Step into the swampy, brain-munching world of the White Trash Zombie series, where a pill-popping dropout named Angel Crawford trades her troubled past for an undead future packed with humor, heart, and horror. Created by Diana Rowland, this urban fantasy saga blends gritty Louisiana vibes with a fresh take on zombies, delivering a story that’s as heartfelt as it is thrilling.
Angel’s journey from loser to lovable zombie hero has captivated readers, offering a wild ride through conspiracies, quirky characters, and a dash of Southern charm. If you’re craving a genre mashup that’s equal parts gross and glorious, this series is your next obsession.
How White Trash Zombie Began
Diana Rowland, a former street cop, detective, and morgue assistant, drew on her eclectic career to craft the White Trash Zombie series. Inspired by her love for urban fantasy and a desire to flip the zombie trope, Rowland introduced Angel Crawford in 2011 with My Life as a White Trash Zombie. Her real-world experience in forensics and law enforcement infuses the series with gritty authenticity, while her sharp wit keeps the tone light and engaging.
Rowland’s goal was to create a flawed yet relatable protagonist, and Angel’s transformation from a troubled teen to a brain-craving zombie with a purpose struck a chord with fans. Published by DAW Books, the series grew from a bold debut into a beloved six-book saga.
The Heart of White Trash Zombie
The series kicks off with My Life as a White Trash Zombie (2011), where Angel wakes up in a hospital, mysteriously unscathed after a supposed overdose, only to discover she’s now a zombie with a craving for brains. A job at the coroner’s office keeps her fed, but a serial killer targeting zombies pulls her into a mystery. In Even White Trash Zombies Get the Blues (2012), Angel faces zombie hunters and a shady zombie mafia while grappling with her felony record.
White Trash Zombie Apocalypse (2013) ramps up the chaos with a zombie movie filming in town, corporate espionage, and a rain-soaked battle to save her community. By White Trash Zombie Unchained (2017), the final book, Angel tackles a shambler zombie plague, government cover-ups, and her own demons, cementing her growth into a confident undead hero. Themes of redemption, self-discovery, and resilience shine through, set against the humid, small-town backdrop of Tucker Point, Louisiana.
Rowland’s style mixes snarky humor, visceral horror, and surprising warmth, making the series a standout in urban fantasy. Angel’s dyslexia, addiction struggles, and complex family dynamics add depth, while the zombie parasite science—prions keeping hosts alive—grounds the supernatural in plausible detail.
Why White Trash Zombie Resonates
The White Trash Zombie series carved a niche in urban fantasy by blending humor with raw, relatable struggles. Angel’s journey from societal outcast to empowered zombie resonates with readers who root for underdogs. The series’ Southern setting and Rowland’s authentic voice—honed by her diverse career—give it a unique flavor, earning praise from outlets like USA Today for its fresh take on a crowded genre.
Its impact lingers in fan communities, where Angel’s wit and grit inspire devotion. The series’ blend of mystery, horror, and personal growth appeals to fans of Charlaine Harris or Seanan McGuire, proving that even a brain-eating zombie can steal your heart.
- First Book Published: 2011 (My Life as a White Trash Zombie)
- Total Books: 6
- Awards: 2012 RT Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Urban Fantasy Protagonist (Angel Crawford)
- Setting: Tucker Point, Louisiana
Ready to munch on some brains and join Angel’s wild ride? Grab My Life as a White Trash Zombie and dive into this hilarious, heartfelt urban fantasy world!