I’m glad there wasn’t any in the first book though and the ending was quite satisfying (even though the final fighting scenes were not that credible). Although I’m having the suspicion there might be more in the sequel… Because there sure were some pretty obvious hints at possible romantic developments and even a love triangle. Another bonus: there is almost no romance in Rot & Ruin, which is rare in a YA fantasy/dystopian series. There is a lot of action (and shouting!) involved in the story, making it into a fast-paced read and without doubt entertaining. The descriptions of both the zombies and the world itself are well done the zombies are slightly humanised (especially by the older brother Tom) and that was certainly refreshing.

The dystopian worldbuilding is interesting and I liked the idea of the separation between the relatively safe town and the ‘wild’. I’m glad I decided to give Rot & Ruin a go, because I ended up really enjoying this story despite my reservations for zombie stories. Especially since I have had this series by Jonathan Maberry on my wishlist for a long time in the first place. So when I was browsing Rivetedand saw I could read Rot & Ruin for free (until August 1st), I decided to jump right in. Zombie stories are normally not really for me, but I’ve become less prejudiced after I finished and loved The Girl With All The Gifts earlier this month. It was probably always there, but most people are never tested, and they go through their whole lives without ever knowing that when things are at their worst, they are at their best.” “Often it was the most unlikely people who found within themselves a spark of something greater. Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

2023 Netgalley And Edelweiss Reading Challenge.

2017 Netgalley And Edelweiss Reading Challenge.

Rot & ruin by jonathan maberry