Wild-Eyed Southern Boyz

by Richard R. Rose

Set in the small town of Townsend, TN, this is a story where faith, family, friendship, and courage, are put to the test in the wake of a zombie outbreak in the Great Smoky Mountains. Fourteen-year-old Ricky Rue’s (Rue) life is changed one fateful night forever when he meets Buford, a fourteen-year-old Sasquatch. Buford introduces Rue to an underground community that has thrived for centuries. The two teens quickly become lifelong friends.
Several years have passed, and Rue has served with the Air Force in Special Operations Security Forces. Buford has trained since childhood with his grandfather and uncle, elite warriors known as the Knights of the Red Tunic. The time has come for Buford to endure a brutal final test that will determine if he is worthy of joining the sacred order. After a tragic deployment, Rue comes home on leave near the end of his enlistment for some much-needed time with family and friends.
Just when things are looking up for Buford and Rue, an unimaginable evil has returned to the Smokies after making a literal deal with the Devil. A virtually indestructible beast spreads a terrible plague and traps hundreds of thousands of people with a growing army of the undead under his control. Rue becomes the reluctant leader of a small group of humans that must join forces with the Sasquatches to stop the beast and his legion of superhuman zombies to save the world.

409 pages, ebook

Published August 21, 2021

About the author

Richard R. Rose is the creator of the Wild-Eyed Southern Boyz, which features two unlikely friends/heroes Ricky Ryan Rue and Buford Bartholomew Boruff.
Richard R. Rose was born in Sevierville, Tennessee, and grew up in Knoxville and Maryville, Tennessee. He joined the Tennessee Army National Guard while in High School. He served in Field Artillery while attending Walters State Community College, Morristown, TN, where he obtained an associate’s degree in Criminal Justice.
After graduating from Walters State, he pursued a career in law enforcement. He served as a Reserve Officer with the Knox County Sherriff’s Department and later with the Maryville Police Department.
After his tour in the Tennessee Army National Guard, He joined the Army Reserve in Civil Affairs. During this time, he began his full-time career as a Police Officer with the City of Alcoa, Tennessee. During his six years with the police department, he obtained his BS in Organizational Management at Tusculum University, Knoxville, TN.
After three years in the Army Reserve, He joined the Tennessee Air National Guard with the 134th Security Forces Squadron, McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, TN. After four years in Security Forces, He left his law enforcement career to serve full-time in the Air National Guard.
During his active-duty service, he served in multiple special duties, including a tour as a Military Training Instructor (drill instructor). He currently serves as the Chief Master Sergeant in charge of the Air National Guard Training Liaisons at multiple training bases. He also obtained his master’s degree in Adult Education and Training from Trident University International.
Nearing his military retirement, Richard started writing his first book, Wild-Eyed Southern Boyz, an idea he had since his teens. Wild-Eyed Southern Boyz is the first book in a genre-bending series that combines horror, science fiction, fantasy, and comedy. These books include unique stories based on some of the author’s unique experiences. The adventures of Rue and his Sasquatch best friend, Buford, are just beginning.
Richard is retired from the Air Force and currently lives with his wife of 30 years, Patricia, and his Black Lab, Maggie, in Knoxville, TN.

Reviews

[Chris Philbrook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this via Audible, and the narration was solid, but here's the scoop;

Without giving away the entire plot, the premise revolves around "Sasquatches, aka Foresters," being real, and also being as intelligent as people. They've hidden in the shadows for centuries, developing their own culture parallel to ours, and interacting sparsely in rural areas.

The two main characters are Rue (son of a police chief, and Air Force operator) and Buford (Forester/sasquatch) who befriend one another when both are just teens. Rue's world is flipped upside down when he finds out his dad was connected to the Forester community, and that he was eventually going to be introduced to them.
From there, the story fills in the history of the two races, as well as moves forward, unfolding the consequences of ancient choices, prejudice, and prophecy.

I really, really liked this book. It's serious when it needs to be, funny at the right times, and balances a massive cast in a story of far larger scope than you think it has.

I think if y'all are looking for a funny, smart book that manages to combine alternate history, cryptids, supernatural evil, and even an impending apocalypse, this is a fantastic choice.

[Tracey Mccall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mind Blowing

I could not put this book down, I actually laughed and cried while reading it. This book captured me from the first few chapters, as an avid reader I'm always looking for the next great book. Wild-Eyes Southern Boys has it all. I would like the next book now .

[Nicollette Blackeagle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Eyed Southern Boyz is a creative entertaining book that is full of action, sarcastic wit any cryptic creatures. I loved how the author occasionally crosses the wall to directly speak to the reader. The characters are well written and developed. The plot is quite unique and creative. The book may be long but well worth your attention because you will not be disappointed.

[Jeanie F. Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

This book was great. It took me on an incredible journey of the apocalypse with a totally dffererent veiw. I would recommend this book to anyone. Can not wait to read the next book

[Pamela Seabolt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do Sasquatch, zombies and Knights Templar all have in common?

Wild Eyed Southern Boyz, of course and in this book it works. Oh my goodness, does it ever work. I was just a little bit skeptical when I started reading this debut novel by the soon to be legendary Richard Rose but halfway through I found myself messaging the author just so that I could tell him how much I was enjoying the book. I couldn't bring myself to wait until I finished it, I wanted him to know right now. I'm not going to rehash the plot, that's what the synopsis is for, but I will say that if you're looking for a read that will make you laugh, gasp, frustrate you a little and maybe even tear up on occasion then this is the book for you. Give Wild Eyed Southern Boys a try, I promise you won't regret it.

[Holly Kilmister · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book, loved every moment.

When I realised that this book is written in journal format, I was put off. There are so many books written as diarys and journals, I wanted something a bit more unique. I was pleasantly surprised that this book, despite my misconceptions, is a masterpiece. The story line is definitely unusual and thoroughly enjoyable. If you are after something a bit different,then this is definitely something you should read.

[Elise Dufour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok this is seriously an awesome ride

This story has it all. Battles, beasts, love, unexpected turns and thank god a part 2 to look forward to. I truly enjoyed this book. It took a little getting used to jumping around in time but it all tied together and the characters and their history made for a story I couldn't put down. I can't wait for the next book.

[Leva Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!!

I don't even know where to begin! This was great! Learning the back stories, watching the characters come alive. I'm going to love watching where life takes these lovable characters! On just make sure to grab your tissue!

[Merrill David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun story, exciting adventures

Great writing and story make these adventures with Rue and Buford a fun and entertaining ride! Some epic battles as well, particularly when humans and Sasquatches team up to save their world from stinking zombies! Awesome book!

[Angie Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful!

Richard Rose just has a knack for blending fable and fact! I enjoyed none he'll out of this book! I can't wait for book 2.

[Susan D · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW

Great book could not put it down. When is next one coming out? Can't wait............. ....... ... ..... ......... ....!!!!!!!!!

[Nathan Helm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wide-Eyed Southern Boyz by Richard R. Rose hits all the marks. Not only is it well written but it is fun as heck! There's a lot of calls the the military and also some awesome quotes from scripture. The supernatural aspects of the story are amazing. Its very rare that we get to see things from the perspective of what most people consider to be "monsters". Ricky is an awesome character and I loved his relationship with B! If you want a book that's got witty humor, sick action scenes, a unique spin on supernatural, and all around enjoyable characters...you need this book! I wish there was more than 5 stars on here because I'd give it 10! What are you waiting for? Get yourself a copy of this book today, and grab the rest of the series while you're at it.
P.S.
If you ever get to meet the author in real life, he's a real authentic guy. He cares about his readers and he'll happily take time to visit and take a picture. God Bless this amazing author!

[Damien Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable story with a unique spin on the zombie genre. Just when you think everything has been done with the undead, Richard R Rose introduces a human/Sasquatch mix which creates an action-packed, and often humorous storyline. 5 stars, highly recommend, and looking forward to reading more!

[Michael Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild-eyed southern boys indeed! Although one is fur-covered, 6 feet tall and hugely muscled!

Townsend Tennessee is a sleepy little town on the edge of the Smoky Mountain National Park. Ricky Ryan Rue Jr. grew up here, but spent most of his time wandering the forest looking for his father. Ricky Sr. had been missing since investigating an old lady's angry call to dispatch reporting her home was being assaulted by rock throwing wood-boogers! Not hide nor hair had been seen of the Townsend Chief of Police since. Ricky Jr. (just Rue, not R3 or Junior, just Rue!) had been searching those woods ever since and knew them well!

One night he was out later than he'd intended and was caught in the deep of the forest in darkness. He had the big Maglite flashlight his dad used to carry on patrol. Not only a flaslight, but could be used as a baton in desperate times. And now was one of those times! Shining red eyes shone in the darkness accompanied by deep snarling growls. Rue swung the Maglite at the head of one of two feral pit bulls attacking him. The flashlight brought a sharp yelp, but the second was on him in a flash, catching his arm in those powerful jaws. Fortunately, it only got his shirt sleeve and Rue was able to twist his arm loose with only a scratch. He ran, desperately seeking safety. He caught sight of a tree with a limb he might reach if he could jump high enough. As he scrambled for purchase on the slight limb, he felt a tearing pain in the muscle of his calf as one of the huge dogs caught hold. Barely holding onto the limb he couldn't pull his leg loose as the pitbull savaged it. Loss of blood, added to the strenuous fight was taking its toll and Rue's strength was fading along with his grasp on the tree limb. As his vision darkened and his strength gave out, his last sight was of a huge hairy beast grasping and hurling the dogs away from him.

When Rue awoke, he was in a huge bed in a giant sized room with stone walls. He spied a water jug and glass on a table next to the bed. Although they were very large also, he managed to pour a glass and drained it down his thirsty throat. A rumbling voice from the corner of the room said, "Good! You're awake!" Rue turned and saw a figure rising from a rocking chair. It was huge, more than six feet tall, covered in thick brown fur except for his dark-skinned face. With a huge smile, he stepped closer and Rue got his first sight of a Sasquatch!

Every character in this book is a dream or a nightmare! Well defined, painted with an artist's brush, each and every character, from the oversized, over muscled, fur covered Foresters (as they prefer to be called), to the population of Townsend, Tennessee, is unique, but totally recognizable! Even the antagonizing town drunk has a role and a purpose as the storyline shifts attention to him. I see figures from my present and my past in these memorable cast members. Even the Stillwater residents, although 8 or 9 feet tall and muscled like The Rock, have familiar dispositions that bring immediately to mind some of my cousins or neighbors. What I'm saying is that a master storyteller has used my mind to make these characters. No, that's not right! What I'm trying to convey is that the characters are so perfectly described that I can see familiarity in even the smallest role. This missive is the work of an artist!

The storyline is exceptional, with enough curves to throw you off track, but gentle rises to bring you back to the combat or the romance, and there's plenty of each! The excitement level is off the charts, each page bringing more thrills or tears. When you look forward to each page turn more than the one before, you just don't want to stop. Putting the story down is near impossible, your eyes flashing with delight as you tear through the words. Just can't put it down! It's got the characters, the storyline and the words of a master storyteller! This is a great read!

[Billy Barfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow what a book

I was not expecting such a wonderful read. What a way to introduce us to the Foresters and the Schitt group. I cant wait to read more and just enjoy the Schitt out of every minute.

[Melissa Levine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such an interesting story. It’s stories like this that always leave me impressed (not sure if that’s the right word) by the author’s imagination and how they’re able to come up with the idea, in this case, humans and sasquatches and zombies, and then be able to connect the dots. It’s a unique story. But it was way too long! I’ll explain why below. I’d almost think the author was getting paid per word/page.

One area I wished would have been different was the foresters and their lack of uniqueness compared to humans. It’s like they were taller, hairier, and stronger than humans but that was it.

It’s one thing to have a lot of main characters, which I’m not a fan of because it can get confusing as to whose POV you’re following. But it’s another thing to have the story follow minor side characters like Earl and Lutz, for example, who have a scene and that’s it. Or going from one POV to another to another, all in one scene. Usually the multiple POVs go along with a plot-driven story. Is that what this was? I would have thought it was a character-driven story since the reader follows the two main characters: Rue and Buford.

The memoir entries, sometimes taking entire chapters, of someone not even in the story itself, who spoke of the templars, might have been interesting to other readers, but I wasn’t a fan. It just kept taking me out of the story. Speaking of templars, had I realized there was so much religious talk, I probably wouldn’t have asked for an audiobook code. More on that later.

I can’t stand robotic dialogue. I feel like a lot of writers are scared to use contractions, which makes no sense to me because typically if the line is said aloud, a contraction is used as opposed to not.

The tenses got mixed up at times also, using present tense instead of past tense. I’m not sure how no one gave fewer stars for the “telling” as opposed to “showing,” for example, when Rue is telling the reader about the military... I was bored. Or the fact some parts had too much narrative. If I were interested in reading about specific events or elements in history, I would have gotten a historical-type story.

The redundancy was over the top, like “hoisted up.” Hoisted means to raise as in going up, so only hoisted should have been used. I guess you could call me a nitpicky reader but stuff like that annoys me. Or “…with the remaining resources we had left.” Using “had left” is redundant because the prior phrase implies what they had left is what they used. Or “There was no way we would keep everyone alive and I knew it.” Again, Rue was telling the story here, so stating “I knew it” is redundant.

A lot of the time an action was said before it took place. Basically the order was incorrect. For example, “Earl asked as his voice cracked nervously, ‘What are you talking about, Willy?” Technically he talks first resulting in “his voice cracked nervously.” Or “Preacher Cody centered himself in front of the fighters and then requested their attention. ‘May I have everyone’s attention, please?’ Preacher Cody asked loudly but politely.” That last part wasn’t even necessary. This brings up all the unnecessary adverbs that were used throughout the story. I’m not one to dismiss the use of all adverbs, but they were overdone here.

I can’t stand when “had had” or “that that” is used. Yes, it’s grammatically correct but I’ve learned that they can be rephrased so the double verb isn’t used.


The narrator did a good job overall. His voice/accent was perfect for the story. I did notice he mispronounced words, for example, populated and Appalachian. Also, he would increase his speed at random points. The first time was during chapter 2 when the protagonist realized he was only dreaming. I found it annoying because it didn’t even sound like his natural speed prior to this scene. It was obvious he wasn’t a natural reader, even though he did make it work through most of the story, because he would add emphasis to random words, which told me he’d lost his place.



Questions/Comments:

Unless I was mistaken, Buford said that Rue referring to him as an ape was racist, yet his mother turned around and called him a young ape and they referred to each other as apes.

I found it interesting that the foresters’ pastor told Buford the Bible said that God didn’t give you anything you couldn’t handle but, then he contradicted himself by saying if you couldn’t handle the situation on your own to turn to God. If God knew that you were having trouble by praying to him, it would all work out. Right. Isn’t God supposed to know all? So God would know when something was too much for you? Obviously I’m not religious, but I can’t help but think of those people who struggle to deal with their “situation,” it DOESN’T work out even when they’re religious, and that’s that. It ends badly for them. But the fact the foresters believed in Jesus/God just makes no sense to me when other than the simple reference of (I forgot the exact wording but) “other people,” that would have been the only (potential) reference to foresters.

When Buford was fighting to become a Templar, his body was aching from dehydration. How did he dehydrate so quickly?

When Rachel is first examining Luther, she states he is unnatural. Why? Using that term would make me think that someone like a scientist had created him/his species. It’s not like she knew he was friends with the devil.

Why would the zombies eat Rue’s puke?

“Every eye bowed. Every eye closed. EXCEPT Cody standing at the rear of the formation.” Nice contradiction.

Why was the preacher’s name Cody when the town bully was also Cody?

This was the first time I’ve heard the phrase “chill bumps” instead of goosebumps or chicken skin.

I knew when Cody and Rue started fighting that Rue was going to beat him. It was too predictable. But, when they’re fighting… why wouldn’t anyone have stopped them? I mean zombies are coming, a lot of things need to be done, but because this was a subplot of the story, it needs to take place so the subplot can continue even though it doesn’t work because it doesn’t make sense people would just be standing around not doing anything but watching.

It was stated that Penny had been taught that Sasquatches were just wild animals. Huh? Why would she have been “taught” this and not that they didn’t exist?

A chapter started with Buford being told about his father and he said how the news didn’t bring him comfort just more questions. Yet further into the chapter Luther/Jethro is revealed to be his father. So what was revealed at the beginning?


I received an audiobook code in exchange for a review.

[Cliff Cross · Rating 3 out of 5]

The premise and overall story I thought was very interesting. There was a lot going on in terms of the supernatural, and it actually worked for me.

My average rating is more for the writing itself and also the narration (though that may have been a product of the writing? not sure) I understand this is the first novel by this author so trying to cut some slack, but there was a lot of cringe-worthy dialogue and moments that made me roll my eyes.

Biggest thing that I just kept noticing all the way through is this is supposed to be a bunch of backwoods Tennessee folks, even the narrator is spot on with tone and accent, but the dialogue was written full of proper grammar and lacked the casual way of speaking you would expect to hear. Hearing the exaggerated "I am sure that..." or "I thought that you would like to..." or some other statement that the narrator had to really exaggerate to fit into the flow of normal conversation, when really a "southern boy" would have had some contractions thrown in. It was all the way through and was very distracting to me listening to the audiobook. Maybe reading text would have been less distracting.

Overall, I did enjoy this book despite the 3 star, and probably will check out future books because the ending set up some interesting stuff.

[Marti-stanley Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

interesting read

Wild-eyed southern Boyz was interesting to read. It had folklore and zombies, what more could you want? It has a good storyline without all the bad language and sex scenes so many feel they have to include. It was refreshing to read something with a good storyline without all without resorting to foul language and such.

[Robyn S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!

Very well written I couldn't put it down! I'm starting the next book in the series right now and I look forward to reading more from this author