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Adrian's Undead Diary #1
Dark Recollections
Beheading a zombie isn't easy in a world where you're more afraid of the living than the dead.
Adrian Ring's simple life is thrown into chaos when the world is ripped apart by a plague of undead and legions of desperate survivors. Retreating to Auburn Lake Preparatory Academy, Adrian attempts to rescue friends and family on the way while dancing around his impending insanity over who and what he left behind, and evading maniac survivors. He saves his cat Otis, but shoots his mom. Pretty successful, all things considered.
Dark Recollections is the first part of Adrian's own story of how he survived after "That Day." Told through his eyes as he talks to his laptop, affectionately named 'Mr. Journal," and through short stories that entwine with his tales that bring forth dark visions of a world being eaten alive by an unimaginable evil. Adrian's Undead Diary is an eight part epic about a solitary, guilt stricken man that didn't think he deserved to live, but realizes very soon that he survived, and suffered for a reason.
It's a great read for anyone. The stories are well written, characters build carefully and every detail is covered. People, this is what a great book looks like! Stop reading this review and start reading the book! -Frank D of zombie-guide.com
I don't even think one needs to be a fan of zombie fiction to end up a fan of AUD; because Chris's talent can't be pigeonholed into one limited, literary genre. His true talent lies in weaving an enduring, sweeping story that does exactly what it's supposed to do... pulls you in, engrosses you, evokes emotion, and leaves you satisfied (if not a little bit sad) when it's over. In the case of AUD, for me, the zombies are just a bonus! -Wendi Haegle
The AUD Saga:
Book One: Dark Recollections
Book Two: Alone No More
Book Three: Midnight
Book Four: The Failed Coward
Book Five: Wrath
Book Six: In the Arms of Family
Book Seven: The Trinity
Book Eight: Cassie
Dark Recollections is the first book in the AUD series. It covers Adrian's journal entries from September 21st 2010, to December 1st, 2010. Intermingled with his personal diary entries, book one also contains the short stories Phil's Story, McGreevy's Report, and Soccer Mom. It is now in its second edition, complete with a new author's foreword, an excerpt of Tesser: A Dragon Among Us, and with some grammatical fixes.
Adrian Ring's simple life is thrown into chaos when the world is ripped apart by a plague of undead and legions of desperate survivors. Retreating to Auburn Lake Preparatory Academy, Adrian attempts to rescue friends and family on the way while dancing around his impending insanity over who and what he left behind, and evading maniac survivors. He saves his cat Otis, but shoots his mom. Pretty successful, all things considered.
Dark Recollections is the first part of Adrian's own story of how he survived after "That Day." Told through his eyes as he talks to his laptop, affectionately named 'Mr. Journal," and through short stories that entwine with his tales that bring forth dark visions of a world being eaten alive by an unimaginable evil. Adrian's Undead Diary is an eight part epic about a solitary, guilt stricken man that didn't think he deserved to live, but realizes very soon that he survived, and suffered for a reason.
It's a great read for anyone. The stories are well written, characters build carefully and every detail is covered. People, this is what a great book looks like! Stop reading this review and start reading the book! -Frank D of zombie-guide.com
I don't even think one needs to be a fan of zombie fiction to end up a fan of AUD; because Chris's talent can't be pigeonholed into one limited, literary genre. His true talent lies in weaving an enduring, sweeping story that does exactly what it's supposed to do... pulls you in, engrosses you, evokes emotion, and leaves you satisfied (if not a little bit sad) when it's over. In the case of AUD, for me, the zombies are just a bonus! -Wendi Haegle
The AUD Saga:
Book One: Dark Recollections
Book Two: Alone No More
Book Three: Midnight
Book Four: The Failed Coward
Book Five: Wrath
Book Six: In the Arms of Family
Book Seven: The Trinity
Book Eight: Cassie
Dark Recollections is the first book in the AUD series. It covers Adrian's journal entries from September 21st 2010, to December 1st, 2010. Intermingled with his personal diary entries, book one also contains the short stories Phil's Story, McGreevy's Report, and Soccer Mom. It is now in its second edition, complete with a new author's foreword, an excerpt of Tesser: A Dragon Among Us, and with some grammatical fixes.
ebook
First published October 23, 2013
263 people are currently reading
2767 people want to read
About the author
Chris Philbrook
82 books447 followers About Chris Philbrook
I am the creator and author of Tesser: A Dragon Among Us as well as Elmoryn's The Kinless Trilogy, Colony Lost, Adrian's Undead Diary and the Darkness of Diggory Finch.
I've gone to a LOT of college. I've got a Business degree as well as a Psychology degree, and I've done the full program at the school of hard knocks. I've been a printing press operator, bouncer, purchasing agent, bodyguard, customer service representative, mental health counselor, and more. I can write about weird shit because I've done weird shit. Trust me.
I call the wonderful state of New Hampshire my home, but I love to travel. I love to read, write, play role playing games, miniatures games, video games, and Magic: The Gathering. When I find the time to be active, I like to hike, play basketball, and play football. I am married to a wonderful woman, and together we have two wonderful daughters.
I am the creator and author of Tesser: A Dragon Among Us as well as Elmoryn's The Kinless Trilogy, Colony Lost, Adrian's Undead Diary and the Darkness of Diggory Finch.
I've gone to a LOT of college. I've got a Business degree as well as a Psychology degree, and I've done the full program at the school of hard knocks. I've been a printing press operator, bouncer, purchasing agent, bodyguard, customer service representative, mental health counselor, and more. I can write about weird shit because I've done weird shit. Trust me.
I call the wonderful state of New Hampshire my home, but I love to travel. I love to read, write, play role playing games, miniatures games, video games, and Magic: The Gathering. When I find the time to be active, I like to hike, play basketball, and play football. I am married to a wonderful woman, and together we have two wonderful daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
December 4, 2013
As the author, I'm a big fan. Most importantly, as someone who has read this story, I'm constantly surprised by how entertained I am when I read it again, and how proud I am of the work I put into it.
AUD is something I'll be proud of for the rest of my life.
AUD is something I'll be proud of for the rest of my life.
October 31, 2024
I liked this book a lot.
I liked the characters, and I found myself really caring about them.
The humour, the horror and the mundane aspects of finding yourself alone in a post apocalyptic world.
The pacing was great and kept me want to know more.
I will definitely start the next book soon.
I liked the characters, and I found myself really caring about them.
The humour, the horror and the mundane aspects of finding yourself alone in a post apocalyptic world.
The pacing was great and kept me want to know more.
I will definitely start the next book soon.
April 26, 2014
Dark Recollections (Adrian's Undead Diary) by Chris Philbrook
Began read, 4.23.2014. Completed, 4.25.2014
I was looking through some books on amazon and ran across this zombie apocalypse story. I noticed it is a series and since 4 of the books have been released, I thought I'd give it a change.
I absolutely fell in love with the protagonist, Adrian Ring. He was former military and I love military or former military in these many zombie books. After Adrian realizes the apocalypse has hit, he goes to several friend's homes and stops by to check on his mother. He finds different situations at each house and ends up by himself for now. Because he is able to have electricity for a few hours a day, Adrian decides to type a journal and the story starts with the first day he begins typing his journal.
I learned a lot about Adrian from his journal. His fears became very real, but he remembered his training and was able to over-come much fear. Adrian's character development was well written. He used his sense of humor when writing, which most likely helped him stay sane. As he started thinking of more he could do and what he needed to do to survive, his thought process followed-up with these survival ideas. He clearly planned, organized, carried out and controlled what he was doing. He knew specific things he wanted...it was more like he went into homes or businesses looking for specific things that he already knew he needed instead of running across items and saying, “Oh, yea, I can use that.” For example, he knew he needed a wood burning stove for warmth and cooking. I mean he did come across things he wasn't necessarily looking for, but his plans were well thought out.
There were a couple of chapters in the book that were not from the protagonist point of view. These chapters were the stories of what happened to a couple of different people in this small town where Adrian lived and people he happened to come across (for one reason or another) on “that day”. These were so well written. I found myself really caring about these people and wanting them to survive this terrible time.
I also appreciate a map of the area in a story. This author does include a nice map of the area where Adrian was holed up.
There were several typos, wrong words, misspelled words and grammar errors. For me, these mistakes did not take away from the story. I hope to see improvement in these things in the later books in the series.
I would recommend this book
Began read, 4.23.2014. Completed, 4.25.2014
I was looking through some books on amazon and ran across this zombie apocalypse story. I noticed it is a series and since 4 of the books have been released, I thought I'd give it a change.
I absolutely fell in love with the protagonist, Adrian Ring. He was former military and I love military or former military in these many zombie books. After Adrian realizes the apocalypse has hit, he goes to several friend's homes and stops by to check on his mother. He finds different situations at each house and ends up by himself for now. Because he is able to have electricity for a few hours a day, Adrian decides to type a journal and the story starts with the first day he begins typing his journal.
I learned a lot about Adrian from his journal. His fears became very real, but he remembered his training and was able to over-come much fear. Adrian's character development was well written. He used his sense of humor when writing, which most likely helped him stay sane. As he started thinking of more he could do and what he needed to do to survive, his thought process followed-up with these survival ideas. He clearly planned, organized, carried out and controlled what he was doing. He knew specific things he wanted...it was more like he went into homes or businesses looking for specific things that he already knew he needed instead of running across items and saying, “Oh, yea, I can use that.” For example, he knew he needed a wood burning stove for warmth and cooking. I mean he did come across things he wasn't necessarily looking for, but his plans were well thought out.
There were a couple of chapters in the book that were not from the protagonist point of view. These chapters were the stories of what happened to a couple of different people in this small town where Adrian lived and people he happened to come across (for one reason or another) on “that day”. These were so well written. I found myself really caring about these people and wanting them to survive this terrible time.
I also appreciate a map of the area in a story. This author does include a nice map of the area where Adrian was holed up.
There were several typos, wrong words, misspelled words and grammar errors. For me, these mistakes did not take away from the story. I hope to see improvement in these things in the later books in the series.
I would recommend this book
November 1, 2013
I am so excited that this is finally going to print. For those who do not know about this story, it is time for you to check it out. The original format was entries being placed in "Adrian's" journal (online) every few days or sometimes a week or more apart. After my reading it for over a year and a half the story was completed. It will now be printed in its entirety in 8 full length books. The massive size of this story is unbelievable. Congratulations Chris Philbrook for the finest literary contribution I have ever been exposed to. The suspense, survival knowledge, and humor always had me looking for the next update. I remember many a late nights hoping a new entry would be posted. This series of books cover many themes, including Horror (Zombies), Survival, collapse of the thin veneer of civilization, prepping, good/evil, and great humor. It has a very unique point of view and it spreads its focus away from just alive versus undead. Some groups of people working in a cooporative and others fighting for the few remaining resources. My emotional attachment to Adrian was intense. I highly recommend picking up this book 1, Josh
January 3, 2015
I really liked the author's opening and the beginning of the book.
"if I change Mr. journal to Miss journal, and I'm hoping Miss journal wants my shit does that mean I'm into trannies?"
As a transgender boy, I'd like to say that I was fully ready to enjoy this book. The use of the T-slur and the way it was phrased made me put the book down. I probably won't resume. That is pretty uncalled for and you would have made your point that the main character is a Macho Hetero To The Max Forever without it.
So one star, and at 6% done with the book I am 100% done with it. Thanks.
UPDATE:
I didn't switch shelves fast enough and started my 2015 book challenge and didn't want to be a liar so I had to read the whole thing.
I still maintain the above. Its unnecessary to use a slur like that. I don't like the main character. And was a flat screen tv really necessary during the zombie apocalypse?
"if I change Mr. journal to Miss journal, and I'm hoping Miss journal wants my shit does that mean I'm into trannies?"
As a transgender boy, I'd like to say that I was fully ready to enjoy this book. The use of the T-slur and the way it was phrased made me put the book down. I probably won't resume. That is pretty uncalled for and you would have made your point that the main character is a Macho Hetero To The Max Forever without it.
So one star, and at 6% done with the book I am 100% done with it. Thanks.
UPDATE:
I didn't switch shelves fast enough and started my 2015 book challenge and didn't want to be a liar so I had to read the whole thing.
I still maintain the above. Its unnecessary to use a slur like that. I don't like the main character. And was a flat screen tv really necessary during the zombie apocalypse?
October 25, 2013
I would love to have given this 1 star.... because it ENDED!! lol. I have never been more attached to a group of characters, the story was excellent. I highly recommend this book for any zombie fan or book nut out there. It will make you laugh, it will make you cry (if you are a wuss because I totally didn't) it will piss you off in places. I started reading it again just because I missed the characters so much. I generally don't read a lot so it takes an interesting story to suck me in much less 8 books worth! The fact that this was the equivalent to War and Peace in length amazed me because it had my attention the whole time and it did not feel that long, I didn't want it to end! It wasn't a Toe Pusher as Adrian would say. I could have read 8 more books worth of these characters.
October 25, 2013
AUD = Best zombie story out there.
Dark Recollections starts off one of the best zombie stories you will ever set your eyes on. From believable characters to situations, this book sets the tone for an epic story that doesn't experience any breaks of engauging content.
Chris does a phenominal job creating a main character in Adrian and story/world that you often have to remind yourself that this didnt really happen, and Adrain doesn't actually exist. Pick it up, you wont be disapointed!
Dark Recollections starts off one of the best zombie stories you will ever set your eyes on. From believable characters to situations, this book sets the tone for an epic story that doesn't experience any breaks of engauging content.
Chris does a phenominal job creating a main character in Adrian and story/world that you often have to remind yourself that this didnt really happen, and Adrain doesn't actually exist. Pick it up, you wont be disapointed!
November 25, 2014
My main problem is that I could not connect with the main character. He's bitching about the cold in light autumn weather, he burns all his fuel to play DVDs and laptops. He helps nobody and laughs at fat people. In addition, he's even an unapologetic homophobe.
October 12, 2017
This was okay. More of a 2.5 than a 3, to be honest.
Nothing much happened and the character is too “perfect”. A bit boring and not enough development.
Also, the “tranny” comment was stupid.
Nothing much happened and the character is too “perfect”. A bit boring and not enough development.
Also, the “tranny” comment was stupid.
October 25, 2013
Adrian's Undead Diary (AUD) was my first time reading zombie fiction... it was and still remains my first love....
Since AUD I have read:
World War Z
900 Miles
What Zombies Fear
Zombie Fallout 1 - 7
You will not find the humor, tension or raw emotion in those books as you will find with Dark Recollections.
You WILL be on the edge of your seat.
You will worry along with Adrian, Abby and Gilbert.
You will worry about zombies on fire.
I still love Adrian like an ex-boyfriend....
I now know I need:
many guns and a lot of ammunition
a halligan bar....
a dualie....
a generator...
Buy this book now... you won't regret it - even if you haven't read Zombie fiction before
Since AUD I have read:
World War Z
900 Miles
What Zombies Fear
Zombie Fallout 1 - 7
You will not find the humor, tension or raw emotion in those books as you will find with Dark Recollections.
You WILL be on the edge of your seat.
You will worry along with Adrian, Abby and Gilbert.
You will worry about zombies on fire.
I still love Adrian like an ex-boyfriend....
I now know I need:
many guns and a lot of ammunition
a halligan bar....
a dualie....
a generator...
Buy this book now... you won't regret it - even if you haven't read Zombie fiction before
June 28, 2014
Journal-entry type books are always iffy. Sometimes they work, other times they fail. Miserably. This one scored big for me. It helps that Adrian is a likeable guy. I WANTED him to succeed.
One technique that really helped is that there are two chapters, actually short stories, of people that Adrian has mentioned crossing paths with in his Journal. These short stories give us an outside perspective of Adrian. I found it very effective in making me like Adrian, and it helped to explain why some other situations played out the way they did. I found their vision of Adrian was a bit different than how I had pictured him in my mind. In a good way.
One technique that really helped is that there are two chapters, actually short stories, of people that Adrian has mentioned crossing paths with in his Journal. These short stories give us an outside perspective of Adrian. I found it very effective in making me like Adrian, and it helped to explain why some other situations played out the way they did. I found their vision of Adrian was a bit different than how I had pictured him in my mind. In a good way.
March 24, 2021
Wow. Thank goodness it's over. I couldn't take anymore. The problem? Adrian. The guy from the title.
Are YOU going to like the book? Let's see! Here's Adrian's character.
1. A Mark Watney wannabe.
2. His idea of the "Western World", is First world countries that have good health care. What about Singapore? Japan? They're doing great as far as I know.
3. He gets a hard-on thinking about venison. “Venison. Boing! Boner."; "Tentpole.” What a gentleman.
4. Only starts to help people because HE feels lonely. Not because it’s the right thing to do. (Actually helps only one person, a girl, and chases another scared guy off. That's the extent of his 'help'.)
5. Strips everything of everything. Doesn't leave anything behind in case someone else might need it. He wants it. He doesn't need it, but takes it anyway. Even makes it so no one else can pump gas.
6. CAUSES zombies to overrun a place and kill lots of people, but blames the other guy (that he had known ahead of time was a loose cannon and that he explicitly went to stop, but didn't)
7. Sees a lady who is the step-mom of one of the students at the campus he works at. Proceeds to think of her as "Milfy". Continues to refer to her by this endearing term
8. Sees zombie teen’s bra through her shirt and laments that she isn’t better endowed.
9. Talks about "cornholing nuns in a previous life" to have deserved this. I don't know what that means and I'm pretty sure I don't want to.
10. Is an alpha-male asshole with a high opinion of himself.
11. Left his girlfriend (almost wife) to die (or turn?), without even thinking about trying to help her. (Sure he feels bad later, but what does that it happened in the first place say about his character?)
Pros:
1. The audiobook was read very well.
2. There are 2 other short stories, VP's by other characters, that were pretty good.
Also: Wth is the point of the cat? We never get to see the cat's personality. It's basically just there to show, hey he's a good guy, he loves his cat. Jonesy in Alien was a much better fit than this cat was.
I am sincerely concerned that so many people seemed to have liked Adrian... Sure, the author did a great job with his voice. It was consistent. But as soon you get to know the character... how can you still like him???
I would rather have read about Phil, the sheriff, the mom, the teen girl, anyone really and have Adrian be a really useful side character, because the inside of his head is pretty empty and gross.
Which brings us to the question: What makes a likable character?
For me, it's someone who cares about someone else. It's as simple as that.
In I am Legend, the guy tried so hard to save that dog. In Hunger Games, Katniss did everything for her sister. In Bird Box the lady loves the kids and want to save them. In LOTR, Boromir died for the halflings. In military books guys are gutted when their friends die. It's all about comradeship and caring about others.
If the character doesn't care about anyone but himself... that's a pretty crappy character and I don't want to read about him.
Adrian: "If you're sensitive, F*** you."
Bara: "I AM sensitive, so F*** you too."
Are YOU going to like the book? Let's see! Here's Adrian's character.
1. A Mark Watney wannabe.
2. His idea of the "Western World", is First world countries that have good health care. What about Singapore? Japan? They're doing great as far as I know.
3. He gets a hard-on thinking about venison. “Venison. Boing! Boner."; "Tentpole.” What a gentleman.
4. Only starts to help people because HE feels lonely. Not because it’s the right thing to do. (Actually helps only one person, a girl, and chases another scared guy off. That's the extent of his 'help'.)
5. Strips everything of everything. Doesn't leave anything behind in case someone else might need it. He wants it. He doesn't need it, but takes it anyway. Even makes it so no one else can pump gas.
6. CAUSES zombies to overrun a place and kill lots of people, but blames the other guy (that he had known ahead of time was a loose cannon and that he explicitly went to stop, but didn't)
7. Sees a lady who is the step-mom of one of the students at the campus he works at. Proceeds to think of her as "Milfy". Continues to refer to her by this endearing term
8. Sees zombie teen’s bra through her shirt and laments that she isn’t better endowed.
9. Talks about "cornholing nuns in a previous life" to have deserved this. I don't know what that means and I'm pretty sure I don't want to.
10. Is an alpha-male asshole with a high opinion of himself.
11. Left his girlfriend (almost wife) to die (or turn?), without even thinking about trying to help her. (Sure he feels bad later, but what does that it happened in the first place say about his character?)
Pros:
1. The audiobook was read very well.
2. There are 2 other short stories, VP's by other characters, that were pretty good.
Also: Wth is the point of the cat? We never get to see the cat's personality. It's basically just there to show, hey he's a good guy, he loves his cat. Jonesy in Alien was a much better fit than this cat was.
I am sincerely concerned that so many people seemed to have liked Adrian... Sure, the author did a great job with his voice. It was consistent. But as soon you get to know the character... how can you still like him???
I would rather have read about Phil, the sheriff, the mom, the teen girl, anyone really and have Adrian be a really useful side character, because the inside of his head is pretty empty and gross.
Which brings us to the question: What makes a likable character?
For me, it's someone who cares about someone else. It's as simple as that.
In I am Legend, the guy tried so hard to save that dog. In Hunger Games, Katniss did everything for her sister. In Bird Box the lady loves the kids and want to save them. In LOTR, Boromir died for the halflings. In military books guys are gutted when their friends die. It's all about comradeship and caring about others.
If the character doesn't care about anyone but himself... that's a pretty crappy character and I don't want to read about him.
Adrian: "If you're sensitive, F*** you."
Bara: "I AM sensitive, so F*** you too."
July 15, 2015
This book was okay. It really didn't do much for me. Actually, I thought it was kind of boring. There were no points where I thought the tension built up. Kind of like riding the Merry Go Round at an amusement park the whole time. This book left me with no desire to read the next one in the series. If you are looking for a good book in the zombie genre, read "Day by Day, Armageddon" by J.L. Bourne. That was by far the best zombie book I have ever read. Since, nothing has compared.
July 18, 2014
I don't know where all these 5 star reviews of awe come from.
There are legendary masterpieces that have bad reviews, whereas this horrible book only has 4/5 stars.
Either the world has gone mad or someone's cheating.
There are legendary masterpieces that have bad reviews, whereas this horrible book only has 4/5 stars.
Either the world has gone mad or someone's cheating.
December 24, 2013
Originally released as an online serial, Adrian's Undead Diary is now available as an eight book series. How this one slipped by me is baffling, as it fits perfectly with my preferences and meets all my needs in a piece of work. Chris Philbrook, the very talented author of the series, originally submitted Dark recollections for review. When it came up in my queue, I read it in one sitting. The book was so entertaining, I managed to get through all 266 pages in under three hours; there was no way I was putting it down. As soon as I got back from vacation, and within internet range, I contacted the author to submit more of the series. My whistle was suitably wetted, and I wanted more!
Adrian Ring, dorm supervisor for a private school, finds himself jarred awake by the sound of gunshots. A woman lay in the road, her head a mass of pulp from the impact of a bullet. It is only then that he realized what he had shrugged off as a hoax was indeed the zombie apocalypse. Adrian wooed me with his self deprecating humor as he wrote entries into "Mr. Journal". I found myself laughing as he went old-school and pulled out "nincompoop", and took out his frustration on his journal, frequently telling it to F-off.
Armed with a box of food, a couple new weapons from the local gun shop, and his fat cat Otis, Adrian hunkers down and barricades himself behind the walls of the school as things go from bad to worse in his community.
Dark Recollections does not divulge the cause of the zombie outbreak, only that if you die, you turn. Philbrook's zombies are of the slow, shambling, Romero variety. As a lover of the gore, I appreciated his use of description and could easily envision the undead as they came to life on the pages (pun intended).
One of the things I found most successful about the book was Philbrook's ability to take a normally narrow writing perspective and still give readers a feel for what was happening beyond just a single person. I didn't feel as if I were reading a narrow scope of the events as told by Adrian.
So, what's the verdict? Great story line with laugh out loud humor and bloody deaths, three dimensional character development, and an exciting, fast-paced piece of work that gives even the most notable zompoc authors a run for their money.
Visit www.bookie-monster.com to read my full review.
Adrian Ring, dorm supervisor for a private school, finds himself jarred awake by the sound of gunshots. A woman lay in the road, her head a mass of pulp from the impact of a bullet. It is only then that he realized what he had shrugged off as a hoax was indeed the zombie apocalypse. Adrian wooed me with his self deprecating humor as he wrote entries into "Mr. Journal". I found myself laughing as he went old-school and pulled out "nincompoop", and took out his frustration on his journal, frequently telling it to F-off.
Armed with a box of food, a couple new weapons from the local gun shop, and his fat cat Otis, Adrian hunkers down and barricades himself behind the walls of the school as things go from bad to worse in his community.
Dark Recollections does not divulge the cause of the zombie outbreak, only that if you die, you turn. Philbrook's zombies are of the slow, shambling, Romero variety. As a lover of the gore, I appreciated his use of description and could easily envision the undead as they came to life on the pages (pun intended).
One of the things I found most successful about the book was Philbrook's ability to take a normally narrow writing perspective and still give readers a feel for what was happening beyond just a single person. I didn't feel as if I were reading a narrow scope of the events as told by Adrian.
So, what's the verdict? Great story line with laugh out loud humor and bloody deaths, three dimensional character development, and an exciting, fast-paced piece of work that gives even the most notable zompoc authors a run for their money.
Visit www.bookie-monster.com to read my full review.
October 25, 2013
I'm a pretty voracious reader, as much as being a full time dad allows anyway; I manage to rip through a book or two a week. I don't identify with any one genre, just well written stories. In the past couple of years though I've started reading more and more stories that are placed online. Not because its cheap reading but because there is a community of authors that is not only maturing in quality, but in some
I've long felt that many of the finest authors out there today are the ones who have seen their humble beginnings start on the internet. They spend hours putting out their works not for the money but for the pure love of writing their story in a way that will get it read, their satisfaction coming from the enjoyment it gives their readers.
Chris Philbrook in my opinion is one of the best of this new group. I just happened to discover "Adrian's Undead Diary" one night in passing on a forum and decided to give it a look. By the time I was done with the first post I was drawn in to the apocalyptic world he had created and to his protagonist Adrian. Many… MANY late nights were spent reading "just one more post" before heading to bed followed by to many tired mornings. It took several months to get through it all, indeed Chris has written a lot - but it didn't feel that way. The hallmark of a good story is its ability to suck you in and this did just that.
When I found out Chris was going to take the next step and self publish I couldn't be happier for him. Not just as a person - Chris is an excellent guy - but as an author whose time has very deservedly arrived. He's spent a lot of time not just writing but listening to his fans and refining what he does, the result being the story that hopefully you will start reading yourself.
Do yourself a favor. If you are a fan of a well crafted story, buy this as soon as its available. Even if you are not a fan of zombie lit you will get pulled into a story that is gripping, and behind a hero that manages to be tough as nails while never giving you that sense that he's unbeatable. You won't regret it.
I've long felt that many of the finest authors out there today are the ones who have seen their humble beginnings start on the internet. They spend hours putting out their works not for the money but for the pure love of writing their story in a way that will get it read, their satisfaction coming from the enjoyment it gives their readers.
Chris Philbrook in my opinion is one of the best of this new group. I just happened to discover "Adrian's Undead Diary" one night in passing on a forum and decided to give it a look. By the time I was done with the first post I was drawn in to the apocalyptic world he had created and to his protagonist Adrian. Many… MANY late nights were spent reading "just one more post" before heading to bed followed by to many tired mornings. It took several months to get through it all, indeed Chris has written a lot - but it didn't feel that way. The hallmark of a good story is its ability to suck you in and this did just that.
When I found out Chris was going to take the next step and self publish I couldn't be happier for him. Not just as a person - Chris is an excellent guy - but as an author whose time has very deservedly arrived. He's spent a lot of time not just writing but listening to his fans and refining what he does, the result being the story that hopefully you will start reading yourself.
Do yourself a favor. If you are a fan of a well crafted story, buy this as soon as its available. Even if you are not a fan of zombie lit you will get pulled into a story that is gripping, and behind a hero that manages to be tough as nails while never giving you that sense that he's unbeatable. You won't regret it.
October 25, 2013
I’m not one to write reviews. But I feel I must for AUD!
If you like reading comedy, drama, fiction, suspense it is ALL in here!
When this first popped up in my browser I thought to myself. “Hmm, this sounds kind of neat. A post apocalyptic diary of a man and his adventures with zombies.” I then found myself going to the website and checking out the first few posts. As soon as I finished reading I became a member of the site. Vastly sucked into Adrian’s world. I would wait, very impatiently, for the next post. Then I would see a message from Chris on my FB news feed with something along the lines of; “Adrian has something to say” or “Adrian is about to write in his diary”. And joyous warmth would consume me.
As a reader I tend to read a few chapters of a book. Then put it down for a week or two, come back and read some more. I generally don’t read cover to cover. But with AUD I read every diary entry as soon as it was posted. Then re-read so I could get my fix waiting on the next post.
The story is written beautifully. I didn’t see anything coming as I was reading. I was surprised with every word. I became part of Adrian’s world. As the reader you feel as if you ARE his computer that he is talking to. You feel his pain and his joy. When the story finally ended, a little bit of me died along with the characters in the story.
I can’t wait to read it once again in print!
I list this as a MUST READ for anyone! I hope you enjoy as much as I did.
If you like reading comedy, drama, fiction, suspense it is ALL in here!
When this first popped up in my browser I thought to myself. “Hmm, this sounds kind of neat. A post apocalyptic diary of a man and his adventures with zombies.” I then found myself going to the website and checking out the first few posts. As soon as I finished reading I became a member of the site. Vastly sucked into Adrian’s world. I would wait, very impatiently, for the next post. Then I would see a message from Chris on my FB news feed with something along the lines of; “Adrian has something to say” or “Adrian is about to write in his diary”. And joyous warmth would consume me.
As a reader I tend to read a few chapters of a book. Then put it down for a week or two, come back and read some more. I generally don’t read cover to cover. But with AUD I read every diary entry as soon as it was posted. Then re-read so I could get my fix waiting on the next post.
The story is written beautifully. I didn’t see anything coming as I was reading. I was surprised with every word. I became part of Adrian’s world. As the reader you feel as if you ARE his computer that he is talking to. You feel his pain and his joy. When the story finally ended, a little bit of me died along with the characters in the story.
I can’t wait to read it once again in print!
I list this as a MUST READ for anyone! I hope you enjoy as much as I did.
October 26, 2013
Regardless which facet of AUD it is that ultimately captivates you... humor, drama, action, survivalism, horror, character studies... I promise that you will be captivated. Because Chris Philbrook hasn't just crafted us a story to read, he's presented us with a journey (and an epic one at that). Alongside a cast of inherently flawed, inherently human, and completely relatable characters. I don't even think one needs to be a fan of zombie fiction to end up a fan of AUD; because Chris's talent can't be pigeonholed into one limited, literary genre. His true talent lies in weaving an enduring, sweeping story that does exactly what it's supposed to do... pulls you in, engrosses you, evokes emotion, and leaves you satisfied (if not a little bit sad) when it's over. In the case of AUD, for me, the zombies are just a bonus!
I can't remember a time when I didn't have my nose in a book; yet my list of favorites is a remarkably short one. From the first few passages I read of AUD, I knew it would make that list; whether it ever had the benefit of pages or binding. I am beyond thrilled that it's finally going to print, and cannot wait to get lost in Adrian's world all over again but this time the old fashioned way... one page at a time.
I can't remember a time when I didn't have my nose in a book; yet my list of favorites is a remarkably short one. From the first few passages I read of AUD, I knew it would make that list; whether it ever had the benefit of pages or binding. I am beyond thrilled that it's finally going to print, and cannot wait to get lost in Adrian's world all over again but this time the old fashioned way... one page at a time.
October 24, 2013
People. Trust me on this. Get this book. The layers of drama, suspense, horror, survival, character development, and lets not forget zombies draw you in . The writing is so good that you just wont be able to put it down. Just like all the dead zombies that have to be.. made dead AGAIN.. reading Philbrook in book form is a no brainer!
When I first came across Chris Philbrooks writing I was on a site where he posted a few stories and I was hooked by his style and writing " voice'. I quickly sought him out and found his website. His writing is strong and he has much depth that you would not expect in this genre of writing. I expect that the future holds good things for Adrian's Undead Diary.. a movie maybe? Either way.. there is nothing like the feel of a book in your hands and I knew from the moment I found his site that I would prefer to read it in book form...I am so happy its finally happened and i cant wait to get my own copy and finish what I started...
I probably sound like I'm getting paid but I cant dumb down sincere enthusiasm...
October 24, 2013
I am a long time fan of good zombie stories (which are very few and far between I might add) and I stumbled across Adrian's Undead Diary when it was a few hundred entries on the website. I started to read it to see if it appealed and when I next looked at the clock it was past midnight and my eyes couldn't focus anymore! It took me three days to catch up to the latest diary entry and then I would go back several times on the day the latest entry was due, impatiently waiting until it appeared and I could get my AUD fix. When it came to an end I was both sad and happy as the ending itself was worthy of the entire story. Adrian's Undead Diary is truly the greatest zombie apocalypse story that I have ever had the pleasure of reading and the characters are incredibly well written. I will be keeping an eye on the next project to come from this author as I know it will be just as epic as Adrian's Undead Diary was.
October 24, 2013
I started reading AUD almost 3 years ago near the beginning and have been hooked into the journey ever since. I became addicted to reading AUD and waited for more of the story, needing to know what happened next. The other thing that hooked me about the story is the realism of the situation. The main character isn't an all perfect hero, he's simply a human in this new world, making realistic mistakes and feeling the realistic emotions.
The author Chris has obviously put a huge amount of work into the story and the outcome is an amazing, impossible to put down book.
Deserves the highest rating and has my highest recommendations.
The author Chris has obviously put a huge amount of work into the story and the outcome is an amazing, impossible to put down book.
Deserves the highest rating and has my highest recommendations.
October 25, 2013
As someone who has read all of Adrain's Undead Diary a multitude of times, I have never once found myself being bored when re-reading. From start to finish I am always hooked on what is placed in front of me. Chris has a way of really bringing his characters to life so much so that you really feel for what they are doing and how hard they have it. I for one am super excited about this coming to print, have been since I read the first entry to the Diary. I want this work to come with me no matter where I go, hell I think it would even make one hell of a bed time story.
October 25, 2013
This was one of the best books I have read in quite awhile. It's one of those stories that sucks you into the storyline, and leaves you unable to put the book down. I have gone back and re-read this several times, and each time I catch small bits of the story that I missed on previous views. It just gets better and better. While some readers may be put off by the idea of a story revolving about the zombie apocalypse (personally, I love it!) there is so much more to this book. A must read for anyone who enjoys characters with true depth!
October 24, 2013
Chris Philbrook manages to capture the reader's attention from the very beginning, and the intensity never slacks off!! I'm one of the lucky ones who has already read, and reread, AUD and I can't even begin to describe how excited I am to finally be getting a printed version! This isone of those stories that you fall in love with and want to read over and over again; it never gets old. His humor, style of writing, and fantastic characters make this easily one of my favorite reads of all time!
June 28, 2016
When I read AUD, I was expecting just another run of the mill zombie book. A zombie book where no one has any idea whats going on, and there is no guy who says "hey, maybe we should shoot them in the head?" I dont think I could have been more wrong. Not only did Chris have Adrian almost automatically realize whats going on, but he did it in such a way so that you are instantly glued to the book, and never want to set it down.
Just a guy who wants to be loved forever,
Tommy Fiebig
Just a guy who wants to be loved forever,
Tommy Fiebig
October 26, 2013
Awesome book, recommend it to any zombie fans!
October 23, 2018
This is one of the better zombie books out there. A lot of the offerings out there fall into the “beer and pretzels” category and only a zombie fan would manage to finish them but this is quality.
It is mostly written from the perspective of a single survivor, Adrian. It covers the initial outbreak and his struggles to get himself to a safe place. It has a good balance between drama and humour with some lol moments. There are 2 chapters that are from the perspective of 2 other people whose lives intersected with Adrian on the day of the outbreak. At first these concerned me as they broke the narrative feel and were way out of track. However by the time I finished the first of these chapters I saw the value as it gave the story both more depth and also an outsiders perspective/description of Adrian.
From this opening I am keen to read through the series. 4 stars
It is mostly written from the perspective of a single survivor, Adrian. It covers the initial outbreak and his struggles to get himself to a safe place. It has a good balance between drama and humour with some lol moments. There are 2 chapters that are from the perspective of 2 other people whose lives intersected with Adrian on the day of the outbreak. At first these concerned me as they broke the narrative feel and were way out of track. However by the time I finished the first of these chapters I saw the value as it gave the story both more depth and also an outsiders perspective/description of Adrian.
From this opening I am keen to read through the series. 4 stars
October 25, 2013
I'm not the type of person that reviews just any ol' thing. The only time I tend to sit down and write a review is when it's about something that I really love. Let me just say that Adrian's Undead Diary (AUD) has been one of the most exciting and captivating stories that I may have ever read.
I'm an avid reader of books, but the ones that I hold near and dear to my heart are the ones where I feel like I could actually be friends with the characters. You know those books. The ones you sit down to read and all of a sudden you're thinking about stories from your own life and people you really know and how much these characters remind you of that/them. That's what AUD is. It is undeniably relatable, and pulls you in and captures your attention from the first entry.
These books are more than just a zombie story. There's suspense, and violence, and romance, and crude humor (which let's be honest, I love) and just...so much emotion. I have to be honest that there were a few parts that made me tear up. That's good writing right there.
Please don't feel like eight books is too much to get invested in. You will finish the first one and crave more immediately. You will not want the story to end, and when it does, you will go back and start to read it from the beginning again. I know that's what I and many other people have done.
All said and done, please give this book a chance if you are on the fence. Do yourself the favor and read this. Not only is the author an amazing writer, but he's also a pretty cool dude. I will continue to show my support by writing reviews of his books, and putting my money where my mouth is and supporting this cause to get all of AUD published. I promise that you won't be sorry if you do the same.
I'm an avid reader of books, but the ones that I hold near and dear to my heart are the ones where I feel like I could actually be friends with the characters. You know those books. The ones you sit down to read and all of a sudden you're thinking about stories from your own life and people you really know and how much these characters remind you of that/them. That's what AUD is. It is undeniably relatable, and pulls you in and captures your attention from the first entry.
These books are more than just a zombie story. There's suspense, and violence, and romance, and crude humor (which let's be honest, I love) and just...so much emotion. I have to be honest that there were a few parts that made me tear up. That's good writing right there.
Please don't feel like eight books is too much to get invested in. You will finish the first one and crave more immediately. You will not want the story to end, and when it does, you will go back and start to read it from the beginning again. I know that's what I and many other people have done.
All said and done, please give this book a chance if you are on the fence. Do yourself the favor and read this. Not only is the author an amazing writer, but he's also a pretty cool dude. I will continue to show my support by writing reviews of his books, and putting my money where my mouth is and supporting this cause to get all of AUD published. I promise that you won't be sorry if you do the same.
October 25, 2013
This book is by far the best zombie action/drama/journal story I've read in many years. The story has a lot of sense, there aren't black holes and the story sustains itself from the beggining until the end. The characters are tremendous, every one of them has a story to tell, and in the end, you love them all as they are people you know in real life! Adrian, Abigail, Gavin, Gilbert and Blake were my all times favourites all the ride long. The story is depth and wide, the detail level is sometimes so accurate (i've googled several times for things i didn't know, hallingans, calibers and such) that you can literally have a daydream while you are reading, you can see, hear, feel, enjoy and fear what is happening inside Adrian's head while you read it. I've cried for Adrian more than once. If you like good stories and also like zombies, this story is for you. Even if you don't like zombies, I'm sure that the telling itself will suck you in as it will anyone else. I can't wait to get a copy in my hands. I'm not a collector, but this is something I must have, a fine piece of art that I can't let myself not having it. Read it, Feel it, Love it.
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