I enjoyed the series, it kept me entertained, nothing really stands out from others in the genre but if you enjoy the genre you’ll probably enjoy this. it’s also good value for a credit
What I did like was that the zombies remained a threat alongside the people. Of course like most zombie apocalypse books people take over as a main threat,but unlike others in the genre the zombies never become a trivial threat to be casually slaughtered by the dozens. they still present a threat and obstacle.
Characters were a weak point. Side characters were likeable but not really developed. They often felt more like tools for the main characters. The good side characters are willing to help and die for the main characters, while the villains hate John with a passion. I can’t quite figure out why because he’s not particularly special or charismatic. Yet everyone bends over backwards for him, tells him they need him,etc.
the main characters are frustrating. They keep talking about wanting to find a safe place, but leave every safe place. Their motivation is taking care of their boy, but keep making decisions contrary to that. John keeps talking about not expecting others to help, but then begs them to help him, even against their own best interests, then just moves on after they’ve served their use to him. At one point he has an internal monologue where he questions all these things. “Am I making the wrong choice leaving the group? They’ve sacrificed a lot for me, it’s a place to settle down, kids around for some normalcy for the boy. Is it right to leave”. I thought, finally some self awareness. Then he’s just like “nah, I’m making the right choice”. ugh
I’m all for flawed characters, but they don’t feel written with the intent of being flawed, they just seem to lack self awareness. Side characters seem to be aware of the this lack of self awareness, but never call it out, they just kinda seem to chuckle and be like oh well some of us died for him, but what are you gonna do?