Norman and Madeline, a young couple eager for a new beginning, move to the idyllic town of Stellarville, hoping for a peaceful new life. But beneath its serene surface lies a chilling Dr. Hans Muller, infamously known as "Doctor Murder." Obsessed with defying death, Muller creates a serum that reanimates the dead—only to turn them into monstrous horrors. As the virus spirals out of control, Norman and Madeline are torn apart, trapped in the chaos, and forced to fight for survival alongside a group of survivalists. Will they escape the once-enchanted town before it’s too late?
Vincent Casil is an author with a passion for blending genres. His creative journey began in the visual arts and music production, but his love for storytelling led him to writing. Starting with blogging and inspired by his fascination with movies, Vincent transitioned into novels. In 2022, he self-published his debut novel Carbon Planet: Our Destiny in the Stars, followed by SWARM: The Pentalogy in 2023, a single-volume collection of his five-part novella series. Vincent continues to explore new horizons, delving into science fiction, postmodernism, apocalypse, dystopian themes, magical realism, drama, and humor. Besides writing, he is also a passionate music producer under the artist name Vincent Projects, with his albums available on Spotify, Apple Music, and more at www.vincentprojects.weebly.com
Vincent Casil delivers in “Pestilent: A Zombie Apocalypse Novel” a gripping story that combines classic elements of the horror genre with touches of dark fantasy and intense action. The novel explores the theme of survival in a world devastated by a zombie apocalypse, while also delving into the depths of the human soul faced with despair and loss.
The story begins in a post-apocalyptic world where a virus that turns humans into zombies is unleashed by a monstrous, cataclysmic entity. This creature, capable of spreading a deadly virus through grotesquely inventive methods, becomes the central symbol of the disaster. From scenes of brutal combat to tense human interactions, Casil masterfully builds an atmosphere of suspense that keeps the reader on edge.
Casil crafts his characters with vivid detail, showcasing both their strengths and vulnerabilities. Another standout aspect of the novel is the introduction of unique and memorable locations, such as Crystal Lake, once a haven of life now transformed into a desolate landscape. Stellarville, on the other hand, offers a contrasting image of sanctuary while harboring a potential for destruction.
The descriptions of locations, such as abandoned cities and mountain landscapes, add a cinematic dimension to the novel. Each setting becomes a character in itself, with its own story and atmosphere. The battles between survivors and zombies are described with impressive attention to detail, creating tense and adrenaline-filled moments. Although it is a horror novel, Casil delves into deeper themes such as sacrifice, morality in times of crisis, and family bonds.
“Pestilent: A Zombie Apocalypse Novel” is an engaging read that successfully brings something new to a well-explored genre. Through its complex characters and richly described world, Vincent Casil creates a memorable story that will delight fans of both horror and post-apocalyptic fiction. If you’re looking for a book to keep you on the edge of your seat, this book is definitely worth adding to your reading list!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Definitely a different twist to a zombie story. I liked most aspects of the story. They’re going back-and-forth of his historical timelines in the story was a little distracting at times. However, this is still a good read for a zombie story and I would recommend it.