By Matthew J. Barbour
Stephen Graham Jones is an author of several acclaimed books, including Devil TheoryHis writing style is experimental and edgy, often using a horror premise to examine the more depressing things in society. Some call it intellectual horror, while others find the choppy, convoluted narrative difficult to follow. Jones’s work is certainly not for the novice, requiring a certain amount of nuance and concentration, as is required when reading the work of late nineteenth and early twentieth century writers. The Gospel of Z There’s no difference.
The Gospel of Z The story follows Jory Gray. 10 years have passed since zombies destroyed the world. Gray, a former biology teacher, is dealing with the pain of losing the person that meant the most to him in the post-apocalyptic world: Lince. She recently left Jory and joined the church, without giving any reason and without saying goodbye. Gray can’t accept her disappearance. Because of his actions, he is forced to work for the military. This job is like a death sentence, and Jory knows it. The only thing Jory Gray wants to do is to go to the church to see Lince before the time is up, even if it’s just to say goodbye.
At the heart of this work is the conflict between secular and religious authority. It examines the fanaticism within the clergy and the industrial-military complex as both vie for absolute control over a shattered world. Jory is caught in a crossroads, little more than a pawn for one side or the other. As he becomes more and more drawn into their struggle, the truth of the end of the world and the fate of Linth is revealed. This is a story of conspiracy, misdirection and half-truths.
although The Gospel of Z Set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, the undead aren’t the bad guys. They’re more like chained animals or lab rats. Humans are the real monsters. This has been mentioned before, but it’s not necessarily expressed here in the way you’d expect. The reader doesn’t know almost everything until the end.
The ending is satisfying (to a certain extent), but getting to that ending can be difficult. Jones’ writing style is unapologetic. He neither over-explains nor over-writes. Often, a major turning event is dealt with in a single sentence. So if you are easily distracted, it can be difficult to read.
The Gospel of Z is a new book from an established author. This book won’t change your opinion of Jones. If you liked his previous work, this book will do just as well. Never read a Stephen Graham Jones novel? See why it’s so popular and decide for yourself.
It is available here.
score:3/5
