How the White Trash Zombie Got Her Groove Back by Diana Rowland
Narrator: Allison McLemore
Series: White Trash Zombie #4
Published by Audible
Published on: July 1, 2014
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Length: 14 hrs & 21 mins
Format: Audiobook
Source: Gifted
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Our favorite zombie Angel Crawford has come a long way from her days as a pain-pill-addicted high school dropout with a felony record. After a year highlighted by murder, kidnapping, and the loss of her home, all she wants to do is kick back, relax, and maybe even think about college.
But when key members of the “Zombie Mafia” go missing, she has no choice but to get involved. Angel is certain Saberton Corporation is behind the disappearances, yet she can’t shake the sense that a far deeper conspiracy is at work. With the small band of friends she can trust, Angel strikes out to track down the missing zombies.
But when unexpected danger threatens to destroy her, all the brains and bravado in the world may not be enough to keep her from going to pieces.
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This series is now four books in, and I’m still not fully sold on the Saberton vs. Zombies story line however, Angel’s wacky antics and Allison McLemore’s engrossing narration more than make up for any plot shortcomings. I really enjoyed Diana Rowland’s snark in this latest installment, and the secondary characters were extremely well fleshed out which both went a long way in distracting me from the inescapable brain eating ick factor. The on-again-off-again relationship between Marcus and the heroine is also another sticking point for me. But in the end, the author’s firecracker of a protagonist and killer sense of humour tipped HOW THE WHITE TRASH ZOMBIE GOT HER GROOVE BACK into 4 star territory.
Angel Crawford is quickly becoming one of my favourite protagonists to listen to in audio. In this installment she’s attempting to master jujitsu by trash-ifying the terminology (i.e. osoto gari becomes Trip the Drunk Guy), learning how to punch without breaking her hand (while holding a beer! LOL), and FINALLY putting Marcus in his place (hopefully for the last time). Angel is also one of the rare heroines who’s character growth is obvious from book-to-book; she’s come a long way since MY LIFE AS A WHITE TRASH ZOMBIE, and is taking steps to help ensure that her forward momentum continues. The ending of this book did give me some cause for concern though; Crawford’s zombie state practically cured her of her addictions overnight, but the discovery of mods might soon change all that.
Saberton continues to be a thorn in the Zombie Tribe’s side by kidnapping their leader, attempting to blackmail a congresswoman, and conducting longevity experiments. I’m still not entirely sure why Nicole harbours such hate towards her friendly neighbourhood brain-eaters, but the whole thing reeks of government conspiracies which, as far as story lines go, I am not a big fan of. Rowland adds a couple of new elements to her zombie lore which again, were a little too WTF for my tastes; maybe I just need to read more walking dead novels, either that or the author really has gone off the deep end. I wish there’d been more of a resolution to Angel and Marcus’ relationship too because 1. I seriously hate that guy, and 2. NICK!! *swoons*
This audiobook wasn’t available in Canada through my usual go-to retailers which left me scrambling for a copy on release day. Normally, in cases like this I’d hold a grudge and postpone buying it out of spite, so it’s definitely a testament to Allison McLemore’s talent as a narrator that I went above and beyond to snag the audio version. I just could not wait to get my grabby hands on this one! McLemore’s Southern twang is perfectly suited to Angel’s POV, her character voices are distinct and memorable, and she delivers all of Rowland’s punch lines with finesse. There’s even a hat tip to audiobooks in this installment when the author references PASSION OF THE VIKING, Crawford’s current listen, which I loved!
Allison McLemore and Angel Crawford is a match made in heaven. Zombie superpowers ACTIVATE!
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Owner, designer and main blogger behind Rabid Reads. Avid book reader, snowboard bunny, video gamer and Supernatural fan. I love all things paranormal, werewolves especially. Oh, and I’m Canadian, eh!
I really want to read this series sometime! The blurbs and covers catch me every time, even though I haven’t read many zombie books. Great review Carmel 🙂
Chanzie @ Mean Who You Are.
Chene Sterckx recently posted…~ July MWYA Monthly Buzz ~
This is the only zombie series I’ve read, but I just love the humour! When an audiobook makes you laugh out loud, you know it’s good. 🙂
I’ve read Ms. Rowland’s Kara Gillian series and quite enjoyed it (I haven’t read the latest book though) but I haven’t given this series a try. Mostly because of the zombies – ick factor. 😉 Perhaps if I listened rather than read I might enjoy it more? It sounds like a lot of fun and I adore a snarky heroine.
I still haven’t tried audio but I’m going to give it a shot later this month when I go on vacation. We’ll be driving a lot of the time and I can’t read in the car. 🙂
I was a little grossed out when I first started this series, but now Angel eating brains is no different than a vamp sucking blood.
No it’s already book 4? I don’t know but I was sure we were only at book 3, lol now I really have a lot to catch up, it’s dispressing sometimes to realize we’re late everywhere.
Yup. Book 4, so you’d best get on it already before you fall too far behind!
I’m glad you enjoyed this one and the audio sounds like it was a great match! The covers always catch my eye, and hopefully I can check out this fun sounding, Zombie series. I’m trying to get my hands on one of the audios you mentioned enjoying and trying it out! Thanks Carmel 🙂
kim { Book Swoon } recently posted…Book Review: Fire Rising by Donna Grant
The cover of this one is my fav to date; I can’t wait to see what book 5 looks like! Fingers crossed for a reveal real soon.
My bookshelf needs this series bad!!! I want snark and even if her romantic relationship sounds angsty, I think her snark and humor will more than make up for that!
Braine recently posted…[Dis]Liked It: The Inheritance by Olivia Mayfield
Plus, they are pretty to look at. 🙂
I do like zombies, but if I base it on the title, I wouldn’t even try to read this, but based on your review, it sounds awesome! I think doing it on audio is so much better, too. Fantastic review, Carmel!
Dre recently posted…Review 184 : Tower Lord by Anthony Ryan
If snark is your thing, then you’d probably enjoy this one. The title is a bit of a mouthful though. LOL
I freaking love those covers – the cover artist is up for a HUGO this year. I have a hard choice ahead of me votewise for artists.
Anyways I’ve always wanted to read this series and a firecracker sense of humor is definitely something that sounds appealing.
Tabitha (Not Yet Read) recently posted…Book Review: The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson
Nice! I hadn’t heard about the HUGO nomination yet; it’s always a tough choice deciding who to vote for.
Awesome review Carmel! And you’re a totally right, Allison’s narration is so good to the point that that made this book alright for me. I don’t think I’d would have finished it if I read it. I’m pretty sure is not the book, is just me, I was totally uninterested after having anticipated this so much. 🙁 and it bums me out.
I still love Angel!
Lupdilup recently posted…Tangled Audiobook by Emma Chase (review)
It wasn’t just you, it was me too. LOL I’m not diggin’ the story line, but Angel and McLemore are impossible to resist!
I like snark in a book, especially when it can take my mind off of icky brain-eating. That cover has me queasy though. Great review, Carmel!
Hafsah recently posted…Lex Thomas’s Journey to Publication, Plus Giveaway for THE BURNOUTS
Zombies are definitely an acquired taste, and if just looking at the cover makes you queasy, it’s probably not for you. Thanks for stopping by!
Okay I admit, it does say a lot if any author can distract you from plot holes with good witty banter and well fleshed out characters, both main and secondary.
Great review!
kindlemom1 recently posted…Review: Crushed by Eliza Crewe
The plot is usually a pivotal element for me, so it speaks volumes that the characters & humour are able to make me overlook such a key ingredient.
I just skimmed your review because I’ve only read the first book in the series yet, but I didn’t realize there were four books out-for some reason I thought it was a trilogy. I’d like to continue with book two, but for some reason my library only has the first book grrrr.
Finley Jayne recently posted…~Early Edition~ {Reading Highlights} A Forgotten Hold & a Rare Book Purchase
Book 1 is still my fav to date, but hopefully your library gets the rest of this series real soon!
I told myself “you cannot read this review until you are done listening”, but I just couldn’t do it, I had to hear what you thought. Now I’m dying to get back in the car and listen some more. I love Allison McLemore’s narration of this book and I was giggling the first 5 minutes. The Jujitsu thing was hilarious! Does it leave off with potential for more? Nevermind, I don’t want to know yet. Well I do, but I must be patient LOL
Tanya recently posted…Review ~ How To Run With A Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper
I think I kept my review pretty spoiler free, but yes, get back to listening already! The scene between Angel & her sensei is hilarious!
Yes, I’m so glad you guys are great about no spoilers!
Tanya recently posted…Review ~ How To Run With A Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper
I felt it was good, but not as good as earlier ones :/
blodeuedd recently posted…How to lose a Lord in 10 days or less – Elizabeth Michels
I agree, but it was still good for a laugh.
Frikin’ hell! I can’t believe I still haven’t started this series. UGH. Must do that soon!
Christy recently posted…The Swan and the Jackal by JA Redmerski
Playing series catch-up is a game you just can’t win, but that doesn’t stop us from trying!
I’ve only read the first book and have been curious about these on audio. I might have to do the rest on audio. I have to admit, I’m not sold on the world yet but I do love those characters!
Melissa (Books and Things) recently posted…Talk This Way (Plumb Orchard #.5) by Dakota Cassidy
I’m not sold either, and this is book 4. I’m thinking of trying her other series to see what that one is like.
I always wanted to read this series, but for some reason I am reluctant. Many people like it, but I guess I never see anyone amazed by it, you know?
Jennifer Bielman recently posted…Review: Carrier by Anne Tibbets (Blog Tour & Giveaway)
The first installment was a 5 star listen to me, but everything else since had kinda fallen short. They are still good books, but are missing the wow factor.
I’ve heard a lot of recommendations about this series and I think I would love it! I absolutely love zombies and The Walking Dead and this one just seems like lots of fun.
Jeann recently posted…Happy Indulgence Turns 2 + Giveaways
The zombies are mostly ‘good’ in this series, so it’s not very similar to The Walking Dead in that respect, but at least that means that you’re not grossed out by brains, so you’d probably get a kick out of these books.
OMG I LOVE Allison McLemore reading Angel!!! The voice she uses is exactly as I imagine Angel would sound like and she makes the series such an enjoyable listen.
Nick has really grown on me over the course of the series. He’s really got me intrigued after the little bit of time we spent with him in book 4 and I hope we get more in #5.
Traci recently posted…Author Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway ~ Kelly Meade ~ Black Rook
Nick was kind of a snob in the earlier books, but I really like him now as a match for Angel. Hell, anyone has to be better than Marcus. What a tool! LOL He just keeps making the SAME mistake over, and over, and over… URGH!
I grabbed the first of the series when it was an audible daily deal. Looking forward to starting it.
Wendy B recently posted…Wendy’s Summer Reading List + Worlds Without End Reading Challenge Update
Nice! Audiobooks are even better when you get them on sale! 🙂
A great accent can really make or break an audio book for me. I recently listened to Clean Sweep, and Renee Raudman’s narration was wonderful. She’s just got that Texan drawl down, you know? It just adds a layer of atmosphere that I don’t think you can get with a print book. So glad you’re enjoying this series! 🙂
Danya recently posted…Tough Travelling: Northern Barbarians
I LOVE Renee Raudman! I only listen to Ilona Andrews’ book now; reading them just won’t do.
So glad to know you enjoyed this! The covers are really eye-catching, and the titles as well. I really like the sound of the narrator! Narrators usually make or break a story so I’m glad she made it better.
Marianne recently posted…Review: We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
These books definitely stand out in the paranormal genre; I like how different they are.
Wow, just the title has me ready to read it! It sounds snarky, I love that. I might have to check these out! Thank you!
Tina recently posted…Book Review: The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson
I love a catchy title! Molly Harper’s are also among my favs.
This series has been on my wishlist forever..I think maybe I will go audio with it! Great review Carmel
kimbacaffeinate recently posted…Lazy Days Of Summer Giveaway – Night Diver by Elizabeth Lowell
This is a fab series to listen to; I think you’ll get more out of it in audio.
I haven’t had an urge to read this series at all but I have been enjoying UF on audio so I might consider listening to it if I were to find the first for cheap or something. I’m glad you did enjoy this!
Candace recently posted…Product Reviews: GoneReading Bookshelf & T-Shirt
Once you meet Angel, you won’t be able to quit!
I’m so behind on this series, but really enjoyed book one. Can’t wait to catch up!
LilyElement recently posted…Review: Spider’s Revenge
The first book was my fav, but the rest of the series is still worth a read / listen. 🙂
I don’t think I’d like brain-eating moments either. But anyhow this sounds like a really interesting story and I’m so glad you enjoyed it. I’m glad that the narrator was good as I always have problems with that. Great review, Carmel 🙂
Tanja recently posted…Movie Review: The Fault in Our Stars
It’s kind of like Popeye and spinach, the characters pop brains for a little boost. Weird at first, but you get used to it. LOL
Characterization is very important in my book so it’s great that the characters are well fleshed out in this series. It’s the first time I’ve heard of it but it must be great if it’s the fourth one and you’re still loving it! I’ve dropped a lot of series over the years because I lost interest in them, so I’m glad you enjoy this one. Great review!
Dea S. recently posted…Recap: Stephanie Perkins’ Book Signing Event in Manila
Series burn-out is hard to avoid, but I’m happy to report that this one is still going strong!
I love this series, but haven’t had time to read this one… and now, after reading your review, I don’t know if I should listen to the audiobook instead of reading it.
BookaholicCat recently posted…Movie Trailer: The Book of Life
Listen to it! You won’t regret it. 🙂
Fab review Carmel… Although I get what you mean about the on again/off again relationship. It’s time to pick one way or the other. Sounds like it is a good read and it is nice to see you like the narrator so much. I think I’ll have to give this series a try!
Naomi @ Nomi’s Paranormal Palace
Naomi recently posted…COVER REVEAL ~ Twisted Redemption by Alexandra Webb
I can deal with an on-again / off-again relationship when the characters are just starting to get to know each other, but when they never learn from their mistakes, it just pisses me off. LOL
I’ve wanted to start this series in forever. I love zombies so I’m not sure why I haven’t.
Carolyn (Book Chick City) recently posted…REVIEW: Dear Lizzie by Annie Lyons