a fun spin on the genre
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 3, 2023
Adam David Collings
Character-Driven Adventure
Reviewed in Australia on May 23, 2023