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The Mongrel
Stranded deep in the mountains, Erin Greene finds herself in a battle for survival against the extreme cold. Heavily pregnant and alone, the clock is ticking and giving birth isn’t her only fear, for there is something sinister lurking in the dark hills... And it is hungry…
206 pages, Paperback
Published February 10, 2021
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100 people want to read
About the author
Seán O'Connor
9 books32 followersSEÁN O’CONNOR is an award-nominated author, primarily known for his work in Horror and Dark Fiction. He and his family currently reside in Dublin, Ireland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 30, 2018
2.5 stars! (rounded up for Goodreads)
Thank you so much to the author for sending all 7 of us Night Worms copies of this book all the way from Ireland to read & review honestly.
Something about O'Connor's natural storytelling ability is extremely compelling. This novella is about 150 pages long and I'd say for the first 75 pages or so, I was hooked in and swept up in such a way that doesn't happen very often. I'd even go as far as to describe it as having the words on the page almost completely melt away and my reading experience feels like watching the events unfold--super addictive and engaging.
But then there were some jarring developments in the story that pulled me out of that target reading zone and I found myself questioning and laboring over the text.
The set up is great. A couple, Pregnant Erin and her baby daddy/boyfriend, Phillip have a toxic, abusive relationship. They take off on a little trip out to the woods to cool off after a very heated argument. Once they get out there, they realize they're having car troubles and from there--the suspense builds to a delicious crescendo.
But the backside of the action is where the story lost some credibility and some traction for me. There's a character introduced that basically has so little backstory and purpose, I was completely unsure as to why I would even care about his involvement.
And then there are a few typos that stood out (probably because I was pulled back out of that honeymoon phase I experienced early on-when I'm engaged, I have a tendancy to not even see that stuff). Then, once things begin to transition to a new location, I started picking up on some discrepancies, weak plot holes and some believability/authenticity issues that bothered me. I didn't care for the ending. So unfortunately, the first half was excellent and the back half needed a lot of editing and restructuring. But I see HUGE amounts of natural talent and ability so I hope this author keeps writing and releasing new material. I'd gladly try again.
We need more quality werewolf novels.
Thank you so much to the author for sending all 7 of us Night Worms copies of this book all the way from Ireland to read & review honestly.
Something about O'Connor's natural storytelling ability is extremely compelling. This novella is about 150 pages long and I'd say for the first 75 pages or so, I was hooked in and swept up in such a way that doesn't happen very often. I'd even go as far as to describe it as having the words on the page almost completely melt away and my reading experience feels like watching the events unfold--super addictive and engaging.
But then there were some jarring developments in the story that pulled me out of that target reading zone and I found myself questioning and laboring over the text.
The set up is great. A couple, Pregnant Erin and her baby daddy/boyfriend, Phillip have a toxic, abusive relationship. They take off on a little trip out to the woods to cool off after a very heated argument. Once they get out there, they realize they're having car troubles and from there--the suspense builds to a delicious crescendo.
But the backside of the action is where the story lost some credibility and some traction for me. There's a character introduced that basically has so little backstory and purpose, I was completely unsure as to why I would even care about his involvement.
And then there are a few typos that stood out (probably because I was pulled back out of that honeymoon phase I experienced early on-when I'm engaged, I have a tendancy to not even see that stuff). Then, once things begin to transition to a new location, I started picking up on some discrepancies, weak plot holes and some believability/authenticity issues that bothered me. I didn't care for the ending. So unfortunately, the first half was excellent and the back half needed a lot of editing and restructuring. But I see HUGE amounts of natural talent and ability so I hope this author keeps writing and releasing new material. I'd gladly try again.
We need more quality werewolf novels.
September 22, 2018
Following yet another argument, Erin and Philip decide to go on a drive up to Erin's favourite place as a child, the Wicklow Mountains. With a blizzard on the way, the couple are left with no fuel and so Philip heads off for help, leaving his pregnant fiancee alone.
This was such a compelling novella! O’Connor’s writing is very engaging and his dialogue between the characters felt very real – especially the different phrases used by the Irish characters (I would know *smug face*). I really want to say as little as possible with regards to plot, as there are a few twists and turns that I just really didn't see coming - and all readers should go in knowing very little.
If you’re a fan of tales of survival and strong female protagonists (or rather a female that finds her strength during a very stressful and terrifying ordeal) then this one is definitely worth picking up! There’s quite a vivid birth scene in here that was in equal parts beautiful and giving me major anxiety… you can tell that O’Connor did his research to get the details just right.
A common complaint with me when it comes to novellas is that I just wanted more. In this instance I maybe would have liked a bit more background about certain events? But I am particularly greedy when it comes to novellas/short stories!! All in all, a really well-written horror novella, and I will look forward to future work from this author!
3.5 stars.
This was such a compelling novella! O’Connor’s writing is very engaging and his dialogue between the characters felt very real – especially the different phrases used by the Irish characters (I would know *smug face*). I really want to say as little as possible with regards to plot, as there are a few twists and turns that I just really didn't see coming - and all readers should go in knowing very little.
If you’re a fan of tales of survival and strong female protagonists (or rather a female that finds her strength during a very stressful and terrifying ordeal) then this one is definitely worth picking up! There’s quite a vivid birth scene in here that was in equal parts beautiful and giving me major anxiety… you can tell that O’Connor did his research to get the details just right.
A common complaint with me when it comes to novellas is that I just wanted more. In this instance I maybe would have liked a bit more background about certain events? But I am particularly greedy when it comes to novellas/short stories!! All in all, a really well-written horror novella, and I will look forward to future work from this author!
3.5 stars.
December 24, 2018
This book was sent to the Night Worms review group by the author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars
There are parts of this novella that really worked for me, and then there were parts that had me scratching my head. Trigger warnings for domestic abuse of a pregnant woman. Those parts were hard to read, but realistic, and necessary to establish the characters. Once the two main characters, Erin and Philip, find themselves stuck in a blizzard, the story really picked up for me and I couldn't put it down. This story has one of the most intense birth scenes I've ever read. At this point I'm totally invested and really rooting for Erin. Then some odd things happen, and I'm not talking about the parts of this book that make it a creature feature, but rather revelations about some minor characters that just felt disjointed or out of place. These things are small, however, and didn't ruin the reading experience for me, but the end was a bit odd.
The middle section, the part where the couple become stranded is definitely the best part of the book seriously unputdownable. Erin seems so weak in the beginning, but once she is put in a life and death situation she really learns how to stand up for herself. So essentially there were parts that I loved and parts that didn't quite work for me, but overall this is a solid read.
3.5 Stars
There are parts of this novella that really worked for me, and then there were parts that had me scratching my head. Trigger warnings for domestic abuse of a pregnant woman. Those parts were hard to read, but realistic, and necessary to establish the characters. Once the two main characters, Erin and Philip, find themselves stuck in a blizzard, the story really picked up for me and I couldn't put it down. This story has one of the most intense birth scenes I've ever read. At this point I'm totally invested and really rooting for Erin. Then some odd things happen, and I'm not talking about the parts of this book that make it a creature feature, but rather revelations about some minor characters that just felt disjointed or out of place. These things are small, however, and didn't ruin the reading experience for me, but the end was a bit odd.
The middle section, the part where the couple become stranded is definitely the best part of the book seriously unputdownable. Erin seems so weak in the beginning, but once she is put in a life and death situation she really learns how to stand up for herself. So essentially there were parts that I loved and parts that didn't quite work for me, but overall this is a solid read.
December 28, 2018
My thanks to the author for hooking the NightWorms up with copies of this novella in exchange for honest reviews. This is mine.
The Mongrel is really a mixed bag, but I did enjoy reading it. I dig wintertime horror stories, and I dig stories in which a character gets stranded, and this is both of those things.
This short tale is divided into three parts, and part two — in which a pregnant Erin Greene is stuck waiting in the car while her fiancé Phillip goes for help — is the best part. It’s tense, it’s brutal. I loved it. The part leading up to this, in which the reader is privy to this couple’s strained relationship, is . . . grating, to say the least. The “arguing couple going on a roadtrip” trope is one I almost never enjoy reading. And the ending is kind of a big WTF. But the middle, that’s some good stuff.
I don’t think this novella is scary (though your mileage may vary!), but it is tense and pretty enjoyable.
The Mongrel is really a mixed bag, but I did enjoy reading it. I dig wintertime horror stories, and I dig stories in which a character gets stranded, and this is both of those things.
This short tale is divided into three parts, and part two — in which a pregnant Erin Greene is stuck waiting in the car while her fiancé Phillip goes for help — is the best part. It’s tense, it’s brutal. I loved it. The part leading up to this, in which the reader is privy to this couple’s strained relationship, is . . . grating, to say the least. The “arguing couple going on a roadtrip” trope is one I almost never enjoy reading. And the ending is kind of a big WTF. But the middle, that’s some good stuff.
I don’t think this novella is scary (though your mileage may vary!), but it is tense and pretty enjoyable.
December 22, 2018
4 stars! Had my heart racing a few times. Full review to come!
December 20, 2018
"Under a full moon, man can be driven to lunacy."
The Mongrel is the debut novella from Sean O'Connor, and I received a copy to review for Nightworms. I had some mixed feelings on it, but I felt pretty positive overall by the end.
It was difficult to read some of the gaslighting and abuse scenes, particularly abuse of a pregnant woman, so just a warning that it's a factor in this book. I felt like there was a lot of focus on it for such a short novella, and that we could have still grasped the characters' relationship if more attention would have been put elsewhere. I have some more thoughts on it that I can't really say without spoiling anything, so I'm just going to leave it alone.
There was a bit of overkill with certain words - the characters called each other "babe" non-stop, which I found distracting and frustrating after a while, and the main character seems to refer to any guy around her as an "alpha male". I get why it's there because there are wolves in the book, too, but it was hard to sympathize with Erin sometimes when she found all controlling men to be endearing.
After the story has built up a bit, it gets very intense, and this is where I was hooked. The writing in the middle of the book is very well done - it's incredibly suspenseful, and I stayed up later than intended so I could finish the book. It's fairly descriptive, and I'll definitely remember it whether I want to or not.
I feel like at some point too many storylines got tangled together. As I said before, a lot of the focus was on the abusive relationship, and some of these other side stories could have been expanded. This book is partially a creature feature, but the creatures play such a minimal role. The concept of the story was intriguing overall, but I feel like there was just too much packed in (especially in the second half).
Although I had some issues, I did like The Mongrel overall. The author is a good storyteller (especially for suspense scenes), but I think I would have enjoyed the book more if it had a little more structure. I would try another book from this author. Thank you for sending copies to the Nightworms!
The Mongrel is the debut novella from Sean O'Connor, and I received a copy to review for Nightworms. I had some mixed feelings on it, but I felt pretty positive overall by the end.
It was difficult to read some of the gaslighting and abuse scenes, particularly abuse of a pregnant woman, so just a warning that it's a factor in this book. I felt like there was a lot of focus on it for such a short novella, and that we could have still grasped the characters' relationship if more attention would have been put elsewhere. I have some more thoughts on it that I can't really say without spoiling anything, so I'm just going to leave it alone.
There was a bit of overkill with certain words - the characters called each other "babe" non-stop, which I found distracting and frustrating after a while, and the main character seems to refer to any guy around her as an "alpha male". I get why it's there because there are wolves in the book, too, but it was hard to sympathize with Erin sometimes when she found all controlling men to be endearing.
After the story has built up a bit, it gets very intense, and this is where I was hooked. The writing in the middle of the book is very well done - it's incredibly suspenseful, and I stayed up later than intended so I could finish the book. It's fairly descriptive, and I'll definitely remember it whether I want to or not.
I feel like at some point too many storylines got tangled together. As I said before, a lot of the focus was on the abusive relationship, and some of these other side stories could have been expanded. This book is partially a creature feature, but the creatures play such a minimal role. The concept of the story was intriguing overall, but I feel like there was just too much packed in (especially in the second half).
Although I had some issues, I did like The Mongrel overall. The author is a good storyteller (especially for suspense scenes), but I think I would have enjoyed the book more if it had a little more structure. I would try another book from this author. Thank you for sending copies to the Nightworms!
September 5, 2018
📚 BOOK REVIEW 📚
The Mongrel - Sean O’Connor 🤝
.
First and foremost a Massive thank you to Sean for sending over the signed copy for a honest review! Legend!! 🙌🏼
.
The Mongrel follows the story of Pregnant Erin and Phillip a married couple living in the outskirts of the city due to Money Stuggles, The marriage is not all that it seems as you learn straight away the toxic relationship that Erin is living.
Due to events that happen Erin and Phillip decide to go for a drive to clear their heads, upon driving home the car breaks down and Phillip leaves Erin to go and get help. A blizzard blows into the country leaving heavily pregnant Erin stranded and all alone.
The writing is super effective in these scenes you feel the frustration, the claustrophobic atmosphere and the rising panic and anxiety.
.
There is a scene involving Erin giving birth and that scene is the most beautiful but disturbing scene I have read and it has stuck with me since reading it! After having two children with my wife, Sean you wrote it with absolute skill and precision! Well done!
.
The Mongrel takes a turn for the worst, with something supernatural lurking in the woods! I couldn’t stop reading I had to know about Erin and her grand escape, the tension, the pace and the writing is incredible!
.
I was throughly impressed with The Mongrel and urge everyone to head over to Sean’s page and check this book out! 5 🌟 from me! I know there are a few other people that have received this book and can’t wait to see what they think of it!
The Mongrel - Sean O’Connor 🤝
.
First and foremost a Massive thank you to Sean for sending over the signed copy for a honest review! Legend!! 🙌🏼
.
The Mongrel follows the story of Pregnant Erin and Phillip a married couple living in the outskirts of the city due to Money Stuggles, The marriage is not all that it seems as you learn straight away the toxic relationship that Erin is living.
Due to events that happen Erin and Phillip decide to go for a drive to clear their heads, upon driving home the car breaks down and Phillip leaves Erin to go and get help. A blizzard blows into the country leaving heavily pregnant Erin stranded and all alone.
The writing is super effective in these scenes you feel the frustration, the claustrophobic atmosphere and the rising panic and anxiety.
.
There is a scene involving Erin giving birth and that scene is the most beautiful but disturbing scene I have read and it has stuck with me since reading it! After having two children with my wife, Sean you wrote it with absolute skill and precision! Well done!
.
The Mongrel takes a turn for the worst, with something supernatural lurking in the woods! I couldn’t stop reading I had to know about Erin and her grand escape, the tension, the pace and the writing is incredible!
.
I was throughly impressed with The Mongrel and urge everyone to head over to Sean’s page and check this book out! 5 🌟 from me! I know there are a few other people that have received this book and can’t wait to see what they think of it!
December 27, 2018
I have not read many werewolf/wolf books. I need and want to add more creature features to my 2019 reading list; that is definitely a goal of mine! And if the rest are anything like The Mongrel then I know I am in for quite a treat! While this book/novella was short in pages, it was packed with some intense scenes. The isolation, entrapment, and claustrophobia elements were all too real for me here. There are some modern day Cujo vibes here and I am loving it!
There are only a few characters in this story and the author did a great job at establishing who they all are and their relationships with one another. (Trigger warnings for domestic abuse IF you need to be warned). My only complaint here is that I wish I could have had even more character development - as in I would like to know what peoples' relationships were more in depth BEFORE the story took place, if that makes any sense at all. However, I do not think wanting more from a novella is any sort of new ask from me or a lot of other readers. A good novella always leaves me thirsty for more!
This book had a couple twists/turns that took me by surprise as well. It's not TOO often that I can get totally thrown around without any idea of the truth, and this story happened to be one of them.
4 stars from me! Thank you to the author for sending this book to the Night Worms in exchange for an honest review! I am looking forward to reading more of this author for sure and recommend everyone take some time to check this novella out and get introduced to O'Connor! He belongs on your bookshelves!
There are only a few characters in this story and the author did a great job at establishing who they all are and their relationships with one another. (Trigger warnings for domestic abuse IF you need to be warned). My only complaint here is that I wish I could have had even more character development - as in I would like to know what peoples' relationships were more in depth BEFORE the story took place, if that makes any sense at all. However, I do not think wanting more from a novella is any sort of new ask from me or a lot of other readers. A good novella always leaves me thirsty for more!
This book had a couple twists/turns that took me by surprise as well. It's not TOO often that I can get totally thrown around without any idea of the truth, and this story happened to be one of them.
4 stars from me! Thank you to the author for sending this book to the Night Worms in exchange for an honest review! I am looking forward to reading more of this author for sure and recommend everyone take some time to check this novella out and get introduced to O'Connor! He belongs on your bookshelves!
October 13, 2018
First, I’d like to thank the author for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. I really loved this novella. It was very original and like nothing I’ve read before. I can’t say too much about that aspect cause it could spoil the story. Sean has a fantastic way with words! The writing was amazing. I would have loved a little more background story about Erin’s father and his business. But that didn’t take anything away from the story. This a great quick read just in time for Halloween! I enjoyed every moment of reading it.
December 28, 2018
The short page count is perfect for this book—it gets right into the action and doesn't relent. I found the beginning of the story fairly obvious and falling into well-worn story patterns (pregnant girl, abusive guy), so for me, it worked that it moved along quickly and didn't spend too much time digging into cliche.
Where this book really excels is the action in the middle. A woman is alone and enormously pregnant, trapped in a snow storm in a car, and there's something in the woods, watching her. I ripped through those pages, needing to see where the story was going to go. Even if it was a bit over the top, I think it worked, and it definitely kept me glued to the page.
The last third was where this book fell apart for me. It seemed like the rest of the book followed a much simpler and more interesting plot line, and toward the end the plot split and tried to introduce more twists and new elements that, instead of adding surprise and interest, just made the story feel like an overdone soap opera. It didn't work for me. Simple can be better, especially with a slim page count.
My thanks to the author for sending the Night Worms this book to read and review.
Where this book really excels is the action in the middle. A woman is alone and enormously pregnant, trapped in a snow storm in a car, and there's something in the woods, watching her. I ripped through those pages, needing to see where the story was going to go. Even if it was a bit over the top, I think it worked, and it definitely kept me glued to the page.
The last third was where this book fell apart for me. It seemed like the rest of the book followed a much simpler and more interesting plot line, and toward the end the plot split and tried to introduce more twists and new elements that, instead of adding surprise and interest, just made the story feel like an overdone soap opera. It didn't work for me. Simple can be better, especially with a slim page count.
My thanks to the author for sending the Night Worms this book to read and review.
January 27, 2019
Erin Greene's relationship with her partner could be better, yet despite the many arguments and physical altercations, she's determined to make it work with the father of her unborn child. Going out on a drive with the intention of quality time to themselves, Erin and Phil are left stranded in a snowstorm, yet the cold's not the only thing to worry about. It's possible they just might be surrounded by wolves.
(WARNING: This review contains minor spoilers.)
Despite being just over a hundred pages, this debut novella established a long-lasting impression with its compelling survival aspects; they made me truly invested in the story, and I was reminded just how much I love the concept of one character alone and struggling against the harsh forces of nature. Erin's predicament turned from bad to worse, and a certain graphic scene in particular, where she had to self-doctor herself, had me simultaneously cringing in discomfort and leaning forward in fascination. It's something I won't forget anytime soon, and it's a testament to O'Connor's ability. Seriously, the entirety of the middle segment - the claustrophobic confines of the car, and the blizzard outside - was five-star content. It's just a shame some odds and ends later on didn't sit comfortably with me.
The end portion is where I felt it needed some work. A character appearance came out of nowhere, completely without explanation. I found no relevance nor reason why it had to be that specific person, and even though I could speculate until the cows come home, that vagueness left a black hole that tainted my experience. The supernatural elements also played a minimal role, to the extent they were largely insignificant. Don't get me wrong, I have a love for werewolves that goes back to my childhood, but in this case they added nothing. The horror, the edge of your seat tension, came before the werewolf reveal, so I was left asking why include them at all?
O'Connor's writing appealed to me a great deal - entwined with the more straight-forward style was attractive prose and poetic flourishes. The opening sentence was enough to pique my interest and draw me in. He was also able to sufficiently portray a woman's thought process and turmoil whilst embroiled in an abusive relationship; Erin's many excuses when it came to Phil were scary in how accurately they related to the real world.
In conclusion: The Mongrel read as two different books melded together; one was the thrilling tale of a pregnant woman trying to survive, and the other was a werewolf conspiracy. I felt totally engaged up until the last chapters, when the overall tone changed. I want to read more from this author, though, because I sincerely believe in his potential.
Notable Quote:
If she let it, her renewed sense of hope could easily dissipate, and she knew the only way to prevent that was to fill her heart with fire--a fire that would fuel her to take hold of life and allow her to rise up out of her dilemma.
© Red Lace 2019
Wordpress ~ Twitter
(WARNING: This review contains minor spoilers.)
Despite being just over a hundred pages, this debut novella established a long-lasting impression with its compelling survival aspects; they made me truly invested in the story, and I was reminded just how much I love the concept of one character alone and struggling against the harsh forces of nature. Erin's predicament turned from bad to worse, and a certain graphic scene in particular, where she had to self-doctor herself, had me simultaneously cringing in discomfort and leaning forward in fascination. It's something I won't forget anytime soon, and it's a testament to O'Connor's ability. Seriously, the entirety of the middle segment - the claustrophobic confines of the car, and the blizzard outside - was five-star content. It's just a shame some odds and ends later on didn't sit comfortably with me.
The end portion is where I felt it needed some work. A character appearance came out of nowhere, completely without explanation. I found no relevance nor reason why it had to be that specific person, and even though I could speculate until the cows come home, that vagueness left a black hole that tainted my experience. The supernatural elements also played a minimal role, to the extent they were largely insignificant. Don't get me wrong, I have a love for werewolves that goes back to my childhood, but in this case they added nothing. The horror, the edge of your seat tension, came before the werewolf reveal, so I was left asking why include them at all?
O'Connor's writing appealed to me a great deal - entwined with the more straight-forward style was attractive prose and poetic flourishes. The opening sentence was enough to pique my interest and draw me in. He was also able to sufficiently portray a woman's thought process and turmoil whilst embroiled in an abusive relationship; Erin's many excuses when it came to Phil were scary in how accurately they related to the real world.
In conclusion: The Mongrel read as two different books melded together; one was the thrilling tale of a pregnant woman trying to survive, and the other was a werewolf conspiracy. I felt totally engaged up until the last chapters, when the overall tone changed. I want to read more from this author, though, because I sincerely believe in his potential.
Notable Quote:
If she let it, her renewed sense of hope could easily dissipate, and she knew the only way to prevent that was to fill her heart with fire--a fire that would fuel her to take hold of life and allow her to rise up out of her dilemma.
© Red Lace 2019
Wordpress ~ Twitter
December 22, 2020
Thank you, Sean O'Connor for the free copy of The Mongrel in exchange for an honest review!
I cant recall if I've ever read a werewolf horror story before but this was a good start! It had just enough foreboding and cringy parts that of course I loved even though they made my stomach churn a bit. Some of the dialog was a bit awkward to me but O'Connor sure knows how to write a villain. I certainly hated Philip.
I cant recall if I've ever read a werewolf horror story before but this was a good start! It had just enough foreboding and cringy parts that of course I loved even though they made my stomach churn a bit. Some of the dialog was a bit awkward to me but O'Connor sure knows how to write a villain. I certainly hated Philip.
November 24, 2023
A wonderfully short and sharp read from an amazing voice in Irish horror, The Mongrel is easily read in one sitting. In fact, you'll want to read it in one sitting!
As Erin fights against the odds and navigates the pitfalls of a frozen, wolf-infested snowscape, the tension continues to build to a crescendo. Once the action kicked off, which didn't take long, I was at the edge of my seat.
A thrilling and pulse-pounding read that I absolutely recommend. It also includes a bonus short story at the end that's set in the same universe and fleshes out Erin's story even more. Can't wait to read more from O Connor. If you haven't checked his work out yet, now's the time!
As Erin fights against the odds and navigates the pitfalls of a frozen, wolf-infested snowscape, the tension continues to build to a crescendo. Once the action kicked off, which didn't take long, I was at the edge of my seat.
A thrilling and pulse-pounding read that I absolutely recommend. It also includes a bonus short story at the end that's set in the same universe and fleshes out Erin's story even more. Can't wait to read more from O Connor. If you haven't checked his work out yet, now's the time!
November 30, 2018
**Edited as review is now live on Kendall Reviews!**
I’m going to shout this from the rooftop from now until I lose my voice; I LOVE WEREWOLVES!! In books, movies, real life (they exist right?), everywhere! I absolutely love all things Were. Why? Because they scare the crap out of me.
The Mongrel has been on my periphery of ‘must-reads’ but I simply haven’t gotten around to it. When it was offered up as a potential for review, I jumped at the chance. Wouldn’t you? Ok, so maybe you don’t like werewolf stuff, fair enough. But when Matt Hayward is telling folks how great this book is and he wrote one of the books of the year with The Faithful, you take notice.
I read this in one sitting last night (November 19th). Sean O’Connor has the gift of prose. This book flowed off of my kindle and this was one of the rare times where I was shocked at how quickly I was flying through this book. Why was I shocked?
This is perhaps one of the finest survival tales I’ve encountered in some time.
The main character here, Erin, is pregnant and engaged to the supposed man of her dreams, Phillip. Now having moved to a small town to afford to live, they are struggling. Struggling with moving away from friends, struggling with the lack of finances, and struggling with isolation.
The premise is simple enough. They decide to go for a drive, expecting to make it home before the snow storm hits. (Spoiler alert – they don’t!)
Their beat up car dies and as the snow begins, Phillip decides to walk to help. Erin manages one last phone call to her father for help, before the phone dies, leaving her feeling even more alone.
When some time passes and Phillip hasn’t returned and her father hasn’t arrived, that’s when Erin realizes it’s up to her to survive. The cold, the wilderness and the lack of food all crashing in around her, and her swollen belly, the baby kicking, reminding her that its arrival is imminent.
The Mongrel is an easy 5/5 read for me, as a survival story. Watching Erin battle insurmountable odds to try and stay alive had me holding my breath and devouring the words as they came.
The Mongrel, at least in my view, absolutely failed as a werewolf tale. It felt like a throw away portion. If you removed the werewolf portion and put it in a word document, I would suspect it would be less than two paragraphs. Maybe. Might be less than that.
Now don’t get me wrong, this story is absolutely a must read, and I will be recommending it to all who ask. But I won’t be recommending it as a werewolf story, but as a survival story.
If you liked the movie The Grey with Liam Neeson, you have an idea of what you are in for here.
I highly suggest you all take a look and read this. The writing and survival tale are almost untouchable.
I’m going to shout this from the rooftop from now until I lose my voice; I LOVE WEREWOLVES!! In books, movies, real life (they exist right?), everywhere! I absolutely love all things Were. Why? Because they scare the crap out of me.
The Mongrel has been on my periphery of ‘must-reads’ but I simply haven’t gotten around to it. When it was offered up as a potential for review, I jumped at the chance. Wouldn’t you? Ok, so maybe you don’t like werewolf stuff, fair enough. But when Matt Hayward is telling folks how great this book is and he wrote one of the books of the year with The Faithful, you take notice.
I read this in one sitting last night (November 19th). Sean O’Connor has the gift of prose. This book flowed off of my kindle and this was one of the rare times where I was shocked at how quickly I was flying through this book. Why was I shocked?
This is perhaps one of the finest survival tales I’ve encountered in some time.
The main character here, Erin, is pregnant and engaged to the supposed man of her dreams, Phillip. Now having moved to a small town to afford to live, they are struggling. Struggling with moving away from friends, struggling with the lack of finances, and struggling with isolation.
The premise is simple enough. They decide to go for a drive, expecting to make it home before the snow storm hits. (Spoiler alert – they don’t!)
Their beat up car dies and as the snow begins, Phillip decides to walk to help. Erin manages one last phone call to her father for help, before the phone dies, leaving her feeling even more alone.
When some time passes and Phillip hasn’t returned and her father hasn’t arrived, that’s when Erin realizes it’s up to her to survive. The cold, the wilderness and the lack of food all crashing in around her, and her swollen belly, the baby kicking, reminding her that its arrival is imminent.
The Mongrel is an easy 5/5 read for me, as a survival story. Watching Erin battle insurmountable odds to try and stay alive had me holding my breath and devouring the words as they came.
The Mongrel, at least in my view, absolutely failed as a werewolf tale. It felt like a throw away portion. If you removed the werewolf portion and put it in a word document, I would suspect it would be less than two paragraphs. Maybe. Might be less than that.
Now don’t get me wrong, this story is absolutely a must read, and I will be recommending it to all who ask. But I won’t be recommending it as a werewolf story, but as a survival story.
If you liked the movie The Grey with Liam Neeson, you have an idea of what you are in for here.
I highly suggest you all take a look and read this. The writing and survival tale are almost untouchable.
June 20, 2020
6.5/10
Full review to come
Full review to come
June 24, 2020
Ok so before I tell you about this book..... If a book has wolves in it I’m probably going to like it, if it’s a scary story I’m probably going to like it and if it’s set somewhere I recognize and can relate to I’m probably going to enjoy it..... TICK TICK TICK this did not disappoint!
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Stranded deep in the mountains,
Erin Greene finds herself in a battle for survival against the extreme cold.
Heavily pregnant and alone, the clock is ticking and giving birth isn't her only fear,
for there is something sinister lurking in the dark hills...
And it is hungry...
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I mean do I even need to say anymore than the blurb? So as much as this is a “horror” story it’s more a tale of survival, the strength of women and the lengths they will go to in order to protect their kids! The characters are relatable and real the plot has little twists you don’t expect and I can’t really say much without spoilers except this is a really great novella that I couldn’t put down! I read it in a day and it’s the best way to do it as I didn’t lose any of the momentum and the suspense kept building!
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Stranded deep in the mountains,
Erin Greene finds herself in a battle for survival against the extreme cold.
Heavily pregnant and alone, the clock is ticking and giving birth isn't her only fear,
for there is something sinister lurking in the dark hills...
And it is hungry...
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I mean do I even need to say anymore than the blurb? So as much as this is a “horror” story it’s more a tale of survival, the strength of women and the lengths they will go to in order to protect their kids! The characters are relatable and real the plot has little twists you don’t expect and I can’t really say much without spoilers except this is a really great novella that I couldn’t put down! I read it in a day and it’s the best way to do it as I didn’t lose any of the momentum and the suspense kept building!
April 6, 2020
3.5 Stars, Rounded up for GoodReads
THE MONGREL was a fast-paced read that drew me in rather quickly. Once I started reading it, I found myself flipping the pages continuously to find out what came next. (Had I not been interrupted by the anxiety and stress surrounding current events, it’s likely I’d have finished this book in one sitting). Prior to this novella, I’d only read one of Seán’s short stories. After reading two pieces now, I can tell you that I enjoy his storytelling style and look forward to reading more.
There were several aspects of this tale that stood out for me as I was reading. Like I said, I was drawn into the story rather fast, which is always a good thing, especially when there’s a smaller amount of words to work with. I thought that the character development was strong, and while I didn’t find a personal connection to the characters or their experiences, I felt empathy for Erin. The descriptions of her anxiety and inner turmoil over her situation were well done. I liked that there was a bit of background and deeper look at Phil and Erin’s relationship instead of just what was on the surface of the story. This provided more insight into Erin’s mental state and her motivations for staying with him.
There was a slow but steady build of tension throughout the story that kept me interested along the way, and a couple of times I thought I had things figured out, but I was wrong. I thought this was a unique spin on a werewolf tale—different from others I’ve read. There are some unforgettable scenes in this story, and I imagine I might have flashbacks of those the next time I’m caught up in some heavy snowfall. I struggled a bit during the third section of the book. I felt like I needed a bit more story or background on some of the characters before reaching the end point—it felt a bit rushed to me.
I have a copy of the author’s novel, WEEPING SEASON, on my shelf, and I’m looking forward to that one. I’ve heard great things about that one, and I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read of his work so far. I will definitely be interested in reading more from Seán O’ Connor in the future.
THE MONGREL was a fast-paced read that drew me in rather quickly. Once I started reading it, I found myself flipping the pages continuously to find out what came next. (Had I not been interrupted by the anxiety and stress surrounding current events, it’s likely I’d have finished this book in one sitting). Prior to this novella, I’d only read one of Seán’s short stories. After reading two pieces now, I can tell you that I enjoy his storytelling style and look forward to reading more.
There were several aspects of this tale that stood out for me as I was reading. Like I said, I was drawn into the story rather fast, which is always a good thing, especially when there’s a smaller amount of words to work with. I thought that the character development was strong, and while I didn’t find a personal connection to the characters or their experiences, I felt empathy for Erin. The descriptions of her anxiety and inner turmoil over her situation were well done. I liked that there was a bit of background and deeper look at Phil and Erin’s relationship instead of just what was on the surface of the story. This provided more insight into Erin’s mental state and her motivations for staying with him.
There was a slow but steady build of tension throughout the story that kept me interested along the way, and a couple of times I thought I had things figured out, but I was wrong. I thought this was a unique spin on a werewolf tale—different from others I’ve read. There are some unforgettable scenes in this story, and I imagine I might have flashbacks of those the next time I’m caught up in some heavy snowfall. I struggled a bit during the third section of the book. I felt like I needed a bit more story or background on some of the characters before reaching the end point—it felt a bit rushed to me.
I have a copy of the author’s novel, WEEPING SEASON, on my shelf, and I’m looking forward to that one. I’ve heard great things about that one, and I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read of his work so far. I will definitely be interested in reading more from Seán O’ Connor in the future.
October 1, 2018
3 1/2 out of 5
*Review taken from my blog, The Horror Club.*
I’ve always said that reading and reviewing debut works can be tricky. The reason is that the author intends to focus on being over-decriptive (style over substance) in the way that they tell the story, and as a result, the core essence can get lost. It’s something they learn to master as their career progresses. When it comes to Sean O’Connor’s The Mongrel, it’s no different, but only to a certain point, thankfully.
The novella tells the story of Erin Greene, who finds herself trapped in the wilderness of the Wicklow Mountains, and as she fights to keep to sanity in order, she realises that she isn’t alone.
The Mongrel takes awhile to get going. Another common problem debut authors have is that they feel the need to help the reader along, which doesn’t always have to be the case. However, after a shaky opening, it’s the middle section of the book that shows what The Mongrel and Sean O’Connor are all about.
It’s frenzied, but in a good way. It mirrors what’s happening on the page, and it’s here where Erin comes out of her shell and becomes a character you can fully visualise. Adding in a few thoughtful and compelling twists that felt like they needed to be there (and not just there for the sake of it), this is where you see the book’s full potential.
O’Connor continues on with a hardhitting ending. The full circle of events, and the metaphors it alludes to with the wolves, both show that O’Connor is a clever person, and he likes to show it; but perhaps he needs to appreciate the reader and allow them to do the work.
The Mongrel has a compelling story, and a worthwhile message. However, it might take a bit of effort to get through the beginning. If you can do that, then you’re in for a treat.
*Review taken from my blog, The Horror Club.*
I’ve always said that reading and reviewing debut works can be tricky. The reason is that the author intends to focus on being over-decriptive (style over substance) in the way that they tell the story, and as a result, the core essence can get lost. It’s something they learn to master as their career progresses. When it comes to Sean O’Connor’s The Mongrel, it’s no different, but only to a certain point, thankfully.
The novella tells the story of Erin Greene, who finds herself trapped in the wilderness of the Wicklow Mountains, and as she fights to keep to sanity in order, she realises that she isn’t alone.
The Mongrel takes awhile to get going. Another common problem debut authors have is that they feel the need to help the reader along, which doesn’t always have to be the case. However, after a shaky opening, it’s the middle section of the book that shows what The Mongrel and Sean O’Connor are all about.
It’s frenzied, but in a good way. It mirrors what’s happening on the page, and it’s here where Erin comes out of her shell and becomes a character you can fully visualise. Adding in a few thoughtful and compelling twists that felt like they needed to be there (and not just there for the sake of it), this is where you see the book’s full potential.
O’Connor continues on with a hardhitting ending. The full circle of events, and the metaphors it alludes to with the wolves, both show that O’Connor is a clever person, and he likes to show it; but perhaps he needs to appreciate the reader and allow them to do the work.
The Mongrel has a compelling story, and a worthwhile message. However, it might take a bit of effort to get through the beginning. If you can do that, then you’re in for a treat.
August 13, 2019
I finally picked up this book after seeing it fluttering around Instagram. I have to say the scene building is excellent here, without drivelling on, the author builds a brilliant picture of each scene and fills it with tense, graphic imagery and high strung action. The characters are very well fleshed out for a short novella and, as a reader, you have a clear idea of each ones motivations, drives and personality. This book reads well and I devoured it in less than 3 days (I'm normally a painfully slow reader). Highly recommended.
July 15, 2020
Stranded in the Wicklow mountains after their car runs out of fuel, Philip leaves his pregnant fiancée Erin to go in search of a service station. A blizzard warning becomes a reality and Erin finds herself alone with a dead phone and no food. Her worst fears happen when she goes in to labour. She is injured, isolated but not alone as a sinister hungry wolf is keeping watch.
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This dark novella is intense! The birthing scene is so real and had me holding my breath! I was really rooting for Erin and passionately disliked Philip. It was a bit rushed in places but overall it’s a great read. I would have loved a bit more of a back story but that’s often the case with novellas
Trigger warnings: domestic abuse, birthing
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This dark novella is intense! The birthing scene is so real and had me holding my breath! I was really rooting for Erin and passionately disliked Philip. It was a bit rushed in places but overall it’s a great read. I would have loved a bit more of a back story but that’s often the case with novellas
Trigger warnings: domestic abuse, birthing
October 1, 2018
*3 1/2 out of 5.*
I’ve always said that reading and reviewing debut works can be tricky. The reason is that the author intends to focus on being over-decriptive (style over substance) in the way that they tell the story, and as a result, the core essence can get lost. It’s something they learn to master as their career progresses. When it comes to Sean O’Connor’s The Mongrel, it’s no different, but only to a certain point, thankfully.
The novella tells the story of Erin Greene, who finds herself trapped in the wilderness of the Wicklow Mountains, and as she fights to keep to sanity in order, she realises that she isn’t alone.
The Mongrel takes awhile to get going. Another common problem debut authors have is that they feel the need to help the reader along, which doesn’t always have to be the case. However, after a shaky opening, it’s the middle section of the book that shows what The Mongrel and Sean O’Connor are all about.
It’s frenzied, but in a good way. It mirrors what’s happening on the page, and it’s here where Erin comes out of her shell and becomes a character you can fully visualise. Adding in a few thoughtful and compelling twists that felt like they needed to be there (and not just there for the sake of it), this is where you see the book’s full potential.
O’Connor continues on with a hardhitting ending. The full circle of events, and the metaphors it alludes to with the wolves, both show that O’Connor is a clever person, and he likes to show it; but perhaps he needs to appreciate the reader and allow them to do the work.
The Mongrel has a compelling story, and a worthwhile message. However, it might take a bit of effort to get through the beginning. If you can do that, then you’re in for a treat.
I’ve always said that reading and reviewing debut works can be tricky. The reason is that the author intends to focus on being over-decriptive (style over substance) in the way that they tell the story, and as a result, the core essence can get lost. It’s something they learn to master as their career progresses. When it comes to Sean O’Connor’s The Mongrel, it’s no different, but only to a certain point, thankfully.
The novella tells the story of Erin Greene, who finds herself trapped in the wilderness of the Wicklow Mountains, and as she fights to keep to sanity in order, she realises that she isn’t alone.
The Mongrel takes awhile to get going. Another common problem debut authors have is that they feel the need to help the reader along, which doesn’t always have to be the case. However, after a shaky opening, it’s the middle section of the book that shows what The Mongrel and Sean O’Connor are all about.
It’s frenzied, but in a good way. It mirrors what’s happening on the page, and it’s here where Erin comes out of her shell and becomes a character you can fully visualise. Adding in a few thoughtful and compelling twists that felt like they needed to be there (and not just there for the sake of it), this is where you see the book’s full potential.
O’Connor continues on with a hardhitting ending. The full circle of events, and the metaphors it alludes to with the wolves, both show that O’Connor is a clever person, and he likes to show it; but perhaps he needs to appreciate the reader and allow them to do the work.
The Mongrel has a compelling story, and a worthwhile message. However, it might take a bit of effort to get through the beginning. If you can do that, then you’re in for a treat.
April 17, 2019
This review first appeared on scifiandscary.com
A fast-paced novella about survival, with themes of domestic abuse.
For me, this novella was a mix of positive and negatives, and overall, I liked the idea of the story.
Erin, a heavily pregnant woman on the verge of giving birth, and boyfriend Phillip, go for a drive to the Wicklow Mountains following yet another argument. The sense of foreboding and foreshadowing is great here and Erin’s ‘nags’ about having enough petrol in the car just make you instantly know that there isn’t and I just wanted them to drive so the story could really begin.
Sean can tell a story well, building tension and drama when it is most needed. The two main characters I felt, were well flushed out. Phillip is an abusive dick, and shock horror, I hated him with a passion. Erin grew stronger as the novella went on, and when she is on her own and in survival mode, is such an admirable character that you can’t help but root for. It had me flashing back to Stephen King’s “Cujo”, but with more brutality and terror. There is an incredibly disturbing, yet beautifully written birth scene that will STAY with you, and is probably the most frightening scene within the novella.
What I didn’t really like about the book: the inclusion of a new character with no backstory that did not need to be included as it didn’t really add anything to the story. Some of the plot lines felt a bit forced from the second half of the novella and there were various plot holes that I can’t really go into details about without spoiling, but how readily accepted they were was beyond me. This book also needed more werewolves!!
I’ll definitely be looking out for Sean’s future work.
3 full moons from me!
A fast-paced novella about survival, with themes of domestic abuse.
For me, this novella was a mix of positive and negatives, and overall, I liked the idea of the story.
Erin, a heavily pregnant woman on the verge of giving birth, and boyfriend Phillip, go for a drive to the Wicklow Mountains following yet another argument. The sense of foreboding and foreshadowing is great here and Erin’s ‘nags’ about having enough petrol in the car just make you instantly know that there isn’t and I just wanted them to drive so the story could really begin.
Sean can tell a story well, building tension and drama when it is most needed. The two main characters I felt, were well flushed out. Phillip is an abusive dick, and shock horror, I hated him with a passion. Erin grew stronger as the novella went on, and when she is on her own and in survival mode, is such an admirable character that you can’t help but root for. It had me flashing back to Stephen King’s “Cujo”, but with more brutality and terror. There is an incredibly disturbing, yet beautifully written birth scene that will STAY with you, and is probably the most frightening scene within the novella.
What I didn’t really like about the book: the inclusion of a new character with no backstory that did not need to be included as it didn’t really add anything to the story. Some of the plot lines felt a bit forced from the second half of the novella and there were various plot holes that I can’t really go into details about without spoiling, but how readily accepted they were was beyond me. This book also needed more werewolves!!
I’ll definitely be looking out for Sean’s future work.
3 full moons from me!
December 28, 2018
On the outskirts of Dublin City, a young couple's relationship hangs by a thread. Isolated and stressed, disputes turn physical, leaving a pregnant Erin Greene in a poor state of mental health, and Philip Montague wanting an escape. They decide to go on a drive and head for Erin's favorite place as a child, the Wicklow Mountains.
However, a simple oversight leaves them both stranded, with no fuel and a blizzard due.
With no other choice, Philip heads off to the nearest town in search of help, leaving his fiancee alone. With Philip gone and the inevitability of a snowstorm looming, Erin, in order to survive, must battle against her plagued mind and the supernatural elements that lie hidden deep in the hills. .
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Right away, I hate Phillip. The beginning was difficult for me to read with the abuse and gas lighting, having experienced some of this on my own life.. Once I was past that part and the story developed more, it got quite intense! The feeling of being isolated was strong, it was suspenseful and well written, which left me wanting more! I pretty much devoured this novella in one sitting!
I haven't read many werewolf books, (which I plan to change) but for being a creature feature I feel like they should have played am larger role in the story?
Overall I enjoyed The Mongrel, I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had some more structure. Sean is a good storyteller (especially when writing those suspenseful scenes 😱) and I look forward to seeing what else he comes up with!! 🙌🏻
3.5 rounded up to 4 on Goodreads!
However, a simple oversight leaves them both stranded, with no fuel and a blizzard due.
With no other choice, Philip heads off to the nearest town in search of help, leaving his fiancee alone. With Philip gone and the inevitability of a snowstorm looming, Erin, in order to survive, must battle against her plagued mind and the supernatural elements that lie hidden deep in the hills. .
.
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Right away, I hate Phillip. The beginning was difficult for me to read with the abuse and gas lighting, having experienced some of this on my own life.. Once I was past that part and the story developed more, it got quite intense! The feeling of being isolated was strong, it was suspenseful and well written, which left me wanting more! I pretty much devoured this novella in one sitting!
I haven't read many werewolf books, (which I plan to change) but for being a creature feature I feel like they should have played am larger role in the story?
Overall I enjoyed The Mongrel, I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had some more structure. Sean is a good storyteller (especially when writing those suspenseful scenes 😱) and I look forward to seeing what else he comes up with!! 🙌🏻
3.5 rounded up to 4 on Goodreads!
February 12, 2019
I’ve wanted to read The Mongrel since @jobis89 first posted about it, so when @soconnorauthor posted that only a few first edition paperback copies were still available, I officially broke my self-imposed book buying ban for the first time this year. It came in today’s mail, and as soon as my tiny human was in bed, I started reading and didn’t move until I finished.
It was a very quick read, due only in part to the actual length of the novella. The pace is perfect, jumping into the meat of the story immediately and building tension with every sentence. Without spending pages on the back stories of Erin and Phil, O’Connor tells us everything we need to know about them in order to follow the events told here and get invested in their story.
Yes, their relationship is a bit cliche, but Erin is a perfectly written textbook example of a battered woman, so while it’s frustrating to see her staying, it is a very real portrayal. Her conflicting feelings are on display throughout the book, and come across as very accurate, as well. Erin is portrayed so beautifully, even in horrific moments, that you can’t help but love and admire her, even while recognizing her flaws.
While The Mongrel is a wonderfully written novella, I think it could have benefited from being a bit longer; the third part in particular felt rushed and there were so many ideas and events crammed in that they all felt somewhat shortchanged. However, the book overall was a great read, and I have every intention of reading whatever Sean O’Connor writes in the future.
It was a very quick read, due only in part to the actual length of the novella. The pace is perfect, jumping into the meat of the story immediately and building tension with every sentence. Without spending pages on the back stories of Erin and Phil, O’Connor tells us everything we need to know about them in order to follow the events told here and get invested in their story.
Yes, their relationship is a bit cliche, but Erin is a perfectly written textbook example of a battered woman, so while it’s frustrating to see her staying, it is a very real portrayal. Her conflicting feelings are on display throughout the book, and come across as very accurate, as well. Erin is portrayed so beautifully, even in horrific moments, that you can’t help but love and admire her, even while recognizing her flaws.
While The Mongrel is a wonderfully written novella, I think it could have benefited from being a bit longer; the third part in particular felt rushed and there were so many ideas and events crammed in that they all felt somewhat shortchanged. However, the book overall was a great read, and I have every intention of reading whatever Sean O’Connor writes in the future.
June 10, 2020
🐺 review of The Mongrel by @__seanoconnor 🐺
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“𝚆𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚍𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚋𝚘𝚍𝚢 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚌 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚢 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚙 𝚞𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚕 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚕𝚍.”
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Thank you so much for this gifted copy (new cover + added bonus) @__seanoconnor ! You’ve definitely gained a new fan with this writing and I’ve already ordered the weeping season! 😍
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You know those books where you see your fears and you pat it on the head like “oh hello dear, there you are”. I think back to the time when I was pregnant and I literally thought of everything and in every situation that could go wrong. Always thinking of a back up plan. Always carrying around extra essentials and an emergency pack in my car. When your pregnant, your literally scared and preparing for the worst with everything. I think that’s when your mothering instincts kick in. .
The main character , Erin, gets stranded in the woods in the middle of a blizzard. She has no food, no water, and no gas. She is 8 months pregnant and there is something lurking in the woods. This books was fast paced and gripping. I had to sit this book down a couple of time to calm my racing pulse before picking it back up again. 5/5 ⭐️ My first time reading anything by this author and I’ll definitely be grabbing for more. 🐺
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“𝚆𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚍𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚋𝚘𝚍𝚢 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚒𝚏𝚞𝚕 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚌 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚙𝚕𝚊𝚢 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚙 𝚞𝚜𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚕 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚕𝚍.”
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Thank you so much for this gifted copy (new cover + added bonus) @__seanoconnor ! You’ve definitely gained a new fan with this writing and I’ve already ordered the weeping season! 😍
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You know those books where you see your fears and you pat it on the head like “oh hello dear, there you are”. I think back to the time when I was pregnant and I literally thought of everything and in every situation that could go wrong. Always thinking of a back up plan. Always carrying around extra essentials and an emergency pack in my car. When your pregnant, your literally scared and preparing for the worst with everything. I think that’s when your mothering instincts kick in. .
The main character , Erin, gets stranded in the woods in the middle of a blizzard. She has no food, no water, and no gas. She is 8 months pregnant and there is something lurking in the woods. This books was fast paced and gripping. I had to sit this book down a couple of time to calm my racing pulse before picking it back up again. 5/5 ⭐️ My first time reading anything by this author and I’ll definitely be grabbing for more. 🐺
April 25, 2019
This book was such a strong starter.
The protagonists being Erin Greene and Philip Montague. I was unsure if we, the reader, were supposed to dislike Philip in the beginning but he definitely came off extremely aggressive and immediately the toxicity of their relationship is quite obvious.
They transition to a different location quite quickly as they have been traveling in a car but here is where there are just too many coincidences for me. I started to predict things before they happened.
I see where the author was heading with the ending but personally I didn't care for it and I'm no author but would have preferred less supernatural in the ending and maybe not have Erin running back to Daddy. Fight for yourself and your baby woman!!
Seán O'Connor has definitely done a solid job of this and I'll definitely be reading more of him work.
The protagonists being Erin Greene and Philip Montague. I was unsure if we, the reader, were supposed to dislike Philip in the beginning but he definitely came off extremely aggressive and immediately the toxicity of their relationship is quite obvious.
They transition to a different location quite quickly as they have been traveling in a car but here is where there are just too many coincidences for me. I started to predict things before they happened.
I see where the author was heading with the ending but personally I didn't care for it and I'm no author but would have preferred less supernatural in the ending and maybe not have Erin running back to Daddy. Fight for yourself and your baby woman!!
Seán O'Connor has definitely done a solid job of this and I'll definitely be reading more of him work.
January 4, 2019
It's great to read a book with a real female protagonist in it. Erin Greene is a character with substance and depth, a confused young woman trapped between her over protective father and over bearing boyfriend, trying to do the best for her unborn child in the midst of ever mounting danger.
O'Connors prose is suspenseful and engaging, you are with Erin through every moment, every twists - and there are a few. A surreal novella that can easily be devoured in one sitting. I look forward to seeing more from this author.
O'Connors prose is suspenseful and engaging, you are with Erin through every moment, every twists - and there are a few. A surreal novella that can easily be devoured in one sitting. I look forward to seeing more from this author.
December 26, 2019
This book is a debut novella from Irish author. And wow!! For a debut it’s an amazing story. I read it in one sitting as it had me gripped from start to finish. This is the ultimate story of survival. A woman left stranded in a snow storm....pregnant.....in the mountains, what a hero that woman is! But you have to read the story to really find out how heroic she is. The mother in me is not ok 😭😭
Amazing!!
Amazing!!
September 16, 2018
I loved this book....till the very end of it. I was a tad disappointed by the end of it but on a whole I would recommend it, it kept me hooked throughout, always excited to see what happened next.
June 27, 2020
A five star book for the first half and then, the book changes. The addition of a creature is done in a different “voice”, it loses all the tension of the first half. The wolf was scarier . than the creature . The tone changes completely and it slogs along to a very weak and cliched ending.
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