REVIEW: Dead Of Night by: C.M. Saunders

If you are craving a zombie novel that deviates away from the typical “movie-style” theme – this will satiate your hunger. There are the normal horror elements: new love, remote setting, fight for survival, mass burial. However, C.M. Saunders’ Civil War zombies are intelligent; able to work as a team; possess fine motor skills; and cannot easily be killed. In fact, these “bushwhackers” peaked my curiosity. Would the psychological, mental, and physical aspects of fighting in a war end upon death? It is possible that these zombies are unaware that it is no longer 1861 – 1865. If this is the case, it would mean that they are denied the peace and solace they so richly deserve.

For the most part, the story flowed smoothly; however, there were some noticeable discrepancies. There were several instances where a previously discarded weapon(s) reappeared to be used. According to the story line, the weapon(s) could not possibly be available to use. An item that was destroyed by a zombie early in the story, appears completely untouched later in the story.

The plot was very creatively written and flowed efficiently. I did not experience a single dull moment as I read the novel. Many of you will agree, a vast majority of horror novels have at least one character lacking a bit of common-sense. As others so eloquently state, “too stupid to live”. I feel that C.M. Saunders tried to weed the “stupidity factor” out, and he did a great job of it. The zombies were even spared this humility.

The narrative was very in-depth when it came to describing personality traits. Sadly, it fell short when it came to describing physical appearance. Adjectives such as ‘gorgeous’, and ‘hot girl’, tell the reader that the character is not ugly but do not create an image in the mind. Maggie has long auburn hair and is 5’2”. Is her hair thick, coarse, baby-fine, or straight? Does she have the perfect olive skin tone to compliment her auburn hair? These are my own personal suggestions, but it would help to create that mental image.

C.M. Saunders has dared to venture outside the normal zombie themes. I feel he has met his goal with a well conceived plot – that is both fast-paced and thought-evoking. I can not complete this review without commending C.M. Saunders’ talent, for reaching deep inside his characters to bring their emotions to the surface. Outside of the technical issues mentioned above, those seeking a unique zombie novel should give Dead of Night a chance.

Available at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.