Picture a Pacific Northwest storyteller who turned zombie nightmares into gripping page-turners—meet Shawn Chesser! A devoted family man and lifelong zombie fanatic, Chesser has carved a niche in apocalyptic fiction with his pulse-pounding 'Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse' and 'Riker's Apocalypse' series. His tales of survival against shambling hordes have thrilled readers, blending gritty realism with classic horror vibes.
From his home in Portland, Oregon, Chesser spins stories that echo the desolate worlds of George Romero and Stephen King. His knack for crafting flawed, relatable characters facing unimaginable odds has earned him praise as a master of the zombie genre. Ready to dive into his undead universe? Let’s explore the man behind the apocalypse.
The Making of Shawn Chesser
Shawn Chesser, a proud resident of the Pacific Northwest, lives with his wife, two children, and three fish. A self-professed zombie enthusiast, he’s been hooked on the undead since childhood, favoring the slow, moaning creatures over their fast, screaming counterparts. His passion for apocalyptic horror led him to study writing at PCC Sylvania, where he honed his craft. Influenced by Stephen King’s character depth, Cormac McCarthy’s stark prose, and George Romero’s cinematic dread, Chesser began writing to bring his own vision of the end times to life.
Before becoming a full-time author, Chesser balanced family life and odd jobs, including carpentry. His leap into writing came with a desire to tell stories that resonate with readers who crave suspense and survival. His debut, 'Trudge,' launched the 'Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse' series in 2011, marking the start of a prolific career that’s kept fans on edge ever since.
Shawn Chesser’s Unforgettable Stories
Chesser’s 'Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse' series, spanning 17 books, is his magnum opus. It kicks off with 'Trudge,' where ex-Delta Force operator Cade Grayson fights to reunite with his family as the Omega virus turns the world into a zombie wasteland. Later entries like 'Fury' and 'Family' deepen the saga, blending heart-wrenching drama with relentless action. Critics, including best-selling author Mark Tufo, praise Chesser’s tight plots and vivid characters that leap off the page.
His 'Riker’s Apocalypse' series, starting with 'The Promise' in 2018, offers a fresh take. Army veteran Lee Riker and his sister Tara navigate a collapsing world, driven by a deathbed promise. The series, including titles like 'The Plan' and 'The Precipice,' is slower-paced but rich in suspense, showcasing Chesser’s ability to build tension without constant gore. His standalone 'The Hitter: Quiet War' introduces a thriller vibe, proving his versatility.
Chesser’s style is gritty yet accessible, with a focus on human resilience. His zombies, inspired by Romero’s classics, shamble with menacing purpose, while his heroes—often military veterans or everyday survivors—face moral dilemmas and relentless danger. His Pacific Northwest settings, from Portland’s bridges to rural hideouts, add a vivid backdrop that grounds the chaos.
Why Shawn Chesser Matters
Shawn Chesser has become a standout in indie publishing, earning accolades from peers like Joe McKinney, a two-time Bram Stoker Award winner, for his character-driven narratives. His work resonates with zombie fans who crave stories that balance visceral thrills with emotional depth. By portraying survivors as complex individuals, not just action heroes, Chesser elevates the genre, making it as much about humanity as horror.
His Pacific Northwest roots infuse his stories with a unique sense of place, while his commitment to family shines through in themes of loyalty and sacrifice. For readers, Chesser’s books are a thrilling escape and a reminder of what it means to endure. His growing fanbase eagerly awaits each release, cementing his legacy as a zombie fiction powerhouse.
- Key Works: 'Trudge,' 'Fury,' 'The Promise,' 'The Hitter: Quiet War'
- Genres: Apocalyptic Horror, Thriller
- Influences: Stephen King, George Romero, Cormac McCarthy
Snag 'Trudge' or 'The Promise' and dive into Shawn Chesser’s thrilling zombie universe! Whether you’re a horror buff or a survival saga fan, his stories will keep you up all night.