Such Sharp Teeth

Rachel Harrison

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Who Would Like This Book:

Such Sharp Teeth is a clever blend of werewolf horror, dark humor, and emotional depth you don’t often see in the genre. Rachel Harrison takes classic body horror and mixes it with relatable themes of trauma, personal transformation, and the complexities of sisterhood. If you love your horror with a dash of wit, genuine heart, and a fresh feminist perspective, this one’s for you. Fans of Ginger Snaps, people drawn to stories about change (be it pregnancy, illness, or new beginnings), or anyone craving something cozy-yet-gory for autumn will be thoroughly entertained.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers found the werewolf lore a touch too quirky (think, weird new takes on classic monster tropes) or longed for more traditional horror scares and less focus on relationships and emotional growth. If you prefer your horror with unrelenting terror, minimal romance, and classic monster rules, or dislike stories that mix in literary metaphors about womanhood or trauma, this book might not scratch your itch. Also, readers sensitive to themes of past abuse or gross-out body horror should be aware going in.

A smart, emotionally resonant werewolf novel that’s as much about transformation and relationships as it is about teeth and claws. If you like your spooky reads with both heart and humor, you’ll want to sink your teeth into this one!

About:

Such Sharp Teeth is a werewolf tale that delves into themes of trauma, loss of control, rage, and relationships between women. The protagonist, Rory, grapples with the changes she undergoes after encountering a werewolf, addressing trauma, learning about control, and letting go of her old life in Manhattan. The story explores the dynamics between sisters, mothers, and friends, while also incorporating elements of romance and self-discovery.

The narrative of Such Sharp Teeth is described as engaging, realistic, and consistent throughout. The book offers a blend of body horror, cozy romance, and witty dialogue, creating a unique and refreshing take on the werewolf genre. The plot unfolds with drama, humor, and emotional depth, as the characters navigate through personal transformations, relationships, and the challenges of embracing their true selves.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Rory serving as a relatable protagonist, while her sister Scarlett provides contrast through her self-absorption.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and clever, effectively combining humor with poignant moments, while using realistic dialogue to advance the story.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on Rory's transformation into a werewolf after an attack, as she navigates experiences of trauma, family dynamics, and self-discovery.

Setting:

The setting is a contemporary small town, highlighting themes of homecoming while contrasting Rory's past life in New York.

Pacing:

The pacing is well-balanced, keeping readers engaged with steady character development and plot progression.

Notes:

The main character, Rory, is dealing with trauma and self-discovery after being bitten by a werewolf.

Rory's twin sister, Scarlett, is pregnant, and their journeys of transformation parallel each other.

The story tackles issues of body autonomy and the changes women undergo, including pregnancy and chronic illness.

The author, Rachel Harrison, blends elements of horror, humor, and romance in a unique way.

The novel incorporates themes of female rage and empowerment.

Such Sharp Teeth offers a fresh take on the werewolf genre, drawing inspiration from classic narratives like Little Red Riding Hood.

Violence and body horror are present but serve the story rather than overshadow it.

The narrative is emotional and thought-provoking, addressing past trauma and its effects on personal agency.

The relationship between Rory and her mother highlights the impact of childhood trauma and family dynamics.

It's described as both a horror story and a lighthearted romance, appealing to a broad audience.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains content that may trigger readers, including discussions of past sexual abuse, body horror, and themes of trauma.

Has Romance?

The book features a moderate level of romance, which intertwines with the main character’s personal journey.

From The Publisher:

A young woman in need of a transformation finds herself in touch with the animal inside in this gripping, incisive novel from the author of Cackle and The Return .

Rory Morris isn't thrilled to be moving back to her hometown, even if it is temporary. There are bad memories there. But her twin sister, Scarlett, is pregnant, estranged from the baby's father, and needs support, so Rory returns to the place she thought she'd put in her rearview. After a night out at a bar where she runs into Ian, an old almost-flame, she hits a large animal with her car. And when she gets out to investigate, she's attacked.

Rory survives, miraculously, but life begins to look and feel different. She's unnaturally strong, with an aversion to silver-and suddenly the moon has her in its thrall. She's changing into someone else-something else, maybe even a monster. But does that mean she's putting those close to her in danger? Or is embracing the wildness inside of her the key to acceptance?

This darkly comedic love story is a brilliantly layered portrait of trauma, rage, and vulnerability.

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