Scan barcode
A review by trivial_reads
The Z Word by Lindsay King-Miller
4.0
I wasn’t sure what to expect from The Z Word, but I certainly didn’t anticipate having this much fun. A zombie apocalypse unfolding during a Pride festival? Count me in! This book felt reminiscent of Shaun of the Dead, infused with vibrant rainbow glitter and sharp social commentary, alongside plenty of chaotic zombie-slaying action to keep the excitement alive. It’s a fast-paced, campy adventure that doesn’t take itself too seriously—and that’s precisely what makes it enjoyable.
Wendy, the main character, was... fine. Eventually. Initially, I found myself thinking, "Girl, there are zombies everywhere—maybe it's not the best time to fixate on your ex?" However, she does exhibit significant character development by the end, which helped redeem her. As for Leah, Wendy’s ex, I wasn’t particularly fond of her either. There was foreshadowing throughout, making the plot easy to predict, but honestly? I wasn’t here for unexpected twists.
The real highlight of this book lies in the side characters. Sunshine, the easy-going pizza delivery driver, was undoubtedly the best part of the story. I would gladly read an entire spin-off series about them battling zombies with nothing but snacks and good vibes. Beau, the wise elder butch lesbian, brought heart and insight [and I would have appreciated her more in the story], while Logan, the socially awkward drag queen, was delightfully charming. These characters added humour and depth, keeping me engaged even when the main storyline was pretty predictable.
In terms of plot, it’s exactly what you’d anticipate: zombies, gore, ex-girlfriend drama, and plenty of frantic running. While the reveals didn’t surprise me, and the identity of the ‘big bad’ was obvious, the narrative flowed well and offered clever commentary. The critique of corporate Pride culture and the encroachment of consumerism into everything—from celebrations to identity—was spot-on. The author skillfully makes fun of capitalism without allowing the story to become weighed down by heavy-handed messaging.
The ending hints at a potential sequel, and honestly? I’d be excited for a second installment. Was this groundbreaking? No. Did I need it to be? Also no. It’s campy horror brimming with personality, delivering exactly what it promises—zombies, humour, and social satire. If you’re in the mood for something quick, fun, and slightly gory, The Z Word is definitely worth a read.
Wendy, the main character, was... fine. Eventually. Initially, I found myself thinking, "Girl, there are zombies everywhere—maybe it's not the best time to fixate on your ex?" However, she does exhibit significant character development by the end, which helped redeem her. As for Leah, Wendy’s ex, I wasn’t particularly fond of her either. There was foreshadowing throughout, making the plot easy to predict, but honestly? I wasn’t here for unexpected twists.
The real highlight of this book lies in the side characters. Sunshine, the easy-going pizza delivery driver, was undoubtedly the best part of the story. I would gladly read an entire spin-off series about them battling zombies with nothing but snacks and good vibes. Beau, the wise elder butch lesbian, brought heart and insight [and I would have appreciated her more in the story], while Logan, the socially awkward drag queen, was delightfully charming. These characters added humour and depth, keeping me engaged even when the main storyline was pretty predictable.
In terms of plot, it’s exactly what you’d anticipate: zombies, gore, ex-girlfriend drama, and plenty of frantic running. While the reveals didn’t surprise me, and the identity of the ‘big bad’ was obvious, the narrative flowed well and offered clever commentary. The critique of corporate Pride culture and the encroachment of consumerism into everything—from celebrations to identity—was spot-on. The author skillfully makes fun of capitalism without allowing the story to become weighed down by heavy-handed messaging.
The ending hints at a potential sequel, and honestly? I’d be excited for a second installment. Was this groundbreaking? No. Did I need it to be? Also no. It’s campy horror brimming with personality, delivering exactly what it promises—zombies, humour, and social satire. If you’re in the mood for something quick, fun, and slightly gory, The Z Word is definitely worth a read.