Books Like...
If you liked Shapeshifter, here are the top 27 books to read next:
- #1
'Hairspray and Switchblades' by V. Castro follows the story of Maya, a strong and independent young woman who can shift into a jaguar. After her parents are murdered, Maya must take care of her teenage sister, Magdalena, while working as a stripper. However, Maya's life becomes even more complicated when a killer starts targeting strippers, putting her in danger. explores themes of family, loyalty, female empowerment, and Mexican American culture, all while incorporating elements of horror, magic, and suspense. Readers are drawn into a fast-paced and action-packed narrative centered around Maya's journey to protect her sister and navigate a world filled with danger and supernatural elements.
The writing style of 'Hairspray and Switchblades' is described as visceral and engaging, with a strong focus on family dynamics and the unbreakable bond between sisters. combines elements of horror, sex, gore, and magic, creating a unique and captivating story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Through Maya's character, the author V. Castro delves into themes of female empowerment, lgbtq representation, and strong women characters, offering a refreshing take on the traditional horror genre with a diverse and inclusive cast of characters.
February 2020•139 pages - #2
Absolutely not for the faint of heart, but if you want your horror bold, brutal, and blood-soaked with a wild twist on werewolves, "Ravenous" delivers in spades. Enter at your own risk - and don’t say you weren’t warned!
In the small town of Big Rock, California, a lycan virus spreads through sexual contact, turning its victims into werewolves. The sheriff, Farrell Hurley, must face a town infested with werewolves that have a hunger for sex and red meat. As the virus continues to spread, the town is plunged into chaos with bodies piling up and rape and torture becoming commonplace. The story follows Hurley's struggle to accept the reality of werewolves hunting in his town and his fight to save Big Rock from becoming a breeding ground for these lethal creatures.
Ray Garton's "Ravenous" modernizes the werewolf myth by introducing a new twist on lycanthropy, where the virus is transmitted through sexual intercourse. The book delves into graphic details and situations, pushing the boundaries of horror with its extreme depictions of sexual activity, tearing fangs, and gore ripping throughout the narrative. The characters in the story are faced with a battle for survival as they navigate the horrors unleashed by the werewolves in their town, creating a tense and fast-paced narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Emily Crane had lost another four pounds, bringing her total weight loss to sixteen pounds, and she felt good about it. Of course, she still had a long way to go—her goal was to lose eighty-five pound...2008•342 pages - #3
'Coyote Rage' by Owl Goingback is a horror-filled novel that seamlessly blends Native American folklore with modern suspense. The story follows Luther Watie, the last human on the Great Council in the spirit world, who must thwart Coyote's evil plan to eliminate human representation. With well-drawn characters, including the trickster god Coyote, the novel takes the reader on a thrilling journey through two worlds - the Turtle world of modern society and the spirit world of the ancients, where animals rule.
The writing style in 'Coyote Rage' is described as quick-paced, compelling, and suspenseful. Readers praise Owl Goingback's ability to create genuine fear and convey true horror, making the book a page-turner that keeps readers engaged until the final sentence. The novel is a mix of horror, action, and fantasy, offering a unique and enjoyable reading experience that showcases the author's talent in blending folklore with modern storytelling.
February 2019•220 pages - #4
Anne Rice brings her gothic, philosophical flair to werewolves - atmospheric and unique, but slow-paced and uneven. Fans of her style or genre-blenders will enjoy, but it’s not her most universally loved work.
In 'The Wolf Gift' by Anne Rice, readers are introduced to Reuben Golding, a reporter who undergoes a miraculous transformation after a savage attack. He becomes a werewolf and is filled with a restless need to wander at night. The book is a modern take on werewolf lore, set in Northern California, with elements of romance and supernatural intrigue. Anne Rice's writing style is described as beautifully descriptive, capturing the scenery and mood of the story in a unique and engaging way. The narrative delves into philosophical ponderings, adding depth to the characters and the overall plot.
REUBEN WAS A TALL MAN, well over six feet, with brown curly hair and deep-set blue eyes. “Sunshine Boy” was his nickname and he hated it; so he tended to repress what the world called an irresistible...2012•569 pages - #5
A fast, gory, and absolutely entertaining werewolf romp - classic horror fans and small-town thriller lovers shouldn't miss it!
In the small town of Gilson Creek, under the full moon, multiple deaths awaken a deep fear among the residents. Sheriff Joe must confront his past to save his daughter and the town from the terror unleashed by a man-eating and ruthless werewolf. The book is described as a classic werewolf story with a unique twist, where the werewolves are not mindless creatures but intelligent beings seeking vengeance. The plot is fast-paced, full of action, blood, and gore, keeping the readers on the edge of their seats from the first chapter to the tense final act.
Glenn Rolfe's writing style is praised for its ability to creep out readers and create a world that feels both refreshing and familiar. The author's world-building and knowledge of small-town living shine through in this epic tale, reminiscent of the works of iconic horror authors like King and Keene. The characters are well-developed, realistic, and engaging, adding depth to the story and allowing readers to connect with their struggles and relationships.
Brian Rowel’s evening had been full of mind-numbing conversations inspired by an endless stream of stupid questions. Add in a devilish dark-haired temptress and this torrential downpour, and the whole...2015•246 pages - #6
A refreshingly original, emotionally engaging supernatural detective novel - imperfect but memorable. If you’re after a unique blend of horror and mystery with a truly human (and inhuman) protagonist, it’s well worth tracking down.
The Wolfman by Nicholas Pekearo is a gripping debut novel that follows the story of Marlowe Higgins, a Vietnam veteran and werewolf who settles in the small town of Evelyn. As a werewolf, Marlowe struggles to control his curse and directs his violent tendencies towards criminals. However, things take a dark turn when a serial killer known as the Rose Killer starts preying on women in Evelyn, leading Marlowe to confront a tragic outcome. The book is praised for its modern take on werewolves, fast-paced storytelling, and the unique blend of mystery, horror, and supernatural elements. The narrative is told from Marlowe's perspective, allowing readers to delve into his character, motivations, and the inner conflict he faces.
May 2008•306 pages - #7
A messy, atmospheric mix of horror, dark humor, and supernatural sleuthing - Hemlock Grove is best for those who enjoy style over structure and don't mind a few narrative loose ends. Think quirky, gory, and perversely entertaining.
"Hemlock Grove" by Brian McGreevy is a dark and complex tale set in Hemlock Grove, Pennsylvania, where a young girl's murder sets off a series of mysterious events. The story follows characters like Peter Rumancek, a rumored werewolf, and Roman Godfrey, a cold-blooded aristocrat, as they navigate through a town filled with secrets, paranormal creatures, and unsettling experiments. The writing style is described as quirky, with a blend of horror, thriller, and supernatural elements that keep readers on edge.
The night after the Harvest Moon, the body was discovered. It was nearing October and the sun was still hot, but the leaves were falling now with intention and every night was colder. Peter was walkin...March 2012•338 pages - #8
Uncompromising, brutal, and atmospheric - Wolf Land is a standout for hardcore horror and werewolf fans, though it’s not for the faint-hearted.
Wolf Land by Jonathan Janz is a werewolf novel that takes a refreshing and gruesome approach to the lycan legend. The story unfolds in a small town where friendships are tested, innocence is corrupted, and victims become victimizers. The plot is inventive, with a slow but suspenseful pace that keeps readers white-knuckled and entertained until the captivating and satisfying ending. Janz's writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions, unending suspense, and a touch of dark humor, making this novel a standout in the werewolf horror genre.
Savannah eyed Barb, who stood across the sleek quartz island from her, nursing a glass of Riesling. The vision was slightly incongruous. In her mid-fifties, her brown hair showing some gray, Barb was...2015•311 pages - #9
A wildly funny, gutsy spin on werewolves that balances gross-out moments and real emotion - best enjoyed with a dark sense of humor and an appetite for chaos.
"Carnivorous Lunar Activities" by Max Booth III is a darkly comedic novel that delves into the friendship between two estranged best friends, Ted and Justin. The plot revolves around Justin's insistence that he has become a werewolf and his plea for Ted to shoot him with a silver bullet. The book skillfully combines elements of horror and humor, with a focus on the characters' dialogue and the gradual revelation of the truth behind Justin's claims. As the story progresses, the two friends navigate uncertainty, mayhem, and the implications of lycanthropy in a basement setting filled with twisted humor and unexpected twists.
Booth's writing style shines through in the witty and crude humor, engaging dialogue, and the gradual build-up of tension leading to a climactic revelation. The book balances moments of dark comedy with intense scenes, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the characters grapple with the reality of Justin's supposed transformation and the consequences of their actions.
February 2019•380 pages - #10
A beautifully written, atmospheric werewolf mystery - perfect for fans of gothic horror, even if the plot takes a few classic detours.
The House of the Wolf by Basil Copper is a gothic thriller set in a creepy castle in Lugos, Hungary, where a werewolf stalks its victims during a conference on weird matters. The novel follows scholar John Coleridge as he tries to unmask the monstrous culprit among them, facing supernatural twists and a rich, progressive Count, vivacious women, gypsies, and a convention of men of science. Copper's writing style vividly depicts the setting and characters, painting a world with the true flavor of the back regions of Europe.
Copper weaves a first-rate mystery yarn in The House of the Wolf, with many suspects coming and going before the truth is unraveled. The book combines horror, gothic elements, and a whodunnit storyline, creating an old-school horror atmosphere that keeps readers on the edge of their seats with suspense and fantastic storytelling.
1983•306 pages











