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rock_n_reads's review
4.0
3.5 Stars, Rounded up for GoodReads
THE MONGREL was a fast-paced read that drew me in rather quickly. Once I started reading it, I found myself flipping the pages continuously to find out what came next. (Had I not been interrupted by the anxiety and stress surrounding current events, it’s likely I’d have finished this book in one sitting). Prior to this novella, I’d only read one of Seán’s short stories. After reading two pieces now, I can tell you that I enjoy his storytelling style and look forward to reading more.
There were several aspects of this tale that stood out for me as I was reading. Like I said, I was drawn into the story rather fast, which is always a good thing, especially when there’s a smaller amount of words to work with. I thought that the character development was strong, and while I didn’t find a personal connection to the characters or their experiences, I felt empathy for Erin. The descriptions of her anxiety and inner turmoil over her situation were well done. I liked that there was a bit of background and deeper look at Phil and Erin’s relationship instead of just what was on the surface of the story. This provided more insight into Erin’s mental state and her motivations for staying with him.
There was a slow but steady build of tension throughout the story that kept me interested along the way, and a couple of times I thought I had things figured out, but I was wrong. I thought this was a unique spin on a werewolf tale—different from others I’ve read. There are some unforgettable scenes in this story, and I imagine I might have flashbacks of those the next time I’m caught up in some heavy snowfall. I struggled a bit during the third section of the book. I felt like I needed a bit more story or background on some of the characters before reaching the end point—it felt a bit rushed to me.
I have a copy of the author’s novel, WEEPING SEASON, on my shelf, and I’m looking forward to that one. I’ve heard great things about that one, and I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read of his work so far. I will definitely be interested in reading more from Seán O’ Connor in the future.
THE MONGREL was a fast-paced read that drew me in rather quickly. Once I started reading it, I found myself flipping the pages continuously to find out what came next. (Had I not been interrupted by the anxiety and stress surrounding current events, it’s likely I’d have finished this book in one sitting). Prior to this novella, I’d only read one of Seán’s short stories. After reading two pieces now, I can tell you that I enjoy his storytelling style and look forward to reading more.
There were several aspects of this tale that stood out for me as I was reading. Like I said, I was drawn into the story rather fast, which is always a good thing, especially when there’s a smaller amount of words to work with. I thought that the character development was strong, and while I didn’t find a personal connection to the characters or their experiences, I felt empathy for Erin. The descriptions of her anxiety and inner turmoil over her situation were well done. I liked that there was a bit of background and deeper look at Phil and Erin’s relationship instead of just what was on the surface of the story. This provided more insight into Erin’s mental state and her motivations for staying with him.
There was a slow but steady build of tension throughout the story that kept me interested along the way, and a couple of times I thought I had things figured out, but I was wrong. I thought this was a unique spin on a werewolf tale—different from others I’ve read. There are some unforgettable scenes in this story, and I imagine I might have flashbacks of those the next time I’m caught up in some heavy snowfall. I struggled a bit during the third section of the book. I felt like I needed a bit more story or background on some of the characters before reaching the end point—it felt a bit rushed to me.
I have a copy of the author’s novel, WEEPING SEASON, on my shelf, and I’m looking forward to that one. I’ve heard great things about that one, and I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read of his work so far. I will definitely be interested in reading more from Seán O’ Connor in the future.
thebookgeekboutique's review
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.0
lanternsjourney's review
4.0
The Mongrel is a novella that starts off with a rough relationship and a road trip. It is my third werewolf read of the year and I loved it! It was so well written, even though it started off similar to many other horror stories, that I kept turning the pages. It's split into three parts and the second part blew me away. I dont want to go into details.
It was into the third part when I started to panic- I wanted more werewolves. I wanted more background information. I understand it's a novella, but I think the story could've been strengthened with a little more background and explanations from certain charcters.
I loved the ending and sense of foreboding. I really hope there is a sequel, and if this is Sean O'connor's first work, I am excited to see more! The writing was very compelling, and I was routing for Erin the whole way... still am.
It was into the third part when I started to panic- I wanted more werewolves. I wanted more background information. I understand it's a novella, but I think the story could've been strengthened with a little more background and explanations from certain charcters.
I loved the ending and sense of foreboding. I really hope there is a sequel, and if this is Sean O'connor's first work, I am excited to see more! The writing was very compelling, and I was routing for Erin the whole way... still am.
bclubbetty's review
4.0
Ok so before I tell you about this book..... If a book has wolves in it I’m probably going to like it, if it’s a scary story I’m probably going to like it and if it’s set somewhere I recognize and can relate to I’m probably going to enjoy it..... TICK TICK TICK this did not disappoint!
.
Stranded deep in the mountains,
Erin Greene finds herself in a battle for survival against the extreme cold.
Heavily pregnant and alone, the clock is ticking and giving birth isn't her only fear,
for there is something sinister lurking in the dark hills...
And it is hungry...
.
I mean do I even need to say anymore than the blurb? So as much as this is a “horror” story it’s more a tale of survival, the strength of women and the lengths they will go to in order to protect their kids! The characters are relatable and real the plot has little twists you don’t expect and I can’t really say much without spoilers except this is a really great novella that I couldn’t put down! I read it in a day and it’s the best way to do it as I didn’t lose any of the momentum and the suspense kept building!
.
Stranded deep in the mountains,
Erin Greene finds herself in a battle for survival against the extreme cold.
Heavily pregnant and alone, the clock is ticking and giving birth isn't her only fear,
for there is something sinister lurking in the dark hills...
And it is hungry...
.
I mean do I even need to say anymore than the blurb? So as much as this is a “horror” story it’s more a tale of survival, the strength of women and the lengths they will go to in order to protect their kids! The characters are relatable and real the plot has little twists you don’t expect and I can’t really say much without spoilers except this is a really great novella that I couldn’t put down! I read it in a day and it’s the best way to do it as I didn’t lose any of the momentum and the suspense kept building!
jessica_fitzhenry's review
4.0
Stranded in the Wicklow mountains after their car runs out of fuel, Philip leaves his pregnant fiancée Erin to go in search of a service station. A blizzard warning becomes a reality and Erin finds herself alone with a dead phone and no food. Her worst fears happen when she goes in to labour. She is injured, isolated but not alone as a sinister hungry wolf is keeping watch.
.
.
This dark novella is intense! The birthing scene is so real and had me holding my breath! I was really rooting for Erin and passionately disliked Philip. It was a bit rushed in places but overall it’s a great read. I would have loved a bit more of a back story but that’s often the case with novellas
Trigger warnings: domestic abuse, birthing
.
.
This dark novella is intense! The birthing scene is so real and had me holding my breath! I was really rooting for Erin and passionately disliked Philip. It was a bit rushed in places but overall it’s a great read. I would have loved a bit more of a back story but that’s often the case with novellas
Trigger warnings: domestic abuse, birthing
woffordleejones's review
5.0
Sean O’Connor puts a fresh new spin on the classic werewolf tale. Even though this is a novella, there is plenty action that happens throughout these pages. There are gripping moments of isolation and abandonment, the fight to survive against numerous elements when Erin is stranded in the Wicklow Mountains and the pain and joy of birthing a child. For me, there was a heightened sense of claustrophobia that blanketed most of this story. The reader is right there with Erin all along the way living out those survival hardships along with her. O’Connor’s writing is concise which lends to this novella being a fast-passed read. What made this story special for me (besides it being a werewolf tale, of which I love and feel there is a lack of) is that there were a few pleasant surprise twists along the way that I didn’t see coming, so high-five to Sean for pulling a few over on me. This book will make you consider packing a survival kit in your car just in case you get stranded somewhere. Something to consider. All in all, The Mongrel was a very satisfying werewolf tale.
plumreads__s's review against another edition
3.0
This review first appeared on scifiandscary.com
A fast-paced novella about survival, with themes of domestic abuse.
For me, this novella was a mix of positive and negatives, and overall, I liked the idea of the story.
Erin, a heavily pregnant woman on the verge of giving birth, and boyfriend Phillip, go for a drive to the Wicklow Mountains following yet another argument. The sense of foreboding and foreshadowing is great here and Erin’s ‘nags’ about having enough petrol in the car just make you instantly know that there isn’t and I just wanted them to drive so the story could really begin.
Sean can tell a story well, building tension and drama when it is most needed. The two main characters I felt, were well flushed out. Phillip is an abusive dick, and shock horror, I hated him with a passion. Erin grew stronger as the novella went on, and when she is on her own and in survival mode, is such an admirable character that you can’t help but root for. It had me flashing back to Stephen King’s “Cujo”, but with more brutality and terror. There is an incredibly disturbing, yet beautifully written birth scene that will STAY with you, and is probably the most frightening scene within the novella.
What I didn’t really like about the book: the inclusion of a new character with no backstory that did not need to be included as it didn’t really add anything to the story. Some of the plot lines felt a bit forced from the second half of the novella and there were various plot holes that I can’t really go into details about without spoiling, but how readily accepted they were was beyond me. This book also needed more werewolves!!
I’ll definitely be looking out for Sean’s future work.
3 full moons from me!
A fast-paced novella about survival, with themes of domestic abuse.
For me, this novella was a mix of positive and negatives, and overall, I liked the idea of the story.
Erin, a heavily pregnant woman on the verge of giving birth, and boyfriend Phillip, go for a drive to the Wicklow Mountains following yet another argument. The sense of foreboding and foreshadowing is great here and Erin’s ‘nags’ about having enough petrol in the car just make you instantly know that there isn’t and I just wanted them to drive so the story could really begin.
Sean can tell a story well, building tension and drama when it is most needed. The two main characters I felt, were well flushed out. Phillip is an abusive dick, and shock horror, I hated him with a passion. Erin grew stronger as the novella went on, and when she is on her own and in survival mode, is such an admirable character that you can’t help but root for. It had me flashing back to Stephen King’s “Cujo”, but with more brutality and terror. There is an incredibly disturbing, yet beautifully written birth scene that will STAY with you, and is probably the most frightening scene within the novella.
What I didn’t really like about the book: the inclusion of a new character with no backstory that did not need to be included as it didn’t really add anything to the story. Some of the plot lines felt a bit forced from the second half of the novella and there were various plot holes that I can’t really go into details about without spoiling, but how readily accepted they were was beyond me. This book also needed more werewolves!!
I’ll definitely be looking out for Sean’s future work.
3 full moons from me!
motherhorror's review against another edition
3.0
2.5 stars! (rounded up for Goodreads)
Thank you so much to the author for sending all 7 of us Night Worms copies of this book all the way from Ireland to read & review honestly.
Something about O'Connor's natural storytelling ability is extremely compelling. This novella is about 150 pages long and I'd say for the first 75 pages or so, I was hooked in and swept up in such a way that doesn't happen very often. I'd even go as far as to describe it as having the words on the page almost completely melt away and my reading experience feels like watching the events unfold--super addictive and engaging.
But then there were some jarring developments in the story that pulled me out of that target reading zone and I found myself questioning and laboring over the text.
The set up is great. A couple, Pregnant Erin and her baby daddy/boyfriend, Phillip have a toxic, abusive relationship. They take off on a little trip out to the woods to cool off after a very heated argument. Once they get out there, they realize they're having car troubles and from there--the suspense builds to a delicious crescendo.
But the backside of the action is where the story lost some credibility and some traction for me. There's a character introduced that basically has so little backstory and purpose, I was completely unsure as to why I would even care about his involvement.
And then there are a few typos that stood out (probably because I was pulled back out of that honeymoon phase I experienced early on-when I'm engaged, I have a tendancy to not even see that stuff). Then, once things begin to transition to a new location, I started picking up on some discrepancies, weak plot holes and some believability/authenticity issues that bothered me. I didn't care for the ending. So unfortunately, the first half was excellent and the back half needed a lot of editing and restructuring. But I see HUGE amounts of natural talent and ability so I hope this author keeps writing and releasing new material. I'd gladly try again.
We need more quality werewolf novels.
Thank you so much to the author for sending all 7 of us Night Worms copies of this book all the way from Ireland to read & review honestly.
Something about O'Connor's natural storytelling ability is extremely compelling. This novella is about 150 pages long and I'd say for the first 75 pages or so, I was hooked in and swept up in such a way that doesn't happen very often. I'd even go as far as to describe it as having the words on the page almost completely melt away and my reading experience feels like watching the events unfold--super addictive and engaging.
But then there were some jarring developments in the story that pulled me out of that target reading zone and I found myself questioning and laboring over the text.
The set up is great. A couple, Pregnant Erin and her baby daddy/boyfriend, Phillip have a toxic, abusive relationship. They take off on a little trip out to the woods to cool off after a very heated argument. Once they get out there, they realize they're having car troubles and from there--the suspense builds to a delicious crescendo.
But the backside of the action is where the story lost some credibility and some traction for me. There's a character introduced that basically has so little backstory and purpose, I was completely unsure as to why I would even care about his involvement.
And then there are a few typos that stood out (probably because I was pulled back out of that honeymoon phase I experienced early on-when I'm engaged, I have a tendancy to not even see that stuff). Then, once things begin to transition to a new location, I started picking up on some discrepancies, weak plot holes and some believability/authenticity issues that bothered me. I didn't care for the ending. So unfortunately, the first half was excellent and the back half needed a lot of editing and restructuring. But I see HUGE amounts of natural talent and ability so I hope this author keeps writing and releasing new material. I'd gladly try again.
We need more quality werewolf novels.
findingmontauk1's review against another edition
4.0
I have not read many werewolf/wolf books. I need and want to add more creature features to my 2019 reading list; that is definitely a goal of mine! And if the rest are anything like The Mongrel then I know I am in for quite a treat! While this book/novella was short in pages, it was packed with some intense scenes. The isolation, entrapment, and claustrophobia elements were all too real for me here. There are some modern day Cujo vibes here and I am loving it!
There are only a few characters in this story and the author did a great job at establishing who they all are and their relationships with one another. (Trigger warnings for domestic abuse IF you need to be warned). My only complaint here is that I wish I could have had even more character development - as in I would like to know what peoples' relationships were more in depth BEFORE the story took place, if that makes any sense at all. However, I do not think wanting more from a novella is any sort of new ask from me or a lot of other readers. A good novella always leaves me thirsty for more!
This book had a couple twists/turns that took me by surprise as well. It's not TOO often that I can get totally thrown around without any idea of the truth, and this story happened to be one of them.
4 stars from me! Thank you to the author for sending this book to the Night Worms in exchange for an honest review! I am looking forward to reading more of this author for sure and recommend everyone take some time to check this novella out and get introduced to O'Connor! He belongs on your bookshelves!
There are only a few characters in this story and the author did a great job at establishing who they all are and their relationships with one another. (Trigger warnings for domestic abuse IF you need to be warned). My only complaint here is that I wish I could have had even more character development - as in I would like to know what peoples' relationships were more in depth BEFORE the story took place, if that makes any sense at all. However, I do not think wanting more from a novella is any sort of new ask from me or a lot of other readers. A good novella always leaves me thirsty for more!
This book had a couple twists/turns that took me by surprise as well. It's not TOO often that I can get totally thrown around without any idea of the truth, and this story happened to be one of them.
4 stars from me! Thank you to the author for sending this book to the Night Worms in exchange for an honest review! I am looking forward to reading more of this author for sure and recommend everyone take some time to check this novella out and get introduced to O'Connor! He belongs on your bookshelves!
exorcismofemilyreed's review against another edition
3.0
"Under a full moon, man can be driven to lunacy."
The Mongrel is the debut novella from Sean O'Connor, and I received a copy to review for Nightworms. I had some mixed feelings on it, but I felt pretty positive overall by the end.
It was difficult to read some of the gaslighting and abuse scenes, particularly abuse of a pregnant woman, so just a warning that it's a factor in this book. I felt like there was a lot of focus on it for such a short novella, and that we could have still grasped the characters' relationship if more attention would have been put elsewhere. I have some more thoughts on it that I can't really say without spoiling anything, so I'm just going to leave it alone.
There was a bit of overkill with certain words - the characters called each other "babe" non-stop, which I found distracting and frustrating after a while, and the main character seems to refer to any guy around her as an "alpha male". I get why it's there because there are wolves in the book, too, but it was hard to sympathize with Erin sometimes when she found all controlling men to be endearing.
After the story has built up a bit, it gets very intense, and this is where I was hooked. The writing in the middle of the book is very well done - it's incredibly suspenseful, and I stayed up later than intended so I could finish the book. It's fairly descriptive, and I'll definitely remember it whether I want to or not.
I feel like at some point too many storylines got tangled together. As I said before, a lot of the focus was on the abusive relationship, and some of these other side stories could have been expanded. This book is partially a creature feature, but the creatures play such a minimal role. The concept of the story was intriguing overall, but I feel like there was just too much packed in (especially in the second half).
Although I had some issues, I did like The Mongrel overall. The author is a good storyteller (especially for suspense scenes), but I think I would have enjoyed the book more if it had a little more structure. I would try another book from this author. Thank you for sending copies to the Nightworms!
The Mongrel is the debut novella from Sean O'Connor, and I received a copy to review for Nightworms. I had some mixed feelings on it, but I felt pretty positive overall by the end.
It was difficult to read some of the gaslighting and abuse scenes, particularly abuse of a pregnant woman, so just a warning that it's a factor in this book. I felt like there was a lot of focus on it for such a short novella, and that we could have still grasped the characters' relationship if more attention would have been put elsewhere. I have some more thoughts on it that I can't really say without spoiling anything, so I'm just going to leave it alone.
There was a bit of overkill with certain words - the characters called each other "babe" non-stop, which I found distracting and frustrating after a while, and the main character seems to refer to any guy around her as an "alpha male". I get why it's there because there are wolves in the book, too, but it was hard to sympathize with Erin sometimes when she found all controlling men to be endearing.
After the story has built up a bit, it gets very intense, and this is where I was hooked. The writing in the middle of the book is very well done - it's incredibly suspenseful, and I stayed up later than intended so I could finish the book. It's fairly descriptive, and I'll definitely remember it whether I want to or not.
I feel like at some point too many storylines got tangled together. As I said before, a lot of the focus was on the abusive relationship, and some of these other side stories could have been expanded. This book is partially a creature feature, but the creatures play such a minimal role. The concept of the story was intriguing overall, but I feel like there was just too much packed in (especially in the second half).
Although I had some issues, I did like The Mongrel overall. The author is a good storyteller (especially for suspense scenes), but I think I would have enjoyed the book more if it had a little more structure. I would try another book from this author. Thank you for sending copies to the Nightworms!