Summary

In this alternate history/horror novel, the dead arise at the Battle of Gettysburg and begin preying on the living. This zombie apocalypse ends the War Between the States as both sides band together to fight this new threat. But then the Native and Negro Education Act is passed, requiring certain children to attend combat schools to act as soldiers against the zombie arrivals. Jane McKeene is one of these children, and her time at Miss Preston's School of Combat in Baltimore is now almost up; she’s ready to be a bodyguard for a rich socialite. As she readies herself for a new life, she discovers a nefarious plot by Baltimore’s elite…and is sent out West to a compound aiming to re-establish the society of the Old South. She must use her training and her personal grit to fight back against the racist leaders of the compound – in addition to zombies, of course! With action, zombies, strong female leads, and a set-up that allows Ireland to explore the real-life trauma of chattel slavery and residential schools in a new way, this powerful and engaging novel is a must-read. Full of social commentary, with great lead and supporting characters, and a powerfully drawn setting, this is a thought-provoking and exciting read that should grab you. A sequel, Deathless Divide, has just been released if this first book leaves you wanting more of Jane’s story.