Breeds: A Grim and Gory Werewolf Tale That Misses the Mark ⭐⭐

Keith C. Blackmore’s Breeds is a violent, visceral take on werewolf lore. While the story delivers on its promise of brutality and dark suspense, it often feels bogged down by excessive descriptions and uneven pacing, making it a challenging read.

🚨 Spoilers Ahead! 🚨

The story follows Walter Borland, a grizzled, cantankerous old man living a solitary life in Newfoundland. But Borland harbors a deadly secret, he’s one of the oldest werewolves in existence, fiercely resisting the oppressive rule of the Elders who govern their kind. When assassins are sent to silence him, Borland fights back with a ferocity that reveals just how dangerous he truly is.

While the novel has its moments of tension and intrigue, the writing is often weighed down by overly detailed passages that distract from the action. Borland is an interesting protagonist, full of grit and dark humor, but the lack of character depth in supporting players makes it hard to stay invested in their fates.

Borland’s showdown with the first assassin showcases his cunning and sheer ruthlessness, setting the tone for the rest of the novel.

“Bring it, homie.” A rare moment of humor that humanizes Borland amidst the chaos.

The book’s strongest point is its depiction of raw, animalistic violence. Blackmore spares no detail in describing the gruesome battles and transformations, which will appeal to fans of visceral horror. However, the relentless gore and grim tone might alienate readers looking for more nuanced storytelling.

Overall, Breeds is a decent read for those who enjoy no-holds-barred werewolf tales, but its lack of character development and repetitive narrative make it difficult to fully recommend.

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