Dreadnought

This was an enjoyable read. The alt-history/steampunkiness/zombie storyline crept up gradually - a mention of the [American] Civil War lasting over twenty years, dirigibles as the most efficient transportation between Richmond, VA and Chattanooga, TN, some strangly-diseased soldiers in an isolation ward in St Louis, MO. Once the action ramps up, it is pretty much nonstop up to the end, with very vivid writing, like watching an action movie! Good stuff.

The main character is engaging - an experienced and competent nurse but hardly an Angel of Mercy, very outspoken with language that would make a soldier blush (and does), but also carrying some uncertainty and fears for her future, so a realistic heroine over all. This book also passes the Bechdel Test with flying colors!