Those Who Are Left
A darkly humorous Southern apocalypse following Derrick and two strangers.
Derrick must survive a world where neighbors have become monsters after a violent farm incident involving a cat triggers societal collapse. Traveling through major cities with two companions, he faces threats from undead screamers and untrustworthy human factions. The story avoids heavy exposition, focusing instead on immediate dangers and the unpredictability of allies. The tone alternates between genuine fear and ironic humor, especially when characters attempt normal routines like bowling before facing violence. This approach sets the work apart from typical zombie tales by highlighting the absurdity of maintaining daily life in a collapsing society.
Published in 2015 by Barking Dog, this novel sits within the tradition of American horror fiction. It draws comparisons to works by Stephen King and Neil Gaiman, placing it firmly in the lineage of contemporary supernatural thrillers that blend genre elements with character-driven narratives set in familiar US locations.
📝 Description: Those Who Are Left
💎 Our verdict on Those Who Are Left
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers who appreciate horror that does not take itself too seriously will find this book rewarding. It appeals to those tired of grimdark apocalypse narratives, offering instead a story where irony and dark comedy coexist with genuine fear. Fans of character-driven survival tales will enjoy Derrick’s journey through hostile urban landscapes. The book is ideal for audiences seeking entertainment that highlights the absurdity of daily routines amidst chaos. Those who enjoy unpredictable alliances and untrustworthy factions will find the narrative engaging. It offers a unique perspective on the end of the world by focusing on immediate dangers rather than heavy exposition, providing a refreshing change from traditional zombie or monster tropes.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Stricklin crafts a distinctive voice that balances terror with levity, creating a post-apocalyptic tale that feels both immediate and ironic. The narrative excels in portraying the unpredictability of human factions and supernatural threats like undead screamers without bogging down in exposition. By prioritizing movement through cityscapes, the story maintains tension while highlighting the absurdity of survival. The tone, which alternates between genuine fear and dark humor, sets it apart from typical genre entries. It suits readers who enjoy apocalyptic fiction with a comedic edge and complex character dynamics over pure dread or serious rural horror settings.
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