Review: Zombie Youth: Book 2: Borrowed Time by H.E.Goodhue

zombieyouth2Zombie Youth: Borrowed Time is a masterful example of the way a work can defy target audience and genre: a true crossover for fans of horror, armageddon, and coming of age (with zombies). By intertwining several survival factions, each with a predictable agenda and hierarchy, Goodhue realistically emphasizes the strengths and shortcomings of several generations. Thus, he captures sympathy and animosity from any reader’s perspective.  These various groups use natural, reasonable, age appropriate ways as they create their own comfort and safety zones, but eventually it is apparent to all that the only way to survive will be to construct a new paradigm and work together. 

          Dealing with more than just survival and the horrors of zombie carnage, Goodhue proposes philosophical discussions about which learned social behaviors humans will reject in favor of survival instincts, and which we’re not willing to part with. Some characters hold tighter to cooperative strategies, others feel stronger alone when faced with danger, and still others take every opportunity to seize power. I found this analysis of human nature to be interesting and realistic, definitely adding credence to the apocalyptic plot, which is necessarily a stretch for the reader.

          Book one of the series, Zombie Youth, Playground Politics, led the reader along a complex zombie destruction path that ended with an introduction to a mysterious sect; a true “other” which both chilled and intrigued. This sect, headed by a uniquely obscure and deeply threatening leader becomes the focal point in book 2. The other survivors must unite, despite their desire to promote their individual agendas. Goodhue has created a unique enemy, and one that is deceptively simple, making her all the more frightening.

          The series is gripping. The years between books have definitely added polish to Goodhue’s style and handling of complex human interaction. The gore is unique and extremely graphic, and verbal tension is palpable. I prefer a bit more comic relief in my horror, but enough exists in his work to cast this series into a really good read for those who love of complexity in plot and character. Highly recommended for readers with a strong stomach, ages 14 and up.

Contains: Graphic zombie gore, profanity, mild sex.

Reviewed by Sheila Shedd

 

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