Devil's Wake summary

A World in Chaos

In Devil's Wake by Steven Barnes and Tananarive Due, a deadly disease has swept across the world, leaving the infected in a state of violent madness. The novel follows the journey of two survivors, Kendra and Terry, as they navigate a world plunged into chaos and overrun by the infected.

As the story begins, Kendra is a college student in Los Angeles, living a carefree life until the outbreak of the disease. Her world quickly turns into a nightmare as she witnesses the rapid collapse of society. Meanwhile, Terry, a middle-aged man, is a former soldier living in Seattle. He has been preparing for the end of the world, and when the outbreak begins, he is ready to put his survival skills to the test.

A Dangerous Journey

After the initial chaos, Kendra and Terry find themselves part of a group of survivors, all trying to make their way to a rumored safe zone in the northwest. The journey is treacherous, with the infected, now referred to as "devil's", lurking around every corner. The survivors must also contend with other dangers, such as ruthless human raiders who take advantage of the lawlessness.

The group's journey is marked by harrowing encounters, including a brutal attack on their camp and a devastating betrayal. Through it all, Kendra and Terry find strength in each other, forming a deep bond as they navigate the horrors of their new reality.

The Evolution of the Infected

As the survivors make their way towards the safe zone, they begin to notice a disturbing change in the behavior of the infected. Initially mindless, the "devil's" start to exhibit signs of intelligence and organization. This evolution in the infected poses a new and terrifying threat, forcing the survivors to rethink their strategies for survival.

Despite the increasingly dire situation, Kendra and Terry's relationship continues to grow. Their bond becomes a source of hope and resilience, providing them with the strength to face the challenges ahead.

A Revelation and a New Beginning

As the survivors finally reach the safe zone, they are met with a shocking revelation. The outbreak was not a natural occurrence but rather the result of a failed alien experiment. The "devil's" were once human, transformed by an extraterrestrial virus designed to study the effects of extreme aggression.

Despite the devastating truth, the survivors refuse to give in to despair. Instead, they choose to rebuild, forging a new community in the safe zone. Kendra and Terry, now deeply in love, become instrumental in the reconstruction efforts, their bond serving as a symbol of hope for a world devastated by the horrors of the "devil's" wake.

In conclusion, Devil's Wake is a gripping tale of survival and resilience in the face of an apocalyptic event. Through the characters of Kendra and Terry, the novel explores the depths of human endurance and the enduring power of love in the midst of unimaginable horror.