An impressive zompoc novel packing some real emotional punches throughout and likable characters.
It seems like I say this a lot when I review a zombie book, but it’s still generally true (since there are so many of them out there): I generally am not into zombie fiction. That said (again, lol) I DO still read some of it, and I DO still come across some real gems in the subgenre. A THOUSAND MILES TO NOWHERE is certainly one of the gems.
There are plenty of battles with the undead here, but the bulk of the book doesn’t focus on that, nor does it only focus on a small group of survivors scavenging and avoiding the zombies (though that occurs too). This one focuses mostly around Matt, and his psychological struggles from both his past and present, the weight of everything bearing down on him whether it was in his control or not. This internal struggle is central to the story, and it was a fascinating study, well-written and believable. To find something of this depth in a genre famous for stench and gore was a real breath of fresh air, and I found myself wanting more.
Another great aspect to this one is the inclusion of a pregnant woman and her baby, which really heightened the suspense in the final act and lead to some emotionally horrifying moments during the climax. Curfiss never pulled a punch, but I never felt like anything was gratuitous either. Again, hats off on the superb writing here.
This has all the standard fare zompoc aficionados look for, plenty of action and gore, but it is elevated by it’s well-drawn characters and superior writing in general. Had this one come out back around the turn of the century, it may well be known as the quintessential zompoc book instead of Brian Keene’s THE RISING. Very different books, but this one was on par.
Recommended to any fan of horror, and even those looking for a psychological drama, providing you’re cool with the zombie apocalypse as the backdrop. Bravo! Find it in print, digital, and audio here.
Chris Miller 