'Unmissable' horror novel leaving readers in tears is 'compulsively readable'

A new novel described as "compulsively readable" is out today - and readers are describing it as "unmissable". One Yellow Eye by Leigh Radford is a fresh debut novel perfect for fans of the horror and science fiction genres.

Scientist Kesta's husband Tim was the last person to be infected in a zombie pandemic. With the government seemingly having rounded up and disposed of all the infected, the hunt is now on for a cure to the virus. But with an undead husband hidden in her spare room, Kesta is more motivated than most.

As a big fan of sci-fi, I knew I would enjoy this book. But mad science and zombies aside, I was surprised by how much heart there was in it; Kesta and Tim's love story made me both smile at the pages and feel utterly heartbroken.

I couldn't stop reading, and finished it in a couple of sittings.

But don't just take my word for it; the book has gone down well with many early reviewers, including one Goodreads user who said: "This was a beautifully written story of love and grief, and with parallels to the lockdowns most of us faced 5 years ago, I think it will resonate with many readers."

Dana added: "I loved that this was set in modern times but had a real gothic Frankenstein feel, Kesta's last name was even Shelley! The mix of science and horror was perfect, it had dystopian elements and just kept me absorbed on every page. I also appreciated that the ending was realistic."

On the subject of the ending, Lauren said: "The ending may have made me shed a little tear. Perfect. The author acknowledgements and inspiration behind the book are very emotional and I recommend reading them."

Reviewer Anabel said: "It had me with one tab open to Google terms and with tissues nearby when things got too feely. I was heavily invested in this, a mix between 28 days later and Grays Anatomy with a hint of I-Zombie."

Meanwhile, Olivie Blake, author of The Atlas Six, said: "Compulsively readable. A propulsive, page-turning descent into all that is lovely and grotesque about grief, obsession and love."

And So Thirsty author Rachel Harrison said: "An equally charming and grim zombie novel about undying love. Every page simmers with exquisite dread. Original and smart and heartfelt, an unmissable debut that blends and transcends genre."

You can buy One Yellow Eye by Leigh Radford from Waterstones here, or from Amazon here.

For more book recommendations, reviews and news, click here to subscribe to our free weekly newsletter, The Bookish Drop, on Substack.