Nick tells us why Charlie Higson’s zombie horror series is properly scary, thrilling stuff…
Excuse the pun, but zombies have been done to death havent they?
So if you only read books for that, then you should probably go elsewhere.
But rather than backfire, it allowed Higson to genuinely make a post-apocalyptic world of real substance.
The writing is so clear and concise that youre never lost in the myriad plot developments.
The latest book ends on some incredible gladiatorial games, which for my money every post-apocalyptic series needs.
Each also provides key moments for the characters involved, and sets the pattern for their future behaviour.
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Higson also creates new and interesting riffs on the zombie monster.
Can you emphasise with the devil?
As many nasty kids survive and thrive as the good-guys.
Hope unites the kids and drives the plot onwards.
You also get to learn what keeps humanity ticking.
Higson also makes recognizable London landmarks key to his series, and uses them in new and inventive ways.
Buckingham Palace is now the HQ of a power-mad teenager complete with zombie royals locked in a throne room.
The Natural History Museum is a warren of shadowy rooms where sickos lurk.
The Tower of London is the only safe place in the City.
As always, theres a joy in the familiar becoming unfamiliar and new to you again.
I for one cant wait to see which place he takes the characters next.
Sharp, frightening, and funny,The Enemyhas got me scared of monsters again.
The Hunted is out now, published by Penguin, priced 7.99.
