J.M. Stocks' Deceptively Dead is a refreshing take on the zombie apocalypse genre, blending humor, romance, and horror into a narrative that is as engaging as it is unpredictable. The book's blurb sets the stage for a story that promises both thrills and laughs, and Stocks delivers on both fronts with a deft hand.

At the heart of the novel is Angie, a protagonist who is as complex as she is relatable. Stranded overseas when the apocalypse hits, Angie is thrust into a world where survival is paramount, and trust is a luxury she can scarcely afford. Her journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, marked by moments of despair and triumph. Stocks crafts Angie with a blend of strength and vulnerability, making her a character that readers will root for from the very first page.

One of the standout elements of Deceptively Dead is its dark humor. Angie’s snarky, self-deprecating humor provides a counterbalance to the grim reality of a world overrun by zombies. This humor is not only a coping mechanism for Angie but also a narrative tool that keeps the story from becoming overwhelmingly bleak. Stocks' ability to weave humor into the fabric of a post-apocalyptic world is reminiscent of works like The Last Policeman by Ben H. Winters, where humor and horror coexist in a delicate balance.

The novel also explores the theme of trust in a world where the living can be more dangerous than the undead. Angie’s interactions with the three mysterious strangers who offer their help are fraught with tension and uncertainty. These characters are well-developed, each with their own backstories and motivations that add depth to the narrative. The dynamic between Angie and these characters is central to the story, providing both conflict and camaraderie.

In terms of character development, Stocks excels in portraying Angie’s growth. From a woman overwhelmed by the chaos around her to someone who learns to navigate the complexities of trust and survival, Angie’s journey is compelling and believable. Her interactions with the three men are particularly well-handled, avoiding the pitfalls of typical romance tropes. The reverse harem aspect of the story is handled with care, ensuring that each relationship is meaningful and contributes to Angie’s development.

While the book is primarily a comedic and romantic take on the zombie apocalypse, it does not shy away from addressing darker themes. The mention of abuse, both on and off the page, adds a layer of realism to Angie’s character and her struggles. Stocks handles these themes with sensitivity, ensuring that they are integral to the story without overshadowing the lighter elements.

The pacing of Deceptively Dead is brisk, making it an easy read that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. The narrative is punctuated by moments of action and introspection, creating a rhythm that is both exciting and thought-provoking. The book ends on a mild cliffhanger, leaving readers eager for the next installment while providing a satisfying conclusion to Angie’s initial journey.

In comparison to other zombie apocalypse stories, Deceptively Dead stands out for its unique blend of humor and romance. While it shares thematic elements with works like Isaac Marion’s Warm Bodies, which also explores the human condition in a world overrun by zombies, Stocks’ novel is distinguished by its focus on a female protagonist and the reverse harem dynamic. This approach offers a fresh perspective in a genre that is often dominated by male-centric narratives.

Overall, Deceptively Dead is a delightful read that will appeal to fans of zombie fiction and romantic comedies alike. J.M. Stocks has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page. For those looking for a novel that combines the thrill of a zombie apocalypse with the warmth of a romantic comedy, Deceptively Dead is a must-read.