TANTALIZE

A graphic adaptation of Leitich Smith’s werewolf-vampire-culinary thriller from a new point of view.

In this retelling, illustrated by the capable Doyle, readers are privy to teenage werewolf Kieren’s viewpoint, whereas the original novel was told through the eyes of his love interest, Quincie. In a somewhat alternative Austin, Texas, werepeople and vampires mingle in everyday society. Kieren, a werewolf-human hybrid, is at a crossroads in his adolescent life: He must leave human society to join a wolf pack, though he is in love with his best friend, Quincie, a tragically beautiful human orphan. When a rash of murders and disappearances hits too close to home, Kieren is suspected, who resolves he will try to unearth the real killer and save Quincie from whatever evil lurks in their midst. Though fans of the original might enjoy hearing the tale from Kieren’s perspective, readers unfamiliar with the novel may feel a bit left out; the segues between scenes can be abrupt and confusing, and some details are quickly glossed over, giving this adaptation the feel of a book-to-movie type of condensation, in which previous knowledge of the prose is an utter necessity.

In a densely populated teen-lit landscape of werewolves, vamps and unrequited love, this doesn’t stand out, but it will likely find its readership. (Graphic supernatural romance. 13 & up)