Horror Palace

Sean Deville delivers a different perspective on what it could be like if a zombie outbreak occurs in modern day London. His novel, entitled “Cobra Z”, is the first of three books that take a serious look at a very popular epidemic. The biggest challenge staring Deville in the face is to stand out in a rather saturated market, which he does in a surprising way. In fact, if there is one novel that can break the stigma, it’s probably this one.

The book starts with some confidential files regarding the Hirta Island Research Complex, the source of the outbreak. In a very political way, the reader is informed that hell is pretty much breaking loose. The book continues to introduce characters who experience the initial outbreak, but their seconds of fame are short-lived thanks to the zombies. The person who is called in to investigate and take charge of the situation is Major David Croft, a veteran who has lost interest in what he does but is too set in his ways to do something else.

On the other side of the spectrum is a cult called The Sons of the Resurrection, and they are led by Abraham, a religious extremist who has a score to settle with Croft. After recruiting a vengeful and brilliant scientist, Abraham unleashes the virus that will rid the world of all sinners. Quickly the virus becomes uncontrollable, as seen through the eyes of different individuals, and time runs out to save the few lives that are left.

So what makes this particular novel different than the rest? For starters, it’s very well researched and executed. Deville has really taken his time to get every detail in place, bringing this hypothetical scenario into the real world. Secondly, he places more focus on the zombies and what they are capable of, rather than portraying them simply as flesh-eating drones. Thirdly, the novel starts at the beginning. Many authors prefer to skip the source and head straight for the action, whereas Deville takes a more patient approach. There has to be a buildup to the climax where the country is on its knees.

The whole novel through it felt as if I was reading something by a well-established writer, like Grisham or King. I was incredibly impressed with the quality in Deville’s style and the way he maintained it right up to the end. He’s sophisticated, clear and gives his characters life. If there is a single thing, I would’ve changed it would be the time he spent on certain characters, but this is really just a personal taste issue. As for the pacing, Deville likes to play around depending on the situation, ensuring there aren’t any boring moments.

For readers who are eager to deeply invest themselves in a good story for hours on end, “Cobra Z” will be a good choice. I don’t recommend reading it on the fly because it’s not a quick and easy read. It’s the type of book you finish and think, “Where has the time gone?” Personally, I’m really looking forward to the next book in the trilogy and Deville has joined my list of authors to keep an eye on.

Reviewed by Damnetha Jules
Damnetha  is a staff writer, horror book and movie critic.

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