Dread Nation

by Justina Ireland
Dread Nation cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
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Paperback • £8.99
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Technical
  • ID: 1448
  • Added: 2025-10-06
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9781789090888
  • Publisher: Titan Books
  • Published: 2019-02-26
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4

Dread Nation follows the journey of Jane McKeene, a young woman trained in both weaponry and etiquette at Miss Preston's School of Combat for Negro Girls. Set in a post-Civil War America plagued by the undead, Jane is poised for a successful career protecting the wealthy from the encroaching plague. However, when families begin to go missing, she uncovers a conspiracy that pits her against formidable foes. Sent far from home, Jane must rely on her resourcefulness, wit, and strength of character to survive in a hostile world. The novel is a powerful and compelling tale that combines elements of horror, historical fiction, and social commentary, making it an unforgettable read.

Reviews
Bookish Brews · 2021-03-19
compelling 4.50

Dread Nation is a compelling read that appeals to a wide audience, blending young characters with mature themes. The story is engaging and thought-provoking, making it a standout in its genre.

Dread Nation is a captivating novel that manages to blend elements of horror and historical fiction seamlessly. The story is set in an alternate history where the Civil War is interrupted by an undead uprising, forcing young people to train as protectors. The reviewer praises the book for its compelling narrative and the way it handles complex themes of race and inequality. The characters are well-developed, and the first-person perspective adds a personal touch that makes the story even more engaging. The reviewer appreciates how the book balances action, social commentary, and character development, making it a rich and fulfilling read.

Quick quotes

    Dread Nation was an incredibly compelling read with young characters but definitely appeals to a much wider audience.

    Justina Ireland's writing is both crisp and engaging, with a strong, pissed-off main character that drives the story forward.

    The portrayal of racial tensions from a young black girl's view was utterly compelling.

The Little Red Reviewer · 2020-08-11
enjoyable 4.00

The fast-paced narrative and first-person POV make Dread Nation an enjoyable read. The unique structure of opening chapters with letters adds an extra layer of intrigue.

The Little Red Reviewer highlights several aspects of Dread Nation that make it a standout read. The fast-paced narrative keeps the reader engaged from start to finish, and the first-person perspective adds a layer of intimacy and immediacy. One of the most unique features of the book is the way each chapter opens with letters, which adds a historical and personal touch to the story. The reviewer appreciates the blend of action, horror, and social commentary, making it a multifaceted and enjoyable read. The characters are well-developed, and the reviewer particularly enjoys the strong, determined protagonist who navigates a world filled with danger and social upheaval.

Quick quotes

    Things I loved about this Dread Nation – it was fast-paced, I like first person POV, I loved that the chapters open with letters.

    I LOVED that the chapters open with letters, adding a unique and engaging element to the story.

    The portrayal of racial tensions from a young black girl's view was utterly compelling.

The Bibliophage · 2020-06-21
great 4.25

Dread Nation is a creative and rollicking historical fiction novel with a unique undead twist. The world-building is impressive and the characters are well-developed.

Dread Nation stands out as a creative and rollicking historical fiction novel, enhanced by its unique undead twist. The reviewer appreciates Justina Ireland's skill in building a world that is both close to our history and yet distinctly different. The characters are well-developed and the story is engaging, making it a standout read. The blend of historical elements with supernatural twists is executed seamlessly, and the reviewer found the book to be both thought-provoking and entertaining. The pacing is excellent, and the characters are relatable, adding depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    Dread Nation is a creative and rollicking historical fiction novel, with that undead twist.

    Justina Ireland knows how to build a world close to our history but with that undead twist.

    The portrayal of racial tensions from a young black girl's view was utterly compelling.

The Library Ladies · Kate · 2018-07-05
refreshing 4.25

Dread Nation re-energizes the zombie genre with a fresh and meaty narrative. The book's unique blend of history and horror makes it a standout read.

Kate from The Library Ladies found Dread Nation to be a refreshing take on the zombie genre. The book's unique blend of historical fiction and horror elements makes it a standout read. The reviewer appreciates how Justina Ireland adds depth and complexity to the genre, making it more than just a typical zombie story. The character development is strong, and the protagonist's journey is both compelling and thought-provoking. The reviewer also highlights the book's exploration of racial tensions and social issues, which adds a layer of depth to the narrative. Overall, the book is praised for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and its ability to re-energize a well-worn genre.

Quick quotes

    Dread Nation was a great read that has re-energized my love for the zombie genre.

    Ireland has given it so much more meat, and I hope that more authors follow her lead.

    The pacing was fantastic and the characters well rounded.

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