by Diana Rowland
Series: White Trash Zombie #1
Narrator: Allison McLemore
Length: 8 hrs and 44 mins
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Narration: 4.5 cups
Teenage delinquent Angel Crawford lives with her redneck father in the swamps of southern Louisiana. She's a high school dropout, addicted to drugs and alcohol, and has a police record a mile long. But when she's made into a zombie after a car crash, her addictions disappear, except for her all-consuming need to stay "alive".
I have read Diana Rowland’s books before and enjoyed them, so I have no idea why I waited so long to begin the White Trash Zombie series. I finally decided enough was enough and snagged the audio version of My Life as a White Trash Zombie. At just under nine hours, this was hilarious on audio. Rowland weaves humor and a little mystery as our protagonist discovers she is a zombie. BRAINS!!!!
Five reasons to grab your earbuds and listen to My Life as a White Trash Zombie
- Angela Crawford- She is a twenty-something high school dropout and druggie from the wrong side of the tracks and completely hilarious and lovable. Yep, even as a zombie you cannot help loving this chick. She is snarky, smart and doing this zombie thing by the seat of her pants.
- Southern Louisiana. The setting is perfect for this zombie tale, and Rowland takes advantage of the redneck stereotype to add humor as we discover what it takes to survive being a zombie. From the morgue to life at home, Rowland shares it all.
- Zombies- Rowland adds a twist to zombies. Unlike the mindless brain, eating zombies we usually encounter Rowland’s zombies are smart, heal fast and unless they have been without food for a couple of days and have begun to decay you would never know that the woman in the booth next to you is a brain-loving zombie.
- Mystery- Angel has no idea how she became a zombie and it was fun tagging along with her as she discovered things. We also have an unusual amount of bodies showing up at the morgue beheaded or missing important parts. Angel is inquisitive and worried about her own hide and begins to investigate. I love that despite being a dropout and former junkie Angel is quite smart. Seeing her gain confidence, make decisions and form new friendships all while juggling her new “zombie” status was a hoot to observe.
- Narrator- Allison McLemore rocked this narration from Angel’s redneck accent to capturing her snark I loved listening. Each character had a distinctive voice and she helped capture the author’s intended tone only enhancing the overall story. I cannot wait to listen to the rest of the series.
My Life as a White Trash Zombie was delightful, suspenseful and humorous from beginning to end. I have a feeling I am in for one heck of a ride with Angel Crawford.
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Tyler H Jolley
Kimba, thank you for always including an audible sample. I really appreciate it!
kimbacaffeinate
It helps me decide on audio books, so I try to include them if I can track one down
Sarah
I don’t think it’s possible NOT to love Angel… or at least feel for the girl. And I always root for the underdog 🙂 Plus I find that I love me some Louisiana set novels. Always makes for the most interesting characters, if done well 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I am partial to this setting as well Sarah. Angel is unique and agree I got caught up in her drama.
Leeanna
You reminded me that I need to read this series. It sounds hilarious but good.
kimbacaffeinate
Sweet..enjoy Leeann 🙂
Kai Charles
I read this book awhile ago but this audio verson sounds great !
kimbacaffeinate
Sometimes the audio adds a little something 🙂
Teddyree
Love getting a new narrator recommendation and I could do with a good laugh. Going to see if I can get this one on audible. Thanks Kimberly
kimbacaffeinate
I do too Teddyree, enjoy!
Jennifer Bielman
I love Rowlands books but have yet to read this series either. But I LOVE zombies. It’s only a matter of time.
kimbacaffeinate
Enjoy when you do Jennifer 🙂
Melissa's Eclectic Bookshelf
This sounds like so much fun. Angel sounds like the perfect MC!
kimbacaffeinate
This was fun Melissa 🙂
Adriana Garcia
This is a book I would never go for before, but you’ve convinced me. I need to try more zombie books anyways. I really liked what I listened to – the narrator is really believable. I like that Angela is smart despite doing drugs for a long time. I hope the book explores what her motivation was and I’m always curious if she will form a romance with someone.
kimbacaffeinate
*dances* Yay..glad you are going to try something different
Jeann
Can’t wait to pick this one up, I’ve grabbed it out from the library, hopefully I’ll be able to read this soon. Angel being a druggie reminds me of one of my favourite series, the Downside Ghosts series. Great review Kimba!
kimbacaffeinate
*makes a note to check out Downside Ghost series*
Lily
The last time i read a zombie book was when i read Amy Tintera’s Reboot duology. it was crazy good but i’m still wary of zombies. They arent the most likable characters LOL. But you’ve got me tempted.
kimbacaffeinate
No they aren’t but Rowland’s zombies are very human
Alise
I’ve seen My Life as a White Trash Zombie around at the library before but never picked it up but I sure will now! Although I might be on the lookout for the audio because it sounds really great, I tend to enjoy humor more verbally than just reading it so it should be fun 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Either way I hope you pick it up..such fun!
Amir
I have this on audio too but I still need to listen to it! I skimmed your review but you’re rating is enough for me. I’m glad the narrator’s a win and she was able to portray the characters well. I should listen to this soon. I love zombies!!!
kimbacaffeinate
Oh have fun Amir…this was delightful
Lindy
Great Review Kim! I love a fun, snarky, humorous character! I think it’s awesome that the narrator was able to do Angel’s accent perfectly, as well as many other characters! I enjoy reading stories about Zombies. The Walking Dead is one of my favorite shows. Great Review 🙂 I love how you do your reviews! Always so creative and concise!!!
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks Lindy, i had fun with this one
Lorna
I love Walking Dead, but not a fan of zombies otherwise. That being said, you totally sold me on this and now I need to listen instead of read! Thank you!
kimbacaffeinate
These are not your garden variety zombies 🙂
Christy
Yeaaaahh, buddy! I love that it’s zombies, yet UF. I want to listen to the 3rd book already, but I’m trying to spread them out.
kimbacaffeinate
I am shooting for book 2 in June and book 3 in July
Lupdilup
Yes! I loved this one! I’m glad you enjoyed it too 🙂 McLemore is perfect with this series. I read this one (no audio then) and then I re-visit on audio, and It’s not often when a narrator is better than my inner-voice, but she sure was 🙂
Great review girl!
kimbacaffeinate
She rocked it and I will continue on audio 🙂
Sharon - Obsession with Books
I love the cover of this and I have had this book for a while now Kimba but I’m not a huge fan of zombies so I have avoided it. I do like the sound of the twist the author put on these zombies though, it sounds unique.
A great review! Sharon – Obsession with Books
kimbacaffeinate
This is so different from your typical zombie books Sharon
ShootingStarsMag
This has been on my wish list for a long time now! I really need to grab a copy. I think it would be a fun by-the-pool read.
kimbacaffeinate
Perfect pool read Lauren!
Paij Slater
The name cracks me up! The cover is fantastic :). Great review! Have a wonderful weekend Kim and Happy Mother’s Day 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Awe thank you Paij. Despite the narly headache I have had for almost 3 days now I did enjoy my weekend and Mother’s day.
Melissa (Books and Things)
I think I have the next one in paperback but you have totally convinced me to try them on audio. I hope my library has it. If not, I’m totally recommending it. 😀
kimbacaffeinate
Fan-friggin-tastic on audio Melissa 🙂
Angela Adams
This premise sounds “deep…”
kimbacaffeinate
LOL, I don’t know about that but it sure was a heck of a lot of fun 🙂
Stormi
There is just something about Zombies I just don’t like..even though this sounds cool. I think it’s the decaying body parts..lol. Maybe one day I will try it..lol.
kimbacaffeinate
LOL, trust me these zombies are different and probably one you would enjoy.
Heidi
I read this one when it first came out, and I loved it. So funny. I am sure it was even better on audio. I still need to read books three and four. I think I will do those on audio.
kimbacaffeinate
I have the next one and hope to start in June.
Lexxie
I’m not a huge zombie fan, but I’m so intrigued by this series, Kim! It’s also very good to know you enjoyed this story so much. Maybe I’ll dare to give it a try 😉
kimbacaffeinate
This is so not your typical zombie book Lexxie.
Ramona
This has been on my list for a while now and I absolutely want to read it, because everyone seemed to have had a really good time with it. The MC sounds like an unforgettable character, lol, an interesting mix not often encountered. Wonderful review, Kimba!
kimbacaffeinate
This was fresh and unique. It worked beautifully as an audio
Red Iza
I’m reading her latest Kara Gillian novel, I’d love to switch to that series once I’m finished 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I need to catch up on that series myself
Blessie (Mischievous Reads)
I loved the audiobook to this too and is one of my favorites! 😀 Glad to know you liked it too!
Lanie
Trippy. Didn’t you just post a review on this book?!?!
Christy
I’m glad to see you enjoyed this one! I’ve read the first 3 books and I really enjoy this series 😀
Sophia Rose
I put off this series because it was about a zombie and I was imagining Walking Dead or something, but a few months back someone set me straight. I look forward to reading it. Glad it was good. The mystery part sounds good.
Lori
I read this series (well most of it) and loved it, but it must be great on audio!!! Might have to try the next book on audio 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
It is such fun on audio Lori. I am glad you like this series as well 🙂
Jenny
Normally I stay far, far away from anything zombie Kim, but this sounds like my kind of zombie tale! Yes to snarky, lovable heroines and zombies who aren’t mindless, gore-riddled beings. Must give this a try!
kimbacaffeinate
Yes..this is not your typical zombie book and quite funny
Braine
I will be kicking, punching, slapping myself for haven’t started this series yet. I heard her other series is pretty badass too!
kimbacaffeinate
I love her other series as well..but this is totally fresh and funky fun.
Nick
Zombies aren’t my favorite paranormal creatures (mostly because I’m a wuss), but I’ve heard great things about this series. A mystery well-written and a Southern Louisiana setting! That sounds fantastic.
Lovely review, Kim!
kimbacaffeinate
No wuss fear hear Nick..this is unlike any zombie book I’ve ever read.
kindlemom1
Dang you and Christy. I can see that I’m totally going to have to buy this one.
kimbacaffeinate
Bwahaha..yes you must listen!
Jennifer
I love this series on audio. Allison McLemore is so good that I don’t know that I would enjoy it as much if I read it.
As a Southerner (Arkansas) I’m really peaky about “fake” southern accents and when I listened to this one a couple of years ago I thought that Allison get a great job with hers. Then I researched her and she’s from Arkansas. LOL Granted she does put on a lot, she doesn’t really talk that southern.
kimbacaffeinate
Yay..so good to hear you love the narration as well. I had fun with this one
Melliane
I always love a good zombies book and this one sounds great, I love her other series so I know I need to try it. Plus I have it lol so I should read it, I just have too many books…. same problem for everyone right?
kimbacaffeinate
I hope you try it, I really had fun listening
Melanie Simmons
I so love this series on audio. I started reading it when it first came out, before the audios. I was already reading Rowland’s demon series, so I started this one when it came out. I quickly fell in love with it. Once the audios came out, I was an audio only for this series. The narrator is perfect for Angel. I’m so glad you enjoyed this.
kimbacaffeinate
The audio rocks!
Benish
The last time I read a zombie book was in sixth grade.. I usually watch zombie movies although the title of this is different. I might just have to check it out, lovely review 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Completely different from any zombie book I have ever read 🙂
blodeuedd
She is wicked cool 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I agree Linda, so glad I started it
Priscilla and her Books
This reminds me of iZombie!
kimbacaffeinate
I wanted to watch that show, but I am just too busy. I will need to catch it on NetFlix