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Benton #1
Benton
Zombies have killed everyone in the Benton household--all except twenty-something Jennifer. She's escaped her bedroom, but what now? Waterbank, Illinois is overrun. Where can she go?
A chance encounter with seven other young survivors points her toward Texas. A charismatic, handsome young man named Mark says he can lead them all to his family's ranch. He's sure they'll be safe there. Jennifer wants to trust him, with her life and possibly her heart.
There's no place else to go, there's no way to escape the zombies but through, and there's no telling if Jennifer and Mark will live long enough to act on the emotion building between them.
Benton: A Zombie Novel Volume One at Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KFPP3Q6
A chance encounter with seven other young survivors points her toward Texas. A charismatic, handsome young man named Mark says he can lead them all to his family's ranch. He's sure they'll be safe there. Jennifer wants to trust him, with her life and possibly her heart.
There's no place else to go, there's no way to escape the zombies but through, and there's no telling if Jennifer and Mark will live long enough to act on the emotion building between them.
Benton: A Zombie Novel Volume One at Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KFPP3Q6
161 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 18, 2014
19 people are currently reading
947 people want to read
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Jolie du Pre
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 28, 2014
I'm afraid I'm a very logical and nitpicking person at times, especially when an author tries to sell me a "strong hero/ine". A sine qua non to that effect is that strong and intelligent hero/ines do not behave TSTL.
This here novel started out nicely with a gritty twen who watches her mother being chewed by zombies and turn into one herself, only to try get at her daughter. The heroine had the good common sense of collecting items of survival and travel well before things got truly bad and indeed manages to flee from her home before it gets overrun by zombies. She then makes for the highway and watches how other people driving deal with zombies, which should give her an idea just how friendly and nice everyone out there is. So when she next stops and opens her car in unknown territory to take a leak that was that for me. Sorry, but can you be more stupid than that? Hardly.
So, I was out of the story at this point. All the nice build-up as a strong heroine fell flat on its face at that point. Hint: it is possible to take a leak and rid yourself of the liquid without leaving the car and somewhere where you can see people approaching.
Sorry, but this was too much to now trust the author not to induce other WTF-moments.
SPaG okay, hence rounded up from 1.5*--and maybe this is more for people truly into zombies.
This here novel started out nicely with a gritty twen who watches her mother being chewed by zombies and turn into one herself, only to try get at her daughter. The heroine had the good common sense of collecting items of survival and travel well before things got truly bad and indeed manages to flee from her home before it gets overrun by zombies. She then makes for the highway and watches how other people driving deal with zombies, which should give her an idea just how friendly and nice everyone out there is. So when she next stops and opens her car in unknown territory to take a leak that was that for me. Sorry, but can you be more stupid than that? Hardly.
So, I was out of the story at this point. All the nice build-up as a strong heroine fell flat on its face at that point. Hint: it is possible to take a leak and rid yourself of the liquid without leaving the car and somewhere where you can see people approaching.
Sorry, but this was too much to now trust the author not to induce other WTF-moments.
SPaG okay, hence rounded up from 1.5*--and maybe this is more for people truly into zombies.
August 15, 2014
Cue this one up for your next zombie short-story read!
I started and finished this one on my 1.5 hour walk. With its action packed pace, I found myself lost inside the story barely noticing the miles that passed under my feet as I walked.
Two plots run through this short story. A zombie plot which I give 4.5 stars and the romance plot which I give 4 stars.
Due to an on-page sex scene I caution that this book is not for young and/or sensitive readers.
With that said, I recommend this book to Adult Readers of Horror - Zombie fiction.
I started and finished this one on my 1.5 hour walk. With its action packed pace, I found myself lost inside the story barely noticing the miles that passed under my feet as I walked.
Two plots run through this short story. A zombie plot which I give 4.5 stars and the romance plot which I give 4 stars.
Due to an on-page sex scene I caution that this book is not for young and/or sensitive readers.
With that said, I recommend this book to Adult Readers of Horror - Zombie fiction.
June 17, 2014
I received this book to give an honest review.
I love reading about zombies, yes I know that there are a lot of people out there that are like zombies? Gosh I am so tired of them, but for some deep dark reason I love them. Maybe its because they will make good target practice since you have to aim for the head to kill them or at least make them stay dead lol.
So anyway back on to the story, so when I saw this was a zombie book I had to get my hands on it. I really loved the whole scene Jennifer is a normal girl but then the zombie outbreak hits. Okay pause for a second I felt as though there was no back story as to why the zombie outbreak hit. I really wish this was thrown in here. Now back to the review. Well then the zombie outbreak hits close to home like her family. And Jennifer has to become strong and independent. Which I think is good for a main character to be. But then it seemed rushed, she finds another group of people and then next you know they are on their way to Texas. When Mark sets his eyes on Jennifer which I think is cute, I felt it to be rushed. Like I just met you, oh we are flirting lets be together. You know that type of rushing. Then the ending I felt was perfect like it all comes full circle for Jennifer to know what I mean well you have to read the story to find out.
I literally was hooked in the book and found it to be entertaining but there were times that I felt as Jennifer was more of a teenager than a 23 year old. And one of the other characters Katie OMG I wanted to smack her she was constantly screaming I mean really? Don't ya know girl that screaming attracts zombies? Zombie 101.
I would really recommend this book for those that like zombies and are okay with reading a short story. This is more of YA book. Hoping there is a book two in the works soon.
I love reading about zombies, yes I know that there are a lot of people out there that are like zombies? Gosh I am so tired of them, but for some deep dark reason I love them. Maybe its because they will make good target practice since you have to aim for the head to kill them or at least make them stay dead lol.
So anyway back on to the story, so when I saw this was a zombie book I had to get my hands on it. I really loved the whole scene Jennifer is a normal girl but then the zombie outbreak hits. Okay pause for a second I felt as though there was no back story as to why the zombie outbreak hit. I really wish this was thrown in here. Now back to the review. Well then the zombie outbreak hits close to home like her family. And Jennifer has to become strong and independent. Which I think is good for a main character to be. But then it seemed rushed, she finds another group of people and then next you know they are on their way to Texas. When Mark sets his eyes on Jennifer which I think is cute, I felt it to be rushed. Like I just met you, oh we are flirting lets be together. You know that type of rushing. Then the ending I felt was perfect like it all comes full circle for Jennifer to know what I mean well you have to read the story to find out.
I literally was hooked in the book and found it to be entertaining but there were times that I felt as Jennifer was more of a teenager than a 23 year old. And one of the other characters Katie OMG I wanted to smack her she was constantly screaming I mean really? Don't ya know girl that screaming attracts zombies? Zombie 101.
I would really recommend this book for those that like zombies and are okay with reading a short story. This is more of YA book. Hoping there is a book two in the works soon.
August 15, 2014
wow. I read this book in a hour. it flew by so fast it felt like I was done in minutes. A very fast paced book.
Easy to connect with the characters. I'm really not much of a zombie book reader, this is only my fourth one. but I have to say I liked it.
The sex scenes not for everyone so I'd say if you don't like that kind of stuff don't read it. theirs no holding back in this one. some may find it offensive. just a warning.
As for Jennifer Benton I loved her character. she strong and still has that breaking point. she's a normal human being not to hard not soft. Marks great also and it's nice to read something good coming out of a zombie apocalypse.
I have to say I think their could have been a bit more detail in parts, all of a sudden Jennifer's waking up from being knocked out. she was just talking , did he hit her with his gun or punched her so hard she only remembered seeing blackness come upon her? you get the idea.
just a few small things but other wise a great story.
I hope to see another book to this short story because I really want to know more about all of them. old man Bill and his survival, Katie, of course Jennfer and Mark.
do they make it? Is it safe? do they create a life?
I recommend this to anyone who wants a decent fast zombie read.
I was given this book for a honest review.
Easy to connect with the characters. I'm really not much of a zombie book reader, this is only my fourth one. but I have to say I liked it.
The sex scenes not for everyone so I'd say if you don't like that kind of stuff don't read it. theirs no holding back in this one. some may find it offensive. just a warning.
As for Jennifer Benton I loved her character. she strong and still has that breaking point. she's a normal human being not to hard not soft. Marks great also and it's nice to read something good coming out of a zombie apocalypse.
I have to say I think their could have been a bit more detail in parts, all of a sudden Jennifer's waking up from being knocked out. she was just talking , did he hit her with his gun or punched her so hard she only remembered seeing blackness come upon her? you get the idea.
just a few small things but other wise a great story.
I hope to see another book to this short story because I really want to know more about all of them. old man Bill and his survival, Katie, of course Jennfer and Mark.
do they make it? Is it safe? do they create a life?
I recommend this to anyone who wants a decent fast zombie read.
I was given this book for a honest review.
June 17, 2018
Actual rating - 3.5
June 14, 2014
Where to start. Well, zombie novels tend to be written at a "breakneck" pace but this one was more like a whiplash! I had to sprint to keep up with it and that's not always a good thing. The premise was really good and I enjoyed and felt the personalities for the characters, the writing however, needs a little sprucing. I found the sentence forms and wording a little elementary, especially coming from a twenty-something MC. And so much happened in within such a short telling: Jen loses her mom, a group saves her from zombies, she stays in a garage with said group, they lose people, they leave in van, find store, stock up on supplies, stay in abandoned buildings, lose more people, rescues people, gets kidnapped, gets away, stays w/a family, gets told to leave, finds bf, goes back to group, finds missing van, heads to TX, the end.
Everything felt too easy for an apocalypse or maybe it was the pace of the writing that threw me. I just couldn't connect. I personally feel it needed more "filler & fluff" for it to feel real & maybe hold my attention.
Hopefully Volumn 2 will be better.
Everything felt too easy for an apocalypse or maybe it was the pace of the writing that threw me. I just couldn't connect. I personally feel it needed more "filler & fluff" for it to feel real & maybe hold my attention.
Hopefully Volumn 2 will be better.
June 10, 2014
This is a great book that moves right along with the story. The main character is a 23 year old woman named Jennifer Benton. She has witnessed her mom being attacked and turned into a zombie. When she sets out on her adventure to find safety she realizes it’s worse than she imagined. She stops to use the bathroom and her car is stolen, that is when she meets up with a group of young survivors that have taken refuge in a garage. They have all worked together and have quite the setup going on. Together they head out to find a zombie free zone and meet other survivors along the way.
Jennifer is kidnapped by one of her “friends” and has to escape. Luckily she runs into a nice family that helps her. Some of the characters get eaten by zombies along the way, but you will have to read the book to find out who makes it and who doesn’t. I really got in to this story. I caught myself yelling don’t do it and quit freaking screaming and run for goodness sake. The characters are very likable and interesting. Can’t wait for book 2.
Jennifer is kidnapped by one of her “friends” and has to escape. Luckily she runs into a nice family that helps her. Some of the characters get eaten by zombies along the way, but you will have to read the book to find out who makes it and who doesn’t. I really got in to this story. I caught myself yelling don’t do it and quit freaking screaming and run for goodness sake. The characters are very likable and interesting. Can’t wait for book 2.
July 16, 2020
Love this book
I couldn't put this book down! I am anticipating the next book already and can't wait to start it. Mark and Jen and the while cast of characters are all so interesting. Julie Do Pre writes a great mix of zombie and love story.
I couldn't put this book down! I am anticipating the next book already and can't wait to start it. Mark and Jen and the while cast of characters are all so interesting. Julie Do Pre writes a great mix of zombie and love story.
January 24, 2021
Too much romance for a zombie story. Good thing it had some other interesting stuff going on. The characters were ok but just not that unique.
December 7, 2024
I doubt I will ever listen to this again. So many opportunities for this to be great but it was far from it.
August 31, 2025
I found this book back when I was in my zombie era, thirsty for stories about the very first days of the outbreak. I’m always curious to see how people react at the start, and this short novel delivered exactly that. Quick, easy to read, and exactly what I was looking for. I really enjoyed it.
August 17, 2015
ABR's original Benton audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
If you are a fan of television shows like The Vampire Diaries, Dawson’s Creek, or movies like Mean Girls or Twilight… you’re probably going to love Benton: A Zombie Novel volume one by Jolie Du Pre . Perhaps even more so because it’s a short listen at just about two and a half hours.
Benton is advertised as a young adult dystopian novel so I went into the listening of it as such. The story’s protagonist is a teenaged girl from Illinois named Jennifer Benton who is the daughter of a survivalist. When the story begins her family has been devoured by the dead, and she must leave home and find shelter, food and safety on her own. The first book in the series chronicles her early struggles with that journey, and her chance encounter with a group of teenaged survivors that she joins.
In terms of plot and execution Benton is a fine book. While the story doesn’t go anywhere unexpected, it doesn’t disappoint as a result. It’s a straightforward post-apocalyptic journey with all the troubles and trials you’d expect. There are jerk survivors, jerk zombies, a little bit of guns and gore, and difficult decisions being made as the group gets strong-armed by a member into a trip south to warmer Texas for safety and to reunite with friends and family, despite the odds of making it there.
I did find the language of the book to be a little troubling in the light that it is supposed to be young adult. There were well over a dozen uses of the f-bomb, as well as many other sections of crude language as well as a very strangely placed oral sex encounter later in the story that felt… shall we say inserted… to play on the romantic notions of teenaged readers. If you’re a parent with a teen that wants to read this book, be advised the language and sex felt much more mature to me. Closer to the 16-19 age range than the 13-15 year olds. I wasn’t impressed with how the relationship was portrayed (think; silly crush for shallow reasons that turns sexual quickly), but then again I’m not a teenaged girl trying to survive the zombie apocalypse.
The characters are decently portrayed, the dialogue is suitable for the most part, and the book is reasonably well done.
The prose is very easy to read and arguably has been written too simply to inspire. Adjectives are plain and the action scenes especially suffer. There are frequent exchanges like; “I shot the zombie. It fell.” Not much to inspire the imagination in terms of descriptive text. It felt to me as I listened to be a book written in the zombie genre to try and capture the Twilight audience.
If you’re looking for light post-apocalyptic fare that plays it a bit safe on the gore and is suitable for later-year teenagers, Benton is a fine choice.
Having said that the recording by Angie Hickman is excellent. She uses considerable talent to bounce between characters and bring life to the book and reads at a rather quick pace that felt easy to follow, and should easily grab the attention of younger and older readers alike. I’ll be looking forward to her reading other stories, and I’m looking forward to listening to her narrate Benton’s second volume.
Audiobook provided for review by the author.
If you are a fan of television shows like The Vampire Diaries, Dawson’s Creek, or movies like Mean Girls or Twilight… you’re probably going to love Benton: A Zombie Novel volume one by Jolie Du Pre . Perhaps even more so because it’s a short listen at just about two and a half hours.
Benton is advertised as a young adult dystopian novel so I went into the listening of it as such. The story’s protagonist is a teenaged girl from Illinois named Jennifer Benton who is the daughter of a survivalist. When the story begins her family has been devoured by the dead, and she must leave home and find shelter, food and safety on her own. The first book in the series chronicles her early struggles with that journey, and her chance encounter with a group of teenaged survivors that she joins.
In terms of plot and execution Benton is a fine book. While the story doesn’t go anywhere unexpected, it doesn’t disappoint as a result. It’s a straightforward post-apocalyptic journey with all the troubles and trials you’d expect. There are jerk survivors, jerk zombies, a little bit of guns and gore, and difficult decisions being made as the group gets strong-armed by a member into a trip south to warmer Texas for safety and to reunite with friends and family, despite the odds of making it there.
I did find the language of the book to be a little troubling in the light that it is supposed to be young adult. There were well over a dozen uses of the f-bomb, as well as many other sections of crude language as well as a very strangely placed oral sex encounter later in the story that felt… shall we say inserted… to play on the romantic notions of teenaged readers. If you’re a parent with a teen that wants to read this book, be advised the language and sex felt much more mature to me. Closer to the 16-19 age range than the 13-15 year olds. I wasn’t impressed with how the relationship was portrayed (think; silly crush for shallow reasons that turns sexual quickly), but then again I’m not a teenaged girl trying to survive the zombie apocalypse.
The characters are decently portrayed, the dialogue is suitable for the most part, and the book is reasonably well done.
The prose is very easy to read and arguably has been written too simply to inspire. Adjectives are plain and the action scenes especially suffer. There are frequent exchanges like; “I shot the zombie. It fell.” Not much to inspire the imagination in terms of descriptive text. It felt to me as I listened to be a book written in the zombie genre to try and capture the Twilight audience.
If you’re looking for light post-apocalyptic fare that plays it a bit safe on the gore and is suitable for later-year teenagers, Benton is a fine choice.
Having said that the recording by Angie Hickman is excellent. She uses considerable talent to bounce between characters and bring life to the book and reads at a rather quick pace that felt easy to follow, and should easily grab the attention of younger and older readers alike. I’ll be looking forward to her reading other stories, and I’m looking forward to listening to her narrate Benton’s second volume.
Audiobook provided for review by the author.
November 21, 2014
BENTON: A Zombie Novel
Written by Jolie DuPre
Narrated by Angie Hickman
I received a free audiobook version of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Jennifer Benton is a 23 year old University graduate who has no idea what to do with the rest of her life. So, she moves back home with her mother.
When they begin hearing news reports of a pandemic and that the people who die from the disease are soon reanimated, Jennifer’s mother tries to convince her to trust the government to contain and eradicate any threat.
Jennifer’s father died a few years before this story begins, but not before he shared with her his distrust of government. He also taught her how to shoot a rifle and many other skills that he thought she might need one day.
Since Jennifer does not share her mother’s faith in the government, her Survivalist nature kicks in. She gathers supplies and tries to prepare for the eventual arrival of the zombies in her hometown.
However, no amount of preparedness or vigilance is enough to save her mother from the zombies.
After her mother is killed, Jennifer decides to leave her home and try to find other survivors. She meets up with a small group of people and together they set out from Illinois to journey to a safe-house in Texas.
The problem is that there are literally hundreds of thousands of zombies in their path. And, zombies may end up being the least of their problems.
WHAT I LIKED:
I liked that Jennifer showed preparedness and had a Survivalist father who taught her about survival before he died. This story-line provides opportunities for a multitude of plot lines.
It is a fast paced book and I listened to the entire audiobook in one night.
The narrator did a terrific job. Her tone of voice is perfect and she uses just the right amount of inflection in her voice. Also, the speed at which she narrates is ideal.
WHAT I DID NOT LIKE:
I think the author rushed this book along too quickly. I would have liked to have read more details on each situation that Jennifer finds herself in. For instance, when she finds the group that she eventually decides to travel with, they tell her that the Center is a place to be avoided. I would have liked to have some back-story on the Center and why they now avoid it.
Also, there is an eventual (sort-of) sex scene. But it seemed that it was added for no reason. It does not advance the relationship of the characters in any way or even come across as loving. It actually comes across as crude and I thought it actually cheapened their relationship rather than enhancing it.
OVERALL
My overall rating of this book is 3.5 out of 5 stars. I rated it this way because I believe that this series has potential. Since this is only the first book in a series, I will be very interested to see what obstacles Jennifer and her group face as they try to get to Texas, and if Texas will actually be the haven that they are hoping it will be.
You can read this review and many others on my blog at:
http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Written by Jolie DuPre
Narrated by Angie Hickman
I received a free audiobook version of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Jennifer Benton is a 23 year old University graduate who has no idea what to do with the rest of her life. So, she moves back home with her mother.
When they begin hearing news reports of a pandemic and that the people who die from the disease are soon reanimated, Jennifer’s mother tries to convince her to trust the government to contain and eradicate any threat.
Jennifer’s father died a few years before this story begins, but not before he shared with her his distrust of government. He also taught her how to shoot a rifle and many other skills that he thought she might need one day.
Since Jennifer does not share her mother’s faith in the government, her Survivalist nature kicks in. She gathers supplies and tries to prepare for the eventual arrival of the zombies in her hometown.
However, no amount of preparedness or vigilance is enough to save her mother from the zombies.
After her mother is killed, Jennifer decides to leave her home and try to find other survivors. She meets up with a small group of people and together they set out from Illinois to journey to a safe-house in Texas.
The problem is that there are literally hundreds of thousands of zombies in their path. And, zombies may end up being the least of their problems.
WHAT I LIKED:
I liked that Jennifer showed preparedness and had a Survivalist father who taught her about survival before he died. This story-line provides opportunities for a multitude of plot lines.
It is a fast paced book and I listened to the entire audiobook in one night.
The narrator did a terrific job. Her tone of voice is perfect and she uses just the right amount of inflection in her voice. Also, the speed at which she narrates is ideal.
WHAT I DID NOT LIKE:
I think the author rushed this book along too quickly. I would have liked to have read more details on each situation that Jennifer finds herself in. For instance, when she finds the group that she eventually decides to travel with, they tell her that the Center is a place to be avoided. I would have liked to have some back-story on the Center and why they now avoid it.
Also, there is an eventual (sort-of) sex scene. But it seemed that it was added for no reason. It does not advance the relationship of the characters in any way or even come across as loving. It actually comes across as crude and I thought it actually cheapened their relationship rather than enhancing it.
OVERALL
My overall rating of this book is 3.5 out of 5 stars. I rated it this way because I believe that this series has potential. Since this is only the first book in a series, I will be very interested to see what obstacles Jennifer and her group face as they try to get to Texas, and if Texas will actually be the haven that they are hoping it will be.
You can read this review and many others on my blog at:
http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
June 20, 2014
I wanted to try out a zombie novel for quite some time. I do have some on my TBR pile, and have won a few that are just waiting to be read! When I saw this novel I figured I could squeeze it into my schedule and it really was a quick read! Zombies freak me out... I don't normally touch anything with zombies especially movies, so this was venturing into new territory for me. In some ways, this was a very young read and it fits into the YA category very well.
Characters & Story line: 2.5/5
I had to do some thinking when it came to this review. Since this is not my normal type of book. I tried to come from a neutral perspective. I felt that the characters needed some development, and I did not always understand what motivated their actions and decisions.
There was a conversation between Jennifer & Mark about God & religion that seemed a bit out of place. I can understand why it came up but it was just kind of out of the blue and very short and not necessary.
Jennifer - Jennifer is sweet & a survivalist. I'm not sure if I would stay sane if I saw what she saw and went through what she did. Jennifer needs a little bit fire to her personality. She seems to be a natural at everything. I want to know more about her as a person, and her history. I don't understand some of the things that she says or decisions that she makes.
Mark is such a sweet character. I liked him. Gary is such an ass. He is the one who got under Jen's skin. Katie is annoying. I think all she does is scream and get paralysed every time she sees a Zombie.
Plot, Pace, Writing style: 2.5/5
The writing style is kind of staccato and doesn't flow smoothly. The pace is good and the plot is interesting, but also a bit predictable in some ways. I would have liked to know more about how the apocalypse happened and just some more story-building in this regard - it is briefly mentioned initially and had such an intriguing unique take on Zombies. I think if this was elaborated on, it would have given the story some 'juice'.
Jolie brings quite a hectic twist into the story near the end, which sort of saved it for me.
Cover talk 4/5:
I actually really liked this cover. It gives a creepy kick-butt type feel to it.
Final Thoughts: This was an OK read for a Zombie novel and I would like to know what happens in book 2.
Characters & Story line: 2.5/5
I had to do some thinking when it came to this review. Since this is not my normal type of book. I tried to come from a neutral perspective. I felt that the characters needed some development, and I did not always understand what motivated their actions and decisions.
There was a conversation between Jennifer & Mark about God & religion that seemed a bit out of place. I can understand why it came up but it was just kind of out of the blue and very short and not necessary.
Jennifer - Jennifer is sweet & a survivalist. I'm not sure if I would stay sane if I saw what she saw and went through what she did. Jennifer needs a little bit fire to her personality. She seems to be a natural at everything. I want to know more about her as a person, and her history. I don't understand some of the things that she says or decisions that she makes.
Mark is such a sweet character. I liked him. Gary is such an ass. He is the one who got under Jen's skin. Katie is annoying. I think all she does is scream and get paralysed every time she sees a Zombie.
Plot, Pace, Writing style: 2.5/5
The writing style is kind of staccato and doesn't flow smoothly. The pace is good and the plot is interesting, but also a bit predictable in some ways. I would have liked to know more about how the apocalypse happened and just some more story-building in this regard - it is briefly mentioned initially and had such an intriguing unique take on Zombies. I think if this was elaborated on, it would have given the story some 'juice'.
Jolie brings quite a hectic twist into the story near the end, which sort of saved it for me.
Cover talk 4/5:
I actually really liked this cover. It gives a creepy kick-butt type feel to it.
Final Thoughts: This was an OK read for a Zombie novel and I would like to know what happens in book 2.
June 17, 2015
Benton: A zombie Novel by Jolie Du Pre Set in modern-day small town Illinois, Jennifer Benton must first escape her house. Everyone she knows, including her family, have turned into zombies. She’s been holed up in her room for weeks, with her zombie mother right outside waiting for something living to cross her path. But escape she does and a chance encounter puts her in a closed garage with 7 other folks. Now, they must make a plan for the future as supplies won’t last forever, especially with winter coming on.
This is another fun addition to the zombie genre. Jennifer Benton is easy to connect with and isn’t a silly lass. In fact, she is quite practical and willing to add to her list of skills, zombie killing being at the top. She’s in her early 20s, so she’s past the silly teen stage yet still young enough to know how tender and encompassing love (or lust) can be. And with the handsome Mark around, there is definitely temptation.
While this book does has a romantic plot line to it, there is so much more going on. Primarily, it is a survival story. Can Benton trust everyone in their little group? Probably not, much to everyone’s woe. Then there are the roving bands of other humans to consider. And those pesky zombies. Since many of their group are locals, killing zombies is a bit emotionally draining as they were once friends or family. I am glad the author explored that aspect of it.
There is one sex scene and it is sweet. However, we’re shown how the man will be pleased, and only told how the woman was pleased after the fact. I would have liked a little more equality there as media in general tends to shy away from the female orgasm. I think we all know that more humans would benefit from some instructive fiction in how to obtain a female orgasm.
Overall, this was a great addition to the survival genre with focus on human interactions and trust. It steered away from the gory horror of zombies that many zombies books focus on.
Narration: Angie Hickman was a good choice for Jennifer Benton. She had a young woman’s voice but didn’t sound like a teen. Hickman also had distinct voices for both male and female characters.
This is another fun addition to the zombie genre. Jennifer Benton is easy to connect with and isn’t a silly lass. In fact, she is quite practical and willing to add to her list of skills, zombie killing being at the top. She’s in her early 20s, so she’s past the silly teen stage yet still young enough to know how tender and encompassing love (or lust) can be. And with the handsome Mark around, there is definitely temptation.
While this book does has a romantic plot line to it, there is so much more going on. Primarily, it is a survival story. Can Benton trust everyone in their little group? Probably not, much to everyone’s woe. Then there are the roving bands of other humans to consider. And those pesky zombies. Since many of their group are locals, killing zombies is a bit emotionally draining as they were once friends or family. I am glad the author explored that aspect of it.
There is one sex scene and it is sweet. However, we’re shown how the man will be pleased, and only told how the woman was pleased after the fact. I would have liked a little more equality there as media in general tends to shy away from the female orgasm. I think we all know that more humans would benefit from some instructive fiction in how to obtain a female orgasm.
Overall, this was a great addition to the survival genre with focus on human interactions and trust. It steered away from the gory horror of zombies that many zombies books focus on.
Narration: Angie Hickman was a good choice for Jennifer Benton. She had a young woman’s voice but didn’t sound like a teen. Hickman also had distinct voices for both male and female characters.
June 17, 2015
Set in modern-day small town Illinois, Jennifer Benton must first escape her house. Everyone she knows, including her family, have turned into zombies. She’s been holed up in her room for weeks, with her zombie mother right outside waiting for something living to cross her path. But escape she does and a chance encounter puts her in a closed garage with 7 other folks. Now, they must make a plan for the future as supplies won’t last forever, especially with winter coming on.
This is another fun addition to the zombie genre. Jennifer Benton is easy to connect with and isn’t a silly lass. In fact, she is quite practical and willing to add to her list of skills, zombie killing being at the top. She’s in her early 20s, so she’s past the silly teen stage yet still young enough to know how tender and encompassing love (or lust) can be. And with the handsome Mark around, there is definitely temptation.
While this book does has a romantic plot line to it, there is so much more going on. Primarily, it is a survival story. Can Benton trust everyone in their little group? Probably not, much to everyone’s woe. Then there are the roving bands of other humans to consider. And those pesky zombies. Since many of their group are locals, killing zombies is a bit emotionally draining as they were once friends or family. I am glad the author explored that aspect of it.
There is one sex scene and it is sweet. However, we’re shown how the man will be pleased, and only told how the woman was pleased after the fact. I would have liked a little more equality there as media in general tends to shy away from the female orgasm. I think we all know that more humans would benefit from some instructive fiction in how to obtain a female orgasm.
Overall, this was a great addition to the survival genre with focus on human interactions and trust. It steered away from the gory horror of zombies that many zombies books focus on.
Narration: Angie Hickman was a good choice for Jennifer Benton. She had a young woman’s voice but didn’t sound like a teen. Hickman also had distinct voices for both male and female characters.
This is another fun addition to the zombie genre. Jennifer Benton is easy to connect with and isn’t a silly lass. In fact, she is quite practical and willing to add to her list of skills, zombie killing being at the top. She’s in her early 20s, so she’s past the silly teen stage yet still young enough to know how tender and encompassing love (or lust) can be. And with the handsome Mark around, there is definitely temptation.
While this book does has a romantic plot line to it, there is so much more going on. Primarily, it is a survival story. Can Benton trust everyone in their little group? Probably not, much to everyone’s woe. Then there are the roving bands of other humans to consider. And those pesky zombies. Since many of their group are locals, killing zombies is a bit emotionally draining as they were once friends or family. I am glad the author explored that aspect of it.
There is one sex scene and it is sweet. However, we’re shown how the man will be pleased, and only told how the woman was pleased after the fact. I would have liked a little more equality there as media in general tends to shy away from the female orgasm. I think we all know that more humans would benefit from some instructive fiction in how to obtain a female orgasm.
Overall, this was a great addition to the survival genre with focus on human interactions and trust. It steered away from the gory horror of zombies that many zombies books focus on.
Narration: Angie Hickman was a good choice for Jennifer Benton. She had a young woman’s voice but didn’t sound like a teen. Hickman also had distinct voices for both male and female characters.
January 20, 2015
This will be my second audio book that I've reviewed. Ever. The first was Warm Bodies, which I only gave a short review on Goodreads, I believe. I am still working out a system for reviewing, but for now I'm going to wing it!
General audio book thoughts: I liked the voice actor's tone. She was able to be different characters without distracting me from the storyline and was very easy to understand. Plus, I love the way she pronounces the author's name, Jolie du Pre. Beautiful! Also, since I was "reading" an audio book, I was able to do mindless tasks at work AND read a book. Win-win.
However, I have a feeling that since I was listening to this book instead of reading it, I had a hard time connecting to the budding romance between Jennifer and Mark. It was there and I listened to the story, but I think I would've liked to read it as a normal text and imagine their interactions in my own way instead of how the voice actor portrayed them. I can't say for sure, because I haven't read the printed version, but I'd like to think that because I genuinely enjoyed the rest of the story.
The main character, Jennifer, is spunky and good with a gun, but still vulnerable. I think in her situation, I would need to hope to find a band of roaming psychologists to get me through that sort of trauma.
This book has zombies, action, twists and turns. It was a very entertaining read!
Cover review: This has nothing to do with the plot or quality of the audio book, but as a graphic designer I feel the need to look at design. I personally do not like when a books cover has a model on the cover that shows every detail of what he or she looks like. When I read, I like to be able to form this image of the characters in my mind, even if the author explains their appearance in detail. Again, personal preference. Many people may like to see exactly what the character looks like on the cover. I am just not one of them (I have a few exceptions, but I can't think of them at the moment).
Thank you for reading!
General audio book thoughts: I liked the voice actor's tone. She was able to be different characters without distracting me from the storyline and was very easy to understand. Plus, I love the way she pronounces the author's name, Jolie du Pre. Beautiful! Also, since I was "reading" an audio book, I was able to do mindless tasks at work AND read a book. Win-win.
However, I have a feeling that since I was listening to this book instead of reading it, I had a hard time connecting to the budding romance between Jennifer and Mark. It was there and I listened to the story, but I think I would've liked to read it as a normal text and imagine their interactions in my own way instead of how the voice actor portrayed them. I can't say for sure, because I haven't read the printed version, but I'd like to think that because I genuinely enjoyed the rest of the story.
The main character, Jennifer, is spunky and good with a gun, but still vulnerable. I think in her situation, I would need to hope to find a band of roaming psychologists to get me through that sort of trauma.
This book has zombies, action, twists and turns. It was a very entertaining read!
Cover review: This has nothing to do with the plot or quality of the audio book, but as a graphic designer I feel the need to look at design. I personally do not like when a books cover has a model on the cover that shows every detail of what he or she looks like. When I read, I like to be able to form this image of the characters in my mind, even if the author explains their appearance in detail. Again, personal preference. Many people may like to see exactly what the character looks like on the cover. I am just not one of them (I have a few exceptions, but I can't think of them at the moment).
Thank you for reading!
June 20, 2014
I really enjoyed the first in the Benton series by Jolie Du Pre. I'm all about the whole survivalist theory. Preparing in advance for any disaster, whether that's a natural disaster or a not so natural one like a Zombie Apocalypse. I kind of envy Jennifer Benton because she's way ahead of me on preparing for disasters + knowing how to shoot a rifle! I'd love to have that kind of experience myself simply because I don't always believe the world is a safe place.
Honestly this book gives you a lot of perspective. What would you do if you saw your mom get turned into a Zombie? What if your family died and you had to go on the run? Add that to trying to avoid Zombies while trying to find a zombie-free safe zone? I can't even imagine going through any of that. I'd probably be one of those suckers that did get turned into a Zombie because I'd be so distraught about my family. But then again I don't have Jennifer's training, so maybe I don't have that survivalist instinct.
I do like the romance between Mark and Jennifer. It might feel rushed but man, if the world had zombies and everyday was a blessing, which one of us wouldn't want to live life to the fullest? I know I would live everyday like it was my last.
If you're looking for a good read with Zombies, New Adult romance, this is a great little book to pick up!
I did receive this book in exchange for my honest review. The opinions are fully that of my own! :)
Honestly this book gives you a lot of perspective. What would you do if you saw your mom get turned into a Zombie? What if your family died and you had to go on the run? Add that to trying to avoid Zombies while trying to find a zombie-free safe zone? I can't even imagine going through any of that. I'd probably be one of those suckers that did get turned into a Zombie because I'd be so distraught about my family. But then again I don't have Jennifer's training, so maybe I don't have that survivalist instinct.
I do like the romance between Mark and Jennifer. It might feel rushed but man, if the world had zombies and everyday was a blessing, which one of us wouldn't want to live life to the fullest? I know I would live everyday like it was my last.
If you're looking for a good read with Zombies, New Adult romance, this is a great little book to pick up!
I did receive this book in exchange for my honest review. The opinions are fully that of my own! :)
June 15, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
True Rating: 3.5 stars.
Benton was truly a super fast read. The world was believable and I enjoyed the realities of this zombie-filled world.
Benton herself started out as a real and smart character I could get behind. But in the first few chapters she made a move that had me screaming at the page "stupid" and then what I predicted would happen...DID...which, of course, was the perfect set up to get her into the garage with the group that would become her social circle and even 'family'.
Once the family came into play I found the book relatable in the way that Benton made snap judgments about some characters, like all of us do, but later evolve.
My only other problem was, again, a really dumb move on the main characters part that led to a series of coincidental and highly unbelievable events that were just were the perfect set up for the end result. While it was all too "meet-cute" for me at the end there...I still want to see book 2 and if they ever reach their destination and what happens then...so it got a full 3.5 stars from me for that reason, and the secondary characters whom I really enjoyed and want to see more of (Katie and Bill).
True Rating: 3.5 stars.
Benton was truly a super fast read. The world was believable and I enjoyed the realities of this zombie-filled world.
Benton herself started out as a real and smart character I could get behind. But in the first few chapters she made a move that had me screaming at the page "stupid" and then what I predicted would happen...DID...which, of course, was the perfect set up to get her into the garage with the group that would become her social circle and even 'family'.
Once the family came into play I found the book relatable in the way that Benton made snap judgments about some characters, like all of us do, but later evolve.
My only other problem was, again, a really dumb move on the main characters part that led to a series of coincidental and highly unbelievable events that were just were the perfect set up for the end result. While it was all too "meet-cute" for me at the end there...I still want to see book 2 and if they ever reach their destination and what happens then...so it got a full 3.5 stars from me for that reason, and the secondary characters whom I really enjoyed and want to see more of (Katie and Bill).
August 9, 2016
Benton: A Zombie Novel is a fast-paced novella that follows Jennifer Benton as she manages to escape her hometown of Waterbank, IL in search of survival after being overran by zombies.
My favorite part of this story was the first quarter. It moved slightly slower, and I felt you could more understand where the MC was coming from due to the inner monologue. Once Jennifer escapes her house and is forced to throw in with the first group she comes to, the story starts to fly by. There's several characters you meet quickly, and I had to stop and think who was who a couple times since the pacing is so fast. There is one sex scene, though short and to the point.
Though the story was not written in the style of a journal, the sentence structure/wording resembles that style somewhat - short, fast sentences that made the pacing even faster.
My favorite character was Mark, who is the leader, and the most optimistic of the bunch. He always did/tried to do the right thing, and the fact that he's the cute one didn't hurt either.
I'm interested in seeing if the group ever makes it to their destination and if they do, what it holds for them. I'd also like to see the relationship play out between Mark and Jennifer. I'll be adding the second book to my TBR list.
My favorite part of this story was the first quarter. It moved slightly slower, and I felt you could more understand where the MC was coming from due to the inner monologue. Once Jennifer escapes her house and is forced to throw in with the first group she comes to, the story starts to fly by. There's several characters you meet quickly, and I had to stop and think who was who a couple times since the pacing is so fast. There is one sex scene, though short and to the point.
Though the story was not written in the style of a journal, the sentence structure/wording resembles that style somewhat - short, fast sentences that made the pacing even faster.
My favorite character was Mark, who is the leader, and the most optimistic of the bunch. He always did/tried to do the right thing, and the fact that he's the cute one didn't hurt either.
I'm interested in seeing if the group ever makes it to their destination and if they do, what it holds for them. I'd also like to see the relationship play out between Mark and Jennifer. I'll be adding the second book to my TBR list.
June 9, 2014
So far I can count on one hand, literally, how many zombie apocalyptic type of books I have actually read and liked. Well this is one of them. I will admit that my first sit down was an utter failure and my never having not read a book I stepped back and came back to it with a fresh mind, and I am glad I did.
My only criticism is that there wasn’t more…honestly this book is amazing, the story is GREAT, I just wish there were more to it. More depth to the story and the characters. I especially loved Jennifer, hardcore chick who loves guns and survival, a girl after my own heart… lol
Jolie has a well-rounded story line and well developed characters but I felt like I was reading a novella that would pass as a .5 type of book not the beginning of a series.
I really want to read the next book and I’m hoping (fingers-crossed) that there will be more.
I would defiantly recommend this book as a read.
My only criticism is that there wasn’t more…honestly this book is amazing, the story is GREAT, I just wish there were more to it. More depth to the story and the characters. I especially loved Jennifer, hardcore chick who loves guns and survival, a girl after my own heart… lol
Jolie has a well-rounded story line and well developed characters but I felt like I was reading a novella that would pass as a .5 type of book not the beginning of a series.
I really want to read the next book and I’m hoping (fingers-crossed) that there will be more.
I would defiantly recommend this book as a read.
October 7, 2014
I am struggling to put into words how I feel about this book. I did not hate it, I did not love it. It was just kind of dull to me. If it is meant to hit the teen population, it works until the last chapter. There were times I found myself rolling my eyes at the thoughts of the main character because I felt that it was above her knowledge base. If a zombie apocalypse happens there is not going to be a school to teach things like "emaciated" and other concepts that this character had. Further more, the backdrop of her being a survivalist is a good concept, but how does only one person in the family have that mentality, and a kid no less. If mom was so against guns, why does she have one? I get that this is kind of explained but it just seems like a stretch to me. The final chapter put me off with regard to the inopportune sex scene that just kind of felt dumped into the book.
As far as the narrator for the audio- she also was just okay to me.
As far as the narrator for the audio- she also was just okay to me.
April 26, 2015
I don't know what it is but this story draws me in. It has potential to keep building. The characters are likeable and the story has ongoing episodes that seems to be building towards something greater.
It's the zombie apocalypse from Jen's point of view. A few new characters are introduced including Lauren. She poses a threat to her and Mark's relationship. As does another new character named Marcus. They end up having to go to Tent city and it's not exactly what they were expecting.
The plan is to leave Tent city with Todd on his airbus but there's only room for eight. And another unexpected twist has arisen. I can't wait to see what Jolie du Pré has in store for us next.
About the narrator: Angie Hickman is great in this series. She has multiple distinguishable voices which are especially good. Angie Hickman makes the story entirely believable. She's perfect for this story and I look forward to more soon.
Audiobook received foc in exchange for unbiased for review.
It's the zombie apocalypse from Jen's point of view. A few new characters are introduced including Lauren. She poses a threat to her and Mark's relationship. As does another new character named Marcus. They end up having to go to Tent city and it's not exactly what they were expecting.
The plan is to leave Tent city with Todd on his airbus but there's only room for eight. And another unexpected twist has arisen. I can't wait to see what Jolie du Pré has in store for us next.
About the narrator: Angie Hickman is great in this series. She has multiple distinguishable voices which are especially good. Angie Hickman makes the story entirely believable. She's perfect for this story and I look forward to more soon.
Audiobook received foc in exchange for unbiased for review.
May 11, 2015
What do we have here?
A short and easy read for both the zombie lover and beginner. We start off with what would be considered as a very logical, smart and strong character that has planned for the zombie apocalypse. But as the book progresses, we find that she is lacking in the most basic and simplistic zombie survival traits.
While the story is short and easy-going, the author left a lot to be desired. Lacking in both character descriptions as well as setting the scene, I found myself working to stay with the story.
With stupid actions left and right, to the easiness of survival, this story, while not completely terrible, was an upset.
However, I did get through this and it was somewhat enjoyable.
A short and easy read for both the zombie lover and beginner. We start off with what would be considered as a very logical, smart and strong character that has planned for the zombie apocalypse. But as the book progresses, we find that she is lacking in the most basic and simplistic zombie survival traits.
While the story is short and easy-going, the author left a lot to be desired. Lacking in both character descriptions as well as setting the scene, I found myself working to stay with the story.
With stupid actions left and right, to the easiness of survival, this story, while not completely terrible, was an upset.
However, I did get through this and it was somewhat enjoyable.
June 9, 2014
This is definitely not your typical zombie read. If lots of zombies, blood, and gore is what you're looking for then this is not the book for you. This is a story of survival. It is decently written with potential to be a great series. It moved at a nice pace. Enough to keep your attention and curious as to what may happen in book 2. The characters were likable but a little too plain for me. I think the relationship between Jennifer and Mark moved a little too fast. But, given the situation, having a bond, or connection, or just some form of comfort is important. This series has a lot of potential and hopefully du Pré will have the characters grow into more than just plain Jane's.
June 17, 2014
Zombie Apocalypse
I received an ARC of Benton:A Zombie Novel in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I've read about zombies, and I really enjoyed it. The storyline flowed well and I found myself immersed in the book from the very beginning. The author did a great job of capturing my interest in the characters and the plot. I'm anxious to see how the story of these survivors of a zombie apocalypse continues to unfold, because Joliet du Pre definitely left me wanting more!
I received an ARC of Benton:A Zombie Novel in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I've read about zombies, and I really enjoyed it. The storyline flowed well and I found myself immersed in the book from the very beginning. The author did a great job of capturing my interest in the characters and the plot. I'm anxious to see how the story of these survivors of a zombie apocalypse continues to unfold, because Joliet du Pre definitely left me wanting more!
September 7, 2015
I had high hopes for this book.
I really enjoyed the first couple of chapters. I liked the concept and the main character.
After the first few chapters, everything became extremely, extremely rushed. So many details were left out and the conversations seemed forced.
My main issue: the 'love interest'. Come on. After like a day she's totally into him? It's a zombie apocalypse for pete's sake! I'm all for a romance in the midst of zombies, but please, don't belittle our reading experience by forcing two characters to "love" each other in a matter of days.
I really enjoyed the first couple of chapters. I liked the concept and the main character.
After the first few chapters, everything became extremely, extremely rushed. So many details were left out and the conversations seemed forced.
My main issue: the 'love interest'. Come on. After like a day she's totally into him? It's a zombie apocalypse for pete's sake! I'm all for a romance in the midst of zombies, but please, don't belittle our reading experience by forcing two characters to "love" each other in a matter of days.
May 30, 2014
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I may have missed something in the beginning of the story that explains why the book is called Benton, but it doesn’t matter. This book is still an interesting read. I enjoyed the characters and their traits. I was happy to read how the young group of survivors would not turn their back on an old man and chose to take him along with them. I am happy to say, I have found a new zombie series to follow. I look forward to reading part 2.
I may have missed something in the beginning of the story that explains why the book is called Benton, but it doesn’t matter. This book is still an interesting read. I enjoyed the characters and their traits. I was happy to read how the young group of survivors would not turn their back on an old man and chose to take him along with them. I am happy to say, I have found a new zombie series to follow. I look forward to reading part 2.
June 15, 2014
Jolie du Pre has done a really great job on making a romance out of a zombie man eating apocalypse. The way she has banded a group of unlikely people together to try and survive a zombie invasion is very good. There is a lot of horror but the survival instinct has kicked in full force in this book . Jolie has made a romance between Jennifer and Mark possible in such horrible conditions possible! Great job Ms.du Pre. Very descriptive and alot of fun thank you!
July 20, 2016
I received an ARC for an honest review
I am not much into zombies, but this book surprised me and I really enjoyed it. It is not full of gross and gruesome details but just the right amount of details to give you a clear picture.
The characters are strong,smart and know what they need to do to survive.
The story flows nicely. And I can't help but wonder how I would fair in this zombie apocalypse.
I look forward to reading what happens next!
I am not much into zombies, but this book surprised me and I really enjoyed it. It is not full of gross and gruesome details but just the right amount of details to give you a clear picture.
The characters are strong,smart and know what they need to do to survive.
The story flows nicely. And I can't help but wonder how I would fair in this zombie apocalypse.
I look forward to reading what happens next!
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