Dust And Decay by Jonathan Maberry

The Blurb On The Back:

Benny, Nix and Tom have returned from the heart of the Rot and Ruin with a plan. Ever since they saw a plane fly over the zombie-infested wasteland they’ve been clinging to the idea that there is somewhere out there where people live without fear. Now, after months of rigorous training with zombie-hunter Tom, they’re finally ready to leave their home forever and head into the unknown in search of a better future.

But as soon as they start their journey, everything begins to go wrong. They are pursued by the living dead, wild animals, insane murderers and the horrors of a rebuilt Gameland, where teenagers are forced to fight for their lives in the zombie pits. Worst of all, it seems that the evil zombie-bounty hunter Charlie Pink-eye might still be alive … and out for revenge. Can they make it out of the Rot and Ruin alive?

( The Review (Cut For Spoilers): )

The Verdict:

Jonathan Maberry’s sequel to YA zombie horror ROT AND RUIN has some great scenes and character development but overall it was a disappointing affair that felt like a rerun of many of the themes and storyline in the first book. That said, the ending was a big wrench that promises an interesting next instalment, which I will definitely be checking out.

Bring Up The Bodies by Hilary Mantel

The Blurb On The Back:

By 1535 Cromwell is Chief Minister to Henry, his fortunes having risen with those of Anne Boleyn. But the split from the Catholic Church has left England dangerously isolated, and Anne has failed to give the king an heir. Cromwell watches as Henry falls for plain Jane Seymour. Negotiating the politics of the court, Cromwell must find a solution that will satisfy Henry, safeguard the nation and secure his own career. But neither minister nor king will emerge unscathed from the bloody theatre of Anne’s final days.
An astounding literary accomplishment, BRING UP THE BODIES is the story of this most terrifying moment of history, by one of our greatest living novelists.

( The Review (Cut For Spoilers): )

The Verdict:

Hilary Mantel’s Booker Prize winning sequel to the Booker Prize winning WOLF HALL is an equally thrilling, intelligent and utterly gripping account of Anne Boleyn’s downfall and the impact on Cromwell. Mantel succeeds in taking a familiar story and making it feel both fresh and suspenseful again.