The dead are returning to life as intelligent zombies. Trapped by the undead, escape seems impossible for Jim Thurmond. But Jim's young son is alive and in dire peril hundreds of miles away. Despite overwhelming odds, Jim vows to find him -- or die trying. Joined by an elderly preacher, a guilt-ridden scientist, and a determined ex-prostitute, Jim embarks on a cross-country rescue mission. They must battle both the living and the living dead. And for Jim and his companions, an even greater evil awaits them at the end of their journey. This is the time of ... The Rising. -- provided by publisher.

Author's preferred edition of the 2003 published story, with over 30,000 words of narrative previously cut during editing of original publication.