The remaining characters from Craig DiLouie’s The Infection
(see review elsewhere here) continue their struggle for survival in this zombie
monster-mash adventure.
I slowly became re-acquainted with Anne, the tormented
leader of the group as well as Todd, a young man who has had to grow up fast. New
characters are also introduced and bring their own issues to the story.
This sequel really kicks off when Camp Defiance, the refuge
valiantly defended in the previous novel, falls foul of infection. Following
this incident Ray (a survivor of infection) soon realises he can communicate
with the infected, not only with the humans, but also the hideous creatures
born of the virus.
The others decide that Ray either has to be eliminated
before he causes any further catastrophe or be captured as he surely holds the
key to any potential cure.
Each characters hazardous journey continues separately
before we come to the final bloody confrontation where true motives emerge and
loyalties are decided.
The Infection was a fantastic zombie novel and while this
doesn’t quite reach the same emotional level it’s a more than adequate
continuation of a story that doesn’t rely on blood and gore. By concentrating
on the inner torment faced by those involved DiLouie has created a series that
should appeal beyond the preconceived notions of the genre.
The Killing Floor is available in ebook and trade paperback
from Permuted Press.
Ric’s Rating: Highly Recommended.
