THE BLOODING

by Patricia Windsor ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 1, 1996

Werewolves take on the role of ordinary family members by day, in this novel with strong erotic overtones by Windsor (The Christmas Killer, 1991, etc.). Maris Pelham grabs the chance to leave her unhappy American home and go to England for a summer as a mother's helper. Barb, the mother, has some mysterious illness and young Vicky and Adam seem frightened for their pet rabbit. At first Maris fears the father, Derek, but as she becomes irritated with Barb's outbursts, she begins to react to his overtures. Barb's suicide makes Maris and Derek's bond stronger, and eventually he admits that he is a werewolf and invites him to join her. Her growing delight in blood and in killing prey disturbs her human side, and she begins to wonder about the choice she has made. The book ends after a farmer shoots them; only Maris survives, to return to the US and an unknown future. This is fast-paced and lurid, perfect for bloodthirsty readers who want to linger over descriptions of tearing flesh; unresolved are the sensual issues of being an animal, the morality of killing for pleasure, and, far more disturbing, the unseemliness of older, married Derek luring Maris into her new life and then all but dismissing her. Strong stuff, requiring a strong stomach.

Pub Date: Oct. 1, 1996

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 281

Publisher: Scholastic

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 15, 1996

Categories: CHILDREN'S