My Pet Werewolf by James Kaine is a werewolf horror novel mixed with family drama. It is a solid entry in the genre that sticks closely to traditional werewolf lore. The curse is transmitted by a bite, and the transformation follows the lunar cycle.
The story reminded me of Apt Pupil by Stephen King. In that novella, a teenager believes he can control an elderly Nazi officer who appears harmless. Here, a teen believes he can control a werewolf while it is in human form, only to discover that once it transforms, it has teeth and claws he cannot command.
The plot is simple but well told. I was invested in Brady’s story and could relate to the protective older-brother role. The sibling dynamic between Brady and his sister is the emotional core of the book.
The theme of predator versus prey is used effectively. Predators appear in many forms, including online predators, child predators, and literal hunting predators. The prey shifts as circumstances change, with some characters eventually becoming predators themselves.
I was not expecting the spicy losing-virginity scene. I have read a few spicy romances, and this scene was more detailed than I anticipated. It was surprisingly emotional as well as provocative.
Part of the fun comes from Brady trying to get away with his actions. He uses the werewolf to carry out some questionable plans and then scrambles to cover up the murders and connections to the attacks.
The basic setup is that Brady, a bullied high school senior, finally fights back against a relentless tormentor. During a confrontation in the woods, a massive wolf interrupts the fight. Brady soon realizes it is not a wolf at all, but a werewolf.
The pacing is steady throughout. I enjoyed the family drama elements, though readers looking strictly for werewolf action might wish the creature appeared sooner or was teased more.
The ending was satisfying. I anticipated some developments but was still surprised by others.
My Pet Werewolf was first published on September 26, 2023, by Horror House Publishing.
Why did I read My Pet Werewolf by James Kaine?
I picked this up because it features a werewolf. I am reading at least one werewolf novel every month in 2026 as part of my #monsterofthemonth project. I did not want to stick only to the most popular titles, so I chose my first James Kaine book, which will not be my last.
Next month I will be reading Ride Share, an ARC by James Kaine and Timothy King that I received. Kaine will also be attending AuthorCon VI, which I plan to attend. I will bring my copy of My Pet Werewolf for him to sign and may pick up the prequel novella Gunther while I am there.
Plot Summary:
Brady lives with the guilt of believing he caused his father’s death in a hunting accident seven years earlier. He now lives with his mother, his twin sister Brandi, and his stepfather Dennis, his father’s former best friend. Dennis is not terrible, but he is not Brady’s dad, and Brady resents how quickly his mother moved on. Brandi has her own issues with Dennis, seeing him as judgmental and creepy.
Brady is bullied by Trevor, who is angry that Brandi exposed him for hitting on her friend and jealous of the attention Brady receives from a girl who recently rejected him. A fight between the boys is interrupted by a werewolf. Where most people would feel terror, Brady sees opportunity.
What I Liked:
The brother and sister relationship is the heart of the story. Brady has strong protective instincts, even though he and Brandi are twins. I especially loved how they worked together in the ending and how powerful their bond became.
I enjoyed the lingering mystery surrounding their father’s death. Was it truly an accident? Would things have been different if Brady had been there?
Gunther, the werewolf, was a compelling presence. I liked how he never fully let his guard down.
The predator-versus-prey theme evolves throughout the story, with characters shifting roles in unexpected ways.
The ending becomes increasingly intense. It feels like three finales stacked together, beginning when the family descends into the basement.
What I Disliked:
I did not mind that the werewolf appears around the 40% mark, but once it enters the story I wanted more action involving it.
The length of time certain characters were held captive stretched believability. It was difficult to imagine anyone staying alive and functional for that long under those conditions.
I wanted a bit more development for Arianna’s character near the end.
Recommendation:
My Pet Werewolf is a strong entry in the werewolf genre and an effective horror story. When the book leans into horror, it goes all in. There are several trigger warnings, including captivity, online bullying, and off-page sexual assault. The assault is handled in a way that is impactful without explicit depiction.
Despite those heavy elements, I recommend My Pet Werewolf. It delivers both brutal werewolf action and compelling family drama.
Rating:
My Pet Werewolf by James Kaine
4 out of 5 stars
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