Picture a storyteller who turned St. Louis into a zombie-ravaged battleground, weaving tales of everyday heroes facing the end of the world—meet E.E. Isherwood! This New York Times and USA Today bestselling author has captivated readers with his thrilling post-apocalyptic novels, most notably the Sirens of the Zombie Apocalypse series. From his roots as a Dungeons and Dragons Dungeon Master to crafting gripping narratives, Isherwood’s journey is as fascinating as the worlds he creates.
With a knack for blending gritty realism and heart-pounding action, Isherwood draws inspiration from his Missouri hometown and a lifelong obsession with apocalyptic scenarios. His stories aren’t just about zombies—they’re about family, survival, and hope against all odds. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this indie author who’s redefining the zombie genre!
The Making of E.E. Isherwood
Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, E.E. Isherwood’s love for storytelling began in his teens, crafting epic campaigns as a Dungeons and Dragons Dungeon Master. Spiral notebooks filled with worlds and adventures piled up, a testament to his boundless imagination. After a 20-year career in IT, a layoff in 2015 pushed him to take a leap into writing. Inspired by classics like George R. Stewart’s Earth Abides, Isherwood channeled his fascination with societal collapse into fiction, starting with a short story about a grandmother facing a zombie nurse—a tale that sparked his signature series.
Isherwood’s transition from IT to indie publishing wasn’t easy, but his determination paid off. Living in a St. Louis suburb with his wife, kids, and Chiweenie dog, he balances family life with his passion for writing, often drawing on local landscapes to ground his apocalyptic tales in vivid detail.
E.E. Isherwood’s Unforgettable Stories
Isherwood’s Sirens of the Zombie Apocalypse series, spanning six books, is his crown jewel. The series kicks off with Since the Sirens, where teen gamer Liam Peters must save his 104-year-old great-grandmother, Marty, from a zombie-infested St. Louis. Readers rave about Grandma Marty, a fierce, dream-communicating centenarian who defies stereotypes. Books like Siren Songs and Zombies Ever After ramp up the stakes, blending zombie hordes, government conspiracies, and family bonds.
Beyond zombies, Isherwood explores other apocalyptic scenarios. His Minus America series imagines a superweapon erasing the U.S. population, following survivors like Air Force pilot Ted and tour guide Tabby. End Days, co-authored with Craig Martelle, tackles EMPs and time-travel twists. Isherwood’s style is cinematic, like a blockbuster disaster movie, with relatable characters, a touch of romance, and uplifting plots that keep readers cheering.
His writing stands out for its realism—St. Louis settings feel alive, from gridlocked interstates to crumbling parks. Isherwood’s focus on moral dilemmas and faith adds depth, appealing to readers who crave more than just gore. His indie approach, with professionally edited books and audio versions, ensures quality that rivals traditional publishing.
Why E.E. Isherwood Matters
E.E. Isherwood has carved a niche in post-apocalyptic fiction by making ordinary people the heart of extraordinary stories. His Sirens series, often praised as YA-friendly, resonates with readers for its relatable characters and hopeful tone amidst chaos. As a New York Times and USA Today bestseller, he’s proven indie authors can compete with the big names, inspiring aspiring writers to take risks.
Isherwood’s impact extends beyond books. His newsletter and social media engage fans with giveaways and behind-the-scenes peeks, building a loyal community. By setting his stories in St. Louis, he’s put his hometown on the literary map, showing that local flavor can fuel global appeal. His work reminds us that even in the darkest times, human connection and resilience shine through.
- Key Works: Sirens of the Zombie Apocalypse, Minus America, End Days
- Hometown: St. Louis, Missouri
- Notable Achievement: New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
Ready to brave the zombie hordes? Snag Since the Sirens and dive into E.E. Isherwood’s thrilling post-apocalyptic world!