Allison Hewitt Is Trapped: A Zombie Novel

From the New York Times bestselling author of ASYLUM comes one woman's story as she blogs - and fights back - the zombie apocalypseAllison Hewitt and her five colleagues at the Brooks and Peabody Bookstore are trapped together when the zombie outbreak hits. Allison reaches out for help through her blog, writing on her laptop and utilizing the military's emergency wireless network (SNET). It may also be her only chance to reach her mother. But as the reality of their situation sinks in, Allison's blog becomes a harrowing account of her edge-of-the-seat adventures (with some witty sarcasm thrown in) as she and her companions fight their way through ravenous zombies and sometimes even more dangerous humans. "Madeline Roux manages to answer the eternal question all of us must ask ourselves eventually: "When the zombie apocalypse comes (and it will come), how will I handle it?" For my part, I hope I manage it with as much humanity and determination as Allison. But I would like to make a request for bigger weapons."--Christine Warren, New York Times bestselling author of The Others series

From Publishers Weekly

Plot gaps diminish this otherwise exciting horror adventure debut. When the zombie apocalypse breaks out, bookstore clerk Allison escapes the titular trap and finds a group of survivors at a community center, including handsome astronomy professor Collin. Complications--aside from the usual attacks by ravenous undead--include religious zealots, paramilitary survivalists, and Collin's estranged and intimidating wife. As Allison blogs about her experience on SNet, an emergency military network, commenters provide some sense of the disaster's scope, but there's little explanation for how she created the blog and why no other sites are mentioned. Likewise, a pivotal early attack by a zombified squirrel is ignored later as the heroes traipse through the woods ignoring all nonhumanoid threats. These flaws aren't enough to hide Roux's obvious talent for witty characters and gory action sequences, but they will frustrate attentive readers. (Jan.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.

From Booklist

Roux’s debut tells the story of a zombie apocalypse through the eyes of Allison Hewitt, graduate student and bookstore employee. Allison is working in the bookstore when she sees one her regular customers have her head bitten off. It’s clear that something very bad has happened. Alison and the survivors lock themselves into the back rooms, hiding out from the relentless zombies. In an attempt to stave off her loneliness and connect with the outside world, Allison begins a blog (blog entries and comments from readers are included at the end of every chapter). The use of the blog as a storytelling device, drawing in additional characters and points of view, helps enliven what is otherwise an average zombie story, albeit one with plenty of action and a high body count. Suggest it to zombie fans who enjoyed Ben Tripp’s Rise Again (2010) or Charlie Huston’s Sleepless. --Jessica Moyer

Ilona Andrews, New York Times bestselling author of Magic Bleeds

“Finally, a zombie apocalypse done right. ALLISON HEWITT IS TRAPPED is a smart and furious thrill-ride, touched with just the right mix of humor and romance. Madeleine Roux's stunning characters and breathless action are unforgettable.”

Christine Warren, New York Times bestselling author of The Others series

“Madeline Roux doesn't just offer an engaging and addictive adventure story, though she's certainly done that; she manages to answer the eternal question all of us must ask ourselves eventually: "When the zombie apocalypse comes (and it will come), how will I handle it?" For my part, I hope I manage it with as much humanity and determination as Allison. But I would like to make a request for bigger weapons.”

MaryJanice Davidson, New York Times bestselling author

“I've never laughed so much while being so creeped out...Roux did the impossible: she made zombies funny.”

Reader to Reader Reviews

“Roux achieved a perfect blend of humor, horror, and heartbreaking sadness.”

Crimespree Magazine

“...damn entertaining and fun book... The combination of humor and action really work here and it's a wonderful way to spend a few hours with a smile on your face, and all the lights on...”

About the Author

Madeleine Roux received her BA in Creative Writing and Acting from Beloit College in 2008.  In the spring of 2009, Madeleine completed an Honors Term at Beloit College, proposing, writing and presenting a full-length historical fiction novel.  Shortly after, she began the experimental fiction blog Allison Hewitt Is Trapped.  Allison Hewitt Is Trapped quickly spread throughout the blogosphere, bringing a unique serial fiction experience to readers.Born in Minnesota, she now lives and works in Wisconsin where she enjoys the local beer and preparing for the eventual and inevitable zombie apocalypse.

Reviews

News