Lotion: A Short Story in the Hunger Series

Jason Brant delivers a darkly comic entry in his Hunger series with this short story. The narrative follows Adam, a survivor who has endured an apocalypse caused by monstrous, mutated vampires that devoured the globe. After weeks of hiding within a bank vault, Adam ventures out to retrieve clothes and supplies from his former apartment. His isolation is broken when he encounters an old neighbor, a man described as moronic yet impossibly alive despite facing certain death. This encounter magnifies Adam's daily struggle in ways that are both hilarious and dangerous. The story draws on the post-apocalyptic tradition, focusing on the immediate aftermath of global catastrophe rather than long-term societal rebuilding. Brant qualifies himself through this established series, offering readers a glimpse into a ravaged world where survival is a constant, precarious task. The narrative structure centers on Adam's return to his past life, contrasting the sterile safety of the vault with the chaotic reality of the ruined apartment. This juxtaposition highlights the absurdity of surviving monsters only to be tormented by human incompetence. This book suits readers who enjoy horror mixed with satire and those who appreciate character-driven survival tales. It may not appeal to those seeking traditional gothic atmosphere or complex supernatural lore, as the focus remains on the grim humor of the situation. The text is organized around Adam's brief but intense interaction with his neighbor, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of life in a dead world.