A Matter of Days by Amber Kizer (Book review)

Title: A Matter of Days by Amber Kizer

Publisher: Delacorte Press 

Release Date: June 11, 2013

Genres: Action, Post-Apocalyptic, Drama

Medium: Paperback ARC via Random House Publishers

A Matter of Days was so much more that I expected. What I expected was a run of the muck (sorry for the odd cliche) apocalyptic novel that would be like every other one on the market right new. Instead, this novel was very interesting, suspenseful, realistic, and descriptive. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, where the BluStar pandemic virus has killed practically 98% of the population, a recently orphaned girl and her kid brother must pack up and travel across the remains (no pun intended) of the United States in order to meet up with their remaining survivalist family members, the same ones who gave them the shots to keep them from dying of the virus.

This novel was very realistic, in terms of stating survival techniques, real-life situations and choices, dealing with the best and worst people, adapting to needs, accepting the fallout, etc. This novel hit very close to home and was a reminder of what can happen in the near future without preparation, and the fallouts of the unsuspecting people. The characters convey the emotions perfectly, showing that even in a world full of dead bodies and heartless survivors, that there can still be friendship, family, and romance. 

 

The writing was very nice. I've never read any of Kizer's work, but now, I am sure to correct that mistake. I will definitely look into her other work after this. Her descriptive language weaves a tale of a brother and sister going from being lost to finding their way, all the while, suffering through devastating concepts such as death and life-threatening injuries. She captured the reader's attention immediately, and kept them hooked until the end. Her chapter cliff-hangers and hooks were odd, very unique, and very enticing. You didn't want to stop as soon as you started. 

 

With a twisty plot and intriguing character and 'new world,' this close-to-home novel is sure to grab and hold readers' attention.