Satan's Petting Zoo

by Brian Koscienski

Your inner beast might not be the animal you're looking for.

A group of friends in college try to solve their bully problem by meddling with lycanthropy. It does not go well.

248 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2020

About the author

Brian Koscienski developed his love of writing from countless hours of reading comic books, losing himself in the different worlds and adventures within the colorful pages. He had minor successes early in his career by getting a few short stories published in independent ‘zines, but found more success in partnering with Chris Pisano. As a writing team, they have had stories, articles, graphic novels, and poetry published, and most recently "The Devil's Judgment", the conclusion to "The Vengeful Prince Saga" trilogy.

Reviews

[Shannon Everyday · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first book I have read by Brian Koscienski, and it won't be the last. In Satan's Petting Zoo, we follow Chad and his friends, who are now in college. Chad and his friends have been bullied pretty much through their whole school lives, leaving them feeling like prey. Until Chad has an encounter with the Ink Stains, a group of lycanthropes. Taking their offer to become a lycanthrope, Chad, along with his friends, are faced with a whole new set of problems: dealing with hunters, facing their own fears, and taking a stand.
I really loved the dynamic between Chad, Cooper, Heston, and Kyle. Seeing their friendship be the centerpiece of the story was fantastic. The writing of the friendship felt very real, and I could relate to feeling how the characters did, from loving nerdy things, to not having a great time in high school.
Satan's Petting Zoo is perfect for anyone who love action, lycanthropes, friends standing together, villains with the perfect amount of menace, and horror with humor.

[Drk Scientist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bought this book at a scary book con and glad that I did. I'm an advent horror book reader and got tired of the repetitive storylines (e.g., haunted houses, unknown killer) of modern horror books so I've been jumping into the indie horror scene. This was a well written book with great original storylines that everyone can connect to. Whether it's Chad or his 4 friends, the lycanthrope hunters, Ink stains, or even Tyler. I couldn't put this book down, read it in a week and definitely can't wait to read the second one.

I will say I'll be looking to read more from Brian Koscienski and his team!

[Kasey George · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased this book at Steel City Con. I’m so glad I did because this book is so much fun. It’s interesting and draws you in. It’s funny and has good horror as well. I also met Brian would was just wonderful. Excited to start the next book in this series.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. At first the characters came across as a little annoying, but their persona developed throughout the story. Definitely looking forward to future books.

[Jake Wertman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very fun read!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a good story. I met the author, Brian, at a comic con and he was super nice! Excited to read the second book.

[Cay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the ride in this one. Certainly a fresh take on lycanthropy and super fun.

[MORTICA B · Rating 4 out of 5]

So good couldn't put it down can't wait to read the second one

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

A unique premise that I haven't seen anywhere else. I enjoyed the world building, but I would have liked to have seen a little more details on the lycanthropy origins and logistics. I believe there's a sequel, so my answers may lie there. I recommend reading it as a fresh take on "werewolves" in a way I haven't seen before.

[WorD Publishing-pgh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Something is wrong at the Student Union Center . . .

. . . and it could be the Chad.

This book is a quick read that drags you down into the insanity filled minds of Chris and Brian with one burning question on your mind, what type of animal would I be if I were able to become an animal?
The amusing and sometimes horrifically charming characters will bulldoze their way into your brain, and you will never be able to unsee the deeply disquieting imagery that Chris and Brian boldly paint in this story.
If you root for the underdog and like lycanthrope stories, this book could be for you.


SPOILER ALERT:
I will point out that the book ends on a cliffhanger, but the book does not contain notes to tell the reader that the story is TBC. Brian Koscienski has assured me that a follow up book is in the works.