Undead Chaos

The Shifter Chronicles #1

by Joshua Roots

The job was decapitate the zombie, get paid, get out. Warlock Marcus Shifter followed the plan perfectly.

The corpse, however, did not.

Now there's a body on the loose, accusations of illegal necromancy are flying, and the answers are waiting in the perilous alleys between the mortal and paranormal worlds. They're no place for someone who mostly gave up magic after a childhood accident. And given his tendency to shoot off his mouth and his Glock, Marcus is having a hell of a time digging up more than just bodies.

When an apocalypse-minded megalomaniac threatens Marcus's family, things get personal. Marcus will have to embrace the magic he's been avoiding for years—and even that might not be enough to save the world from a hellish demise.

86,000 words

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Zombies, Paranormal, Magic, Audiobook

237 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 28, 2013

About the author

Joshua Roots is a car enthusiast, beekeeper, and storyteller. He enjoys singing with his a cappella chorus, golf, and all facets of Sci-Fi/Fantasy. He's still waiting for his acceptance letter to Hogwarts and Rogue Squadron. He and his wife will talk your ear off about their bees if you let them.

Reviews

[Ami · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 stars rounded up

Somehow, I felt Marcus to be very young, and rather too naive -- therefore I wasn't quite impressed with him. He was a nice hero, though -- have quite a number of friends who's willing to help. Marcus also was in good relationship with his parents, which made this a rarity for me. In most of urban fantasy I read, parents are usually the problem (ha!). I liked the secondary characters, most notably Steve the Minotaur and Jones the drunk Oracle.

So will I continue book 2? We'll see...

[Travis Starnes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will start by saying I generally am not a fan of the urban fantasy genre. I have been talked into reading several of the major works in the genre and almost universally disliked all of them. Thankfully this book broke that streak, although maybe that is because it didn’t step on the same landmines that so many of the books in this genre hit. Most importantly this isn’t a romance novel dressed up to be science fiction or fantasy. It is closer to a fantasy novel dressed up as a mystery, a fusion of two genres I do enjoy.

The characters, while not unique or overly fleshed out, are all generally fun to read about. While we have seen the “straight talking hero who bucks authority but does what’s right” type of character many times before, here it is done pretty well. It is to Root’s credit that this is a good version of that character and if not unique is at least a well done stereotype. What generally make this type of book work are the supporting characters and their interaction with the protagonist and in Undead Chaos this really shines. While still mostly stereotypes the supporting cast is top notch and their interaction with Marcus is really enjoyable.

Beyond avoiding the romance tropes this genre seems to love the writing is what makes this book work. The plot itself is interesting, the mystery is worth following and the book has a great sense of humor. I am a fan of a good mystery and while not up to the standards of the greats of mystery writing this book really holds its own. There were a few good plot twists and red herrings thrown out with just enough information given to the reader to guess what is going on, if they are paying attention. The other big thing that makes this book work is the sense of humor. The book doesn’t take itself overly seriously which is what is really needed to make this work. The dialogue is generally pretty clever and you can’t help but like Marcus and his team of misfits.

http://homeofreading.com/undead-chaos/

[Regan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This debut urban fantasy is a light, action-packed read. Marcus Shifter is the prodigal son of a wealthy Skilled family. Despite having a father who works for the ruling Delwinn Council and a strong family legacy, Marcus works as a freelancer, and it's answering a call for a quick zombie dispatching that starts him down a twisting trail of finding, then losing, then finding a necromancer with a reputation for working dark, illegal spells. What starts as an investigation into a seemingly impossible resurrection turns into a quest to determine the truly guilty from the unjustly-accused, and uncovers a large, bloody conspiracy.

Marcus is aided by Quinn, the necromancer's lovely and powerful daughter, Forlorn Jones, a drunken oracle, Millie, a powerful maternal figure running a diner with the world's best service, and Steve the Minotaur. This book is worth it for Steve alone, but Roots weaves a fun mystery that also examines the value of loyalty and the strength to be found in family.

[Diane · Rating 2 out of 5]

There were a lot of similarities to Harry Dresden And because of that it fell short. The differences and main character didn't hook me. I thought he was kind of goofy and some of the magic was kind of corny.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was ok, but I grew to dislike the hero and his brand of "charm". More like smarm. Ugh.

[Franklin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was good; it could have been a lot better.

The major story line ends up being resolved fairly simply and quickly and all the build-up to it at the end just becomes basically an "eh". Instead the actual ending of the book comes to be about resolving a psychological trauma of the main character -- but it was too, too much given how little was spent with the main plot's ending.

It was a very bad choice by the writer for the main character's last name and the series' title to be "Shifter" as it is *only* a name, but given this is an urban fantasy, it falsely leads one to think it is about a shape-"shifter". (I was actually glad it was not, because I have come to find most such themed-novels tiresome, especially given it has become a cliché for gay supernatural romance novels. *ugh*)

The bees were great.

It is obviously set for a sequel ("Chronicles #1" is a Big Clue) which I suspect I will read if I can find it cheap just to see if that is a better-written story.
. . .

[Ken Finlay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Warlock Marcus Shifter has the talent but, due to youthful fecklessness, not the magical strength to adequately back it up.
Now an adult he's working on it.
A phone call about a threatening zombie leads to an unsettling encounter with Anthony Banks, he's definitely dead but not as dead as he should be. If anything he's getting less dead all the time - it's a conundrum!
Someone highly skilled in the Dark Arts has brought Necromancy to a new level and Marcus is certain that this is not a good thing.
"Undead Chaos" is better than the sum of its parts - standout characters include the Bees, Steve the minotaur, the drunken seer Jones, not forgetting Anthony Banks. It's also got a good sense of fun and, most of the time, doesn't take itself too seriously.
I enjoyed reading it but felt it didn't cover any new ground (maybe I was spoiled by the Dresden Files).
3 Stars.

[J.A. Nielsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastical Romp

This is a super fun read filled with adventure, magic, quippy humor, and more than a hint of intrigue. It opens with the hilariously troubling visual of an undead man pining for his wife. Flabby, naked, and armed. In a mansion neighborhood just outside of D.C. Dispatching the weeping zombie proves troublesome --since the man won't stay dead. This kicks off a fast-paced quest for our charming main character, Marcus, leading him to the magical world 's dark underground. It ends with an explosive finish, with just enough loose threads that I look forward to the next book in this series.

[Carrie Chi Lough · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was a fast read and had some impactful moments. Truthfully, this is a good book to pick if you are looking for something light to read with some pretty interesting monsters.

However, I had difficulty in believing that Marcus ever actually struggled in this book, even with the world possibly ending. Without fail, someone either really powerful or resourceful was always around to help him and his development was hindered because of that.

[Jai Rahim · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.50 stars rounded up
First time reading this author.
I really enjoyed this story, it was entertaining and humorous. I can’t describe how pleasantly surprised I was when I saw that William Dufris was the narrator. I discovered William’s work late last year, and was totally blown away by his skills. I will definitely be reading the remaining two books in this series.

[Skye Blue ☆*~ﾟლ(´ڡ`ლ)~*☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it. can't wait to read the next one

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally reviewed for & posted at Vampire Book Club

Review source: copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review

Rating (out of 5): 3.5 stars

When Marcus Shifter, a freelancer combat warlock for the Delwinn Council, chops the head off a shotgun brandishing zombie, he takes his earnings and walks away on a job well done; something felt off though. Seeking the advice of a dark necromancer on parole, Marcus gets the shock of a lifetime when the once decapitated zombie is up, brandishing weapons again and apparently healing. Definitely off…like, way off.

Marcus must use all his contacts to uncover just what is going on and clear the name of an innocent man from the clutches of the council. It soon becomes apparent though that dark magic, the likes of which is unheard of, is stirring and its reach goes much further than just one zombie. Armed with his sword and magical abilities that are still not quite up to speed after a hiatus from the skilled world, Marcus finds himself in the middle of a possibly apocalyptic fights that will test him like never before.

Chaos Undead has gotten me all enthused because this is going to be a fun world to play in. Normals (non-magical humans) have been aware of the Skilled (the supernatural) for a couple of decades but it’s still not quite smooth sailing. Marcus’ family, the Shifters, are extremely powerful and somewhat infamous after centuries of policing the skilled. Nowadays, the Delwinn council performs this task, and even though his father (with whom he has a great relationship) is a member, Marcus got issues with the council.

This is a large world so there is the curse of worldbuilding slowing down the pace in areas. Marcus’ investigation involves a lot of information gathering, each meeting providing a building block for not just the plot but the world as well. I never found it overwhelming, and it was broken up with some great action sequences, but the place I felt suffered the most was in some of the characters’ relationships. Marcus spends a good chuck of the book in the Underground, an in-between realm that caters to the fringes of skilled society, which was awesome (it reminded me of Knockturn Alley) but did mean we didn’t spend much time with earlier introduced characters until later in the book.

Which is a shame, because his parents are badass! Ever wondered what happens to paranormal romance couples a few decades down the road? Well the Shifters are a couple I’d loved to read the beginnings of. Marcus meets some characters (in every sense of the word) in the underground, with Steve the Minotaur and Pip the bookworm being highlights. The one character I didn’t really get on with was Quinn, daughter of the dark necromancer. It wasn’t that I didn’t like her, but she didn’t feel as fleshed at as the other characters. While I enjoyed seeing Marcus strive to impress her, the attraction felt rushed.

I really enjoyed being inside Marcus’ head. He’s caring, funny and comes across as a genuinely good guy. He’s also self-deprecating, doesn’t see himself as a hero and has a huge case of the guilts. His reason for walking away from his magic for a time reveals itself as the plot progresses and I liked that there was already character growth in this first installment.

Chaos Undead is a great introduction, showcasing a likeable main character and tons of potential to this world. While I had a couple of issues, the story kept me intrigued, with a villain that’s bat crap crazy (in a super extreme and fun way) and a big all-out-battle climax. It’s Marcus’ contention with the council and their shady vibes, however, that will have me reaching for the next book, Summoned Chaos, out July 28.

Sexual content: none

[Lissibith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating, 3.5 stars. this book was written by a friend at Absolute Write.

Marcus Shifter, a warlock from a family of extremely talented individuals, does a freelance job. It seems like it should be simple, but the questions raised by his target lead to all sorts of things, including run-ins with naked zombies, his own personal nemesis and some things he'd rather forget (yeah, that includes the naked zombie ;-) )

This book reminds me a lot of Discount Armageddon by way of Libriomancer - the hidden world existing alongside the normal one, the special training, the variety of ways one can engage and the focus on action.

Marcus is an entertaining hero, but I found myself really drawn to a lot of the secondary characters - particularly a kick-butt mother; the coolest minotaur I've read about in a while; and Marcus' personal and professional nemesis, who was not in it enough for my tastes :)

If there was one drawback to this book, it's that things occasionally felt a little too easy on our hero. Not in the overarching story sense, but in some of the details. However, the fast pace, the solid action and the great voice of the narrator made this a minor complaint.

Definitely looking forward to the next in the series.

[Yolanda Sfetsos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I pre-ordered this book shortly after really enjoying the blurb. I mean, I couldn't resist this:

"The job was simple: decapitate the zombie, get paid, get out. Warlock Marcus Shifter followed the plan perfectly.

The corpse, however, did not."

Definitely sounded like something I would enjoy, and I was right! :)

Marcus Shifter is a warlock from an old, powerful family that packs quite a magical punch. However, when a simple job goes wrong and the zombie he was sure he'd killed wakes up and runs away, all hell breaks loose. Asking a necromancer and his daughter to help only makes things worse. Until hiding in the Underground becomes his best option.

I loved Marcus! He was such a crack up, and he has bees. There aren't enough beekeepers in UF. ;) He's a guy struggling to keep a haunting incident from his past from consuming him. A man who wants to protect his family, but also clear someone's name when they are wrongly accused. There are a lot of very cool characters in this book, and I found the world fascinating.

This book turned out to be a LOT of fun! Loved it.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

So with the Pop culture references, the jokes and even naming his car, I put this book in the wishes it was Dresden pile pretty early but i kept reading because the world interested me, it was my kind of humour and I like the Dresden files. I'm glad I did because this is a great book.

This is a world where magic is if only recently out in the open so there is none of that cover stuff. You don't have to have him mind his shop in the opening chapter so you know it's still there. At the same time there is still the level of mistrust that the magic never feels mundane.

Then while I was still enjoying finding out what the rules where I realised I loved these characters and not just one or two, every single one of them is a joy to read and you want to know what happens to them next.

In short if you enjoy urban fantasy read this.

[Rosalind M · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. I really enjoyed the introduction to Marcus and his "girls" (who I hoped would have a larger role). However, there were some plot conveniences that pulled me out of the story: An area that had become so dangerous that regulars have deserted it, yet there's a bookstore open with a lone ten-year-old greeting customers. The one person our hero needs to talk to, who's supposed to be difficult to find, turns up down the street. One of the best and brightest the Council has to offer has conveniently lax security measures when searching a suspect. A weapon that chooses its wielder makes it into the right hands the moment it is pulled from storage. These occurrences and others made my absorption into Marcus's world falter because I kept thinking, "This shouldn't have been that easy!"

[Ken · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read - worth the time and price

It was a good read. Yes I will purchase and read the next book. Not exactly original idea since part has shades of others work but still was different enough to be enjoyed. Interesting world with 'skilled and normal' interacting. It does add a nice element to the storyline. If you read the overview (back cover for us older folks who did most of reading from paper books in the past : ) ) and thought it would be interesting to read I recommend the price and time to read.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I don't read a lot of paranormal fantasy, but this was very well written. I particularly enjoyed the first two-thirds before it turned into a typical "action movie" kind of book. I loved the depth of the world and characters, and thought that this was more thought out than many such stories. I will definitely be reading more in the series.

[Angela]

11 July 2014: $0.99 on Kindle

[Nicole Luiken · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun urban fantasy. Good opening, authentic action sequences, and some fun secondary characters (ex. Steve the minotaur, Forlorn Jones the drunken Oracle). I was also charmed by the bees--not a critter one sees much of in fantasy.
Quibble: Quinn felt a bit underdeveloped.

[Curtis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well Done!

This book is a well done, good read that any fan of urban fantasy should read. Not only is the story witty, fast-paced and interesting, the editing is awesome. Root obviously spent quality time in both creation and polishing. Well done! Buy it.

[Tina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Flawed hero, quirky secondary characters, necromancy and zombies ... what's not to like? looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Shawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like it very similar in style too Verus books, and Heliqiun Mage books

[Maya · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars Audible Edition.