Book Review: Werecats Emergent by Mark J. Engels

 

Short Description

Pawly and Tommy are normal twins. They go to high school, get into trouble, hang out with friends, and are talented hockey players until their worlds and dreams shatter one fateful night. They change in unbelievable ways as their family's greatest secret is revealed. Among the family are those with a strange affliction that makes them sprout fur and claws to transform into ferocious werecats. The family comes together to help the twins cope with this life-altering event. However, things don't go as expected. Their uncle Ritzi, a scientist working his whole life to help his family deal with the affliction, is doing his best, but luck is not on his side, and his resources are dwindling. When he is approached by an infamously dangerous figure, things seem to take a turn for the worse. Will the family be able to rally together and overcome the threats that loom ever closer?

(Read the official synopsis of Amazon or Goodreads)

Review

Disclosure: I was sent this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. I received no monetary compensation, and these are my honest opinions.

First Thoughts

I'll be honest, I read a lot of Wattpad werewolf fiction when I was younger, but I had never read an actual published were-animal story. So, when the author contacted me about reading and reviewing this book, I agreed immediately.

Plot

I have never read a more unique were-animal story. Truthfully my experience is limited to hastily written Wattpad fiction. This was no soul mate search or territory war. Werecats Emergent is a thrilling tale with so many complicated layers. The author tackled this version of were-animal transformation wonderfully. I could feel the passion and hard work that went into this project. The book encompasses themes of family, friendship, sacrifice, belonging, desperation, and love. I love how logical and well thought out this plot was, and how it explored the realistic and horrific experience that turning into a ravenous beast must be. Werecats Emergent is no romanticized were-animal story. Instead, we get a research and science-heavy thriller, a welcome change. 

We follow two very different characters, Pawly and Ritzi. I loved both, so following them along on their many misadventures was fun, though Ritzi was my favorite. I love how the bond between family members was depicted in this book, with each member ready to help however they could. I loved seeing the grandparents take charge and use their combined experience to guide and support the younger family members. I don't think I've ever read a book where every family member had an important role. The characters were written so well, compelling and flawed, with every move they made making sense. I grew increasingly frustrated with some characters and increasingly impressed with others. I love it when a book can evoke such contrasting emotions. The plot was a spider web with many elements that worked seamlessly together. The focus on the harmful aspects of morphing into a different creature was intriguing. I'm amazed to have never read anything similar because it was such a logical direction.

There was a surprise around every corner, some good, but mostly horrific. I wasn't sure what would happen in the next chapter, and lo and behold, it was something I never expected. I was obsessively reading the pages, and I couldn't get enough. There were so many intense and emotionally charged moments that I was fully immersed in the story. The action was well-written. I could imagine every scene perfectly,  and it's always amazing when that happens. I can't wait to discover what happens next!

Characters

Pawly - I love Pawly. She is fierce, brave, kind, intelligent, and protective of her friends and family. I also love how passionate she is about everything she does. Even though sports aren't my thing, her love for hockey made me appreciate her character even more. She can be careless at times, yet is always ready to fight for what she believes in.

Ritzi - Ritzi is my favorite character. When I read the first chapter with him as the focal point, I was obsessed. His love for his family runs so deep he is willing to do anything to protect them, much to his misfortune. I just love following intellectuals, so I was drawn to Ritzi when I learned about his profession and research. He tries hard to do the right thing, but it never goes as expected. He is sweet, vulnerable, knowledgeable, reliable, protective, and desperate to save his family. I can't wait to follow him on more of his horrifying adventures. I've formed an imaginary Ritzi protection club in my head because he needs it.

Tommy - The calmer, more collected of the twins, I'd say. Tommy is such a wonderful contrast to Pawly's fiery nature. I love how deep and meaningful their connection is. They help each other in ways that are so impressive. I can't wait to read more about their adventures.

Alex - So, my feelings for Alex are a little complicated. I love her protective nature. Also, she is by far the coolest character in this book. If this were a movie, she would be moving at the speed of light! I can't get over how adept she is at using her abilities and how resilient she is when confronted with unsurpassable horrors. She is pretty rough with her children, which made me pause at first, but I understand her now.

What I Did Not Like

Firstly, I love that the story was complex and had many elements, but sometimes there was too much information, and I got confused. I understood what was going on as the chapters progressed, but it took some time to get used to it.

Secondly, maybe it's just me, but there were so many characters that I forgot so many names, and I had to channel Sherlock Holmes to recognize characters when they appeared. 

In Summation

I enjoyed Werecats Emergent so much. It's such a logical and realistic take on the subject. The scientific and genetic elements impressed me, as did the depth of the characters. Sometimes, I felt like I was watching an action thriller, and I loved it. If you like strong family bonds, then try this book out. If you like were-animal books but want something different from the usual soulmate drama, then this is the book for you. However, if you want a simple read, then maybe you should look elsewhere. I can't wait to discover what happens next!

Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐

Emoji Depiction: 🐈🧬💉

 Thank you for reading!