What do you think?
Rate this book
Dead Living
It didn’t take long for the world to die. And it didn’t take long, either, for the dead to rise.Born on the day everything ended, a world filled with the walking dead is the only one that Aaron knows. Kept in seclusion, his family teaches him the basics. How to read and write. How to survive.Then Aaron makes a shocking discovery. The undead, who desire nothing but flesh, ignore him. It’s as if he’s invisible to them.The survivors of the old suburb of Lexington call a high school their home. They live day to day, without any of the luxuries mankind used to enjoy. Samantha is a product of the new world. Alone, cold, looking out only for herself. She and the other residents of Lexington feel their hope dwindling. They need change. They need someone who can face the corpses. They need someone who can live in a city of the dead.They need Aaron.“A wonderfully different zombie novel. Well worth the price and time.”--Jason Scott, author of HOTEL HELL“It [is] difficult to write a stand-out book. Glenn Bullion has given it a damn good try and for me it is a success.”--The Aussie Zombie“Not your ordinary Zombie Apocalypse... I give DEAD LIVING an enthusiastic 5 stars.”--Debi Faulkner, author of SUMMONING
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2011
40 people are currently reading
1842 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
March 1, 2014
Every Sunday night, I have a small obsession called The Walking Dead. My family has two choices. Either watch it with me, or stay away from me for one hour. If you interrupt my show, I'm not a happy camper. Making the woman of the house an unhappy camper is not a good idea.
I went into this book with zombies on the brain. Expecting lots of this.
I got it for about the first quarter of the book and I honestly thought this would be great the whole way through. Zombies, a guy who shoots a crossbow, blood, eyeballs rolling around. Total win.
Aaron is a 20-something year old guy who was born the day the dead began to rise. He was raised by his dad and a few other people but through tragic events ends up on his own. Isolated and alone, living pretty much alongside the zombies. He runs into Sam, through a series of coincidental events, and the whole shebang gets a tad awkward. I get Aaron has been on his own. I do. But, he struck me as terribly odd.
Sam has been living with a group of people. The men who would be close to her age are all potential rapists. I kid you not. Every single man other than Aaron (and perhaps one other) are vulgar and crude and threatening. Now, if I was Sam I would totally be bunking with zombies rather than these people.
The book lost me about halfway through. It became mostly about Aaron and Sam's really painfully awkward relationship. Yes, the dead have risen and there is basically the zombie apocalypse outside your window. But, I don't think human nature just vanishes. You know when you like someone or not. That's kind of instinctual. But, no. Sam needs to be told she has a "crush" on Aaron? Of course, she protests that they are just friends. But then what are these feelings? Just so terribly awkward reading about the two of them. I cringed because of them more than the zombies.
Last, but not least, Aaron keeps his ability to walk amongst zombies secret throughout 99% of the book. Actually risking lives. I have absolutely no clue why, and his reasons struck me as extremely selfish.
I needed more zombies, blood, and eyeballs. May as well file this under awkward romance novels for the zombie apocalypse.
If you want zombie action and good story lines, I advise watching TWDaka stalking Daryl Dixon.
2 my-zombie-ninja-bunnehs-stole-all-your-punk-ass-zombies-brains stars
I went into this book with zombies on the brain. Expecting lots of this.
I got it for about the first quarter of the book and I honestly thought this would be great the whole way through. Zombies, a guy who shoots a crossbow, blood, eyeballs rolling around. Total win.
Aaron is a 20-something year old guy who was born the day the dead began to rise. He was raised by his dad and a few other people but through tragic events ends up on his own. Isolated and alone, living pretty much alongside the zombies. He runs into Sam, through a series of coincidental events, and the whole shebang gets a tad awkward. I get Aaron has been on his own. I do. But, he struck me as terribly odd.
Sam has been living with a group of people. The men who would be close to her age are all potential rapists. I kid you not. Every single man other than Aaron (and perhaps one other) are vulgar and crude and threatening. Now, if I was Sam I would totally be bunking with zombies rather than these people.
The book lost me about halfway through. It became mostly about Aaron and Sam's really painfully awkward relationship. Yes, the dead have risen and there is basically the zombie apocalypse outside your window. But, I don't think human nature just vanishes. You know when you like someone or not. That's kind of instinctual. But, no. Sam needs to be told she has a "crush" on Aaron? Of course, she protests that they are just friends. But then what are these feelings? Just so terribly awkward reading about the two of them. I cringed because of them more than the zombies.
Last, but not least, Aaron keeps his ability to walk amongst zombies secret throughout 99% of the book. Actually risking lives. I have absolutely no clue why, and his reasons struck me as extremely selfish.
I needed more zombies, blood, and eyeballs. May as well file this under awkward romance novels for the zombie apocalypse.
If you want zombie action and good story lines, I advise watching TWD
2 my-zombie-ninja-bunnehs-stole-all-your-punk-ass-zombies-brains stars
April 29, 2011
Dead Living, by Glenn Bullion, is not your ordinary Zombie Apocalypse. This is a book with (lots of bloody) heart.
Opening with your expected zombie-induced chaos, Bullion holds nothing back in showing the initial confusion and devastation expected by the genre. The thing that really sets this book apart, is that he quickly moves past the gore and destruction into a story with real depth and human emotions. Don't be lulled into complacency, though, because there is still plenty of blood, guts and spilled brains to keep the story moving quickly.
Aaron is a main character who seems almost too good for the new world reality, but Bullion makes sure that you see even the best of us has a breaking point. And that breaking point is a doozy.
Sam, the other main character in this book, is truly a product of her environment. Her skepticism and instinct for self-preservation are the perfect foil to Aaron's ease and self-confidence. The other, more minor characters are also very well-handled and well-rounded. Their believability is what really makes this story a good read.
On the 1-5 star rating system, I give Dead Living an enthusiastic 5 stars. If you are in the market for a good read with a bit of gore on the side, this is the book for you.
Opening with your expected zombie-induced chaos, Bullion holds nothing back in showing the initial confusion and devastation expected by the genre. The thing that really sets this book apart, is that he quickly moves past the gore and destruction into a story with real depth and human emotions. Don't be lulled into complacency, though, because there is still plenty of blood, guts and spilled brains to keep the story moving quickly.
Aaron is a main character who seems almost too good for the new world reality, but Bullion makes sure that you see even the best of us has a breaking point. And that breaking point is a doozy.
Sam, the other main character in this book, is truly a product of her environment. Her skepticism and instinct for self-preservation are the perfect foil to Aaron's ease and self-confidence. The other, more minor characters are also very well-handled and well-rounded. Their believability is what really makes this story a good read.
On the 1-5 star rating system, I give Dead Living an enthusiastic 5 stars. If you are in the market for a good read with a bit of gore on the side, this is the book for you.
June 27, 2011
I actually like this one a lot. And dare I say even 4.5? Not "amazing", but really pretty good. It read a lot like Mr. Kim Paffenroth's works in the way it feels. If you like Kim's characters and worldbuilding, I think you would like this one a lot. It's not the bloody, gory, hardcore stuff, but there is some of that in there. The "outbreak" is never explained, and only takes place in the first couple of chapters. The story is more about Aaron, who was born on the day of the outbreak, and first begins 14 years later. Tragedy befalls, then it's 9 years later, and we journey with the grown up Aaron, who has a special secret. We discover later that some of the zombies are special, too.
Meanwhile, a group of good folks are making a go of it in Lexington, MD at a former high school. On a scavenging mission, the other main character, Samantha, runs into Aaron, and the two socially awkward youths form a relationship of sorts. He's a happy man, unusual for the time, she's a cold and hardcore chick. Aaron and Samantha have a ton of adventures, becoming ever closer. And I can't say anything else without revealing plot points!
Good, solid ending, and if you can stand another touchy, feely zombie book, with a tight, well developed story, this is a good one to read.
Meanwhile, a group of good folks are making a go of it in Lexington, MD at a former high school. On a scavenging mission, the other main character, Samantha, runs into Aaron, and the two socially awkward youths form a relationship of sorts. He's a happy man, unusual for the time, she's a cold and hardcore chick. Aaron and Samantha have a ton of adventures, becoming ever closer. And I can't say anything else without revealing plot points!
Good, solid ending, and if you can stand another touchy, feely zombie book, with a tight, well developed story, this is a good one to read.
March 25, 2012
Wow!! Just......Wow!!! Sometimes being a fast reader is a good thing, because I get to read alot of books. But sometimes being a fast reader can be a bad thing, especially when you find a good book, no, make that a great book, like Dead Living!!! I couldn't stop reading. I was dreading the fact that the book was almost over. Glenn Bullion is now one of my top 5 authors. He makes you care about the characters. They feel like family at times. My only wish is that it won't be long before I can read another story in the Dead Living world!!
September 20, 2011
This was a super fun read that I couldn't put down! It had the usual story of individuals trying to survive once the undead appear, but with a twist that I won't give away. I recommend this to anyone that likes a good zombie novel.
January 17, 2013
The idea of a human walking among the zombies untouched is certainly not original. (Read the book titled Pariah by Bob Fingerman.) And there were some grammatical errors but despite that I was drawn in and really enjoyed this story. So much so that I kept reading and lost track of time. To me that is the measure of a good story... you lose yourself in it. I do wish there was more explanation for why Aaron could walk among them untouched but such is the nature of the genre. Lots of questions, little if any answers. When the end came I definitely wished that the story would continue... another mark of a good story. At the time of this review the Kindle version as well as print copies of this book appear to be unavailable. However, should this book become available again, I urge you to check it out.
January 17, 2012
I'm not really into the zombie genre though it is very popular the moment (the new vampires!). This is a quick and straightforward read about a man who finds the dead don't like to eat him. It's a feel good novel but I have to admit I liked World War Z: An Oral History Of The Zombie War much better.
August 28, 2011
This book needs a lot of grammar and spelling help and I was simply unable to finish it. Here are a couple of examples:
He lied there. . .
Chicken coup (repeated multiple times)
Clothes folder (sic) neatly
She twisted and maneuvered
Everything could have went differently . . .
He lied there. . .
Chicken coup (repeated multiple times)
Clothes folder (sic) neatly
She twisted and maneuvered
Everything could have went differently . . .
March 21, 2012
Glenn thank you for another great read!
September 21, 2020
Rating 4.0 stars
I enjoyed this book. Not as much as this author's other works but it was still pretty good. This author has a way of writing that brings me in. I feel the emotions of the character. I fell the loss, the longing for more and then the happiness when things work out. The story is basically the walking dead. The world ends when zombies come alive and bite/eat/kill the living. On the day this happened Aaron was born. His mother died while giving birth and came back as a zombie while the umbilical cord was still attached. He lives a pretty good life for 14 years until something happens and that is when he finds out that the zombies don't attack him like they do everyone else. They notice him, it's almost like they treat him as one of them. Fast forward 6 more years and we pick up the story of Samantha who is living at a high school with a group of other people. She gets left behind on a scavenging run and is saved from the dead by Aaron. Aaron agrees to go back with her to her people. Just like the walking dead the people not only have to deal with the undead but other humans who feel it is fine to attack people and take slaves. The reason I didn't rate this book higher is because most of the problems in the last half of the book could have been avoided if Aaron did one simple thing. I still enjoyed the book and I am glad that I read it.
I enjoyed this book. Not as much as this author's other works but it was still pretty good. This author has a way of writing that brings me in. I feel the emotions of the character. I fell the loss, the longing for more and then the happiness when things work out. The story is basically the walking dead. The world ends when zombies come alive and bite/eat/kill the living. On the day this happened Aaron was born. His mother died while giving birth and came back as a zombie while the umbilical cord was still attached. He lives a pretty good life for 14 years until something happens and that is when he finds out that the zombies don't attack him like they do everyone else. They notice him, it's almost like they treat him as one of them. Fast forward 6 more years and we pick up the story of Samantha who is living at a high school with a group of other people. She gets left behind on a scavenging run and is saved from the dead by Aaron. Aaron agrees to go back with her to her people. Just like the walking dead the people not only have to deal with the undead but other humans who feel it is fine to attack people and take slaves. The reason I didn't rate this book higher is because most of the problems in the last half of the book could have been avoided if Aaron did one simple thing. I still enjoyed the book and I am glad that I read it.
August 22, 2021
I’ve already given an audible review and rating, but overall I enjoyed this book. It wasn’t too gritty but if there’s anything you can count on in a fight for survival is human cruelty and greed. For some reason I haven’t read many classic ‘zombie’ post apocalyptic novels, island I found that this was a introductory story.
July 6, 2013
Aaron lives in a world where the undead roam the Earth looking for their next meal. The thing is, they don't seem to want anything to do with Aaron. He can walk among them and it's like he isn't even there. Because of his severe lack of trust for people (for good reason), he lives alone in a place most people would never venture into: Baltimore, where thousands of zombies hoard. Then he meets Sam, a girl he becomes attached to and learns to trust completely. She takes him back to Lexington, an old high school that a community of people have been living in, and they try to figure out a way to find hope in a world full of death.
For real: Zombies scare the crap out of me. I haven't figured out why exactly. I mean the logical part of me knows that it could never happen, but reading a zombie book or watching a zombie movie never fails to give me nightmares. Dead Living was no exception.
At first this book totally terrified me. The beginning chapters are a little gory and super fast-paced. But once things settled down, I got really into it. The characters in this book make it what it is. Aaron has been living alone in Baltimore among hoards of the dead, but since they don't seem to notice him, he finds it peaceful. Then he meets Sam and she takes him to the school compound where she's been living. Along the way they form a genuine friendship that I found really sweet.
I thought it was a cool and unique twist to have a character who was immune to the zombies. There's so much that Aaron can do that no one else can! I honestly wish he would've just stayed at the school for the rest of the book, but there was a journey that needed to be made. One of the saddest part of this book was the reality that in times of crisis a lot of people become evil. Of course you have people that are willing to risk their lives to help you, but you have those that will kill you before the zombies can. I hate thinking of humanity like that, but it's the truth.
It was interesting to see how the younger generation in this book didn't know about geography, terrorists, technology, or history much at all. They were just trying to survive in a dangerous world and that's all that mattered. It was the things that we use everyday that they had no clue about. That was a cool thing to read about.
The only thing I didn't love about this book was that we got to hear everyone's thoughts throughout the whole book. I personally like stories better when you don't know what every character is thinking and just hear from one or two's POVs.
Overall: A thrilling zombie book with a unique twist that will have you up late. I completely recommend for anyone who likes zombie books as this one has more going on it than your average one. The characters and their stories are really the basis of the book, but don't get me wrong, it is still nightmare inducing!!
My Blog:
For real: Zombies scare the crap out of me. I haven't figured out why exactly. I mean the logical part of me knows that it could never happen, but reading a zombie book or watching a zombie movie never fails to give me nightmares. Dead Living was no exception.
At first this book totally terrified me. The beginning chapters are a little gory and super fast-paced. But once things settled down, I got really into it. The characters in this book make it what it is. Aaron has been living alone in Baltimore among hoards of the dead, but since they don't seem to notice him, he finds it peaceful. Then he meets Sam and she takes him to the school compound where she's been living. Along the way they form a genuine friendship that I found really sweet.
I thought it was a cool and unique twist to have a character who was immune to the zombies. There's so much that Aaron can do that no one else can! I honestly wish he would've just stayed at the school for the rest of the book, but there was a journey that needed to be made. One of the saddest part of this book was the reality that in times of crisis a lot of people become evil. Of course you have people that are willing to risk their lives to help you, but you have those that will kill you before the zombies can. I hate thinking of humanity like that, but it's the truth.
It was interesting to see how the younger generation in this book didn't know about geography, terrorists, technology, or history much at all. They were just trying to survive in a dangerous world and that's all that mattered. It was the things that we use everyday that they had no clue about. That was a cool thing to read about.
The only thing I didn't love about this book was that we got to hear everyone's thoughts throughout the whole book. I personally like stories better when you don't know what every character is thinking and just hear from one or two's POVs.
Overall: A thrilling zombie book with a unique twist that will have you up late. I completely recommend for anyone who likes zombie books as this one has more going on it than your average one. The characters and their stories are really the basis of the book, but don't get me wrong, it is still nightmare inducing!!
My Blog:
November 12, 2011
Full review on my blog: http://theaussiezombie.blogspot.com/
The first chapter of this book, focusing on the first day of the zombapocalypse is fast-paced, a little too much so. Although the action drags you in, I didn’t find the writing style to my liking and, to be honest, had a sinking feeling that I wouldn’t enjoy this book. Even after the first flash-forward I was a little bored, and although not tempted to give up, I still wasn’t convinced this book would improve.
However, once I had reached lead-up to Samantha and Aaron meeting each other, things improved out of sight. Suddenly I had to keep reading, and found myself lost in the story…
Aaron is definitely my favourite part of this book and as a character is extremely likable. Sam was also well-drawn and her transformation from an abrasive tough young woman to a valuable member of the survivor community was interesting to see.
Now, I’m not a fan of romance in zombie books – it’s a hard thing to pull off when the world is populated by walking corpses – it tends to distract me from the story itself and often results in eye-rolling of epic proportions and skim reading. This one however is not too bad – sure there are some cheesy lines along the lines of ‘dying for you’ and ‘follow you forever’ – but it also brings some interesting ideas on how people born into an undead world learn about love and relationships.
As Zombie books go, this one has far less blood and gore than most I have read, but don’t let this put you off – the focus is far more on the characters, storyline and survival. The zombie / post-apocalyptic sub-genre was once the domain of a select few writers and readers, but over the past few years there has been a glut of new writers and new books, which makes it difficult to write a stand-out book. However, with Dead Living, Glenn Bullion has given it a damn good try and for me it is a success.
The first chapter of this book, focusing on the first day of the zombapocalypse is fast-paced, a little too much so. Although the action drags you in, I didn’t find the writing style to my liking and, to be honest, had a sinking feeling that I wouldn’t enjoy this book. Even after the first flash-forward I was a little bored, and although not tempted to give up, I still wasn’t convinced this book would improve.
However, once I had reached lead-up to Samantha and Aaron meeting each other, things improved out of sight. Suddenly I had to keep reading, and found myself lost in the story…
Aaron is definitely my favourite part of this book and as a character is extremely likable. Sam was also well-drawn and her transformation from an abrasive tough young woman to a valuable member of the survivor community was interesting to see.
Now, I’m not a fan of romance in zombie books – it’s a hard thing to pull off when the world is populated by walking corpses – it tends to distract me from the story itself and often results in eye-rolling of epic proportions and skim reading. This one however is not too bad – sure there are some cheesy lines along the lines of ‘dying for you’ and ‘follow you forever’ – but it also brings some interesting ideas on how people born into an undead world learn about love and relationships.
As Zombie books go, this one has far less blood and gore than most I have read, but don’t let this put you off – the focus is far more on the characters, storyline and survival. The zombie / post-apocalyptic sub-genre was once the domain of a select few writers and readers, but over the past few years there has been a glut of new writers and new books, which makes it difficult to write a stand-out book. However, with Dead Living, Glenn Bullion has given it a damn good try and for me it is a success.
August 12, 2021
Dead Living, by Glenn Bullion, is another enjoyable read by a self-published author that I think very highly of. His stories are always a lot of fun, filled with interesting characters, and often he comes at the genre that is filled with so many cliches from a fresh angle.
This is the case here. A post zombie apocalypse world is nothing new and with things like the Walking Dead and so many zombie movies I’ve lost count over the years, this sub-genre of horror/urban fantasy has been almost as overdone as vampire and werewolf books. However, Glenn Bullion explores an interesting idea for the protagonist that I have not seen in one of these books before, and it was really well done.
I’ve come to this book after reading his brilliant Damned and Cursed series and there are a lot of similarities to be drawn between all his books. This isn’t a negative point, though. With every book, Glenn Bullion seems to be getting better and better, and though this is one of his early works, it is still a good read.
The last thing that pushes this story up to a 5-star review in my mind, is that this novel encompasses a hopeful message that a lot of post-apocalyptic novels miss. I always like stories about how humanity can rise from the ashes because, fundamentally we are survivors and good people, and this book showed that.
My only complaint is that the book is a bit short and I would like to read a sequel. But, it’s always better to leave a reader wanting more than a story overstaying its welcome, so if this is all I get, then I will just have to be happy with it as a solid standalone story.
One final note is that this is the only book this author has out on Audiobook (other than Jack Kursed, but that is the least professional audiobook recording I have ever encountered and I recommend staying clear of it). This is a shame because this is an author whose books I would love to binge on long car journeys.
This is the case here. A post zombie apocalypse world is nothing new and with things like the Walking Dead and so many zombie movies I’ve lost count over the years, this sub-genre of horror/urban fantasy has been almost as overdone as vampire and werewolf books. However, Glenn Bullion explores an interesting idea for the protagonist that I have not seen in one of these books before, and it was really well done.
I’ve come to this book after reading his brilliant Damned and Cursed series and there are a lot of similarities to be drawn between all his books. This isn’t a negative point, though. With every book, Glenn Bullion seems to be getting better and better, and though this is one of his early works, it is still a good read.
The last thing that pushes this story up to a 5-star review in my mind, is that this novel encompasses a hopeful message that a lot of post-apocalyptic novels miss. I always like stories about how humanity can rise from the ashes because, fundamentally we are survivors and good people, and this book showed that.
My only complaint is that the book is a bit short and I would like to read a sequel. But, it’s always better to leave a reader wanting more than a story overstaying its welcome, so if this is all I get, then I will just have to be happy with it as a solid standalone story.
One final note is that this is the only book this author has out on Audiobook (other than Jack Kursed, but that is the least professional audiobook recording I have ever encountered and I recommend staying clear of it). This is a shame because this is an author whose books I would love to binge on long car journeys.
October 21, 2011
*Note* This was the paperback edition, not kindle. Or as I call the "Real Book" edition.
Overall, there's nothing new under the sun in this zombie tale. It does have some good twists as well as the usual blood and gore(not a whole lot), but the story and characters are very strong--both have depth. While this book does follow a somewhat predictable zombie formula it doesn't matter. I don't mind zombie stories following that same conventional pattern(how many new ways can you come up with this type of stuff? It's zombies trying to eat people, after all!). As long as the writing is good(and of course the story is engaging and the characters are strong) than I am hooked.
Having said that, this book is kind of unique in regards to a trait that exists in the main character(no spoilers).
In many ways this book reminded me of Kim Paffenroth's "Dying to Live." It has that type of feel to it. The characters are in many ways similarly drawn as Paffenroth's book. And they are very believable, which I like. The dialogue, while at times comes across as a bit cheesy, seems very natural and real. This would be what I call a good, "soft" zombie story. While harsh things happen in the world the author creates, this isn't what I'd call a hard hitting zombie book.
I really enjoyed this a lot and would recommend it to those looking for a well written story with memorable characters. Well done!
Overall, there's nothing new under the sun in this zombie tale. It does have some good twists as well as the usual blood and gore(not a whole lot), but the story and characters are very strong--both have depth. While this book does follow a somewhat predictable zombie formula it doesn't matter. I don't mind zombie stories following that same conventional pattern(how many new ways can you come up with this type of stuff? It's zombies trying to eat people, after all!). As long as the writing is good(and of course the story is engaging and the characters are strong) than I am hooked.
Having said that, this book is kind of unique in regards to a trait that exists in the main character(no spoilers).
In many ways this book reminded me of Kim Paffenroth's "Dying to Live." It has that type of feel to it. The characters are in many ways similarly drawn as Paffenroth's book. And they are very believable, which I like. The dialogue, while at times comes across as a bit cheesy, seems very natural and real. This would be what I call a good, "soft" zombie story. While harsh things happen in the world the author creates, this isn't what I'd call a hard hitting zombie book.
I really enjoyed this a lot and would recommend it to those looking for a well written story with memorable characters. Well done!
May 9, 2018
***I do my reviews in the form of questions***
What made me pick this book up:
The cover did actually. I love anything zombie and the cover did me in.
What did I like about the cover:
I love how eerie it looks, with the ominous green smoke, the dripping letters, and the hands. It represents the book well with Aaron in the middle.
What made me read this book:
Zombies! It was also one I had on my physical TBR shelf for a long time and it wasn't a super long book. Though it took me a lot longer to finish it than I had wanted.
What did I like the most:
Aaron. I loved his character so much. He was funny and a bit of a smart ass. The story was interesting enough for being a zombie book. I had a love/hate relationship with the writing because it told how everyone was feeling instead of just one character at a time.
What didn't I like:
Basically what I said about the writing. It was interesting but it almost felt a little like an overload. That and it seemed to take forever to read, like it just kept going on forever.
Would I read the rest of the series/more from this author?
Maybe if there was more to this series, but probably not. It's a good standalone book I think. As far as more from this author? I looked at what other books he's written and I would have to say no.
It took me a bit to get into the story to be honest. For the most part it was good, but I still feel almost like I just finished it to say I did.
What made me pick this book up:
The cover did actually. I love anything zombie and the cover did me in.
What did I like about the cover:
I love how eerie it looks, with the ominous green smoke, the dripping letters, and the hands. It represents the book well with Aaron in the middle.
What made me read this book:
Zombies! It was also one I had on my physical TBR shelf for a long time and it wasn't a super long book. Though it took me a lot longer to finish it than I had wanted.
What did I like the most:
Aaron. I loved his character so much. He was funny and a bit of a smart ass. The story was interesting enough for being a zombie book. I had a love/hate relationship with the writing because it told how everyone was feeling instead of just one character at a time.
What didn't I like:
Basically what I said about the writing. It was interesting but it almost felt a little like an overload. That and it seemed to take forever to read, like it just kept going on forever.
Would I read the rest of the series/more from this author?
Maybe if there was more to this series, but probably not. It's a good standalone book I think. As far as more from this author? I looked at what other books he's written and I would have to say no.
It took me a bit to get into the story to be honest. For the most part it was good, but I still feel almost like I just finished it to say I did.
May 13, 2017
This book started really well as the zombie apocalypse explodes, leaving Joe trying to get to his pregnant wife Sarah who is in labour and on the way to the hospital with her friend Margie. Denise works at reception as hell breaks loose while Frank is there looking for his bitten sister. I found their stories interesting and exciting, it was well written and I was fully invested in it. I couldn't wait to see what happened to them.
Then we suddenly switch to 14 years later when Joe's baby is a teenager and the group are fully settled and adapted to this new life. And suddenly, Frank and Joe are shot on a raid and Margie and Denise decide to stay with the dying men and get eaten by zombies instead of getting Aaron and fleeing. I felt so cheated by this! They were the characters I liked from the start of the book, the ones who drew me into the story. Now we are left with the one dimensional kid with no character development or social skills, and a girl living in a group with asshats and would be rapists. Sam is obnoxious and rude when Aaron saves her so now we have two MCs I don't really like and I lost all interest in continuing with the book.
Frustrated as the opening proved that this is a good storyteller who could do something great with zombies, but chose instead to go into teen angst drama instead. Not for me.
Then we suddenly switch to 14 years later when Joe's baby is a teenager and the group are fully settled and adapted to this new life. And suddenly, Frank and Joe are shot on a raid and Margie and Denise decide to stay with the dying men and get eaten by zombies instead of getting Aaron and fleeing. I felt so cheated by this! They were the characters I liked from the start of the book, the ones who drew me into the story. Now we are left with the one dimensional kid with no character development or social skills, and a girl living in a group with asshats and would be rapists. Sam is obnoxious and rude when Aaron saves her so now we have two MCs I don't really like and I lost all interest in continuing with the book.
Frustrated as the opening proved that this is a good storyteller who could do something great with zombies, but chose instead to go into teen angst drama instead. Not for me.
August 10, 2011
Here's a curious twist on random zombie carnage. Not scary, but an eerie, compelling story worth checking out.
The beginning is strong with a hospital scene that makes you feel like you're there the day the world went to hell. You can feel and vividly sense the apocalypse happening and while it's never hopeless, it feels almost there. Readers are treated to smooth, polished writing throughout the story that showcases humanity. Bullion has shades of a very young Robert McCammon.
The romance angle was done well. What can I say, I enjoy a bit of love with horror. Sam might have a tough exterior, but she is likable inside. Aaron is the one who the zombies want nothing to do with and the author handles Aaron's secret creatively throughout the story. I also enjoyed Aaron's interaction with the children.
My only criticisms is the ending just...ended. I wanted a little something more. It built up so nicely and felt to this reader like it deserved a couple more pages. I'm rounding up from 4.5 stars to 5 on this one because the rest of the book is excellent.
I would definitely read another book by Glenn Bullion. Readers that dig zombies won't be disappointed.
The beginning is strong with a hospital scene that makes you feel like you're there the day the world went to hell. You can feel and vividly sense the apocalypse happening and while it's never hopeless, it feels almost there. Readers are treated to smooth, polished writing throughout the story that showcases humanity. Bullion has shades of a very young Robert McCammon.
The romance angle was done well. What can I say, I enjoy a bit of love with horror. Sam might have a tough exterior, but she is likable inside. Aaron is the one who the zombies want nothing to do with and the author handles Aaron's secret creatively throughout the story. I also enjoyed Aaron's interaction with the children.
My only criticisms is the ending just...ended. I wanted a little something more. It built up so nicely and felt to this reader like it deserved a couple more pages. I'm rounding up from 4.5 stars to 5 on this one because the rest of the book is excellent.
I would definitely read another book by Glenn Bullion. Readers that dig zombies won't be disappointed.
February 18, 2012
The first book I read from Glenn Bullion was Demonspawn (which I loved) and the end of Demonspawn you get a preview of this one (at least when you read it on smashwords.com) which made buy Dead Living immdiately after finishing Demonspawn. This is my first time reading a zombie apocalypse story and I was captivated from the beginning all the way through to the end. Normally I hate zombies and avoid anything and everything containing zombies but this was really good!
I got attached to Aaron and Sam pretty quickly and I enjoyed following them as they develop and mature into who they are at the end. All the other characters were also very likeable and well described.
In the beginning it was a little confusing as the point of view changed often and without warning which made me a tiny bit confused in the beginning until I got used to it. It might sound like a negative for this story but it's not. It brings depth into the story and you get closer to all the characters and makes you relate with them in a different way than if you only could only see them from one perspective.
I highly recommend this one.
I got attached to Aaron and Sam pretty quickly and I enjoyed following them as they develop and mature into who they are at the end. All the other characters were also very likeable and well described.
In the beginning it was a little confusing as the point of view changed often and without warning which made me a tiny bit confused in the beginning until I got used to it. It might sound like a negative for this story but it's not. It brings depth into the story and you get closer to all the characters and makes you relate with them in a different way than if you only could only see them from one perspective.
I highly recommend this one.
July 17, 2013
It’s difficult to pen a zombie tale that’s radically and refreshing different, so I wasn’t expecting much from “Dead Living”. Of course, there’s some variation from the main theme of cannalistic zombies and the resulting apocalypse world caused by such outbreaks, but not enough to make this book stand out as a whole. Even then, I enjoyed the storytelling, maybe because I enjoy zombie fiction as a whole.
Compared to the other zombie stories I’ve read, “Dead Living” appears tamer, not because of the lack of blood and violence, but the descriptions thereof. I found myself visualizing less on the horrific gory details, and more on the characters and their relationships with one other amid the chaos, constant danger and search for ever-diminishing food and supplies.
So, how does this zombie book rate against the ones I’ve read recently, namely, “Devil’s Wake” and “Domino Falls” by Steven Barnes & the “As the World Dies, A Zombie Trilogy” by Rhiannon Frater? All have their own merits, and all the books captured my attention from beginning to end. “Dead Living” is certainly recommended to all my goodreads friends 16 years and above.
Compared to the other zombie stories I’ve read, “Dead Living” appears tamer, not because of the lack of blood and violence, but the descriptions thereof. I found myself visualizing less on the horrific gory details, and more on the characters and their relationships with one other amid the chaos, constant danger and search for ever-diminishing food and supplies.
So, how does this zombie book rate against the ones I’ve read recently, namely, “Devil’s Wake” and “Domino Falls” by Steven Barnes & the “As the World Dies, A Zombie Trilogy” by Rhiannon Frater? All have their own merits, and all the books captured my attention from beginning to end. “Dead Living” is certainly recommended to all my goodreads friends 16 years and above.
May 31, 2011
Nice read. Interesting outlook on zombies. 15+ years into the zombie age. Nice to read a zombie book about what happens in the after years. I also like the idea of evolution happening with both the zombies and survivors. You see a lot of zombie books that only show the zombie evolving but I really believe that the survivors would evolve too. It's only logical. Good book!
August 13, 2015
This started a little slow and basic, so I was just thinking ho-hum, another zombie novel.
Then it got much better.
A little bit of a twist, one that even made a bit of sense. I adored Sam, hoping that that's the kind of character I'd be in a zombie apocalypse.
Tied everything up nicely, with room for a sequel, but certainly not needed or required.
Then it got much better.
A little bit of a twist, one that even made a bit of sense. I adored Sam, hoping that that's the kind of character I'd be in a zombie apocalypse.
Tied everything up nicely, with room for a sequel, but certainly not needed or required.
March 27, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It was nice to read a zombie book that isn't part of a series. It had a beginning, middle and end, which was very satisfying. The characters were well thought out and cared about. Thank you Glenn, for writing this zombie novel and not making it a series. It makes me want to read more of your books.
February 11, 2017
This was one of Glenn Bullion's early works. It was okay, but mainly serves to show how far he has come as an author. The premise was good, the main character very likable, the execution just a little rough around the edges. Still worth a read if you are looking for a different/original Zombie book.
November 28, 2011
At first, I didn't expect much from this book. Then after the first few chapters, I found I couldn't put it down. Excellent job. I've only read about three zombie stories, and this one was the best. After a dry spell, finally characters that I could care about.
December 3, 2011
If you're into zombie fiction, this is a pretty good read with some new twists to a potentially repetitive genre. The writing won't blow your mind but the story keeps you interested. I'd like to see it made into a movie.
July 13, 2013
Can't say enough about how cool this book is. A real hero emerges in the zombie apocalypse, and lots of good goes on with the bad. A "feel-good" zombie read with tons of bad goings-on! A new favorite of mine.
April 29, 2012
I'm forever searching a zombie book to top this one, hasn't happened.. Don't think it will. Will re-read over and over. 100% worth the time and money.
August 22, 2011
A zombie novel that is much more than just gore. If you are tired of mindless zombies novel, this book is for you. highly recommended.
November 18, 2011
Amazing book. I read it in 1 day, I could not put it down. If you love zombies, you will love this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews