Devolution

by Max Brooks
Devolution cover
Good Books rating 4.06
Horror
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 925
  • Added: 2025-09-23
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9781529124101
  • Publisher: Century
  • Published: 2020-05-19
  • Formats: 23
  • Reviews: 4

Devolution by Max Brooks is a gripping narrative that blends survival horror with investigative journalism. The story unfolds through the recovered journals of Kate Holland, a resident of Greenloop, which detail the town's brutal massacre and the terrifying encounters with creatures long thought to be mythical. Brooks meticulously combines Kate's firsthand account with his own research, presenting a chilling exploration of humanity's resilience and the primal instincts that surface in the face of unimaginable horror./n/nThis novel is not just a tale of survival but also a scientific journey that challenges the boundaries between truth and fiction. It delves into the possibility of Bigfoot's existence, portraying these creatures as real and deadly. With its unique blend of genres, Devolution offers a fresh and terrifying perspective on the Bigfoot legend, making it a standout in the horror genre.

Reviews
Fantasy Book Review · 2025-09-23
engaging 4.25

The book's strength lies in its character development, which is impressive despite the horror framework. The reviewer found it to be a solid and engaging read.

The reviewer was impressed by the character development in the book, which stands out despite the horror elements. They found the characters to be well-developed and relatable, which added depth to the story. The reviewer also appreciated the book's atmosphere and tension, making it a solid and engaging read. They noted that the book's unique structure and style contribute to its overall appeal.

Quick quotes

    Despite the horror framework, the real strength of this book is not in the monsters, but in the character development.

    Bet you weren't expecting that.

    It's a solid and engaging read that will keep you hooked until the end.

Reddit · 2021-07-01
thrilling 4.00

The reviewer loved the book, noting that it started slow but became absolutely thrilling. They enjoyed the world-building and the unexpected twists.

The reviewer initially found the book slow-paced, especially in the first half, but once it picked up, they were completely hooked. They praised the world-building and the way the story unfolded with unexpected events. The reviewer also mentioned that the book was a lot of fun and kept them engaged throughout. They appreciated the blend of horror and action, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    I loved Devolution.

    It was a little slow in the first half, the world-building part, if you will.

    Once it got going, it was absolutely bonkers.

What Is Quinn Reading · 2021-01-12
gripping 4.50

The novel reads authentically like non-fiction and is a gripping tale of a Sasquatch attack. The reviewer found it to be a thrilling and immersive experience.

The reviewer was captivated by the novel's authentic feel, which reads like non-fiction. The story of a Sasquatch attack is gripping and keeps the reader engaged throughout. The reviewer appreciated the detailed world-building and the way the story unfolds, making it a thrilling and immersive experience. They also noted that the book's pacing and tension make it a page-turner.

Quick quotes

    This novel, as the title suggests, is about a fictional (though it reads authentically like non-fiction, just like World War Z) Sasquatch attack.

    It's a gripping tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

    The detailed world-building and authentic feel make it a standout in the genre.

HorrorDNA · Shane D. Keene · 2020-07-09
enjoyable 3.50

The reviewer initially felt apathetic about the book but found it to be engaging and well-written. The humor and horror elements were particularly enjoyable.

The reviewer initially felt apathetic about the book but found it to be engaging and well-written. The humor and horror elements were particularly enjoyable. They appreciated the way the book balanced tension and levity, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also noted that the book's structure, including diary entries and interview excerpts, added to its authenticity and immersion.

Quick quotes

    First, I was immediately apathetic. I have a long history with Max Brooks and it's not always been good.

    The humor and horror elements are both equally strong throughout the book.

    Despite its flaws, I found myself genuinely enjoying the book.

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