Step into the thrilling world of Until the End of the World, where zombies roam and survival hinges on heart, grit, and a touch of humor! Sarah Lyons Fleming’s gripping horror series follows Cassie Forrest and her ragtag group of friends as they navigate a post-apocalyptic landscape overrun by the undead. Blending pulse-pounding action with deep emotional connections, this series is a must-read for fans of zombie tales with soul.
Unlike typical gore-fests, Until the End of the World weaves a story of resilience, love, and found family, set against the chaotic backdrop of a world collapsing under the Bornavirus LX. With its fast-paced plot and relatable characters, it’s no wonder readers rave about this indie gem!
How Until the End of the World Began
Sarah Lyons Fleming, a self-proclaimed 'wannabe prepper' from Brooklyn, crafted Until the End of the World as her debut novel, born from a love for apocalyptic fiction and a desire for a fresh take on the zombie genre. Inspired by classics like Malevil and her fascination with survivalist prep, Fleming imagined a heroine, Cassie, who faces the end of the world with humor and heart. Self-published in 2013, the series quickly gained a cult following, thanks to its authentic characters and emotional depth.
Fleming’s journey from writing on her couch while her son napped to becoming a beloved indie author is as inspiring as her stories. Her knack for blending suspense with everyday human struggles set the stage for a series that feels both epic and intimate.
The Heart of Until the End of the World
The series kicks off with *Until the End of the World* (2013), where Cassie Forrest, a young woman reeling from personal losses, must flee Brooklyn with her friends as a zombie outbreak erupts. Their goal? Reach her late parents’ survivalist cabin in Vermont. *So Long, Lollipops* (Book 1.5) shifts to Peter’s perspective, offering a novella-sized glimpse into his solo survival. *And After* (2014) finds Cassie at Kingdom Come Farm, grappling with thawing zombies and fading safe zones. Finally, *All the Stars in the Sky* (2015) wraps the saga with a harrowing journey north, testing the group’s hope and endurance.
Themes of survival, love, and redemption shine through, grounded by Fleming’s vivid prose and sharp wit. The series stands out for its focus on character growth—Cassie evolves from a self-doubting artist to a fierce survivor, while her friends reveal layers of strength and vulnerability. The urban-to-rural setting, from gritty Brooklyn to snowy wilderness, mirrors their transformation, with prepping details adding authenticity to the chaos.
Fleming’s style balances horror with humor and heart, making the zombie apocalypse feel personal. Readers connect with the group’s banter, heartbreak, and triumphs, as themes of found family and resilience resonate deeply in a world where hope is hard-won.
Why Until the End of the World Resonates
Until the End of the World has carved a niche in the zombie genre, earning praise from outlets like BookBub and Popsugar for its compelling mix of action and emotion. Fans on Goodreads and Audible laud its relatable characters and immersive storytelling, with many calling it a refreshing alternative to *The Walking Dead*. Julia Whelan’s audiobook narration adds extra depth, bringing Cassie’s quips and fears to life.
Its lasting appeal lies in its human core—Fleming reminds us that even in a zombie-ravaged world, love and friendship endure. The series’ indie success also inspires aspiring authors, proving that a heartfelt story can find its audience. For horror fans craving both scares and soul, this series delivers.
- Publication Years: 2013–2015
- Number of Books: 3 novels, 1 novella
- Genre: Post-apocalyptic horror, zombie fiction
- Notable Recognition: Named one of BookBub’s 14 Can’t-Miss Zombie Series
Dive into *Until the End of the World* and join Cassie’s crew in a zombie-filled adventure that’s as heartwarming as it is horrifying!