Loved this book and can't wait to see more from the author. Thanks to the author and the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an ARC.

I received an ARC of Dead Things Are Closer Than They Appear from Netgalley and am leaving this review voluntarily.

I had an absolute blast reading Dead Things Are Closer Than They Appear. Zombies aren't really my jam, nor is horror and gore, but this book was such a fun read that none of that bothered me.

I loved nearly everything about this book. The characters were fantastic, and their growth was even better. Chad the cat was a tremendous addition to the crew, and I will not hear any arguments otherwise. The creepiness of the zombies and the bad guys was perfectly offset by the dark humor, which often came at the worst times, making it even better. Did I ever think I would laugh out loud while someone was getting gnawed on by a zombie? No. Did I do it during this book? Yes. Did I feel a little bad about it? Absolutely, but it was a great time, and I don't regret it one bit.

I would have liked to see a bit more world-building, though. I didn't understand how the fault lines factored into the world. If they're just there, cool, but I would have liked a little more information about it. Also, there were a couple of times when time made no sense. For example, Sid was alone in the house for two days, apparently, but it was only about two pages' worth of content, and there was no sensation of time passing, so I had no idea it had been that long. Granted, neither did she, but it was still really confusing when the other characters showed up and said it had been that long.

Dead Things Are Closer Than They Appear was weird, I won't lie. It will not be for everyone, but I had a blast reading it, and I am looking forward to more work from this author.

A super fun read that I could not put down!

My Top 5 Reasons to Read:
1. The author creates an absolutely magical setting that draws the reader in.
2. A diverse and inclusive view on families.
3. Absolutely non-stop, gripping suspense and terror!!!
4. A quick-thinking, brave heroine.
5. A truly unique and special tale about the ordinary becoming extraordinary.

I haven’t stopped thinking about this book since I finished it! I’m pretty much obsessed with everything about this story.

This is one of those stories that makes me laugh and then cry all while my inner teenager feels seen (I need to find more books with adoption rep for sure).

Wasley’s story telling is wonderful. There is a lot going on but I never felt lost or confused; I was right there with Sid and her quirky newfound friends enjoying the ride.

I haven’t read a book in the same vein as The Raven Boys but I finally found it! This is a character-driven novel that focuses on family and friendships and finding where you with the backdrop of a horror movie. The thing that sets this book apart is that it feels real and raw and the characters are relatable (a lot of r words haha) and complex. I appreciated Sid’s weaknesses and seeing her grow stronger as the book went on. This was everything I needed and everything I didn’t know I needed in a book.

Robin Wasley's voice is hilarious, immediate, and so memorable. This is one of the most unique YA contemporary fantasies I've read in a long time. It's a mixture of a zombie story and a superhero story, in which a girl who sees herself as average realizes that the people in her life make her capable of anything - like killing evil monsters or feeling all the feelings (literally). Also, Sid's got jokes. I lost track of how many times I laughed out loud. This book was an action-packed delight - highly recommend.

Entertaining and immersive - a recommended first purchase for YA and HS collections where paranormal / fantasy is popular.

Without any doubt, this is the best book I’ve read this year. And yes, it’s only February, but I am confident that nothing else I read from now through December will come close to this magical story.

From a searingly honest dedication to the vulnerability on display in the acknowledgments, every word, character and plot point in this stole my damn heart. This is a tale of magic, of identity and belonging, of self-discovery, of grief and loss, and so much more. Don’t get me wrong — this is a super fun read, with zombies and apocalyptic vibes sprinkled throughout, but it is one of those rare titles that manages to incorporate heavy subject matter in a way that is wholly accessible and inspiring. I <i> live </i> for books like these.

One major note: Themes in this book made me feel so seen in many ways. I will never not get emotional when getting lost in a story like this, built around an Asian American character who, like myself, grew up in a super white area and dealt with a lot of overt racism and complicated, internalized insecurities because of it. Just like the author writes about her own experiences with a lack of representation, I also have always struggled with never seeing anyone who looks like myself in the books I read, the shows I watch or even among the people that fill the places I have lived in.

I don’t know Robin Wasley, but “Dead Things Are Closer Than They Appear,” makes me think I’d like to. This book is pure magic, and I am so grateful to her for writing it. Much like she is forever a BTS fan, I am now forever a fan of hers. (Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for an ARC.)

"Dead things are closer than they appear" by Robin Wasley is a true roller coaster ride. I got hooked on the story in the second chapter itself. The curiosity about what will happen next starts in that chapter and lasts until the very end of the book.
 
It's been so long since I read a relatable chapter. I felt so relatable to Sid (the protagonist) in so many situations. I even guessed correctly what her reaction would be in certain scenes. Her love for her brother, Matty, was so heartwarming. Matty didn't actually appear much in the book, yet his character was portrayed well through Sid. I loved how Sid's cat, Chad, traveled throughout the story.
 
Brian, a male protagonist, was such a sweetheart. Sid and Brian were so cute together. I loved the slow-burn love between them. Next to Sid, Brian is my favorite character. Even though this story has a very strong plot, it can clearly be seen that the author has given equal importance to characters. I love it more when all characters are well-developed in a book, not just the main protagonist. This book definitely does justice to all the characters and the plot.
 
Coming to the plot, the story revolves around Sid trying to find her brother Matty in the middle of the apocalypse. There is this mega villain who wants all the power so that he can do whatever he wants (i.e., rule the world). Sid and Matty's friends try to save the world.
 
This might seem like a usual plot; let me say it is a usual plot, but with a unique magical realism theme, a zombie invasion (I mean, who thought that would happen), and the inclusion of the Guardians theme, this story is marvelous. I just love how every single person in the town possesses magic (few exceptions). Also, every single person has unique powers, just like how unique we individuals are. 
 
Overall, if you love tropes like magical realism, slow burn, found family, and zombie apocalypse with amazing characters, then this book is for you.

Read this YA contemporary fantasy if you like:
• Post apocalyptic
• Found family
• Magical super power
• Sweet slow burn romance
• Small town setting

This is an action-packed story where some parts are very intense and nerve-wrecking as the characters fight to survive the terrifying horde of zombies while searching for a way to defeat the evil guy.
I really like the world building of this book, the combination of fantasy and modern setting is very compelling.

The writing style is easy to read and describes the emotions felt by the characters vividly such as love, forgiveness, hope, longing, loss, grief and acceptance.
I absolutely love the characters growth throughout the story as they overcome each challenges heading their way. A dash of slow burn romance blooming among the characters is also delightful to see!

Overall, for a debut novel this is a fascinating story with a satisfying ending.
I really enjoy my time reading this book and I will keep an eye out for another book by this author in the future.

Thank you to TBR and Beyond Tour, Netgalley, author and publisher for giving me an e-ARC of the book and for having me on this book tour. I’m leaving this review voluntarily!

DEAD THINGS ARE CLOSER THAN THEY APPEAR was a fun contemporary YA dystopian fantasy filled with endearing characters, magic, danger, and plenty of supernatural thrills. I adored so much about this book, particularly the characters and the message that family is where you find it. ⁣
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The action starts almost immediately when one of the Guardians is killed and magic spills out, unleashing all kinds of nasties, including zombies. Our group of characters are facing their biggest challenge yet as they fight to save their world and also themselves. I loved how well this group of friends worked together and I loved seeing them challenged time and again. They didn’t always succeed, which made the characters seem more real and relatable. I love how Sid is described as ordinary and normal, she’s so much more than that, and she eventually comes to realize her worth. ⁣
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One of the highlights of this book for me was zombies! I adore a good zombie/end o’ the world tale, and this book definitely delivered a good one. The characters were wonderful, the world was dark and gritty, the plot was interesting and fast-paced , and all those elements together made this a fun and immersive read. Pick this one up if you’re a fan of:⁣
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⁣⁣⁣➽ Zombies⁣
⁣⁣⁣➽ Apocalyptic stories ⁣
⁣⁣⁣➽ Found family⁣
⁣⁣⁣➽ Strong friendships that are tested ⁣
⁣⁣⁣➽ Sweet romance ⁣
⁣⁣⁣➽ Supernatural thrills ⁣
⁣⁣⁣➽ Magic

A funny, heartwarming, action-packed story of identity and relationships. The main character's voice is so unique, I immediately connected with her. Watching this group of friends and not-so-friends fight for the ones they love was so entertaining.

So much to love in this character-driven story that melds YA Fantasy + Dystopian with Paranormal Elements + Romance + Found Family trope ❤️ Swipe once to see the synopsis and twice to view a quick playlist to put you in the vibe! Check out my highlights below:

✨Characters Pt 1: Siddy Spencer, our MC, views herself as painfully average and almost invisible in a town that doesn’t mirror her appearance. As a Korean American transracial adoptee, Sid struggles with identity, adding a heavy, complicated layer to her self-esteem.
✨Character Pt 2: The ensemble cast of characters who make up the Guardians. As Sid bonds with the Guardians, she quickly understands that her struggles may not be as unique as she once felt. Together, they understand the true meaning of “teamwork makes the dream work” and create a found family/community where each of their skills makes an impact.
✨Character Pt 3: Chad, the cat! I’m a dog person, but gosh, I loved Chad. She has attitude and confidence and knows when to arrive at the right time! There is a huge highlight at the end 🤐 you gotta read the book!

Other highlights: magic, zombies, troubled friendships, empathy as a superpower, and of course, the romance❤️

4.5 Stars

DEAD THINGS ARE CLOSER THAN THEY APPEAR is one of those stories where you don't know what to expect and what you find is much more than you were hoping for. It's full of family relationships, by blood but mostly found with an emphasis on adopted, as well as friendships and then more of working relationships (like I have to fight with you but I don't know that I would chose to know you). It's set in a small town with a larger-than-life traumatizing event where basically all hell breaks loose. If you enjoy shows like Stranger Things or with apocalyptic monsters and humans who are equally evil, then this is definitely one to pick up! Plus, there are also some very sweet moments of wisdom, romance, and heart.

I really, really loved these characters! Not to say that I didn't have some frustrations and reservations, because I did, but I felt they were relatable and real. Take Sid for instance. She is not the leading will-cut-down-zombies-without-blinking-an-eye leading lady. She is scared and weak and freaks out. I think most of us when faced with something so unreal would take some time adjusting. I appreciated that she had weaknesses and strengths, which allowed her character to also develop and grow as the story goes. And develop it does. This was the same for almost all of the characters, even fierce and removed Eleni. There's also Brian who holds so much grief inside that it hurts while also building like a bomb, and also carries a fierce protection for his sisters that extends to others. He comes off a bit like the usual bad boy, but as well all the characters in this motley crew, none of them quite fit the usual stereotypes because they're a lot more complex and they change over the course of this story. There is also Angel and Shandy with their relationship that is lightly woven in this story. Sometimes gay relationships are pushed in books with a message that feels forced (as can be with religious or inspirational messages, romance or with anything), but in this story, it felt like a natural part and I appreciated that.

I also want to talk just a bit about the plot itself. It moved at a really good pace. There were several climatic moments that built to the final and most intense one, but there were also some moments of downtime and reconvening. The romantic aspects of this story I also really liked. They didn't feel construed, fell naturally into this story and were sweet. I liked that there was so much creativity and how the author allowed it to unfold with all these different characters. Everything didn't go perfectly and didn't tie up in a perfect bow at the end, which I also appreciated. There was danger, people got hurt and killed, there was heartbreak and evil, but there was also perseverance, sacrifice, friendship, love and joy. All the feels, guys. All the feels.

I also noted a few nuggets of wisdom I highlighted. These aren't all of them in this story, but these are the ones I wanted to share that connected with me right now in my life:

"Sometimes I wonder about empathy," I say then. "Do we always have to feel something ourselves in order to understand someone else?"
She contemplates that. "I think it depends on the person. There's no right way or wrong way. If one assumes all empathy to look the same way, they are therefore expecting everyone to behave the way they do . . . which is not empathetic, is it?: She leans forward, elbows on her knees. "[There are] always going to be people we can't relate to, people we'll never love, people we'll never meet. In those situations, you have the opportunity to see how far your empathy can be stretched."
"Some people suck, though," I mutter.
"Whether someone is worthy of empathy isn't something you need to decide. You do get to decide if it's something you wish to extend to someone. It it'll harm you or not. Caring for yourself and caring for others is a balance."

"People make mistakes, but you know now that you get to choose the person you want to be. It's not a straight path, there are obstacles, and the journey never ends. But you're not alone on the road."

"Every person makes an impact in some way, average or not," I say. "We change one another."

In the end, was it what I wished for? This book surprised me, in a very good way. I loved the motley crew that forms, the lovable characters, all the relationship dynamics as well as the creative, page-turning plot. I'll definitely be looking forward to this author's next release!

Content: Swearing (including s and f-words), crude comments/descriptions, some detailed violence (including people dying by zombies and other humans, as well as some torture), a gay relationship.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through TBR and Beyond Tours, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I absolutely LOVED this book. I’m always intrigued by post apocalyptic books, and this one had a magical realism twist in that things are pretty much as they are now, but there are fault lines that have magic, and there are Guardians of them who have their own powers. When one of the Guardians dies, the fault line cracks open and Magic spreads. Now more people have Magic, but with magic comes greed. Ford is like the governor from the Walking Dead, or really like any of the antagonist, and he will stop at nothing to have all of the Keys to the fault lines and the powers of the guardians. He wants to be the most powerful. Sid is about as average of a teenage girl you can be, but the apocalypse brings her to center stage when her brother goes missing, and she finds herself tied in with a gang of other teens who have powers. And the twist on her power is AWESOME.
In essence, it’s about a group of teens trying to save their town from Magic (being badly used) with Magic, and just finding the humanity in everyone. People change in times of crisis, for the worse or better, and it will really show you who people are.

Thank you TBR and Beyond Tours for an early copy of this incredible book!

In a world where there are lay lines and guardians who have special abilities and are charged with guarding them, one girl will find herself fighting to find her brother and save the other guardians as well as discover her own powers. Sid Spencer never expected to face the apocalypse (the literal one) in high school. She was navigating losing her best friend, having her love letter exposed, and dealing with her own insecurities while being one of the very few asians in town. Her town is known for it's lay lines and being a tourist destination for anyone interested in magic. These lay lines are guarded by Guardians, individuals with magical abilities and keys connected to those. When one of the seals are broken and someone kills one of the Guardians, one of the seals is broken and magic is unleashed. The killer is after the rest of the Guardians and wants to steal their powers. Sid wakes up to discover that her brother is not only missing but he has been keeping a secret, he's a Guardian. Sid is desperate to find her brother but finds her entire town trapped inside and that the killer is trying to find her brother as well. She finds herself joining the remaining Guardians fighting against hordes of living corpses, the killer and his group, and possible falling in love with the one boy she never expected to fall for. For someone who has always felt ordinary, she's going to have a very extraordinary journey. This was a really fun apocalyptic magical journey with a dash of romance, friendship, and navigating the apocalypse. I loved Sid and her relationship with Brian so much, as well as the other ragtag crew of Guardians. The book works as a standalone and wraps everything up really nicely. It felt like a fast paced read and had me holding on onto the very end. It had a bit of Raven Boy vibes which I adored. i would definitely recommend this book for anyone who enjoys magical survival stories and a bit of apocalypse adventure.

*Thanks Netgalley and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

Shout out to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for this book! I absolutely loved this. Am I very afraid of zombies? Yes. Did I find this very readable and enjoyable? Yes. These things can be true at the same time! It was quick-witted, fast-paced, and I could not put it down. I recommend this to anyone who enjoyed those fun early 2000s zombie movies that mixed comedy and horror. I will definitely be purchasing this for the library and recommending to our students!

This was such a fun read! It was a YA apocalypse fantasy zombie weird ness that I really had a fun time with, I loved how fast paced it was and it really drew me with the writing style! Great characters too I especially loved Sid and felt like while it was a YA book it wasn’t written too YA where it could really appeal to anyone! Will for sure be purchasing for our library.

I really enjoyed this! It was a super fast-paced YA apocalypse story with tons of twists and turns as well as some really great characters. The plot and setting were really compelling and well-paced, and the dialogue was so fun to read. Overall, really great story that I FLEW through. And the cover is so cool!

This YA zombie apocalypse, fantasy read was one that I couldn’t put down! It was fast paced with adventure, twist, turns and humor. The characters and storyline are amazing. Sid the mc is one character you will be rooting for. One day a typical teenager and the next a Guardian trying to save the world. A great read! Thank you to NetGalley, Robin Wasley, and TBR book tours for giving me the chance to read and leave my honest review.