My Pet Werewolf by James Kaine
Werewolves & sharp turns ahead!
It wasn’t til I got into My Pet Werewolf that I realized I don’t read much werewolf horror. In fact, I can’t think of the last one I read. So this was a rare treat that made me see, maybe I DO need more werewolf horror in my life. Especially if they pack a sucker punch the way James Kaine’s werewolf story did. 👀
Quick Synopsis:
Imagine living through a traumatizing death of a loved one at a young age, but also feeling responsible for it. Now imagine having the hole left behind by that lost one being filled by someone who just…something doesn’t feel right about them. Now picture its a few years later. You’re a teenager, dealing with all THAT. Plus the old wounds, plus a possible new love interest, plus your twin sister is spazzing out on you. Then, (just when you thought this story was going to turn into a cliche tale of moon howls and teenage hijinx)….you witness a freak animal attack. One that is as hard to believe as it is to prove is real. Now, the deeper you dig, the more you sniff out. Secrets and bodies are going to hit the floor, & hopefully you aren’t one of them.
Kaine really did set us up for a nice, tame seeming werewolf story. The tropes were troping, the laughs were there when we needed them, the story was engaging and kept you wanting to see how this would end. Then this wild man (the author) goes feral on us. Hits the brakes & spins our brains out across the interstate, in a way that legit leaves the reader stunned. The whole tone/theme takes a dark shift that you don’t see coming whatsoever. (Or just me 🫠) It was a brain jolt, but a good one. It made for a highly satisfying ending that I thoroughly enjoyed. Have you read much werewolf horror lately? If you haven’t, maybe you should & My Pet Werewolf is one helluva ride to get you started. Highly recommend, but mind the whiplash!