Title: Such Sharp Teeth
Author: Rachel Harrison
Genre: Horror Comedy
Publisher: Titan Books
Pages: 320
Release Date: 9 May 2023
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Hello fellow book lovers! Today I'm sharing my review for Such Sharp Teeth by Rachel Harrison, a horror comedy that takes a refreshingly modern approach to werewolf lore that, I have to admit pleasantly surprised me.
I'm also hosting a giveaway on my stop of the Titan's Instagram blog tour so do head on over if you'd love to be in with a chance to win a copy.
Synopsis
A witty, moving tale of monsters and modern life from the award-winning author of Cackle and The Return. For readers looking for a story of sisterhood, complicated families and love with a bit more bite...
Rory Morris isn’t thrilled to be moving back to her hometown, even if it is temporary. There are bad memories there. But her twin sister, Scarlett, is pregnant, estranged from the baby’s father, and needs support, so Rory returns to the place she thought she’d put in her rearview. After a night out at a bar where she runs into an old almost-flame, she hits a large animal with her car. And when she gets out to investigate, she’s attacked.
Rory survives, miraculously, but life begins to look and feel different. She’s unnaturally strong, with an aversion to silver―and suddenly the moon has her in its thrall. She’s changing into someone else―something else, maybe even a monster. But does that mean she’s putting those close to her in danger? Or is embracing the wildness inside of her the key to acceptance?
A darkly comedic, part horror, part love story and a brilliantly layered portrait of trauma, rage, and vulnerability.
Review
Full of dark humour and a loveably snarky protagonist,Such Sharp Teeth explores trauma, rage, and the often complex road to recovery through a paranormal (and feminist) lens that definitely tugged at my heartstrings.
The viscerally grotesque imagery was really good and definitely stayed true to the genre, though do brace yourself if you’re even remotely squeamish as it’s not pretty. I must admit I was a little grossed out by some of the descriptions (particularly that horrifyingly detailed rat scene.)
However, the intensity and depth of emotions packed into these scenes—both in the aftermath of the attack and Rory’s first transformation—really resonated with me and will definitely appeal to anyone who loves flawed, nuanced characters confronting and overcoming the obstacles in their life.
I absolutely loved Rory, who is one of the most complex protagonists I’ve ever encountered. Having reluctantly agreed to temporarily move back to her hometown (and live) with her pregnant sister (who recently split from her long term boyfriend), Rory finds herself struggling to cope with the resurfacing memories of her past trauma and the relationships that have become strained as a result—and made infinitely more complicated by her new (secret) life as a werewolf.
Honestly, having found out what Rory had to go through as a child, I totally understood her frustration and rage, particularly at her mother. And though she managed to find the strength and fortitude to embark on the journey of self-acceptance and healing, I don’t think I could be nearly so forgiving had I been in Rory’s position.
Ian, however was an absolute cinnamon roll and I loved how patient he was with Rory throughout her dark and painful emotional crises. Watching their flirtation and relationship slowly unfold was just a genuine delight and only added to the swoon-worthiness.
Overall, a fiercely witty, ferociously feminist and heartfelt horror that’s perfect for newbies to the genre or anyone looking for something spooky to devour.
Also, thank you to Titan books for the finished copy
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
About The Author
Rachel Harrison is the National Bestselling author of CACKLE, SUCH SHARP TEETH, and THE RETURN, which was nominated for a Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a First Novel. Her short fiction has appeared in Guernica, Electric Literature's Recommended Reading, as an Audible Original, and in her debut story collection BAD DOLLS. She lives in Western New York with her husband and their cat/overlord
