Gunther

by James Kaine

When a man sworn to save lives is transformed into a murderous monster, will he be able to stop himself from destroying everything he loves?

Dr. David Bixby is working the night shift in the emergency room when a man is brought in with a gunshot wound. Suffering not just the physical injury, the victim also displays symptoms of a mysterious blood poisoning. Unable to be saved, the man lashes out and bites David in a desperate, dying act.

​At first, it seems as if the bite carries no ill effects, but, before long, David feels a change inside of him. As the days pass, he finds himself becoming stronger, more aggressive and giving in to his most primal instincts.

As the bewildered physician works to discover what is happening, a stranger confronts him, telling David that he will turn into a savage creature at the next full moon. Worse yet, the man presents him with an impossible choice – end his own life or turn into a bloodthirsty beast.

​Will David lose control and spill innocent blood?

Genres: Horror, Werewolves, Novella

88 pages, ebook

First published February 16, 2024

About the author

James Kaine is a bestselling author, publisher and filmmaker born and raised in Trenton, NJ. An active pro member of the Horror Writer’s Association, he brings readers visceral, haunting tales of terror via his Horror House Publishing imprint.

Ted Tally, Academy Award-winning screenwriter of The Silence of the Lambs and Red Dragon, called his book My Pet Werewolf "Twisty. Spooky. Shocking." and "Unputdownable."

BookLife by Publishers Weekly proclaimed his novel, The Dead Children’s Playground, “will chill readers to the bone.” The book, the first in his American Horrors anthology series, has been a #1 bestseller in U.S. Horror on Amazon and was the winner of the 2025 Books of Horror Indie Brawl. His works are being translated into multiple languages, bringing James’s cinematic style of scary storytelling to a global audience.

He resides in Hamilton, NJ with his wife, Jessica, their two children and an energetic Boston Terrier. When he isn’t writing he loves to read, travel, cook, watch movies and learn new skills.

For bookings, media inquiries and any other requests, send an email to james@jameskaine.com.

Reviews

[Roz Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gunther is a novella that is the prequel to My Pet Werewolf. I haven't yet read this book, but now I will! The author sent me a code for the audiobook of Gunther. I really enjoyed the narrator and feel the narration fit the character and story.

This was a nicely written novella, and it was quickly paced. I loved the journey of the main character from disbelief to horror to acceptance to looking for a cure. He was completely relatable, and I'm keen to follow his journey.

The only issue I had with the novella is how abruptly it ended but I know the rest of the story is in My Pet Werewolf and if I had read that first I probably wouldn't have felt the same way. It also felt abrupt because I had completely invested in the characters, which is a sign of great things to come from the book. 

I really enjoyed listening to this and will definitely read the book. Thanks to James Kaine for kindly sending me an audiologist code. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.

[Lyn❤Loves❤Listening to Real Voices Only!!!!❤️🎧📚 Addict ON HIATUS · Rating 2 out of 5]

Audio - 2 Stars
Story - 2 Stars

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gunther is technically the prequel to 'My Pet Werewolf ' ( which is phenomenal, by the way). I was lucky enough to have the author provide a code to check out the audiobook, and it did not disappoint. I absolutely loved Gunther in the main novel. He was my favorite character, and I really enjoyed being able to hear his story and learn just how he came to end up chained in the cave. While it's a prequel, I personally think its best to read how they were written, novel first.


Fantastic as an audiobook, the narrator tells this man's tragic story beautifully.

[Milt Theo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice addition to the werewolf lore! James Kaine's 'Gunther' is a short novella that should be read after "My Pet Werewolf," although, strictly speaking, it's a prequel to that book. Although it explains David's origins as a werewolf, it includes an epilogue that spoils a bit what's happening in "My Pet Werewolf." The author himself takes care to point this out. So you should definitely give the original book a chance; it'll make you appreciate the novella more. That said, it stands mostly on its own (the epilogue excepted) and it's so well-written it can be enjoyed as a standalone.

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gunther is technically the prequel to 'My Pet Werewolf ' ( which is phenomenal, by the way). I was lucky enough to have the author provide a code to check out the audiobook, and it did not disappoint. I absolutely loved Gunther in the main novel. He was my favorite character, and I really enjoyed being able to hear his story and learn just how he came to end up chained in the cave. While it's a prequel, I personally think its best to read how they were written, novel first.


Fantastic as an audiobook, the narrator tells this man's tragic story beautifully.

[Beth DeLong · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's such instant gratification in novellas! This one is a prequel to "My Pet Werewolf," and after reading "Gunther" I'm inclined to check it out. 


Fast-paced and definitely held my attention. I don't want to spoil anything, but part of his backstory is tragic, and I'm hoping things are rectified in the next book. 


🌶🌶🌶 There are a couple brief, but moderately detailed seggs scenes


🩸 It is a horror book, after all, so there are a few grotesque scenes


🙊 Some vulgar language



Thank you to Voracious Readers and the author for sending me a few copy to enjoy and review! This review is my honest opinion and left voluntarily.

[Rhea · Rating 3 out of 5]

Violence Rating: 2/5 - Pack Skirmish

It's funny how in this book, just as in the second one, we're being guided to believe that the werewolf is the one making the people bad, turning them uncontrollable, not that it wouldn't be that way when actually transformed into a beast, but don't disguise cheating and sexual abuse (in 2nd book) as faults of the animal, especially when the characters are consistently described as staring at these women with lust way before they were cursed. But hey, they're not doing anything, they never would, but they want to. But only because of the wolf. Please, stop!

Don't blame the beast for the worst monster of all...the depraved human mind. While a human, David had the strength and consciousness to stop his urges, the ultimate proof being he decided to tie himself up to stop the killings, and also stopped from hurting his wife during sex. It was that easy to refuse to drive Jenna home or just do it and then refuse to go upstairs, but you know what's not easy? To refuse it when you actually crave that and always wanted it.

It's obvious in the obsessive description and insistence on how he looked at Jenna and what he thought and how he invoked his happy marriage as the reason not to sleep with her or respond to her flirting. Yes, it grinds my gears to see people hide behind excuses. Just admit they're like that, I'd have more respect for them.

David was described as a guy who always broke hearts and then found that one woman. That rarely happens with men like him, simply because that's part of their personality. I'm not saying there's anything wrong with being that way, I'm saying it's wrong to glorify him and feel sorry for him because it was the wolf who made him do all that. If the author wanted again to convey that David was all along morally grey, then great, he did the job. If this was meant to be a pity party for David, nope, sorry but no. For me this is like the alcohol excuse people use. Alcohol doesn't put thoughts into your head, it simply eliminates the barrier to unleash what's already in it. Same goes for the wolf within. At least for me, maybe I'm wrong.

Despite the aforementioned recurring trope in both novellas, the story is good enough to read in one go and scratch that itch. There are also spicy moments in it, which was nice. I love the spiciness in werewolf stories.

Unfortunately, not much else happens in the story. The werewolf attacks were a bit too tame for my taste.

[Stephanie Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! If you’ve read My Pet Werewolf, this is a prequel that explains what happened to David and how he came to be the werewolf he is in MPW. Wonderfully written short story full of backstory and emotion. Loved it! And if you haven’t read My Pet Werewolf, why not?

Gunther will not be a published book and the ebook is only available if you’re a member of James’ VIP Reader’s Club. So sign up today on his website - www.jameskaine.net/vip.

[Angel Medina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the prequel to My Pet Werewolf. I'm glad I read it because this was a banger. It's kind of a tragic story of a doctor who has it all in life and loses it on an off chance of being bitten by a 'werewolf'. It was a thrilling read that kept me turning the pages. I love how it leads into the middle of My Pet Werewolf to get you excited if you haven't read the actual book.

For a prequel, it did its job of prepping you for the actual story. All I can say is... Poor David.

[Craig King · Rating 5 out of 5]

The absolute perfect prequel to one of my favorite reads of the year! This was fast paced, violent and very dark. It kept the same tone as the ending of my pet werewolf and that is exactly what I was hoping for. I’ll be reading anything James Kaine writes!

[Linda Mcintire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was very good. My feeling is that you should read My Pet Werewolf first. Gunther is a prequel that will mean a lot more having read My Pet beforehand. It definitely makes it more heartbreaking! I loved this book and hope this author brings us back to this world again.

[Lisa Wilcox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome Story

It was great. It explained quite a bit about the characters. Leading up to the second book. Very well written, kept me wanting to read more.

[Summer R Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and the publisher or publishers for all your hard work! I'm leaving this review voluntarily and happily!

Was this better than the first one? I definitely think so! Wow! What can I say about this book? This definitely tells you so much about the main character and why he is the way he is in My Pet Werewolf. This book just brought me so many feelings. Anger, hope, despair, and just hope for the man to get through all of this. I was able to finish this book in one sitting, and I absolutely loved every moment of it. Everything I've read from this author I've truly enjoyed.

David or Gunther, as you later come to learn him as was a doctor. He had everything he could ever want. Then the accident happens, turning his world upside down. He gets angrier, and emotions run higher. Things are just not normal for him anymore, and someone is after him. Will he be able to save his family from himself, or will things go horribly wrong? Will there be mass murder and chaos? What will happen to David? Read and find out.

I truly did enjoy every moment of this book. It earned every star. It was written wonderfully, and the pacing was just right. The chapters weren't long and not too short. Not only that, you are able to enjoy characters and even love them. There are some books I'm just like, ehh, take them or leave them, but in this one, I am rooting for the main characters.

[Serenity · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read! Looking forward to reading more by this author!

[Mark F · Rating 5 out of 5]

My latest read was Gunther, the prequel novella to My Pet Werewolf, by James Kaine. It’s the story of David Bixby, an E/R doctor whose life is forever changed one night as he tries to help a patient suffering from a gunshot wound. Little did he know, he was suffering from much more than that. Changes start occurring to Bixby shortly afterwards, changes that even he can’t explain. When a mysterious man comes forward to explain what’s happening to David, it just seems a little too far-fetched to believe. Let’s just say, things would have been a whole lot different if he had just listened to him.

Though it’s not necessary to read Gunther before sinking your teeth (see what I did there?) into My Pet Werewolf, it can certainly enhance the reading pleasure. Though, to be honest, I read Gunther afterwards and found it to be just fine in that order. And as with My Pet Werewolf, I found Gunther to be very well-written, stirring a myriad of emotions – even yelling at David to “Stop! Don’t do that!” However, these characters never listen to me.

Despite its relatively short length, I still found it to be quite a good read, packing in plenty of action for its size. I easily give this a 5 out of 5.

[Beverly Laude · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a longtime fan of a good werewolf story and this one hit the spot! It follows the change experienced by Dr. David Bixby after he is bitten by an ER patient. He slowly starts to feel very aggressive emotions, lashing out in anger and thinking about committing horrific deeds.

When he is approached by a man claiming to be a Police detective, he is told that he will soon turn into a werewolf! Of course, David thinks this is a bunch of garbage and continues on with his life. He soon learns the horrible truth and is not sure that he can deal with it. Will he truly lose control under the full moon or can he find a way to stop the urges he is feeling?

The story moves at a fast pace and I found myself feeling very sorry for the horrors visited on the innocent Doctor. There are a few graphic scenes of violence and s*x that some might find disturbing, but the author has done a great job with creating the perfect atmosphere for a werewolf tale.

The narrator did a fantastic job and his performance added a lot to this already terrific tale. I highly recommend this quick story to anyone looking for a great werewolf tale.

[BAM xo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this book from V.R.
This book was short & thrilling. I loved it.

Gunther is a prequel, but as it mentions in the foreword of the book it can be read as a standalone, I read it with the intent of reading book 2 at a later date.

I enjoyed the fact that this book had elements of spice, was based around a medical practice, it's MC turned into a werewolf, lies, betrayal, suspense, gore and a touch of mystery.

This was a fun read for me, Kaine's world building was next level, and I look forward to reading his sequel 'My Pet Werewolf' to continue the story of Gunther.

I don't really enjoy short stories, as I prefer to get really involved and have a plot draw me in and keep me for a long time, short stories are over so quickly I'm left wanting, however, this was very attentive to detail, enthralling and the made me look forward to reading the next in the series at a later point.

Along with some more of Kaine's work.

As I liked this book quite a lot, I'm giving it a big fat 4* and a recommendation to friends.

[S.W. Salzman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This origin story/prequel to My Pet Werewolf is so well-written and tragic. David Bixby had it all and then there was that one fateful night that changed everything.

Description is amazing and you feel David's story even moreso than reading it. It's visual. It's visceral. It grabs hold and doesn't let go until the final written word of the story ALLOWS you to.

Werewolf tales have always been my thing and this story delivers a humanity that most Werewolf stories fail to deliver. It's reminiscent of Eric Cord's plight in the 1987 television series, Werewolf but retains an originality all It's own.

I loved it! Kaine is quickly taking over a favorite and must-read author status for me! If you've read My Pet Werewolf, you have to experienc this tale and if you haven't? This is the best place to start!

[David Slater · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gunther by James Kaine

4/5

How can I start a positive review with a negative statement? Watch me.

This book is trash.

And I love it!

I'm a big fan of Richard Laymon, so reading about someone getting a blowie so good that they start turning into a werewolf a bit was great fun for me. Let's face it, we've all been there.

This is a short sharp smack in the chops which has exactly the right pacing for a novella of its kind. I can't give it five stars because it didn't present me with something that totally blew my mind, but damn it was fun.

Gunther is the prequel to Kaine's novel 'My Pet Werewolf' which I added to my TBR the moment this audiobook ended.

Big props to the narrator, he did a wonderful job. I'd absolutely be excited to hear something else read by him.

Full of thrills, chills and deep throating skills, I can think of worse ways to spend a couple of hours.

[JD · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free ARC, and this review is voluntary

The real meat and bones of this book came out when discussing the psychological effects. The burden David now has to carry, the toll of which has affected his life in an irreversible way. I haven't read My Pet Werewolf yet, so I can't say how well the prequel ties into the story overall, but it'll be my next read because this is worth it.

What I appreciate the most is the detailed breakdown after David is bitten. How his life is now spiraling out of control, due to the beast within. Didn't feel as though there was a low point or a slump in the writing. Rather, it kept building until the end.

[JoAnn W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Gunther" by James Kaine, a prequel, showcases a compelling start that centers around the main character, David. Kaine skillfully crafts a backstory that adds depth to David's character, providing readers with a richer understanding of his motivations and ultimate experiences in books to come. What particularly stands out to me is the author's attention to detail in the medical aspects of the story. Being a nurse, the accuracy and authenticity in depicting medical scenarios lend a realistic touch to the narrative. Only downfall was that I wanted more, which earned this short book a solid four-star rating.

*I received this e-book in exchange for an honest review*

[V.P. Nightshade]

Excellent

Gunther is the prequel novella to My Pet Werewolf. The story is intriguing, and heartbreaking, and unfortunately for the poor dark hero, David Bixby, not yet over. David is the walking and talking example of the phrase that sometimes really bad things happen to good people through no fault of their own. For a smart man (he's a doctor), he's also naive about what has happened to him, and in his hopes for a cure - but most especially in his hopes that his wife will ever (even if cured) accept him back. It's a sad story, but very well-done! I am looking forward to reading My Pet Werewolf.

[Cara Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story includes sexual content and gruesome depictions. Author has a warning at the beginning that it contains spoilers for the following novel.

I've enjoyed horror from a young age, and this story hits in all the right places. It's a quick read, and a prequel to My Pet Werewolf - enough to whet your appetite for the main story. While there are a few editing mistakes throughout, they don't detract from the story. Definitely makes me want to get my hands on the next book and see what happens!

[Paul Preston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feel it…the transformation, you are acting abnormal, everything you do or say is so unlike yourself, what is going on? Is this a metaphorical story of unleashing the darkness inside you? Of dropping the goody two shoes facade and just giving into your carnal desires?
Naw man, this is a werewolf story and the beast inside you is coming.
This was a lot of fun, and even a bit touching. The question is, do you like the nice, honest doctor or the bloodthirsty werewolf better?😈
Plus it seems to be the prequel to My Pet Werewolf which makes me want to run out and grab it.

[Jacquetta Harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt as though I were right there, seeing and feeling it all. I've always loved books you can open the book and step in, feeling as though you belonged.
David/Gunther was a great character and I loved watching him develop and then become. Sadness comes with the story but I know it will be fine.
Will Brady help him?
I think you will enjoy this book. Not my usual genre but I enjoyed the book and I am looking forward to the next book.

[Dion Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great Werewolf story!

This one is a prequel to "My Pet Werewolf," which I have read and loved, but this works as a stand alone story, however you would get more out of it if you read "My Pet Werewolf," first.

This was great, it helped scratch that 'what happened to him before this' itch that I got from the first book.

If you liked the first book you will love this one, and if you haven't read "My Pet Werewolf," then this is a great way to test the water so to speak.

[Michael Myett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gunther is a well written werewolf story that is difficult to put down, I really enjoyed it. The characters were interesting and I was invested right from the beginning. This is a prequel to My Pet Werewolf, which I now plan on reading right away. In my opinion these books can be read in any order without giving anything away. If you enjoy horror I highly recommend this series. I am definitely looking forward to more from this author.

[Sandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been looking forward to reading the next installment of My Pet Werewolf, and it definitely did not disappoint! This was a quick read / listen at 98 pages or just over 2 hours on audio. Tom Jordan does a fantastic job with the narration, as usual.

The story moves fast and keeps you hanging on until the last page of the epilogue. Give it a go and check out MPW too so you can get the full story.

[Billie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

[irv Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting book to enjoy.

You are taken on a journey that involves a medical doctor which was trying to due his job along with others. But this is when things get bad and strange because this person was fighting for his life . He had no clothes on and had this strange hole in him and the blood would not stop , he had bites a doctor. Things get crazy from here and the author keeps you interested , wanting more great job.