Review of Dead Man Walking

Katie Simpson Bower · Post by **Katie Simpson Bower** » 26 Nov 2024, 00:00

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Dead Man Walking" by Zach Adams.]

4 out of 5 stars

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This was by far the most interesting and unique sci-fi I’ve read in a long time.

Like all good sci-fi and fantasy, the groundwork has to be laid. The world needs to make sense while expanding and guiding you along the plot, so you stay invested. In Dead Man Walking, author Zach Adams did a superb job at just that.

The story follows Isaac Falcone of Anchorage, Alaska. He’s a quiet, anxiety-ridden library assistant, who just wants to get lost in his books and work on his own writing. His sarcastic personality, coupled with a layer of clever nerd, makes for an excellent character to throw into a tailspin of multiverse and mystery.

While working in the library, he discovers some hidden pages with strange writing on them and his world immediately turns upside down. Soon after, he meets a stranger named L’aeon, an elf who pulls Isaac further down the rabbit hole of universal glitches and impossible events.

We follow him along as he navigates strange and terrifying creatures, bizarre dreams, and a nearly constant shifting idea of who the villain really is. Because of course there’s a villain. Who else is he supposed to save the universe from? Throughout it all, Issac runs into obstacle after obstacle but keeps pushing past his fear in his desperation to understand what’s happening.

Along the way, we meet what can only be described as the best friend a guy can have, Don, and the world's most accepting sister, Chloe, who both help Isaac on his journey for the truth. We learn about a connecting family history and meet a work adversary, code named Beige, who Don and Isaac rightfully despise.

The world this writer created was fascinating and kept me engaged while also making me repeatedly yell “What!?” at my kindle several times. There are even gangsters in this story. Gangsters!

This book was shocking, scary, gory, and funny all at once. We even get a few fourth wall breaks thrown in to add to the sarcastic humor, and ever developing plot. Not to mention alternate timelines. Because all good sci-fi has alternate timelines. I removed one star because there were a few parts that just didn't mesh with the main character. I felt like Isaac was way too smart to be so wrong about a couple of things. I couldn’t help thinking, “come on Isaac, get there! Connect the dots!”, or “How can you possibly think that? It makes no sense!”. Regardless, this was an outstanding story, and I gave it a 4 out of 5.

The ending was so surprising and left plenty of room for more to come. This definitely has the makings of a great series. I would recommend this book to anyone over the age of 18, due to some of the more graphic depictions, and anyone who loves sci-fi and fantasy. It is well worth the read.

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Dead Man Walking
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Yin Jiang · Post by **Yin Jiang** » 29 Nov 2024, 01:51

This sounds like a really fascinating book! Although it is interesting that you note that the main character is sometimes inconsistent. I think I have noticed the tendency for authors to be inconsistent with the portrayal of their characters. Nevertheless, this sounds like an interesting read that I should pick up. Thank you for your review!

Post by **Leslie coccia** » 30 Nov 2024, 10:17

This book sounds great, with so many twists and turns, humor, and even an elfin character. Great review! I want to run out and buy this book. It seems like it’s got all the right elements to be thoroughly enjoyable.

Williams Jaden · Post by **Williams Jaden** » 01 Dec 2024, 07:12

Dead Man Walking by Zach Adams is a brilliantly crafted sci-fi that blends multiverse mystery with compelling characters. Isaac Falcone's journey from a quiet library assistant to navigating universal glitches is both unique and captivating, making it a standout read in the genre.

NetMassimo · Post by **NetMassimo** » 04 Dec 2024, 15:50

Despite some occasions when Isaac's behavior seems inconsistent, this seems like a fascinating science fiction story full of sense of wonder and surprises that keep the readers engaged. Thank you for your great review!

Monique smith 4 · Post by **Monique smith 4** » 24 Dec 2024, 20:21

If it’s anything like the series, then it’s about to read

Naimah Agboluaje · Post by **Naimah Agboluaje** » 25 Dec 2024, 07:40

Hey, what a fantastic review of "Dead Man Walking"! It seems like a thrilling and engaging sci-fi read that kept the reader on the edge of their seat. The plot and worldbuilding appear to be well-crafted, allowing the reader to immerse themselves in the story. With a mix of mystery, humor, and even gangsters, this book sounds like a must-read for any sci-fi and fantasy lover. The reviewer gave it a solid 4 out of 5 rating, and I definitely feel inclined to pick up a copy! Emotional depth, tugged at my heartstrings.

Joe Alex 2 · Post by **Joe Alex 2** » 08 Jan 2025, 09:24

The blend of humor, sci-fi, and multiverse twists in this story sounds incredibly captivating. The dynamic characters, especially Isaac’s sarcastic personality and the intriguing world-building, make it an engaging read. Although there were some inconsistencies with the protagonist’s actions, the overall thrilling plot and surprising ending leave me eager to explore this book. I’m definitely interested in reading it.

Mia Smith 7 · Post by **Mia Smith 7** » 13 Jan 2025, 11:03

Oh, this sounds like an interesting book with a relatable bookish main, and lots of intriguing plot twists. I love fantasy, sci-fi fusion too.

Post by **Catarina Luciane Silva** » 23 Feb 2025, 19:42

I liked your review. It made me want to read the book, I had never heard of it and the title is quite strange. I think I'll like it, I clicked on it randomly and came away with another one for the reading list.