The Walking Dead: Rise of The Governor

By: Robert Kirkman, Jay Bonansinga

Narrated by: Fred Berman

Length: 10 hrs and 46 mins

Publisher's summary

Following in the footsteps of the New York Times best-selling graphic novels and the record-breaking new television show, this debut novel in a trilogy of original Walking Dead books chronicles the back story of the comic book series' greatest villain, The Governor.

In the Walking Dead universe, there is no greater villain than The Governor. The despot who runs the walled-off town of Woodbury, he has his own sick sense of justice: whether it’s forcing prisoners to battle zombies in an arena for the townspeople’s amusement, or chopping off the appendages of those who cross him. The Governor was voted “Villain of the Year” by Wizard magazine the year he debuted, and his story arc was the most controversial arc in the history of The Walking Dead comic book series. Now, for the first time, fans of The Walking Dead will discover how The Governor became the man he is, and what drove him to such extremes.

©2011 Robert Kirkman and Jay Bonansinga (P)2011 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

“If the comic book writer Robert Kirkman were a superhero, his name might be the Midas Touch.” ( The New York Times)

One of the best zombie books ever!!

Any additional comments?

I have over 200 books in my Audible library and this is only the 2nd review I have written. I feel that strong about this book. The story was absolutely captivating. I could not sleep some nights wondering what would happen next. I won't tell any spoilers, but there are a few extremely shocking plot twists. They left me rewinding to see if I heard the story right. I hated when it ended and can't wait until the next one comes out!!

Hard for me to Rate!

Bought for Myself
Overall Rating 3.00
Story Rating 3.00
Character Rating 3.00
Audio Rating 2.00

NOTE: The Walking Dead: Rise of the Governor is a hard one to really rank as there were parts that totally rocked but the constant changing of POVs really distracted from the story. I haven't read the comic books so I had no connection to these characters in advance.

Audio Review: I wouldn't recommend listening to this on audio--the narration was a little flat. Fred Berman did a decent job but with all the switching POVs, I think it would have been better suited to multiple narrators.

What I Loved: I am finding that I am really loving watching the Zombie Manifestation through the children's eyes. In this case, it was Penny. Whether the story was from her POV or just the adults watching her--it was very chilling. It is amazing how a kid can change your strategy at any given time. All of the men (her dad and "uncles") really do try to make this as easy for her as possible. Unfortunately, this is not an easy time. Her journey directly effects each of the characters and really does bring a level of emotional endearment to the story.

What I Liked: I am always fascinated in Zombie stories at what the point is of surviving. The emotions that one must go through: fear, anger, perseverance, giving up, and finally acceptance. It is what happens after the acceptance that always just gets me. How do you live in a world where this is now the norm? Rise of the Governor did a fantastic job of going through everyone's acceptance and their reactions.

Complaints: To many POVs for me and it was darn right distracting.

Why I gave it a 3.00: This is mostly due to the POVs. However, I think I would have felt more connected to the story had I read the comic books.

language is harsh but the story is awesome

the language is hard but I felt like I was walking step by step with them

Great audio book!!!!!!!

Amazing! never wanted to stop listening. Fantastic narration, fantastic storyline. Will be listening to next...

Starts off strong, but fizzles in the middle.

What made the experience of listening to The Walking Dead: Rise of The Governor the most enjoyable?

The narrator did an amazing job bringing the characters to life. Each personality sounded unique and he was capable of translating the emotional turmoil the characters experience within storyline perfectly!

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

The storyline became a little overwhelming at times, to the point that all their great escapes and small victories felt hurried & un- impressive after a while.
It truly is a good story, but if you are looking for a book that will leave you with any kind of fondness for the characters that you stared of the journey with; this book is not for you!

What does Fred Berman bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

I believe that the audiobook brings a new depth in the characters,specially that of Phil's brother. The audio book narration gives you a even deeper concept of the emotional disarray & confusion this character go's thru, even from before the zombies started to hit the fan.

If you could rename The Walking Dead: Rise of The Governor, what would you call it?

The walking dead; Death of all hope.
(corny, but I bet that once you read it; you will understand)

Intensely exhilarating

Any additional comments?

This was a truly enjoyable book. As a fan of the TV show, the story of the Governor prior to Woodbury was never really told. It was great to see into his mind, into his experiences, and bring about understanding to why he acted the way he did. Insight is always key with complex character, and this book starts to give it. I am in the midst of book two, and enjoying it immensely.

10 out of 10

10 out of 10. Would listen to again. Love the Story and overall, the performance.

Outstanding performance, Book Meh

Is there anything you would change about this book?

The book is headed to one place. It takes them forever to end up where we want them to be. The authors didn't use the principal of In late and Out Early.

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

Instead of a road book I would have centered on Woodburry

Have you listened to any of Fred Berman’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I haven't. Though he is the best thing about this audiobook. He was a pleasure to listen to.

Did The Walking Dead: Rise of The Governor inspire you to do anything?

It taught me how good writing doesn't mean good book.

Just a really good Zombie book

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, if you love just really good zombie books this is for you. Also, if your a fan of the show you will love it as well

Who was your favorite character and why?

Brian, his development threw out the hole book.

Which scene was your favorite?

The final scene.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Just a great movie for the zombie fan!!

Highly recommend The Walking Dead:Rise of The Gov.

I enjoyed this book very much, it was well written and kept my attention from beginning to end. Several parts even causing my hand to rise to my mouth in either fear or shock, like When the zombie almost got Penny from the back of the motorcycle. Or when Phillip tortured the couple out in the barn... But mostly how the book ends. (I won't give THAT away). I love this narrator, he puts himself into the story and you can actually feel the emotions of characters. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.