Alicia G. - reviewed on 3/22/2010 + 52 more book reviews

I came across this novel in the midst of a serious vampire fic binge (which can overlap with werewolf fic), but it stands out as a little bit different from the rest.

First, I don't tend to like werewolf novels, but I liked this. The dog/human dynamics are well-written and include fresh details, while at the same time Armstrong does not feel the need to over-explain how it "works."

Second, this book has a little more "weight" than I expected, or that is typical of the genre. It's a bit more of a mystery than a romance, although romance--and sex--is also included. The last werewolf book I read was "Kitty and the Midnight Hour" by Carrie Vaughn. That book is far more light-weight than this is. I read it quickly, and discarded it easily, and felt vaguely dissatisfied afterward. On the other hand, in "Bitten" the story occasionally seemed to take awhile to get to where it was going, but I was never quite sure where the story would lead, either (a good thing). And there is enough going on in the dynamics and the storyline to stretch the reading over several days.

Finally, the characters are interesting and original. The heroine has suffered--in her past, her relationships, for being what she is--but she is not a damsel in distress. No whiny female protagonist here. No "misunderstood" love interests in need of compassion, either. (Both of these tend to be genre cliches.)

I recommend this book if you're craving a rich werewolf story, but save it for another day if you just want something to toss away after enjoying for an afternoon.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details