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Zombies of the Upper East Side
Charmaine Starling is an Upper East Side housewife whose life is in crisis. She and her husband are in the middle of a messy divorce. He's dragging his feet on a settlement, and his mother—who controls the family purse strings—is pushing back on their prenup. If that weren't bad enough, Charmaine has just read that her husband, Darren, is holed up in a suite of rooms at The Carlyle with his mistress, whom Page Six is calling “The New Mrs. Starling.” They've run pictures of the happy couple, and she has a pink diamond on her ring finger that is almost as large as her lack of shame.
Oh, yeah, there’s also something sinister afoot. It seems like you can’t go to a sit-down dinner without the host putting on a black hood and opening the room to a ritual sacrifice. But lately, something far worse is making the rounds—less Chanel, more contagion. A scourge. One that’s spreading faster than gossip. People are getting sick, and bodies are missing from the morgue...
Oh, yeah, there’s also something sinister afoot. It seems like you can’t go to a sit-down dinner without the host putting on a black hood and opening the room to a ritual sacrifice. But lately, something far worse is making the rounds—less Chanel, more contagion. A scourge. One that’s spreading faster than gossip. People are getting sick, and bodies are missing from the morgue...
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 4, 2026
First off a big thank you to the author for the invite as well as letting me receive an advance review copy for free from @booksirens , and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I wasn't sure what to expect going in to Zombies of the upper East Side but i sure didn't expect to laugh at some of the stuff that happened though out the story , and i loved how these zombies was so different from your typical ones you read and know about , in the way they act and did things.
I wasn't sure what to expect going in to Zombies of the upper East Side but i sure didn't expect to laugh at some of the stuff that happened though out the story , and i loved how these zombies was so different from your typical ones you read and know about , in the way they act and did things.
June 1, 2026
If there’s one thing I love it’s stupid quippy humor, and this book is full of it. It did take me a few pages to sync up with Jason’s sense of humor, but once I did, it was chuckle after chuckle. Some of the things described are cartoonish, at least how I imagined them, but it’s also full of gory horror.
Reading this became a movie in my mind. The FMC, Charmaine, was obviously cast as John Early or Cole Escola. But rather than make them fight over Charmaine, I felt the other actor would be the real star of the show, Mitzi (I chose Cole). Then Charmaine’s brief Jason Statham-like love interest Edgar, was initially Jason Statham, sort of like the only human in a muppet movie, but he quickly morphed into Aubrey Plaza in a suit and stubble. Mrs. Desmonds is obviously meant to be Amy Sedaris (to me anyway). Aubrey was pulling double duty as the very serious nanny Rochelle. Esmerelda could be anyone, but Carla Jimenez would be great. Then Oona it tough, I got it in my head that she was Russian, so all I see is Katya, but she definitely wasn’t Russian. The only character I still haven’t cast is Sylvia, I wasn’t able to pin down the right person for her. But as you might guess from all that, this book has a kooky cast of characters.
Now, I will say, there were some writing choices I found potentially objectionable. There’s reference to “no” as “the n-word”, some of the commentary as women and coming from women raised an eyebrow with the writer being a man, there’s a black poodle named Oprah, some of the accents are bordering on offensive, and most of the characters are white and wealthy. NOW, I fully admit I may just be being too woke right now, I had a bad experience with another book recently, so maybe I am just hyper sensitive. I am willing to give Jason the benefit of the doubt (for now) though.
Which is great, cause it ends with more story to come, and overall I had a really great time. Horror comedy is one of my favorite genres, so I will be back whenever Jason decides to continue!
Reading this became a movie in my mind. The FMC, Charmaine, was obviously cast as John Early or Cole Escola. But rather than make them fight over Charmaine, I felt the other actor would be the real star of the show, Mitzi (I chose Cole). Then Charmaine’s brief Jason Statham-like love interest Edgar, was initially Jason Statham, sort of like the only human in a muppet movie, but he quickly morphed into Aubrey Plaza in a suit and stubble. Mrs. Desmonds is obviously meant to be Amy Sedaris (to me anyway). Aubrey was pulling double duty as the very serious nanny Rochelle. Esmerelda could be anyone, but Carla Jimenez would be great. Then Oona it tough, I got it in my head that she was Russian, so all I see is Katya, but she definitely wasn’t Russian. The only character I still haven’t cast is Sylvia, I wasn’t able to pin down the right person for her. But as you might guess from all that, this book has a kooky cast of characters.
Now, I will say, there were some writing choices I found potentially objectionable. There’s reference to “no” as “the n-word”, some of the commentary as women and coming from women raised an eyebrow with the writer being a man, there’s a black poodle named Oprah, some of the accents are bordering on offensive, and most of the characters are white and wealthy. NOW, I fully admit I may just be being too woke right now, I had a bad experience with another book recently, so maybe I am just hyper sensitive. I am willing to give Jason the benefit of the doubt (for now) though.
Which is great, cause it ends with more story to come, and overall I had a really great time. Horror comedy is one of my favorite genres, so I will be back whenever Jason decides to continue!
February 13, 2026
Finished Reading:
Zombies of the Upper East Side by Jason Zeffir
__________
⭐⭐⭐,5/5
Format: e-book
Pages: 222
Genre: Horror / Comedy
Theme: Zombies
__________
I received an advance review copy for free from @booksirens , and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story was exactly what I expected it to be: a funny zombie story! There were several moments throughout the story where I laughed out loud, whether it was because of something a character said, or because of a funny/absurd situation the character found themselves in.
The story itself was what you expect too, with the main character (Charmaine) waking up during the zombie outbreak and trying to find her two missing kids and hopefully save them. However, I did not expect the way the story would progress and eventually play out! But I loved the ending for sure!
I loved that the zombies themselves keep some of their personalities and habits when they turn. They are not only hungry for human meat, but they will also talk to the still alive humans (even though those still alive only hear grunts and moans) and they have other habits they still cling to when afflicted with their new condition. Oh, and I loved the body horror and gory scenes! Some descriptions were rather gruesome, which I loved!
Where the story lost me a bit though was the regular switching between current times and flash-backs from Charmaine, or scenes from other people playing out at the time. It was a lot of jumping between scenes, which I didn't like much. Also some references were hard for me to grasp, I think because I know nothing of fashion and I am also not an American or know much about New York...
But all in all, I did enjoy the story and I liked Charmaine and her friend Mitzi was hilarious though a real pain in the ass and rather unlikable. But I know that is a trait a lot of people like in their books!
Anyway, I recommend this book to anyone that wants a fun but still rather gory zombie read!
Zombies of the Upper East Side by Jason Zeffir
__________
⭐⭐⭐,5/5
Format: e-book
Pages: 222
Genre: Horror / Comedy
Theme: Zombies
__________
I received an advance review copy for free from @booksirens , and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story was exactly what I expected it to be: a funny zombie story! There were several moments throughout the story where I laughed out loud, whether it was because of something a character said, or because of a funny/absurd situation the character found themselves in.
The story itself was what you expect too, with the main character (Charmaine) waking up during the zombie outbreak and trying to find her two missing kids and hopefully save them. However, I did not expect the way the story would progress and eventually play out! But I loved the ending for sure!
I loved that the zombies themselves keep some of their personalities and habits when they turn. They are not only hungry for human meat, but they will also talk to the still alive humans (even though those still alive only hear grunts and moans) and they have other habits they still cling to when afflicted with their new condition. Oh, and I loved the body horror and gory scenes! Some descriptions were rather gruesome, which I loved!
Where the story lost me a bit though was the regular switching between current times and flash-backs from Charmaine, or scenes from other people playing out at the time. It was a lot of jumping between scenes, which I didn't like much. Also some references were hard for me to grasp, I think because I know nothing of fashion and I am also not an American or know much about New York...
But all in all, I did enjoy the story and I liked Charmaine and her friend Mitzi was hilarious though a real pain in the ass and rather unlikable. But I know that is a trait a lot of people like in their books!
Anyway, I recommend this book to anyone that wants a fun but still rather gory zombie read!
January 8, 2026
Divorce is hard. Being replaced by “The New Mrs. Starling” in Page Six is worse. Add secret societies, occult dinner parties, and a mysterious plague spreading through the Upper East Side? Truly rock bottom.
This book is sharp, strange, and wildly entertaining. Charmaine is messy, angry, and absolutely spiraling...and honestly? I loved that for her. The mix of socialite drama and paranormal chaos works way better than it has any right to. One minute it’s pink diamond rage, the next it’s cult rituals and missing bodies.
It’s dark but funny, creepy without being overwhelming, and moves fast enough that you barely have time to process what’s happening before things get worse (in a good way). If you like your horror with satire, rich-people problems, and a side of occult nonsense, this one delivers.
Would recommend if you enjoy unhinged women, social satire, and supernatural messes.
This book is sharp, strange, and wildly entertaining. Charmaine is messy, angry, and absolutely spiraling...and honestly? I loved that for her. The mix of socialite drama and paranormal chaos works way better than it has any right to. One minute it’s pink diamond rage, the next it’s cult rituals and missing bodies.
It’s dark but funny, creepy without being overwhelming, and moves fast enough that you barely have time to process what’s happening before things get worse (in a good way). If you like your horror with satire, rich-people problems, and a side of occult nonsense, this one delivers.
Would recommend if you enjoy unhinged women, social satire, and supernatural messes.
Review of advance copy
If you enjoy zombies, and books that make you laugh, this needs to go to the top of your TBR. A quick warning, this can get quite gory, although that isn’t unusual for a zombie story. I absolutely loved Charmaine. She was likable, and her determination to get through the zombie apocalypse and find her kids really helped drive the story forward. Honestly, the whole cast of characters is unique and interesting, and while at times some of them feel like caricatures, it’s all part of the fun of the story. I enjoyed how it bounced back and forth between the past and present, and there’s quite a bit of tongue-in-cheek humor throughout. This is the book for anyone looking for a humorous zombie apocalypse that pokes fun at the ultrarich and upper-echelons of society.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 4, 2026
I don't read a lot of zombie genre, but I thought this book sounded interesting. I sure was right! It captured my attention and emotions. I was rooting for the main character throughout the book. This book definitely ends leaving things open for a sequel. It does NOT end in a cliffhanger. Overall, I recommend this book. It's easy to read and is basically a fun read. It does have a few gory details, so be forewarned. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily with my honest feedback.
January 6, 2026
I want to start off saying," I love zombies!" Now Charmaine is this hot mess who is trained in Hip Hop Yoga. Her neighbor Mrs. Desmonds is not much better. Don't get me started on Mitzi and Sylvia. The story was wild & I got confused at one part. But I forget about it the more Mrs. Desmond told her story. I was choking and cackling when she was talking about her maid.
Eat the rich? I dunno, the characters are all hot messes. I'm kinda mad at how it ends, but I'm" patient"
Eat the rich? I dunno, the characters are all hot messes. I'm kinda mad at how it ends, but I'm" patient"
January 14, 2026
I love the light hearted take on the end of the world with zombies. If you enjoyed pride, prejudice, and zombies you will love this one. Zombies on the Upper Side takes OG RHONY type personalities and brings humor to an otherwise terrifying event. The main character made me laugh so hard and was even relatable in apocalyptic New York. I can’t wait for the next installment! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 4, 2026
Deliciously Devious, and Frightfully Funny! I laughed so much my sides ached, and had tears in my eyes. This book was such a treat and a breath of fresh air.
This book was equal parts Gossip Girl, Desperate Housewives, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and The Walking Dead. It was such a fun combination of horror and comedy, I highly recommend this book!
🧟♂️🧟♀️🌆Thanks to the author and their team for an ARC in exchange for an honest review! 🌆🧟♀️🧟♂️
This book was equal parts Gossip Girl, Desperate Housewives, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and The Walking Dead. It was such a fun combination of horror and comedy, I highly recommend this book!
🧟♂️🧟♀️🌆Thanks to the author and their team for an ARC in exchange for an honest review! 🌆🧟♀️🧟♂️
May 14, 2026
Picked this up expecting a regular zombie story and got something way funnier. Jason nails the Upper East Side. The socialites, the doormen, the old ladies with their little dogs, all turned into zombies. The chapter titles are great on their own. "Scourge and the City," "Looting for Luxury," "Double Cross Vodka." The illustrations are a nice touch too. If you like horror with some humor, you'll fly through this one.
May 14, 2026
This zombie book was like a breath of fresh air, although a zombie apocalypse in New York City was anything but fresh air. I chuckled at a lot of the silliness and dialogue.
I really enjoyed this book, I won’t spoil anything, so I encourage you to read this incredibly awesome book yourself.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed this book, I won’t spoil anything, so I encourage you to read this incredibly awesome book yourself.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2026
This is a lightly amusing & some times shocking YA story. Every unpleasant character trait that can be found in "high" society is pretty much covered. If you are easily offended this is not for you. Overall a good, fun read for a lighter zombie experience.
May 11, 2026
This was a hilarious and irreverent story that had me laughing out loud at times. The characters were fun and the zombies were unique.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Zombies of the Upper East Side” is such a fun and entertaining read! While I found a few parts a bit confusing, it didn’t stop me from enjoying the story. I was really into the gruesome details and all the gory fun.
The idea of a zombie invasion might sound familiar, but this book puts a cool spin on it. The zombies here actually try to talk to their victims! Unfortunately, those who haven’t turned into zombies just hear them making growls and grunts, which is both eerie and interesting.
I had a blast reading this book and can’t help but hope that there will be a follow-up, especially with that open ending—it definitely leaves you wanting more!
If you’re looking for a quick and entertaining zombie apocalypse story to add to your TBR, I highly recommend this one!
A big thank you to Jason for reaching out and providing me an advance digital review copy of this book via BookSirens. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own, and I am sharing them with you voluntarily.
The idea of a zombie invasion might sound familiar, but this book puts a cool spin on it. The zombies here actually try to talk to their victims! Unfortunately, those who haven’t turned into zombies just hear them making growls and grunts, which is both eerie and interesting.
I had a blast reading this book and can’t help but hope that there will be a follow-up, especially with that open ending—it definitely leaves you wanting more!
If you’re looking for a quick and entertaining zombie apocalypse story to add to your TBR, I highly recommend this one!
A big thank you to Jason for reaching out and providing me an advance digital review copy of this book via BookSirens. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own, and I am sharing them with you voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews