Review: A resourceful heroine in a bleak world
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 4, 2014
When it comes to the zombie apocalypse it's a hard trick to make readers feel like they're seeing anything new. Everyone knows how these stories go down and the carnage that plays out with the damaged shells of civilized folk eking out an existence while fending off relentless peril. Nonetheless Writing on the Wall manages to immerse readers in a familiar setting without going through the motions and that is something worth praising in an over-saturated genre.The backdrop of the story is what you would expect as well as what draws readers to the zombie apocalypse - a dismal carcass of society scavengers are picking over while establishing a new status quo to compensate for the anarchy that comes with the carnivorous dead. Per usual, humanity presents its own challenges and threats that can make zombies feel like the least of someone's problems without sensationalizing the depravity. Most of the unseemly practices are on the fringes of the reader's perception but their presence does the genre justice.The protagonist, Joss, is competent, autonomous and resourceful, which is something I appreciate in any story but feel should be a prerequisite for any post-apocalyptic/survival horror premise. I had no trouble believing that Joss is capable of fending for herself in a world of scarce supplies and active predators. Her wary, standoffish demeanor is justifiable - if not mandatory - to function as she does yet she avoids coming across as truly callous. Joss's compassion is well-corroded due to demands on her lifestyle and self-dependency; however, she retains enough compassion and humane principle to distinguish her as a survivor instead of a misanthrope.For those who appreciate romance in their stories Writing on the Wall offers something that is satisfying for the situation without betraying Joss's character. A genuinely nice guy in a depraved environment is its own commodity and the potential displayed in this novel was more sincere and endearing than other books develop.The author, Tracey Ward, has an organic style and entertaining flare that keeps the pages turning without padding them with unnecessary prose. Her pacing and action makes for absorbing storytelling that readers can invest in and ponder later. Ward has talent and charm; the kind that befits an emerging author capable of carving out a niche for herself. Personally - she's found a fan in me and I'll be reading more of her works in the near future and as they become available.