Review: A zombie sandwich...
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 12, 2014
You get a generous helping of the undead in this collection, together with slices of some other nasty things. It's a zombie sandwich with the first and last stories (The Fall of Bayonne" and "Chefs Surprise") making up two halves of the same loaf.These two stories are about the bloody events at a maximum security prison, and some of its more colourful inmates. There are various characters to follow (psycho clown, wannabe ninja, fat chef) as the cell doors open, and mayhem ensues.At the start of "Chefs Surprise" we are shown how the chef character was caught for the murder he committed, by a detective who is a parody of Columbo from the TV series. I especially liked this part as I like Columbo and the way he gets on the suspects nerves, and is always underestimated by those who think they have gotton away with it. Extra star for Columbo.The next story "Waking at 2.49am" features a man struggling to seperate nightmares from reality. Weird and unsettling, I liked this one, especially the ending.Next up "Disgusting Campfire Tales" - A practical joke raises the stakes during a hunting trip in the woods, and some amusing and bizarre tales really set the mood.This is followed by "Southwestern Road Trip" - A family out for a drive lose their way and soon end up between a rock and a hard place. Having zombies on one side and Wolves on the other doesn't leave much room to manoeuvre. Interestingly in this story we are given the choice of two very different endings - one good for those involved, and one not so good. This works well actually and I imagine most people will read both.The next story "Fortunate Cookie" is a more subtle story, and a moment of calm during the storm. When a young girl is just scraping by, she is shocked to be offered a helping hand up. It is somewhat sad but also has a nice feel to it. I especially liked this story.You then get various notes about the stories and author comments which nicely wraps up this zombie sandwich in cling film, and puts it in the fridge ready to be eaten again later.