What would you do if you knew the zombie apocalypse was coming, and you knew how to stop it? Gary Ecks, an expert on viral hemorrhagic fevers at the CDC, finds himself facing this very situation. His model predicts the mutation of a highly contagious virus that will zombify its victims. He knows that if countermeasures aren't taken immediately, the human race could soon be replaced by the living dead. While creating a vaccine would seem to be the obvious answer, it's not so easy when the CDC denies the possibility of zombies and turns a blind eye to the threat. He tries to convince his colleague, Natalie Wyler, to help him develop a vaccine. Knowing that the vaccine would be created from a weakened or dead sample of the virus, she refuses, as they would first have to create the virus they fear. Rapidly unfolding events cause Natalie to realize the zombie virus is coming regardless of what she does. Still reluctant, she agrees to help secretly work to save mankind, but the two scientists are forced to abandon their lab before they can complete their task. Enter agents of a shadow organization who have taken note of their progress and raise the specter of a greater peril. Gary's worst fears are realized when their reports suggest someone may have actually stolen the virus, and may be spreading it. Now, the goal to develop a vaccine has become one to recover the virus and develop a cure, leading Gary on a cross-country trek to find Natalie. Gary's path crosses with a loosely-knit network of zombie prepper groups. But with all Hell breaking loose, will they help Gary get to a cure, or try to stop him? This is a trade paperback with a matte cover. A trade paperback with a glossy cover, and an e-book for the Kindle are also available. For the Kindle, The Z Contingency is also available as three separate parts.