Wolf Trek: A Post-Apocalyptic Werewolf Novelette

by María J. Estrada, Virtual Voice (Narrator)

Wolf Trek by María J. Estrada, is a post-apocalyptic novelette in which each chapter is penned in diary-like but futuristic eras. Hence, the opening chapter is at sundown on July 16, 2034, when the main character Saad is planting more cactus around a grave. Chapter 2 is at midday, August 10, 2027. The dates are worth noting to get a deeper understanding of the story. It is an animalistic world that has been portrayed here. The character Saad is a hunter at his various stages of interaction with them. Contrast has been carved out of a beastly world of hunting and burning carcasses but balanced with human love. Even as far off in the future, a time paradox of a passing reality, still dystopia exists. Out of this dystopia, however, a marvelous plot of tenderness and family unity evolves gradually. That werewolf kind of bestiality does not take over; it does not reign supreme.
~Mehreen Ahmed, Award-Winning Writer and Author of The Blue, Red Lyrae

A werewolf virus devastates southern Arizona. Young Saad and his little brother Jak must scavenge for food, water, and shelter while hunting werewolves. All Saad wants is to be like his father. Despite his greatest desires, Saad may never become a great werewolf hunter. He sees the confidence in his father’s eyes waning.

Even so, Saad fights for the love of their father, who favors the smarter and stronger Jak.

In the murderous heat of the desert, Saad must survive the threat of infection, the onslaught of werewolf attacks, and worse, his own father’s disapproval.

Audible Audio

Published June 14, 2025

About the author

MARIA J. ESTRADA is an English college professor of Composition, Literature, and her favorite, Creative Writing. She grew up in the desert outside of Yuma, Arizona in the real Barrio de Los Locos, a barrio comprised of new Mexican immigrants and first-generation Chicanos. Drawing from this setting and experiences, she writes like a loca every minute she can—all while magically balancing her work and family obligations. She lives in Chicago’s south side with her wonderfully supportive husband, two remarkable children, and a menagerie of animals. You can learn more about her other books and writing happenings at barrioblues.com and barriobluespress.com.