Step into the chilling, pulse-pounding world of Charlie Higson’s Enemy series, where London’s teenagers fight for survival in a post-apocalyptic nightmare! This young adult horror saga blends zombie-esque thrills with raw emotion, following kids under 16 battling infected adults turned into ravenous monsters. With its gritty setting, richly drawn characters, and heart-stopping plot twists, Enemy delivers a fresh take on the dystopian genre that’ll keep you up all night.
Unlike typical zombie tales, Enemy isn’t just about survival—it’s about hope, loyalty, and the messy reality of growing up in chaos. From supermarket strongholds to Buckingham Palace, Higson’s London is a haunting playground of danger and adventure. Ready to dive into this gripping saga? Let’s explore its origins, stories, and lasting allure.
How Enemy Began
Charlie Higson, a British comedian, actor, and Young Bond author, crafted the Enemy series to terrify his ten-year-old son—and it worked! Inspired by classic zombie films like Night of the Living Dead and epic tales from Greek mythology, Higson began the series in 2009. His goal? To create a sprawling adventure where kids face unimaginable horrors while wrestling with human nature’s darker side. Drawing from his TV work on The Fast Show, Higson infused the series with vivid characters and dark humor, making it both thrilling and relatable.
The Heart of Enemy
The Enemy series spans seven books, each weaving interconnected stories of survival. The Enemy (2009) kicks off with the Holloway kids, led by Arran and Maxie, battling infected adults while seeking safety at Buckingham Palace. The Dead (2010), a prequel, follows a group fleeing a boarding school to reach the Tower of London. The Fear (2011) introduces smarter ‘sickos’ and a menacing villain, Saint George, while The End (2015) wraps up the saga with an epic battle against the grown-up horde.
Higson’s London is a character itself—decaying, dangerous, and dotted with landmarks like Waitrose supermarkets and the Emirates Stadium. Themes of survival, community, and sacrifice shine through, with kids forming ragtag families to face both external threats and internal rivalries. The series’ brutal realism—nobody is safe—pairs with witty banter and heartfelt friendships, balancing gore with hope. Its nonlinear timeline, where books overlap chronologically, adds depth, urging readers to piece together the apocalypse’s puzzle.
Why Enemy Resonates
Enemy stands out in the YA dystopian boom of the 2000s, offering a grittier alternative to titles like The Hunger Games. Fans praise its unflinching horror and diverse cast, from brave leaders like Ed to resourceful underdogs like Small Sam. Higson’s social commentary—exploring power, fear, and resilience—echoes George A. Romero’s zombie classics, making the series a cult favorite. Its influence lingers in YA horror, inspiring readers to embrace both the light and dark sides of humanity.
Despite its niche status, Enemy’s fanbase remains passionate, with Goodreads reviews lauding its emotional depth and fast-paced action. For teens and adults alike, the series is a thrilling escape that challenges you to root for humanity, even in the darkest times.
- Publication Years: 2009–2015
- Number of Books: 7
- Setting: Post-apocalyptic London
- Target Audience: Ages 12+
Grab The Enemy and dive into a world of heart-pounding horror and unbreakable bonds! Whether you’re a zombie fan or a lover of epic adventures, Higson’s series will hook you from page one.