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Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies
The Devourer and her Space-Zombie minions have destroyed untold planets.
Those worlds didn't have a Black Redneck.
***
Jefferson Balladeer is an African American who was adopted as an infant by the Balladeer family of Picayune, MS. When Ma and Pa Balladeer die in a car crash, it’s left to Jefferson’s older brother, Big Beau Balladeer, to raise Jefferson.
While Big Beau is large of heart and body, he’s not the ideal caregiver for the naturally intellectual Jefferson. Big Beau teaches young Jefferson the only thing he knows, how to be the ultimate redneck.
Jefferson grows up to be a rodeo star and an expert marksman, and, as Big Beau would say, a certified, grade A ass-kicker. Jefferson becomes known as the Black-Redneck.
When Jefferson is seventeen, he begins to question what he wants to do and who he really is. To further complicate matters, he finds out Pa-Balladeer told everyone that he adopted Jefferson so he could haul watermelons and cut wood.
Jefferson puts Picayune in his rear view mirror and doesn’t plan on ever stepping foot in Mississippi again.
Twelve years later, Big Beau gets himself killed in a drunk driving accident, and Jefferson learns he is the sole heir of Balladeer farm.
Jefferson decides to turn the massive plot of land into a huge subdivision. The people of Picayune are not happy.
Jefferson’s plan is going great until a creature known as the Devourer falls from the sky and begins turning the good people of Picayune into Space-Zombies. (Don’t you hate when that happens?)
What Jefferson thought of as a major inconvenience turns into a struggle for survival against a creature that has destroyed countless worlds.
Now, if Jefferson hopes to survive and save the world, he’ll have to remember all his rodeo and shooting skills. He’ll have to take one last ride as the Black-Redneck.
Those worlds didn't have a Black Redneck.
***
Jefferson Balladeer is an African American who was adopted as an infant by the Balladeer family of Picayune, MS. When Ma and Pa Balladeer die in a car crash, it’s left to Jefferson’s older brother, Big Beau Balladeer, to raise Jefferson.
While Big Beau is large of heart and body, he’s not the ideal caregiver for the naturally intellectual Jefferson. Big Beau teaches young Jefferson the only thing he knows, how to be the ultimate redneck.
Jefferson grows up to be a rodeo star and an expert marksman, and, as Big Beau would say, a certified, grade A ass-kicker. Jefferson becomes known as the Black-Redneck.
When Jefferson is seventeen, he begins to question what he wants to do and who he really is. To further complicate matters, he finds out Pa-Balladeer told everyone that he adopted Jefferson so he could haul watermelons and cut wood.
Jefferson puts Picayune in his rear view mirror and doesn’t plan on ever stepping foot in Mississippi again.
Twelve years later, Big Beau gets himself killed in a drunk driving accident, and Jefferson learns he is the sole heir of Balladeer farm.
Jefferson decides to turn the massive plot of land into a huge subdivision. The people of Picayune are not happy.
Jefferson’s plan is going great until a creature known as the Devourer falls from the sky and begins turning the good people of Picayune into Space-Zombies. (Don’t you hate when that happens?)
What Jefferson thought of as a major inconvenience turns into a struggle for survival against a creature that has destroyed countless worlds.
Now, if Jefferson hopes to survive and save the world, he’ll have to remember all his rodeo and shooting skills. He’ll have to take one last ride as the Black-Redneck.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2013
10 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Steven Roy
2 books33 followersHello,
I'm Steven Roy. I'm the author of such literary classics as Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies.
What? You don't think that is a literary classic? I guess you're entitled to your opinion. But, it is a book I wrote and you should check it out, because it's a lot of fun, and, let's face it, you could use some fun in your life.
I'm also a very pleasant fellow so add me as a friend or say hello.
I'm Steven Roy. I'm the author of such literary classics as Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies.
What? You don't think that is a literary classic? I guess you're entitled to your opinion. But, it is a book I wrote and you should check it out, because it's a lot of fun, and, let's face it, you could use some fun in your life.
I'm also a very pleasant fellow so add me as a friend or say hello.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 6, 2013
I must say, I've never read anything quite like this. The characters Roy created were endearing and imaginative. The story takes us on a journey through space and time and centers around Jefferson Balladeer, the Black Redneck. When Big Beau Balladeer dies in a car crash after leaving the local watering hole, his brother Jefferson returns to the town he fled from to escape his childhood home with a chip on his shoulder; Picayune, Mississippi... Check out my blog for the entire review
August 28, 2014
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies by Steven Roy This book has it all: a black redneck, which is probably what you’re thinking and space zombies, which is most likely NOT what you’re thinking.Once I started, I couldn’t put it down, and knocked it out in two days! What an exciting, emotional ride!I’ll start with Jefferson, the black redneck. He, of course, is our loveable hero. I mean, who wouldn’t love a black guy raised in the Deep South who ends up being a rodeo winning child prodigy? He is by far the most interesting book character I’ve ever met. He is likeable, even with his mistakes that he realizes is too late to make right.Adopted by a white family as an infant, he cured them of their “prejudice, not KKK prejudice, but, you know, the regular sort.” Because, it seems, “prejudice is no match for love."Okay, I admit it, that chapter put a lump in my throat and made me tear up. But there were plenty of laughable and fun moments, too.Each of the characters has their own story, and they are all full of life. From the foul-mouthed and sassy six-year-old Mary, whose feet are black because she never wears shoes, to the quiet Pearl, who faints at the slightest sign of trouble. Imagine what happens when she comes face to face with space zombies.The flow of this book works well, with only one exception: the flashbacks. I don’t mind that they are there. They are even placed at the right spot so that we glean just the right amount of information to know exactly what is going on in the characters’ heads - past and present. My only issue is that they are too in your face. Instead of announcing, “START FLASHBACK” and “END FLASHBACK,” I would have appreciated them being a tad more subtle. However, that is my only issue with the book, aside from a handful of grammatical errors, which seems to be the norm in any published book.I gave this book 4.5 stars, which I rounded up to 5, simply because it was so much fun to read! And I want more. Steven Roy wrapped up the story nicely, but I see potential for a sequel.If you love aliens, zombies, or, hell, even cowboys - or a combination of any of those - you've got to read this book! You won't be disappointed.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
[I originally read this book in January 2014. I am in the process of transferring my blog contents.]
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
[I originally read this book in January 2014. I am in the process of transferring my blog contents.]
October 2, 2013
I’ve never read a zombie book quite like Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies. The characters were likeable, the jokes were plentiful, and the action was nonstop. The zombies in this book weren’t like any other zombies that I’ve read about. They’re actually aliens that take over human bodies, rather than humans that get infected by a virus. The Devourer is a massive alien that destroys worlds by consuming all living beings in its path. When the Devourer destroys the spaceship that’s holding it prisoner, it plunges toward earth with one other alien who survived the blast. After crashing through the atmosphere, the Devourer lands in Picayune, Mississippi.
Meanwhile, Jefferson Balladeer (the Black Redneck) has returned to Picayune to attend his brother’s funeral. Jefferson left Picayune when he was just seventeen years old, leaving his southern roots behind to become a successful author. He is reluctant to go back to his southern ways, so he distances himself from his old neighbors. But he’s forced to relive his cowboy days when the Devourer takes over the woods behind his house.
There are also some moral lessons in this book. Most importantly, you should never turn your back on friends and family. And, of course, don’t forget your roots. I know it’s rare to find positive messages in zombie books, but this one is quite uplifting. If you’re a fan of zombies, aliens, or southern folk, then I highly recommend that you pick up a copy of Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies.
Meanwhile, Jefferson Balladeer (the Black Redneck) has returned to Picayune to attend his brother’s funeral. Jefferson left Picayune when he was just seventeen years old, leaving his southern roots behind to become a successful author. He is reluctant to go back to his southern ways, so he distances himself from his old neighbors. But he’s forced to relive his cowboy days when the Devourer takes over the woods behind his house.
There are also some moral lessons in this book. Most importantly, you should never turn your back on friends and family. And, of course, don’t forget your roots. I know it’s rare to find positive messages in zombie books, but this one is quite uplifting. If you’re a fan of zombies, aliens, or southern folk, then I highly recommend that you pick up a copy of Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies.
December 16, 2013
I never expected to cry while reading this, but I did and a few chapters later laughed my ass off. Favorite line: “My horse just took a shit in my living room. I’ve got redneck covered.” Don’t worry, it will make perfect sense when you get to it.
BR vs SZ has a quirky style reminiscent of script writing that fits the subject matter and tone of the book, but is definitely not a standard novel approach. The characters are well drawn and unforgettable; even the horse has personality and I cheered for Mary and Tom. When it comes to imagination, I give this story an eleven on a ten scale for the inclusion of a non-bipedal alien with a fully developed life cycle. Kudos.
I’m not wild about split story lines, but the aliens held my interest and the locals were people we’ve all met somewhere so I stuck with it. Most of the book managed a humorous tone without being ridiculous and balanced it with Jefferson Balladeer’s story that was personal and touching. This wasn’t a title that I normally would have picked up but I’m glad I did.
BR vs SZ has a quirky style reminiscent of script writing that fits the subject matter and tone of the book, but is definitely not a standard novel approach. The characters are well drawn and unforgettable; even the horse has personality and I cheered for Mary and Tom. When it comes to imagination, I give this story an eleven on a ten scale for the inclusion of a non-bipedal alien with a fully developed life cycle. Kudos.
I’m not wild about split story lines, but the aliens held my interest and the locals were people we’ve all met somewhere so I stuck with it. Most of the book managed a humorous tone without being ridiculous and balanced it with Jefferson Balladeer’s story that was personal and touching. This wasn’t a title that I normally would have picked up but I’m glad I did.
December 6, 2013
Here’s a sentence I never thought I’d utter: I just read a book entitled Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies and, at one point, I cried—actual tears! While not a perfect book, the unexpected gems this story offer make it very much worth reading.
The Story:
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies is the story of Jefferson Belladeer, an African American adopted and raised by self-proclaimed rednecks in Mississippi. As a youth, he embraced the redneck culture and, with the guidance of the big brother who raised him, became a rodeo star and all-around badass. However, upon discovering that his adoptive father had once been a racist, he rejects his family and friends, his childhood town, and all of his redneck interests. It takes the death of that brother to bring him home and force him to once again question just who he is. While he handles the selling of his brother’s property, a visitor from space takes up residence in his woods. And when a group of partying teens become an army of space zombies, Jefferson must once again rely on his redneck skill set to stay alive.
The Writing:
I very much enjoyed the writing, which was generally of a high quality. Roy has a real knack for using metaphors that are both vivid and funny (the chapter titles, too, are often funny). The dialogue is also consistently strong, especially the use of dialect. Right from the start, Roy creates a strong sense of setting and character, and does so with a light touch, not slowing down his story with tedious exposition. There are a spattering of typos and passages where frequent word repetition steals some of the music from the prose, but these were the minority.
What I Loved:
My favorite part of this book had nothing to do with zombies. Jefferson’s struggle with his identity was absolutely fascinating. As I said, I shed a few tears as Jefferson came to realize that, race aside, his redneck family had loved him. There were so many characters along the way that were far more complex and lovable than one would expect from a book that, on the surface, seems like mindless fun. Even Jefferson’s horse had personality. I don’t always like the use of flashbacks because I often find them to be lazy storytelling, but the flashbacks in this book were an absolute joy and gave the protagonist so much more depth. Of course, the story culminates with some pretty cool action scenes, but all of this emotional build up rendered those scenes far more significant: Jefferson being a badass redneck, riding a horse and shooting a huge gun, isn’t just cool to visualize, it’s his way of reconnecting with his brother and his childhood. Awesome.
What I didn’t Love:
My primary issue with Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies was the space zombie half of the equation. The story is told very much like movie, which, for me, was a weakness. In a monster movie, you expect the quick scenes of the monster to be intercut with the setup. It works in such a format. However, this same technique doesn’t necessarily work in a book. You see, the story was wonderful when it was about Jefferson and the other citizen of Picayune, but when it switched to the space monster or aliens the plot movement was so obvious and there were no characters for me to care about, so I was bored. It made for an inconstant reading experience. I’d get: interesting Jefferson scene, monster eats a squirrel, interesting Jefferson flashback, monster eats a deer, and so on. Once the action comes to a head this becomes a nonissue, but for the first half of the book it made for a very choppy experience.
So, while I did find the overall book a bit inconsistent, when it’s good it is really very good. For anyone who is interested in reading something a bit different I’d recommend checking this book out. Oh, yeah, and the cover artwork is stinking awesome.
The Story:
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies is the story of Jefferson Belladeer, an African American adopted and raised by self-proclaimed rednecks in Mississippi. As a youth, he embraced the redneck culture and, with the guidance of the big brother who raised him, became a rodeo star and all-around badass. However, upon discovering that his adoptive father had once been a racist, he rejects his family and friends, his childhood town, and all of his redneck interests. It takes the death of that brother to bring him home and force him to once again question just who he is. While he handles the selling of his brother’s property, a visitor from space takes up residence in his woods. And when a group of partying teens become an army of space zombies, Jefferson must once again rely on his redneck skill set to stay alive.
The Writing:
I very much enjoyed the writing, which was generally of a high quality. Roy has a real knack for using metaphors that are both vivid and funny (the chapter titles, too, are often funny). The dialogue is also consistently strong, especially the use of dialect. Right from the start, Roy creates a strong sense of setting and character, and does so with a light touch, not slowing down his story with tedious exposition. There are a spattering of typos and passages where frequent word repetition steals some of the music from the prose, but these were the minority.
What I Loved:
My favorite part of this book had nothing to do with zombies. Jefferson’s struggle with his identity was absolutely fascinating. As I said, I shed a few tears as Jefferson came to realize that, race aside, his redneck family had loved him. There were so many characters along the way that were far more complex and lovable than one would expect from a book that, on the surface, seems like mindless fun. Even Jefferson’s horse had personality. I don’t always like the use of flashbacks because I often find them to be lazy storytelling, but the flashbacks in this book were an absolute joy and gave the protagonist so much more depth. Of course, the story culminates with some pretty cool action scenes, but all of this emotional build up rendered those scenes far more significant: Jefferson being a badass redneck, riding a horse and shooting a huge gun, isn’t just cool to visualize, it’s his way of reconnecting with his brother and his childhood. Awesome.
What I didn’t Love:
My primary issue with Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies was the space zombie half of the equation. The story is told very much like movie, which, for me, was a weakness. In a monster movie, you expect the quick scenes of the monster to be intercut with the setup. It works in such a format. However, this same technique doesn’t necessarily work in a book. You see, the story was wonderful when it was about Jefferson and the other citizen of Picayune, but when it switched to the space monster or aliens the plot movement was so obvious and there were no characters for me to care about, so I was bored. It made for an inconstant reading experience. I’d get: interesting Jefferson scene, monster eats a squirrel, interesting Jefferson flashback, monster eats a deer, and so on. Once the action comes to a head this becomes a nonissue, but for the first half of the book it made for a very choppy experience.
So, while I did find the overall book a bit inconsistent, when it’s good it is really very good. For anyone who is interested in reading something a bit different I’d recommend checking this book out. Oh, yeah, and the cover artwork is stinking awesome.
November 6, 2013
Jefferson has to return home from his new successful life he has built for himself as a successful author. And he’s not very happy about it.
His childhood home is the small, rural town of Piacyune, Mississippi and he’s spent a long time denying he had any part of it – or the skills and persona he once adopted there. The locals aren’t too pleased with his return either and he has a lot of demons to fight.
He also has aliens to fight – the Devourer, a giant, jelly-fish monstrosity scarfing down catfish and turning people into zombies. And he thought locals opposing his property development and trespassing teenagers were the worst he’d have to deal with.
Ok, when I was sent this book I have to admit I looked at the title and said “you have got to be kidding me?!”
But I’ve been surprised by terribly titled books before and I read the text around it and thought I might be surprised. So I accepted, I read it and fully prepared to unleash the snark I was halfway certain I would need to review this book.
I am glad I gave it the chance. There will be no snark. This book was astonishingly deep and nuanced with many shades of characterisation and oppression.
Jefferson, the protagonist is a Black man raised in a predominantly White area of the rural south of the US; he was adopted by a White family and, when his adoptive parents died he was left in the care of his not particularly bright (but very caring) brother.
He faced racism – a considerable amount in fact – as you’d expect. It was well presented, from several sources and always made clear to be unacceptable. It wasn’t covered up or dismissed and it wasn’t sanitised –but nor was it presented in cartoonish, exaggerated sense with lots of melodrama and monologue milked out for every last iota of tortured-protagonist angst. It was an excellent, balanced presentation.
There was also a wonderfully nuanced depiction of well meaning, but short sighted liberal people in this place encouraging Jefferson, as a child to be whatever he wanted to be – and like many children who idolise their big brothers he says “I want to be a redneck like my brother”. Cue the liberal teacher both wanting to encourage him to achieve something more academic since he’s so intelligent – and not wanting to tell the only Black boy in her class that there’s a career he CANNOT do.
There’s a whole lot of nuance in the depiction. And this becomes more complex when we go on to an adult Jefferson who has left this tiny little rural town in the south and moved north to the big city and he’s a super successful author. He returns home for important non-spoiler-so-I-won’t-reveal reasons and his attitudes are very different. He has natural hostility for the racism he faced but there’s also a huge stripe of contemptuous classism. He’s ashamed of where he’s from, he lies in his author biographies, he looks down on his old friends and neighbours and the way they live.
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His childhood home is the small, rural town of Piacyune, Mississippi and he’s spent a long time denying he had any part of it – or the skills and persona he once adopted there. The locals aren’t too pleased with his return either and he has a lot of demons to fight.
He also has aliens to fight – the Devourer, a giant, jelly-fish monstrosity scarfing down catfish and turning people into zombies. And he thought locals opposing his property development and trespassing teenagers were the worst he’d have to deal with.
Ok, when I was sent this book I have to admit I looked at the title and said “you have got to be kidding me?!”
But I’ve been surprised by terribly titled books before and I read the text around it and thought I might be surprised. So I accepted, I read it and fully prepared to unleash the snark I was halfway certain I would need to review this book.
I am glad I gave it the chance. There will be no snark. This book was astonishingly deep and nuanced with many shades of characterisation and oppression.
Jefferson, the protagonist is a Black man raised in a predominantly White area of the rural south of the US; he was adopted by a White family and, when his adoptive parents died he was left in the care of his not particularly bright (but very caring) brother.
He faced racism – a considerable amount in fact – as you’d expect. It was well presented, from several sources and always made clear to be unacceptable. It wasn’t covered up or dismissed and it wasn’t sanitised –but nor was it presented in cartoonish, exaggerated sense with lots of melodrama and monologue milked out for every last iota of tortured-protagonist angst. It was an excellent, balanced presentation.
There was also a wonderfully nuanced depiction of well meaning, but short sighted liberal people in this place encouraging Jefferson, as a child to be whatever he wanted to be – and like many children who idolise their big brothers he says “I want to be a redneck like my brother”. Cue the liberal teacher both wanting to encourage him to achieve something more academic since he’s so intelligent – and not wanting to tell the only Black boy in her class that there’s a career he CANNOT do.
There’s a whole lot of nuance in the depiction. And this becomes more complex when we go on to an adult Jefferson who has left this tiny little rural town in the south and moved north to the big city and he’s a super successful author. He returns home for important non-spoiler-so-I-won’t-reveal reasons and his attitudes are very different. He has natural hostility for the racism he faced but there’s also a huge stripe of contemptuous classism. He’s ashamed of where he’s from, he lies in his author biographies, he looks down on his old friends and neighbours and the way they live.
Read More
October 20, 2013
Not Your Father's Zombie Book!
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies, by Steven Roy, is a colorful adventure. The characters are three-dimensional artistic creations, with the power to make you love them or hate them, but never ignore them or discount them. For example, Skeeter and Tater, meth manufacturers, made me want to crack their hard-headed skulls together. At the same time, I wanted to hug Old Ed and listen to his wisdom. Glen is a bully. His best friends are beer and television. The book also contains plenty of humor; a pile of fresh manure is an organic land mine.
Reading this book is like going into a dark cave and stumbling across strewn diamonds. As well as an entertaining alien zombie read, the novel is brimming over with symbolism. One example involves Jefferson's childhood. As a child, Jefferson competed against a stranger, with a special horse as the prize. He lost. The owner gave him the horse anyway, and told him: "In the old times, men of bravery were given horses, not just for what they had done, but to give them the opportunity for more bravery." The former owner of the horse said Jefferson was brave and very talented, which the horse also knew. He said Jefferson and the horse would do something very important one day.
When Jefferson returns as an adult, the horse Gray Man tries to kill him. The symbolism is compelling. Over time as a city dweller, Jefferson had changed from the Black Redneck to a successful author. He had lost touch with his inner redneck.
With a deft touch, Mr. Roy also deals with stereotypes, racism and child abuse. He brings a homespun, folksy touch to difficult topics, and he helps the reader see important messages while not standing on a soapbox.
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies would make an excellent graphic novel, movie, or television show. I recommend the book for young and adult readers. It's a great read, and I can't wait for the next Steven Roy book!
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies, by Steven Roy, is a colorful adventure. The characters are three-dimensional artistic creations, with the power to make you love them or hate them, but never ignore them or discount them. For example, Skeeter and Tater, meth manufacturers, made me want to crack their hard-headed skulls together. At the same time, I wanted to hug Old Ed and listen to his wisdom. Glen is a bully. His best friends are beer and television. The book also contains plenty of humor; a pile of fresh manure is an organic land mine.
Reading this book is like going into a dark cave and stumbling across strewn diamonds. As well as an entertaining alien zombie read, the novel is brimming over with symbolism. One example involves Jefferson's childhood. As a child, Jefferson competed against a stranger, with a special horse as the prize. He lost. The owner gave him the horse anyway, and told him: "In the old times, men of bravery were given horses, not just for what they had done, but to give them the opportunity for more bravery." The former owner of the horse said Jefferson was brave and very talented, which the horse also knew. He said Jefferson and the horse would do something very important one day.
When Jefferson returns as an adult, the horse Gray Man tries to kill him. The symbolism is compelling. Over time as a city dweller, Jefferson had changed from the Black Redneck to a successful author. He had lost touch with his inner redneck.
With a deft touch, Mr. Roy also deals with stereotypes, racism and child abuse. He brings a homespun, folksy touch to difficult topics, and he helps the reader see important messages while not standing on a soapbox.
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies would make an excellent graphic novel, movie, or television show. I recommend the book for young and adult readers. It's a great read, and I can't wait for the next Steven Roy book!
June 13, 2015
A high-five from the Toxic Avenger.
What can one say other than that the title delivers what it promises. In the spirit of low-budget, Friday night, monster B-movies - "Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies" is a fun and creative story that manages to elevate itself from its niche by adding a layer of thoughtful social commentary.
I'll jump right to the elephant in the room - or rather the title. "Black Redneck" in no way trivializes or avoids its racial suggestions. "Black Redneck" is, in fact, a title of honor that represents the ability of the main character, Jefferson, to rise to a level of what is considered equality in his hometown. And racial equality is dealt with in an honest and genuine scene which I thought was the best in the whole story. It's not preachy, but simply shows how attitudes can be passed down through generations (intentionally or not) and that it's the duty of the older generation to break that chain of thought in the younger. It's not belabored and therefore effective.
As for the story, its strength lies in the characters and dialog. The characters that need to be clear and strong are, and - in the tradition of the B-movie - there is a host of supplemental characters whose only purpose is to be fodder for the monster. The dialog between the characters is natural and smooth, with unique voices for each one that is very enjoyable to read.
When the time comes for descriptive passages, the prose tends to get over saturated with similes and repetitive words. An experienced editor would help to focus and streamline those passages as well as catch the handful of typos (and make this an unqualified 5 out of 5).
However, the fun, boisterous plot and excellent character development far overshadow any weakness. If you get why I mentioned the Toxic Avenger in the title, or just like a good monster yarn, then I recommend this story.
What can one say other than that the title delivers what it promises. In the spirit of low-budget, Friday night, monster B-movies - "Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies" is a fun and creative story that manages to elevate itself from its niche by adding a layer of thoughtful social commentary.
I'll jump right to the elephant in the room - or rather the title. "Black Redneck" in no way trivializes or avoids its racial suggestions. "Black Redneck" is, in fact, a title of honor that represents the ability of the main character, Jefferson, to rise to a level of what is considered equality in his hometown. And racial equality is dealt with in an honest and genuine scene which I thought was the best in the whole story. It's not preachy, but simply shows how attitudes can be passed down through generations (intentionally or not) and that it's the duty of the older generation to break that chain of thought in the younger. It's not belabored and therefore effective.
As for the story, its strength lies in the characters and dialog. The characters that need to be clear and strong are, and - in the tradition of the B-movie - there is a host of supplemental characters whose only purpose is to be fodder for the monster. The dialog between the characters is natural and smooth, with unique voices for each one that is very enjoyable to read.
When the time comes for descriptive passages, the prose tends to get over saturated with similes and repetitive words. An experienced editor would help to focus and streamline those passages as well as catch the handful of typos (and make this an unqualified 5 out of 5).
However, the fun, boisterous plot and excellent character development far overshadow any weakness. If you get why I mentioned the Toxic Avenger in the title, or just like a good monster yarn, then I recommend this story.
September 15, 2013
This novel is creative and has more depth to it than what is originally recognised. The characters are multi-dimensional and have completely seperate personalities which are easily liked and quickly, emotions are formed for those characters. That being said, the tale of Jefferson, alone, was highly predictable, nice and heart-warming, but predictable.
The sci-fi elements to this novel are great, they are original, inventive and creepy as all get out!! Roy has created aliens/zombies that are gorgeously horrible and that is a breath of fresh air, from the normal, slow moving, dead person looking zombies, and from the stereotypical, big headed aliens, so in that aspect this novel is great.
The plot is clear from the first few chapters, and that takes away from the novel slightly due to that predictability, only for the fact that the reader can work out how the novel is going to end, before it actually did, that being said, being taken along for the ride with the amazing characters Roy has created, makes that predictability seem un-important.
This novel, at 300 pages, feels a lot shorter than that, once the action begins to run at full pace, and you will fly through it before you realise you have done it, a great and inventive novel, with courageous and perhaps a little eccentric characters, my favourite by far is Mary, so if you are going to read this, look out for her ;)
A fun, fast paced read that deserves to be read, I gaurantee, even if this novel doesn't sound like it is for you, that you will like certain aspects about it, definetly is a novel for any YA reader or just anyone looking for something fresh and new within the Sci-fi-Zombie-Alien genre!
The sci-fi elements to this novel are great, they are original, inventive and creepy as all get out!! Roy has created aliens/zombies that are gorgeously horrible and that is a breath of fresh air, from the normal, slow moving, dead person looking zombies, and from the stereotypical, big headed aliens, so in that aspect this novel is great.
The plot is clear from the first few chapters, and that takes away from the novel slightly due to that predictability, only for the fact that the reader can work out how the novel is going to end, before it actually did, that being said, being taken along for the ride with the amazing characters Roy has created, makes that predictability seem un-important.
This novel, at 300 pages, feels a lot shorter than that, once the action begins to run at full pace, and you will fly through it before you realise you have done it, a great and inventive novel, with courageous and perhaps a little eccentric characters, my favourite by far is Mary, so if you are going to read this, look out for her ;)
A fun, fast paced read that deserves to be read, I gaurantee, even if this novel doesn't sound like it is for you, that you will like certain aspects about it, definetly is a novel for any YA reader or just anyone looking for something fresh and new within the Sci-fi-Zombie-Alien genre!
December 15, 2013
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies by Steven Roy is a sci-fi/fantasy featuring a modern day cowboy-turned-writer who battles an alien invasion in his backwoods.
Jefferson Balladeer returns home to Picayune, Mississippi to attend the funeral of his adopted brother, Big Beau. He is anxious to wrap up his white brother’s affairs, sell the family’s farmhouse, and return to his city life. Jefferson had left behind his harsh childhood as a black rodeo star, infamous for his stage name of “Black Redneck.”
Several million miles out from Earth, a bad bet turns horrible for aliens transporting a multi-tentacle monster that has a habit of infesting planets, turning the intelligent life forms into slaves, and eating all other living creatures in sight. This unstoppable beast escapes, crashes in Jefferson’s woods, and converts a group of partying locals into zombies.
Jefferson collects a gang of unlikely helpers that save the day. Author Steven Roy mixes shoot ‘em up, lassoing, and fancy horse riding with a clever squid alien. The story also has a “good guy” alien that resembles a robot, plus a clever little girl named Mary. She was my favorite character, and I smiled at how she won the day and dodged a lifetime of attending school, all at once.
A way to make this good story even better would be to give the characters more depth with their feelings, especially during fights or romantic scenes. Engaging additional senses like smell and sound would also make the tale more immersive.
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies is an enjoyable romp with a likable and reluctant hero. For fans of classic pulp fiction, this book is a recommended read.
Jefferson Balladeer returns home to Picayune, Mississippi to attend the funeral of his adopted brother, Big Beau. He is anxious to wrap up his white brother’s affairs, sell the family’s farmhouse, and return to his city life. Jefferson had left behind his harsh childhood as a black rodeo star, infamous for his stage name of “Black Redneck.”
Several million miles out from Earth, a bad bet turns horrible for aliens transporting a multi-tentacle monster that has a habit of infesting planets, turning the intelligent life forms into slaves, and eating all other living creatures in sight. This unstoppable beast escapes, crashes in Jefferson’s woods, and converts a group of partying locals into zombies.
Jefferson collects a gang of unlikely helpers that save the day. Author Steven Roy mixes shoot ‘em up, lassoing, and fancy horse riding with a clever squid alien. The story also has a “good guy” alien that resembles a robot, plus a clever little girl named Mary. She was my favorite character, and I smiled at how she won the day and dodged a lifetime of attending school, all at once.
A way to make this good story even better would be to give the characters more depth with their feelings, especially during fights or romantic scenes. Engaging additional senses like smell and sound would also make the tale more immersive.
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies is an enjoyable romp with a likable and reluctant hero. For fans of classic pulp fiction, this book is a recommended read.
November 18, 2013
It takes a very special kind of story to earn a five star review by knocking my socks off… this was one of those. The most entertaining book I’ve read this year is also chock full of symbolic scenes that deal with a host of social issues and stereotypical people and behavior. Jada Ryker, in her review, said it best, “With a deft touch, Mr. Roy also deals with stereotypes, racism and child abuse. He brings a homespun, folksy touch to difficult topics, and he helps the reader see important messages while not standing on a soapbox.”
That’s the serious, no bull part of this fascinating book; the rest of it is pure fantasy fun and rollicking adventures. Jefferson Balladeer (the Black Redneck), Old Ed, Little Mary and even the off-stage, dear departed Big Beau, through the other characters memory of him, are only some of the fully developed characters that easily captured my interest, empathy and imagination. These are the good guys and there are some equally three-dimensional bit players that, depending on your own disposition waffle between good and not so good. The really bad guys are simply phenomenal. Seriously, it must take a very special kind of fertile ingenuity to dream up the space zombies. They are fantastic in design and… well, I’ll not say more about them; you need to meet them on your own terms.
This is a must read for fantasy fans and anyone who gets a thrill from highly imaginative and skillful writing. Steven Roy is an author to watch… I certainly will be watching, and eagerly anticipating his next book!
That’s the serious, no bull part of this fascinating book; the rest of it is pure fantasy fun and rollicking adventures. Jefferson Balladeer (the Black Redneck), Old Ed, Little Mary and even the off-stage, dear departed Big Beau, through the other characters memory of him, are only some of the fully developed characters that easily captured my interest, empathy and imagination. These are the good guys and there are some equally three-dimensional bit players that, depending on your own disposition waffle between good and not so good. The really bad guys are simply phenomenal. Seriously, it must take a very special kind of fertile ingenuity to dream up the space zombies. They are fantastic in design and… well, I’ll not say more about them; you need to meet them on your own terms.
This is a must read for fantasy fans and anyone who gets a thrill from highly imaginative and skillful writing. Steven Roy is an author to watch… I certainly will be watching, and eagerly anticipating his next book!
February 22, 2016
I have to admit that when I saw this title, I cringed. I opened the book expecting to find the standard southern stereotypes and racism. Boy, was I wrong.
Steven Roy creates a story that could be ripped from the pulp classics, and gives it his unique style. Black Redneck vs Space Zombies is a fast moving story that makes you laugh, jump and maybe even tear up a bit. One of the things that I love most about this story is that Roy can tell an exciting adventure story,and do so without the need for graphic sex or violence. Now don't get me wrong, we have space zombies, tentacles and aliens, but Roy writes his tale in a style that lets you fill in the blanks. He hits that fine balance of showing you just enough to get your imagination sparked, without having to spell everything out in minute detail. Steven Roy doesn't go for the quick shock or the easy titillation. This tale is all meat and taters.
The characterization was more than enough to get you invested into the heros and their plight. The plot moved along at a quick pace, never bogging down. This would have made a great drive in movie, and I think Jefferson Balladeer deserves his own film or tv show. This is a story that could be easily told in prime time.
To me, it was money well spent, and this is a great book for a rainy afternoon. If you want a glimpse of what the next generation of pulp fiction looks like, then pick up a copy of Black Redneck vs Space Zombies. I will be looking for more from Steven Roy. He gets it.
Steven Roy creates a story that could be ripped from the pulp classics, and gives it his unique style. Black Redneck vs Space Zombies is a fast moving story that makes you laugh, jump and maybe even tear up a bit. One of the things that I love most about this story is that Roy can tell an exciting adventure story,and do so without the need for graphic sex or violence. Now don't get me wrong, we have space zombies, tentacles and aliens, but Roy writes his tale in a style that lets you fill in the blanks. He hits that fine balance of showing you just enough to get your imagination sparked, without having to spell everything out in minute detail. Steven Roy doesn't go for the quick shock or the easy titillation. This tale is all meat and taters.
The characterization was more than enough to get you invested into the heros and their plight. The plot moved along at a quick pace, never bogging down. This would have made a great drive in movie, and I think Jefferson Balladeer deserves his own film or tv show. This is a story that could be easily told in prime time.
To me, it was money well spent, and this is a great book for a rainy afternoon. If you want a glimpse of what the next generation of pulp fiction looks like, then pick up a copy of Black Redneck vs Space Zombies. I will be looking for more from Steven Roy. He gets it.
December 13, 2013
Black redneck vs space zombies by Steven Roy
This is a laugh out loud very readable tale of Jefferson an African-American who is adopted by a slightly racist white family whose brother teaches him to be a redneck and a rodeo star as a child. He later finds after his adopted parents died that his father wanted him for watermelon picking and leaves the town before his brother can explain things to him.
After his brother dies Jefferson is left everything and he intends to sell it all including his full of character horse gray man.
Unfortunately a devourer escapes its capture when the two aliens watching it are board and playing games. She escapes to earth and causes chaos luckily shorty also gets to earth.
All the characters are well written and developed. The writing is serious and funny and I like the transition between the characters As they are all different.
I liked that the zombies are space aliens and the interesting way they are transformed.
This is a fun easy read and it flowed so well
5 out of 5
This is a laugh out loud very readable tale of Jefferson an African-American who is adopted by a slightly racist white family whose brother teaches him to be a redneck and a rodeo star as a child. He later finds after his adopted parents died that his father wanted him for watermelon picking and leaves the town before his brother can explain things to him.
After his brother dies Jefferson is left everything and he intends to sell it all including his full of character horse gray man.
Unfortunately a devourer escapes its capture when the two aliens watching it are board and playing games. She escapes to earth and causes chaos luckily shorty also gets to earth.
All the characters are well written and developed. The writing is serious and funny and I like the transition between the characters As they are all different.
I liked that the zombies are space aliens and the interesting way they are transformed.
This is a fun easy read and it flowed so well
5 out of 5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2013
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies...sort of says it all really. You expect something fairly lively and fun-filled. You certainly get that but so much more as well. This is also the story of a man coming to terms with his past. Jefferson Balladeer learns that even if you try to leave who you were behind, that past can still save your neck when freaky glowing gelatine monsters attack.
Roy grabs your attention from the first page and maintains his grip all the way through. He does not hold back from gore and the deaths even of people who don't necessarily deserve their fates, though some certainly do. He has an evident affection for the great old pulp stories, modernized and polished up for a new audience.
Roy grabs your attention from the first page and maintains his grip all the way through. He does not hold back from gore and the deaths even of people who don't necessarily deserve their fates, though some certainly do. He has an evident affection for the great old pulp stories, modernized and polished up for a new audience.
August 10, 2016
Very fun and entertaining - I would have gladly given it 4 stars if it hadn't had so many typos.
(If author sees this, I would be happy to share the info.) If this book gets an update with another round of editing, I would feel happy recommending it. Also, it would make a fantastic gift for the kitsch value. :-)
I think the fabulous title has caused some inflammation of the ratings. Still, I did enjoy it, and I hope to learn of an updated more thoroughly edited version down the road (I'm not willing to buy it for anyone until that time).
Memorability factor: 9/10
Follow this author: If the synopsis sounds appealing, maybe.
(If author sees this, I would be happy to share the info.) If this book gets an update with another round of editing, I would feel happy recommending it. Also, it would make a fantastic gift for the kitsch value. :-)
I think the fabulous title has caused some inflammation of the ratings. Still, I did enjoy it, and I hope to learn of an updated more thoroughly edited version down the road (I'm not willing to buy it for anyone until that time).
Memorability factor: 9/10
Follow this author: If the synopsis sounds appealing, maybe.
October 18, 2013
I must admit, originally I saw this title and decided: 'this is not the book for me'. Then I thought I should be more open-minded and bought it.
I am so glad I made that decision. I have never read anything quite like this book before, therefore it is difficult for me to explain it. However, it is action packed; despite the presence of space zombies, the characters are very believable and the situation and description are vivid.
If you enjoy an exciting read and love a good adventure, this is the book for you. Don't judge the book by its title and give it a go!
I am so glad I made that decision. I have never read anything quite like this book before, therefore it is difficult for me to explain it. However, it is action packed; despite the presence of space zombies, the characters are very believable and the situation and description are vivid.
If you enjoy an exciting read and love a good adventure, this is the book for you. Don't judge the book by its title and give it a go!
October 31, 2018
Good book thanks not often i get to read something that is a suprise this book is i am a disabled.vet and good books are a wel
come.life.is.short.and.lost pretty easy most folks.don't know how easy it is to get hung up in trying to get as much as they can or get high or some other bullshit to bad they can't slow down and read a good book and leave there troubles for awhile thanks again
come.life.is.short.and.lost pretty easy most folks.don't know how easy it is to get hung up in trying to get as much as they can or get high or some other bullshit to bad they can't slow down and read a good book and leave there troubles for awhile thanks again
January 31, 2016
a much better book then the title would lead you to believe. It starts off like a 1980's "B" Sci-Fi/Action movie and as you read it, it becomes a much better book. Kinda sneaks up on you like that....Like the Devourer.
February 17, 2014
Never play games around dangerous cargo!!
August 15, 2020
More, please
Loved this soooo much! It’s a breath of fresh air with its originality, aliens, and action. I was surprised at the characterizations and a certain letter left me teary eyed. The description of small town life rang true. I loved the HEA. Days after reading, I’m still thinking about it and wanting book 2.
Loved this soooo much! It’s a breath of fresh air with its originality, aliens, and action. I was surprised at the characterizations and a certain letter left me teary eyed. The description of small town life rang true. I loved the HEA. Days after reading, I’m still thinking about it and wanting book 2.
September 14, 2022
It is what you think it's going to be, only better. A self-published novel by a very imaginative writer who decided to take the plunge without learning how to develop characters or the value of editors. It was a comic book. It was funny. And I enjoyed every page.
April 9, 2015
Black Redneck vs. Space Zombies is like a B-grade sci-fi movie, only in words. I found the story fun and fast-paced. The author has his way of getting the characters into your brain and making you love them (or feel sorry for them or hate them); it must be some sort of a space zombie hypnotic thing he learned from aliens.
The Black Redneck, Jefferson, returns home after being away for 10 years to get it ready to sell after his brother dies and discovers that there’s a mama alien living on the farm feeding on the animals and catfish, as well as creating new space zombies. Old Ed luckily had an arsenal of assault weapons hidden in his yard and Daisy, the game warden who has had a crush on the Black Redneck since Day 1, as well as neighbors and squirrel-hunting bare-footed siblings, six-year-old Mary and brother, Tom, help annihilate them, one by one. Mary becomes their leader when the “nice” alien robot Shorty injects her brain with vast knowledge of the universe but more importantly, knowledge on how to kill the alien zombies. She helps in the slaughter by accurately tossing grenades, and giving the order for everyone to “Fire! Kill that bitch!” with their assorted weapons. Shorty, the robot alien even helps kill the mama alien (the Devourer) by releasing tiny little spider robots that were hidden in his mysterious canister, along with his expert “space kung fu postures,” and his “black-belt-theatre-jump-spin,” with his sword, which accurately kills three space zombies back-to-back by chopping off their heads.
This story made me smile and laugh out loud, and I even felt sad a time or two. The love and tenderness between Jefferson and his horse he left behind on the farm, Gray Man, brought tears to my eyes and then I laughed when Gray Man “played dead” while sneaking a peek at his owner. The letter that Jefferson’s brother wrote but never sent brought me to tears as well and that was when I had the “aha!” moment about the story and a deeper understanding of Jefferson and his family.
I loved the way the author uniquely describes different scenes: “Tom jumped forward and landed on Glen’s back, like one of those guys at SeaWorld riding a killer whale.” “Zombie Glen’s leg poured blood as he shuffled toward her like a traditional zombie.” “Kirby did a fist pump like he had just thrown the winning touchdown in the Super Bowl.” Oh man, I could go on and on. But my favorite of all: “The beds of the pickups were loaded with fully armed rednecks. For the first time in the history of the universe, a black guy felt relief at such a sight.”
The author uses creativity in his chapter headings too; no boring chapter numbers for this book: Mary Sees A Monster; Sexy Game Warden vs. Space Zombies; Daisy Ain’t Dead Yet; You Can’t Trust Aliens. Also the nicknames for people, objects and places, rock: Monster Anne, Zombie Glen, City Boy, Fort Awesome, Big Bang and Sweet Darling (homemade weapons).
Seriously, I haven’t had this much fun since watching Mystery Science Theatre 3000 back in the 90s. While there could have been more work done with the depth of the characters, I still give this entertaining story a 5-star review and after finishing it “the reviewer had arms in the air as if she had just won the million dollars in the Publisher’s Clearing House Sweepstakes!”
The Black Redneck, Jefferson, returns home after being away for 10 years to get it ready to sell after his brother dies and discovers that there’s a mama alien living on the farm feeding on the animals and catfish, as well as creating new space zombies. Old Ed luckily had an arsenal of assault weapons hidden in his yard and Daisy, the game warden who has had a crush on the Black Redneck since Day 1, as well as neighbors and squirrel-hunting bare-footed siblings, six-year-old Mary and brother, Tom, help annihilate them, one by one. Mary becomes their leader when the “nice” alien robot Shorty injects her brain with vast knowledge of the universe but more importantly, knowledge on how to kill the alien zombies. She helps in the slaughter by accurately tossing grenades, and giving the order for everyone to “Fire! Kill that bitch!” with their assorted weapons. Shorty, the robot alien even helps kill the mama alien (the Devourer) by releasing tiny little spider robots that were hidden in his mysterious canister, along with his expert “space kung fu postures,” and his “black-belt-theatre-jump-spin,” with his sword, which accurately kills three space zombies back-to-back by chopping off their heads.
This story made me smile and laugh out loud, and I even felt sad a time or two. The love and tenderness between Jefferson and his horse he left behind on the farm, Gray Man, brought tears to my eyes and then I laughed when Gray Man “played dead” while sneaking a peek at his owner. The letter that Jefferson’s brother wrote but never sent brought me to tears as well and that was when I had the “aha!” moment about the story and a deeper understanding of Jefferson and his family.
I loved the way the author uniquely describes different scenes: “Tom jumped forward and landed on Glen’s back, like one of those guys at SeaWorld riding a killer whale.” “Zombie Glen’s leg poured blood as he shuffled toward her like a traditional zombie.” “Kirby did a fist pump like he had just thrown the winning touchdown in the Super Bowl.” Oh man, I could go on and on. But my favorite of all: “The beds of the pickups were loaded with fully armed rednecks. For the first time in the history of the universe, a black guy felt relief at such a sight.”
The author uses creativity in his chapter headings too; no boring chapter numbers for this book: Mary Sees A Monster; Sexy Game Warden vs. Space Zombies; Daisy Ain’t Dead Yet; You Can’t Trust Aliens. Also the nicknames for people, objects and places, rock: Monster Anne, Zombie Glen, City Boy, Fort Awesome, Big Bang and Sweet Darling (homemade weapons).
Seriously, I haven’t had this much fun since watching Mystery Science Theatre 3000 back in the 90s. While there could have been more work done with the depth of the characters, I still give this entertaining story a 5-star review and after finishing it “the reviewer had arms in the air as if she had just won the million dollars in the Publisher’s Clearing House Sweepstakes!”
August 26, 2016
The title of this book has everything to do with a great sci-fi zombie story and just a hint of racism. Jefferson Balladeer ’was adopted by a white redneck family and grew up wanting to be the first Black Redneck. At the age of seventeen, he is told a half truth about his adoption and leaves Picayune, Mississippi in a huff, never looking back, until his adopted brother dies ten years later. Jefferson comes back to handle the affairs and sell off the estate ASAP. He wants nothing to do with his hometown or the people he knew growing up. Unbeknownst to him, an alien life form, called the Devourer, has decided to take up residency on his land. Specifically in his catfish ponds. And so the battle begins.
The plot is pretty straightforward for a hero battling monster story. The chapters are short and listed as quirky title names vs numbers; The Devourer Feeds On Birds. There are some flashback scenes, which Steven Roy clearly states are flashbacks. I’m not sure if Steven did this on purpose, keeping in the theme of a B-rated movie, or he just didn’t know how to segue from one scene to another.
Most of the main characters are very compelling. The ones that stick out in my mind are Jefferson, Mary and Tom, and Gray Man and Old Ed. I thought Daisy’s character could have been enhanced a bit, but the story is from a male perspective. Maybe he doesn’t understand women that well. Oh, and I almost forgot Shorty and of course the Devourer. I thought Steven did a great job in describing the biology of an alien life form and how the alien grew and reproduced herself.
I enjoyed some of the witty and humorous dialogue. And the story did draw me in and I couldn’t wait to get to the end. But the story is told in a stilted narrative style, telling vs showing, and I know this story would have been so much better if the author had spent just a bit or time with filling in the emotional gaps. I felt like this was a 2nd or 3rd draft and not the polished script. And please, get rid of the over usage of metaphors.
Steven Roy acknowledges that he had an editor, but you couldn’t tell it. There are so many grammar errors, cause and effect errors and past and present errors that get in the way of the reading. Supposedly he corrected some of these errors. I would hate to see what this story looked like before.
Final Analysis: Even though I really like the story and would recommend the book, I can only give 3 feathers. It’s just not fair to other Indie Authors who actually take the time and spend the money to make their books presentable. BTW, awesome cover.
The plot is pretty straightforward for a hero battling monster story. The chapters are short and listed as quirky title names vs numbers; The Devourer Feeds On Birds. There are some flashback scenes, which Steven Roy clearly states are flashbacks. I’m not sure if Steven did this on purpose, keeping in the theme of a B-rated movie, or he just didn’t know how to segue from one scene to another.
Most of the main characters are very compelling. The ones that stick out in my mind are Jefferson, Mary and Tom, and Gray Man and Old Ed. I thought Daisy’s character could have been enhanced a bit, but the story is from a male perspective. Maybe he doesn’t understand women that well. Oh, and I almost forgot Shorty and of course the Devourer. I thought Steven did a great job in describing the biology of an alien life form and how the alien grew and reproduced herself.
I enjoyed some of the witty and humorous dialogue. And the story did draw me in and I couldn’t wait to get to the end. But the story is told in a stilted narrative style, telling vs showing, and I know this story would have been so much better if the author had spent just a bit or time with filling in the emotional gaps. I felt like this was a 2nd or 3rd draft and not the polished script. And please, get rid of the over usage of metaphors.
Steven Roy acknowledges that he had an editor, but you couldn’t tell it. There are so many grammar errors, cause and effect errors and past and present errors that get in the way of the reading. Supposedly he corrected some of these errors. I would hate to see what this story looked like before.
Final Analysis: Even though I really like the story and would recommend the book, I can only give 3 feathers. It’s just not fair to other Indie Authors who actually take the time and spend the money to make their books presentable. BTW, awesome cover.
April 29, 2014
Jefferson Balladeer is an African American who was adopted as an infant by the Balladeer family of Picayune, MS. When Ma and Pa Balladeer die in a car crash, it’s left to Jefferson’s older brother, Big Beau Balladeer, to raise Jefferson.
While Big Beau is large of heart and body, he’s not the ideal caregiver for the naturally intellectual Jefferson. Big Beau teaches young Jefferson the only thing he knows, how to be the ultimate redneck.
Jefferson grows up to be a rodeo star and an expert marksman, and, as Big Beau would say, a certified, grade A ass-kicker. Jefferson becomes known as the Black-Redneck.
When Jefferson is seventeen, he begins to question what he wants to do and who he really is. To further complicate matters, he finds out Pa-Balladeer told everyone that he adopted Jefferson so he could haul watermelons and cut wood.
Jefferson puts Picayune in his rear view mirror and doesn’t plan on ever stepping foot in Mississippi again.
Twelve years later, Big Beau gets himself killed in a drunk driving accident, and Jefferson learns he is the sole heir of Balladeer farm.
Jefferson decides to turn the massive plot of land into a huge subdivision. The people of Picayune are not happy.
Jefferson’s plan is going great until a creature known as the Devourer falls from the sky and begins turning the good people of Picayune into Space-Zombies. (Don’t you hate when that happens?)
What Jefferson thought of as a major inconvenience turns into a struggle for survival against a creature that has destroyed countless worlds.
Now, if Jefferson hopes to survive and save the world, he’ll have to remember all his rodeo and shooting skills. He’ll have to take one last ride as the Black-Redneck.
This book was so much fun! You get to know and love the characters right away (Jefferson is NOT your typical redneck), then it takes off for a wild ride. Kind of reminded me of a great B-movie. It will have you laughing out loud,and a few teary-eyed spots as well. Well written and fast paced. I can't wait to see more by this author!! A solid read I give it 4.5 stars.
While Big Beau is large of heart and body, he’s not the ideal caregiver for the naturally intellectual Jefferson. Big Beau teaches young Jefferson the only thing he knows, how to be the ultimate redneck.
Jefferson grows up to be a rodeo star and an expert marksman, and, as Big Beau would say, a certified, grade A ass-kicker. Jefferson becomes known as the Black-Redneck.
When Jefferson is seventeen, he begins to question what he wants to do and who he really is. To further complicate matters, he finds out Pa-Balladeer told everyone that he adopted Jefferson so he could haul watermelons and cut wood.
Jefferson puts Picayune in his rear view mirror and doesn’t plan on ever stepping foot in Mississippi again.
Twelve years later, Big Beau gets himself killed in a drunk driving accident, and Jefferson learns he is the sole heir of Balladeer farm.
Jefferson decides to turn the massive plot of land into a huge subdivision. The people of Picayune are not happy.
Jefferson’s plan is going great until a creature known as the Devourer falls from the sky and begins turning the good people of Picayune into Space-Zombies. (Don’t you hate when that happens?)
What Jefferson thought of as a major inconvenience turns into a struggle for survival against a creature that has destroyed countless worlds.
Now, if Jefferson hopes to survive and save the world, he’ll have to remember all his rodeo and shooting skills. He’ll have to take one last ride as the Black-Redneck.
This book was so much fun! You get to know and love the characters right away (Jefferson is NOT your typical redneck), then it takes off for a wild ride. Kind of reminded me of a great B-movie. It will have you laughing out loud,and a few teary-eyed spots as well. Well written and fast paced. I can't wait to see more by this author!! A solid read I give it 4.5 stars.
August 31, 2014
Read it for the title alone
As the author states in his afterword, this is a B-movie premise written as a serious novel. Like any B-movie worth its salt, it must be embraced, flaws and all, to be fully appreciated. This novel is chock full of flaws - grammar, spelling, and so on - but is entertaining enough to look past the flaws and keep reading. Proofreading and basic editing would do much to take this book to the next level. It was a fun read, a guilty pleasure like every well-executed B-movie should be.
As the author states in his afterword, this is a B-movie premise written as a serious novel. Like any B-movie worth its salt, it must be embraced, flaws and all, to be fully appreciated. This novel is chock full of flaws - grammar, spelling, and so on - but is entertaining enough to look past the flaws and keep reading. Proofreading and basic editing would do much to take this book to the next level. It was a fun read, a guilty pleasure like every well-executed B-movie should be.
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