A review by ringreader
Rot & Ruin by Jonathan Maberry

challenging dark emotional tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I don’t usually reach for Zombie or YA, but my husband suggested I give Rot and Ruin a try. 

Along with a unique perspective towards Zombies, this book slaps you in the face with heavy and complex themes of loss and acceptance. It touches upon grief and rage, as well as good and evil. Honestly, I only remembered it was YA when reminded that the main characters are 14/15 years old. 

This book gives one of the most horrifying descriptions of zombies I’ve ever read… and it’s not even that gory. (Spoiler alert)
Imagining hundreds of zombies just… standing completely still in a horde is terrifying compared to a slowly lumbering one


Also, Tom (the older brother) has my heart ~ 
I highly recommend this series if you’re looking for a zombie book without all of the graphic violence and gore or want a zombie read that focuses more on society/interpersonal relationships!