Dead Of Winter

The Beautiful Dead #2

by Daryl Banner

*BOOK #2 IN THE BEAUTIFUL DEAD TRILOGY*
*It is recommended to read this series in order*
THE BEAUTIFUL DEAD (#1)
DEAD OF WINTER (#2)
ALMOST ALIVE (#3)

No one said being an Undead is easy.

Winter’s Second Life became a lot more complicated when the Living moved into her hometown of Trenton. Undead neighbors fight with their Breathing ones. Food is sparse. And, worst of all, the season is taking a change for the colder.

A desperate plea for help to a neighboring city turns deadly and soon Winter finds herself facing an old friend from her past whose plot to annihilate all life on the planet may have everything to do with her.

And what about the man-with-the-heartbeat in her house? Is there even room for love in such a ruined, unforgiving world?

New friends are made. Others are lost forever. In the dead of winter, no one is safe.

Genres: Zombies, Fantasy, Paranormal, Apocalyptic, Paranormal Romance, Adventure, Dystopia

324 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 6, 2014

About the author

Daryl Banner is a USA Today Bestselling author, composer, and performer. He graduated magna cum laude from the University of Houston Honors College with a degree in Theatre and Psychology. He is happily married to his piano. Theory suggests this is why he writes romance.

During Daryl Banner's time in college, he wrote, composed, and produced a musical under Tony Award-winning musical and Theatre producer Stuart Ostrow, as well as two original plays produced under the mentorship of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lanford Wilson, who also mentored Daryl through the writing of his very first novel. In addition to new adult and M/M romance, Daryl also writes post-apocalyptic fantasy as well as dystopian.

Join his mailing list here to be the first to hear about his new releases! He awards an Amazon gift card every newsletter:
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Fun facts about Daryl Banner:

- He is an obsessive self-taught pianist.

- He is a huge video game enthusiast.

- He left his day job of 10 years to tour with a 2-woman-1-man original musical.

- He's been remixing video game music for over 20 years. One of his remixes is featured in the major motion picture "The Spy Who Dumped Me". Check out his work here: http://www.youtube.com/DarylBanner

- He composes original soundtracks that accompany his books and series, including The Beautiful Dead and OUTLIER. He is also the award-winning composer of the audio drama Janus Descending, as well as several films, games, podcasts, and other media. You can enjoy his music here: http://darylbanner.bandcamp.com

Reviews

[Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book – Dead of Winter (The Beautiful Dead #2)
Author – Daryl Banner
Publication Date – November 6, 2014
Genre –Fantasy/Post Apocalyptic/Romance
Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger – Kind Of
Rating – 4.75 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

My Thoughts - Story
Holy Shit…were my parting thoughts as I finished the last page…That ending…the last part of the book…I swear I was reading something from one of the great poets – The words…the imagery ---- the tightening of my heart – the tears forming in my eyes – the love bursting through – the hope – the elation – HOLY FUCK…just being in Winter’s shoes…her dedication and love – how in world could anyone ever question whether she was alive or dead – her soul must still be holding on to her.



OK…I’m sidetracking here…back to Mr. Banner.  I bow before you almighty Daryl Banner….you have done it again.  Something I didn’t think possible.  Yeah, I’m sorry…I didn’t get back to you – you tried to tell me that you wanted to send me a copy and I let Real Life get in the way…(BAD CAROL – BAD CAROL) – I’m smacking myself for you…I should have listened to you and took the ARC immediately.  I devoured this book – I loved having Megan, John, Hel and the rest of the gang all back again…plus we meet some new savory characters in this one also!



Now…you are probably wondering or asking why I didn’t rate this a full 5 stars?  I think it had to do with the beginning…they way John acted toward Winter and I did find the beginning a bit slow (sorry don’t beat me master). Ohhhh…and don’t forget that you had me sobbing in work…UGH

Annnnddddd….a little more taken off the top because you left me wanting more again.  I just know you are going to write another one…Winter and John’s story is not finished yet…..along with Grimsky!  Hmmmm?  Get those fingers exercising Mr. Banner and this time…don’t take my silence as an answer!



YOU ARE A MASTER!

Re-Cap
It’s been about 6 months since Trenton fought against the Deathless….Living and Undead together co-existing in a somewhat harmony.  The gangs all back but all is not quiet in the town of Trenton…there is a wall of fire not too far off…the humans need food…John and Winter need to figure out what is going on between them…and after Grims release…what is he up to now?



We follow Winter as she tries to figure out what this fire means along with keeping peace in Trenton.  There are new friends…new threats and the ultimate sacrifice one has to make.

Reason for Reading – Author Request
Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  N/A
Angst – 4 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4 out of 5 Stars
Told In – Winter’s POV
Heroine/Personality – Winter…God how I love this gal!!
Hero/Personality – John…kinda frustrating in the beginning…but turns it all around to be special in my book!
HEA (Spoiler) - Don’t know really
Would Read More from Author? DEFINITELY
Recommend To – anyone who loves not just a great fantasy…but life lessons that really make you think.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[Declarations of a Fangirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phew okay. I guess I'll start this review off with a warning:

Daryl Banner likes to club your emotions and force all the feels on you. He is definitely on my Emotional Trauma at the Hands of an Author List (aka my Automatic Reads List). Dead of Winter was an emotional roller coaster to say the least, but not one with a lot of dips. It felt like I was on a roller coaster that only went up. Sure there were some little hiccups of action along the way, but for the first half or so, it was a smooth, enjoyable read.



In my review of The Beautiful Dead I said I hoped we got more of John and Winter together. Here's how I picture John in my mind.



Please don't mistake my demons for hate. Winter, you've shown me so much care...You've given me a home...You risked everything. I'll never be able to repay you, ever. In ten lifetimes. I don't hate you.

"I'd die for you," he repeats, quieter.
"I'd rather you not," I admit with a smile. "I would...really miss your heartbeat."



Jasmine was one of my favorite characters. She's the most well-liked by the Humans out of all the Undead. She's a sweet grandma with a keen eye and a wealth of wisdom. Let's face it, she's Betty White.




Sometimes trouble is a drug. People are drawn to it. People are born by it.

But I say, a far better thing to have risked taking such a journey and die reaching for that dream...than to not have taken one at all.

Happily-ever-after is just helping someone else find theirs.

A quick touch on The Chief. I was impressed with him. He's the leader of the Humans, has their survival resting firmly on his shoulders, and he didn't completely shun the Undead. He worked with Helena for co-habitation of Trenton, and he was very tolerant of the Undead. Plus there was this description of him that had me rolling.

I heard he sleeps with one eye open, cuddling an axe.



And of course, we see Grim again.

Until each tree has fallen, until every flower has wilted, until the sky is painted in permanent silver, we will know no peace. It is inevitable, Winter. Death is inevitable.




As for Winter, hair as white as winter, ice blue eyes, full of conviction and always trying to do what is right. There is only one image I have in my mind when it comes to her.




So after that halfway mark, stuff happens. Lots of stuff. Stuff that turned me into a blubbering mess and this was me for the rest of the book.







Thank goodness I have book 3...

Mr. Banner, you have officially ruined me.

[Kat Montemayor · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are a million things I should be doing on this last day of my long holiday weekend. But alas, I'm hooked. This little zombie story has gotten under my skin, and now I have to see how this all ends. So sorry laundry--you'll have to wait. Dishes in the sink--you're not going anywhere. I probably won't leave my recliner until I go to work tomorrow morning. Now back to book 3, Almost Alive

[Toni FGMAMTC · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daryl really has a gift. Everything I've read by him has blown me away. I don't know why I'm still surprised how great the story is when I get ahold of one, but I am. I'm amazed. I didn't know if book two of this series could keep up with book one, but Dead of Winter even surpassed The Beautiful Dead (gasp!).

I never knew what was going to happen next. The author's imagination is just unreal. The story begins with the undead and living trying to coexist, and this theme pretty much carries throughout. Is it actually possible? Neither group fully trusts the other, and many are jealous of each other.

"I'm tired of eating. You don't need to eat."
"No. But that's not—that's not a good thing, Megan. I miss eating. I miss..." Kissing. A racing heart. Clinging to a person to keep warm in the night. Falling asleep in their arms. "I miss...marshmallows."

This book has a way of being so entertaining yet so philosophical at the same time. There are so many life-lessons inside its the-adventure-never-stops words. From all of the varying emotions, I probably looked like someone missing their meds while reading. I was smirking at the smart dark comedy, laughing out loud at the true humor, having creepy cringes, tearing up, wowing in silence, etc. Inside are so many witty remarks (Winter's sense of humor is perfect), so much action and some parts that literally made me say WTF out loud.

Yes, this now becomes my weapon, and I brandish the huge cricket-leg-thing to battle the huge spider-eyeball-thing.
This is happening.

Also it appears everything with the Deathless may not be over so there's fighting and magic and loss. And of course there is love.

I can tell each word was carefully chosen, and now they still linger in my mind.

"The cleverer of us realize there is no true end, not even in death. Every world's end is another's beginning."

Dead of Winter is one of my top reads for the year. I rate it 6 out of 5 stars. One day, when this series has been turned into films and video games and everyone is as obsessed as me, remember that I told you so.

***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***

toni

FangirlMoments and My Two Cents

FULL REVIEW CAN BE FOUND AT http://fangirlmomentsandmytwocents.bl...

[Claire Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored The beautiful Dead (book 1) and it easily went down as one of my favorite books of all time. Book two, however, may have just surpassed even that.

The story is a continuation from book one, beginning several weeks or so after book one ended. It's filled with new characters that you'll both love and hate, old characters that I still loved and still hated and then old characters which were just so much more than they began as.

There's love, lust, fighting, Undead, Warlocks, humans, and so many mysteries that all wrap up nicely at the end. I cried, I laughed, I found myself on several occasions just staring into space daydreaming about poor Winter's predicament. But more often than not, I was just grinning at the playful banter between the characters and the relationships I could see building.


Daryl has such a beautiful and poetic with way words, it leaves me quite breathless at time.
Seriously, dude has so much talent, it's scary!
He writes like silk, the words just slipping through your imagination and painting a vivid picture of desolate beautiful bleakness that drags you into the story and doesn't let go until you turn the last page.
And when you do...when you reach that last page...DAMNNNNN, what a freaking ending!



So yeah, it's a zombie book, but it's not, and yeah, it's an apocalyptic book, but then again, it's not, and yeah, it's romance, but again, it's not.
I love this series, and I can't wait for the, no doubt, epic conclusion!

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dead of Winter is the second book in the woefully under read Beautiful Dead series by author Daryl Banner. It continues the story of Winter and her desire to find meaning, as well as fit into, the dystopian world she lives in. This is a very hard series to review because I have the tendency to go all American Lit 101 with it, but the one thing you must know is that this book is WORTH it.Banner uses a heaping of metaphors, allegory and symbolism to beef up this story, all with stunning results.

Dead of Winter takes place not too long after The Beautiful Dead ends. The humans and Undead are living together under the pretense of cooperation in Trenton, with leadership coming from both parties. Although it appears that everyone is getting along at the beginning of this novel, it becomes apparent that the trust between the living and Undead is superficial at best. The truce is mostly a pretty window hanging to cover the distrust that the humans still have for the Undead. Sure - the humans are happy that the Undead were able to save them from a terrible fate, but they would be ultimately content if the Undead would just go away. Some humans are boarderline hateful towards Winter, the girl who saved them all. And it's all about to become worse due to a lack of resources and the coming winter.

Themes of trust, reality vs. fantasy, love and loyalty are all explored in this novel. Winter and John are the central characters in this book, and lead by example. The human John is attracted to Winter but has a hard time coming to grips with the fact that she is not alive. His entire life, he has been told to fear the Undead and to not trust them, and he has a serious man vs. himself battle when it comes to Winter. After he finally accepts his feelings for Winter, John transforms into a male lead that I love.

Winter is the epitome of selfless. She is loyal to her friends, no matter what state of living they are in. She risks herself over and over again in an attempt to save her friends and find a better life for them. We learn more about Winter's first life and can see how she has changed as a person. Winter also has the ability to take criticism in stride. Although there are some awful things said about her, she fights through her own sadness and doesn't allow the comments of humans to control her life or her fear.

Winter is faced with a few faces from her past - some good and others, not so much. Some characters that we thought were all evil turn out to be not so bad, while others that we thought had a shred of decency hidden within them turn out to be as evil as you could imagine. Winter faces all the adversity in this book with her head up and the best intentions in mind. She is a very strong female lead, and refuses to take shit from anyone, living or dead.

The only thing I had an itsy, bitsy issue with was the quick development of the John-Winter relationship. Yes, Winter has harbored feelings for him. Yes, John has harbored feelings for Winter, although he was the one that needed to work through his issues with the Undead. In my opinion, it was quick how John went from being angry and off-standing to being completely in love and lust with Winter. Some additional build up would have been nice. Also (okay, maybe I had two issues) is the cover. I know that this cover model is someone the author knows. He's not a bad looking guy, but the way the cover is arranged is bad. I think that there is so much more that could be done to strengthen this cover and strengthen this book's first look appeal.

There is a cliff hanger at the end of this book, so be forewarned. The ending of this book is full of action and danger, and many characters that I have grown to love are hurt or worse. The cliff hanger had me very upset, but the book as a whole ended on a note of hopefulness.
If you are a fan of dystopian or urban fantasy, you really should pick this book up. This series is very well written and intricate. More people should be reading this book because not only is it a great story, but it is completely different from any zombie book out there right now. This is a series that must be read in order for it to make sense. I can't wait to see how this story ends!

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book and it’s author, Daryl Banner is a perfect example of why I am such a strong believer in the indie book community. There is massive amounts of talent that can be found if you just give new (or new to you) authors a chance.

When we last off with Winter in The Beautiful Dead (also an amazing book), she had, alongside with the humans, defeated the ‘Deathless’. Now in Dead of Winter, life in Trenton is as peaceful as you can expect with undead and humans living and working together. Winter is again living with John and their relationship is progressing. All good things however can’t last forever, supplies are low and the humans need food. There is also mysterious wall of fire, the Eternal Flame, off in the distance and threatening to make its way to Trenton. With the town in possible danger and the humans in need of food a small group of undead and humans join together to make a journey to After’s Hold, the nearest town, in hopes of finding help. As expected this won’t be an easy journey, death, danger and surprised lay ahead.

Out of all the female characters I have read over the years, Winter is right at the top as an all time favorite. She is more than just an undead girl with a conscious … her bravery, humor, and compassion will draw you in. Her relationship John, a human is so beautiful and perfect. John may not be a man of many words but when he does speak and act, there is so much emotion and meaning behind it.

“No one is alone in this world,” John says finally. “I’m not. You’re not. We all suffer together, Living or Dead. The world’s closing it’s eyes to sleep and we have to keep ours open as long as we can.”

Daryl has such a unique voice and writing style. This book is not just zombies and death, there is hope, despair, and most importantly love. I laughed, I cried and I fell in love with every character in this series, both good and bad. I am both giddy with excitement and nervous as hell for the final book in the series, Almost Alive. I can’t wait to see how this all ends.

[Shawna The Crazy Bookseller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daryl Banner has done it again. His unique voice keeps this different take on the zombie genre going strong in book 2 of The Beautiful Dead series.

Winter and her friends are back and trying to adapt to the changes in their town. Humans and Undead are trying to live together but not everyone likes the living arrangements. And what's the deal with the unmoving fire in the distance?

This book has it all. There is a building love between Winter and John, one that Winter never thought she could feel. And someone from her past resurfaces that could tear everything they are trying to build apart. There is still hope on the horizon even though things look bleak. It's really hard to try to write this review without giving away any spoilers so I'm going to leave off with this is a great book and a great series. I can't wait for the next one.

I give this book The Crazy Booksellers Stamp of Approval.

[Joood Hooligan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book killed me. Not once, but at least three times. It's hard to keep track after two deaths.

I could not put this book down, and I tried. But I couldn't sleep not knowing what was going to happen. I finished it around 3 am, knowing full well I needed to be up at 7:30. I figured once it was over I'd be okay, but I wasn't! I couldn't sleep after it was over. I kept replaying certain scenes... especially the ones at the end. I am functioning on 3 hours of sleep currently.

I cried once. Laughed many more times. Absolutely loved this book. It was better than the first, and that's saying a lot.

Although, if there isn't at least one more book in this series, I will whine - loud and annoyingly.

Highly recommend this series. 5/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/d...

[Alex Tuttle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. As much as I loved The Beautiful Dead, I have to say Dead of Winter blew it out of the water. I mean, holy crap!!!! I can’t get over how talented Daryl is, and I feel like I’m just repeating everybody else, but it’s all true.

I’m usually not so audible when I’m reading, but this book had me gasping, and “ahhhhh”ing, and “noooooo!”ing, and “OMG” ing all over the place. And the LOLing! I soooo love the humor, and it balances out the dark and serious parts perfectly.

Grab tissues for the ending though. I had to read the last couple chapters through my tears. <3

[Finley Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

6 Billion jaw dropping stars!!!!!
Holy crap!!!!! I am at a complete loss for words right now. I did not think there was any possible way for this book to be better than book 1, but it was!!!! Daryl Banner really out did himself with this one. He is so unbelievably creative with the world he creates in these stories, and is unlike anything I have ever read. Words cannot even begin to express how much I love the Beautiful Dead series.

The story of Winter…the undead girl continues from shortly after book 1 left off. The city of Trenton has opened itself up and now has humans living amongst the undead. But, they are not living harmoniously as many of the humans are skeptical and untrusting of the undead. When a exchange with the neighboring town does not go as expected, a whole new world of chaos erupts. Although the deathless army had been conquered and killed off, that does not mean that all the threats to humans, and undead alike, are gone. On the contrary, in Dead of Winter, there are so many more demons and enemies to face. The enormity of the situations which occur weigh heavily on everyones shoulders, and no one is safe. I wish I could go into detail about all the events of the book, as I could go on for hours and still not even break the ice- but then I would be giving away everything. This world Daryl has created is so intricate and vivid, the pictures which were painted in my mind have lasted long past my reading the final page. I still find myself lost in this story days later and I am tempted to just start reading it all over again.

Dead of Winter was one of the most unpredictable stories I have ever encountered, and you never knew which direction it was going to head next. It was action packed and left me breathless on many occasions. A true page turner which will leave you unable to put the book down. This story was so full of emotions. I never expected to bawl like a baby in a zombie-ish book, but there I was tears flowing and nose running, and I could not keep the tissues coming fast enough.

The ONLY thing I can complain about…if you can even call it a complaint… is the end. And I am not talking about a strong book with a mediocre ending… oh no. I am talking about an exceptionally strong book with an even stronger ending that left me screaming "WHAT THE HELL?!?!" The way the book concluded was pure genius, with a bit of evil twisted in there because now I am DYING to know what happens next. Yes Daryl, you are quite the evil one with leaving things off like that, and I may spend the rest of the days until book 3 comes out sitting in a little white padded room rocking back and forth pulling my hair out.

If you have yet to be introduced to the brilliant writing of Daryl Banner, I HIGHLY suggest you pickup this series now. This is the most unique twist on the whole Zombie idea I have ever encountered and I promise you will not be disappointed.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

9/10

This book blew me away!! I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but I was still not prepared for how much I loved this one!! Daryl Banner kept everything that captured me in the The Beautiful Dead and pumped up the romance level to about 1,000 - which was just exactly what I needed in order to completely fall in love with this series!

I'm really not into scary, creepy, or disgusting when it comes to books! But (once again) Daryl manages to make it all not just palatable, but exceptionally entertaining for me! His sense of humor is the major reason all of this works. The sarcasm and dry wit mingle perfectly with the dark humor to carry me through the bits that made me cringe and wrinkle my nose in disgust, and the bits that made me pull the covers up higher and read all night, unable to stop and scared to go on!

Really though, this is not a zombie book. No, really!! It's a great character driven book which explores human relationships, the strength of the human spirit, and includes an epic struggle of good vs. evil...and most of its characters just happen to be zombies. The reflection and introspection levels generated while reading this book were high, but not any higher than the entertainment value! The only thing I love more than a book that completely entertains is one that makes me think while it does so!! Daryl hits every high note, misses no opportunity to make me smile, and creeps the ever loving shit out of me!

You win, Daryl! You win.

Go read The Beautiful Dead now, follow up with Dead of Winter immediately. Don't blame me if you can't sleep! :-)

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

Dead of Winter is the second book in The Beautiful Dead trilogy. The books do have to be read in order to understand the story.

The story picks up about 6 months after the battle of Trenton. The Humans and Undead are living together in the town of Trenton. John is living with Winter and is grumpier now than when he was forced to stay in the house because of the “no humans rule.” Food is running low and the temperature is getting colder. The Undead haven’t been raising either.

It starts with an eerie prologue. This line got me:

“It feeds on happiness. With its little yellow teeth, it eats hope for a midnight snack. It eats dreams and laughter and anything little or pretty.”

From there, you need to be prepared for a fast paced book! You feel the consuming need to read this book to the end. You won’t want to eat, or go to the bathroom, or take care of your kids.

I wish there was some way I could tell you what happens in this book without giving away too many things. I can say that Winter was her awesome Undead self. She was brave, loyal and loving. There is so incredible funny Undead humor. Be prepared to have some throat clogging emotions from reading passages of this book. At one moment, I did stop reading to calm myself and get a piece of chocolate for my mental health before a decided to jump back into the incredible story.

This is definitely a 5-star book, a must read, and so much better than the first. I will definitely be reading third book in the series.

Follow Daryl Banner on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DarylBannerW...

[JC82 · Rating 5 out of 5]

So when I hopped on this Zombie trilogy train, I thought "Yes, this is going to be something unique and different, something so worth reading" And I was right! This series is so, so, so worth reading and The Beautiful Dead book 1, completely blew my mind. What I didn't realize was how these books were going to tear at my heart strings and make me feel this onslaught of emotions.

The Dead of Winter Book 2, in my mind surpassed the intensity and magnitude of book 1. It propelled this story into not just a book about survival but of love, hope, trust and strength. Banner takes all his characters and thrust them into these situations that could make or break them. You see how each of them react to the same situation, how they cope, how they thrive when the world they know is in ruins and the threat is constant.

Banner's writing is so fluid and descriptive that it surrounds the reader and makes you feel as if you are living through this Second Life alongside his characters. Banner's main protagonist Winter in this book is amazing. She is strong, determined, compassionate, fearful and compelling. Her emotions are captivating, her actions are admirable, and her love is immeasurable. We see her struggle with her first life and then we see her embrace it, as what I could only describe as probably the best scene in the story one that will make you tear up in relief, pain and love.

There is nothing like these books in this genre that I have read. Nothing as uniquely satisfying, dark and beautiful. Banner is a must read. His writing is impeccable and this story is simply breathtaking.

[Melissa Burcham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC book for an honest review free of persuasion from the author or anyone else affiliated with this book.

This was another great book by Daryl Banner. I didn't think that he would be able to keep up the expectations after book 1, but this one was all that and more.

This book continues where book one left off. At the end of the war with the deathless, Winter lets Grimsky go. He runs off in great beyond. The undead and the living pick up the pieces and are trying to co-exist in the same town. Things seem to be going as good as they can be. The living humans are still leery of the undead. The only problem is that food supply for the humans seems to be getting really low. The town of Trenton decides to go to the next town over and off a trade of their steel for food. The night before they are to depart for the town of After's Hold; Winter notices ' "What are you?" ... Fire.' What appears as a rainbow to her undead eyes is actually a HUGE fire in the distance. Even after being told she was not going on the trip to After's Hold, Winter sneaks out of town and follows the group that leaves. Once the team reaches After's Hold, Winter finds out what the fire is and who is in charge of it.

You really need to read this book to find out more! I will not give away what the fire is. Will Winter (undead) and her love John (living human) make it through the trials of this book? Holy Cow at the ending of this book!!! Cant wait for the 3rd book in this series!

[Jennifer Theriot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my God! Daryl Banner, you've won me over! I read The Beautiful Dead and went into it not being a zombie or apocalypse reader. I thoroughly enjoyed book one, so I had a feeling - based on the reviews that book 2 wouldn't disappoint. And it DIDN'T!
The character Winter was so very well written and it's hard not to fall in love with her. She's tenacious, sensitive, questioning, selfless and just a beautiful young woman. Is it any wonder why everyone loves her? I felt every emotion she felt. What I loved best about her is that she didn't take anything at face value....her nature was to question and seek answers.
I laughed and I cried. The book is just amazing. Daryl went to such depths that you felt like you were there, hiding behind a dead tree or something watching every scene unfold. Even though the zombies were 'dead' or undead or whatever the heck they were supposed to be, you still felt as though there is, by some small chance a human factor to them. I will wait with baited breath for the next one and I think this series would make an incredible TV series. Be prepared with some tissues though. Without giving any spoilers, just have some ready.
Thanks Daryl, for making my zombie reading experience so pleasurable....

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I originally was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, but I purchased it to support the author and because WHY WOULD I NOT?? The follow up to what I titled as an "End of the world non-zombie zombie book" was everything I thought it would be and then some. I was so surprised by what Mr. Banner did with his characters in this story that I went through the gamut of emotions. I know my jaw hit my chest several times and I was shaking my head and trying to slow my reading so I wouldn't get to the end of the book. I did not want it to end because I knew I was going to have to wait for the next one. What I didn't anticipate was how Mr. Banner would break my heart and how much disbelief I would be left in. There is most definitely a cliffhanger at the end of the book (it's a trilogy, duh!), but it's not what did me in. It was what happened during the story that did it. Mr. Banner definitely outdid himself on this one. You rarely say that a second book is better than the first one, but I think his writing has matured and you can definitely tell that he is committed and invested in this story. Highly, highly recommend this series.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the beautiful dead series. And boy has Daryl done it this time. I'll be honest book one didn't grab me completely, I gave it 4 stars. In dead of winter Daryl has managed what he didn't in book one. He's clubbed me, dragged me through the wringer and deposited me into the addicted fan club.

And when I say the wringer I mean it! He went and made me cry, ugly tears. Please don't read this in public, people will give you weird looks. Best to be read safely at home where you are surrounded by tissues and chocolate. He likes to rip your heart out and have his fun with it, I should be used to it by now.

Daryl's way with words is excellent, I can easily picture the story in my head and my eyes just fly along the page. I can't help but think his imagination must be an intense place with some of the creatures he concocts.

I'm now itching to read almost alive and can't wait to see what's next.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second book of this very unique zombie story is just as good as the first, maybe even a little better.

The story of Winter, the undead girl living her second life continues from where book 1 left off. The city of Trenton now has humans living amongst the undead. They are not living harmoniously as many of the humans are skeptical and untrusting of the undead. Grim was allowed to leave with his undead life and Winter and John are again living together in her little house. Again, maybe not harmoniously but it's a start.

When an exchange with a neighboring town does not go as expected, a whole new world of chaos erupts. Although the deathless army had been conquered, it doesn't mean the threats to the humans and undead are gone. Now, there's a new group of enemies looking to take over the world.

This story is an action packed page turner that leaves you wanting more!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so unbelievably lucky to get to be the very first pair of eyes on the next book in The Beautiful Dead trilogy. If I thought the first book was exciting and quirky and poetic...well Dead of Winter just blew that one away.
I laughed, I shuddered and then OMG I bawled like a freaking baby...no lie. So often I am disappointed by sequels when I read a series...but not this time... I was not expecting that book 2 would be so much more than book 1!!
SO...if you read and LOVED The Beautiful Dead...(or if you haven't yet, it's only 99 cents on Amazon) you are going to want this one to find out what happens to Winter, John and Grimsky!!! It will leave you breathless and wanting more!!

***** 5 ***** "there are some things worse than dying" stars

www.amzn.com/B00P1O0KXW

[T · Rating 5 out of 5]

As much as I loved book one in this series (see review below) I loved book 2 so so much more! There is just nothing bad to say about this freaking fantastic series! It is truly just so much more then a simple zombie series. It's a story about love, growth, survival, friendships and not to mention the battle over good and bad.

The author has truly created a full and complete new world where your things that live only between the pages of the book come to live with his words.

This is a continuation of Winter's story, but again it is very much more than that.

I will once again say this book, this series has so far topped my favorite list for books that I have read this year. I look forward to reading book 3 and sharing my thoughts of it with you all, so please stay tuned!

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured Dead of Winter, book 2 in The Beautiful Dead trilogy, and I absolutely loOoved this continuation from book 1. In The Beautiful Dead, Book 1 in the trilogy, the author’s imagination blow me away. I was totally amazed by his creativity and beautiful writing. Yes, it’s a post-post-apocalyptic novel but It’s a novel full of dark humor, smartness, poetry and philosophy. I cannot wait for the conclusion of John and Winter’s story in book 3, it’s going to be epic! What did Grim saw? Why was John so happy when he…?

[Hooked On Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

☆☆☆☆☆5 Hooked Stars☆☆☆☆☆

Someone just hand Mr. Banner all the writing awards there are. I mean literally. This man created an amazing world, an incredible storyline, compelling characters and makes all weave and wind so well together. He will make you want to throw your kindle at times, or scream at Winter cause you know she do something else. I became so emotionally involved with these characters that I wanted to jump into the story. I don't even know why I let this book wait, and I cannot wait to read it again.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic read

There are no words to describe all the things that transpire in this book only that I have grown to love Winter and John and I had hoped that they would love as anyone of us loves. Grab a drink and some snacks and settle in that's all I will say.......

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

fantastic!

[Vodkamelie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book #2 of The Beautiful Dead series. You have to read book #1 first!!!

What a rollercoaster this was! Adventure and suprises.
The end got me chocked up! Massive cliffie!

[Ramona Plant · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Dead of Winter is the second book in the trilogy written by Daryl Banner. I found that in this book the plot was drifting a lot around and seemed to have no goal for quite some time. The pace of the book was definitely slow and dragged out for quite a bit. After the first book the group struggled and tried to rebuilt after what they went through at the end of book one. There is a glimmer of hope and they send a group to investigate, and of course things are never as they seem, they can't be or else there wouldn't be a book now would there. This is when finally the book starts to pick up some. The plot starts to include some nice twists that make sense and leaves the survivors struggling yet again with some tough decisions to make.

Winter does what Winter does best and leads the group to what could be there salvation. She is a very strong character who does whatever she can for the ones she cares for, even when they are not even grateful for her sacrifices. The ending of the second book is pretty surprising and leaves us with a huge cliffhanger, wondering how this trilogy will end, which is where I am headed next.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The great journey continues....

Now that the Deathless King has been destroyed, Undead and Living can live in harmony in the great city of Trenton..... Maybe in a perfect world.

But, in this world the Living are still not comfortable being around Crypters and aren't afraid to show it. Tensions run high and food starts to run low.

A trip to barter with a neighboring town for food leads our group of survivors to realize they have much bigger problems to deal with.

A story full of twists and turns, triumphs and losses, life changing realizations and sacrifice take the reader on a rollercoaster ride full of emotions.

Very well written and perfectly detailed. We get to revisit some of our favorite characters and are introduced to a cast of new ones as well.

Highly enjoyable and eerily satisfying, this book failed to disappoint!

[Dmitri Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another action-packed installment that in spite of all the horrors and struggles still manages to be about people, their weaknesses but also about their spirit.

It's frustrating watching how when the world falls away from around people, the core human characteristics authors decide to keep are fear, distrust and hate. It's such a wildly popular formula that sometimes it takes on the form of a blatant truth. Weird, because if history has taught us anything, it's that together in diversity we can grow, while separately we grow weak, all together.

I'm curious what the third novel will be about. I don't think there are any enemies left to fight. The blurb suggested Nature was on the rise and I'm sure the author thought up something big for that.

[Ruby McDemon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved traveling back into Winter's world. Getting to see the humans and the undead come together and the world they could make together. Then Grim showing back up and making his own plans. Seeing all the relationships growing and changing and just the entire world was awesome. I can't wait to find out where Daryl is taking this interesting new world.