The new novel, Moonlight and Claws, has eighteen tales all based on the classic monster the Wolfman (or werewolves, or any type of lycanthrope or shapeshifter). Full disclosure: I’ve written a short story in the book. Therefore, this is not a review, but a description of what awaits readers if they decide to read this book.
While space limits me to describing all eighteen (or seventeen, mine wouldn’t be included), I will choose a few stories that may capture your interest.
The Lykos Project by Kaitlyn Emery. We’ve seen zombies overrun the world. Vampires, too. What about werewolves? That’s the vision behind The Lykos Project. A science-slipup has werewolves overrunning society, and it’s up to a few dedicated humans to right the world.
Habitations of Violence by Deborah Cullins Smith. An alternate history world, this one with vampires, werewolves, and literary/historical characters come to life. This story sets up an exciting premise for a longer work.
Recovery by Michelle Houston. A beast-man rescue short story. The unique protagonist (not a werewolf precisely) and what he can do is interesting. And this occurs before the action starts. This answers the question “What happens when criminals start kidnapping shapeshifters?”
The Wolf and the Healer from the Sea by Michelle Levigne. Some of the prior stories are set in a world of science fiction. This werewolf story is set firmly in the world of fantasy. A wonderful incorporation of the werewolf legend into a larger fantasy tapestry.
Moonset by Lindsi McIntire is an exciting and tense action / adventure offering. If you are attracted to stories with a well-prepared main character, you’ll really enjoy this one.
Wolves and Vampires Don’t Mix by C. S. Watcher. Not what I expected from the title. Instead of a humorous party scene, this story tells a more fulfilling sweet tale of how we want to see others and how we should see them.
The Academy and the Kiss by A. J. Skelly – Another fantasy offering, again wildly creative. This has some wild sequences into a creative setting. I hope the author writes more in this world.
Purrfect Halloween by Wendy McLouth – This one stood out. I can’t say much about this one as I don’t want to give away the shock ending. I dog-eared this one to read it again in the future.
Dog Boy by Merri Destefano – I highly enjoyed the writing in this short story. The prose drew me into this world and the life of Dog Boy. The words carried the day here.
Under Two Moons – A grounded werewolf tale but filled with longing and hope, this does “The Wolfman” theme proud. Don’t expect the ordinary as the moon legend plays a part I never saw coming. Also, this offering is quite moving.
The stories I haven’t mentioned are also riveting reads, so pick up this anthology to start your classic monsters collection from Ye Olde Dragon Press.
On Amazon at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09H67SVJ5