The idea of covering a werewolf story when the beasts are at the brink of extinction is a compelling hook that leads to all sorts of possibilities. Glen Duncan’s “The Last Werewolf” posits just such a situation (but you probably got that from the title!) and turns the story into a literary success examining loneliness, regret, inevitability–and ultimately renewed hope. Taking its classic cues, however, from horror literature–Duncan has crafted a thoroughly entertaining and rewarding tale for adults that is as much about thoughts and emotions as it is about carnage and mayhem. Those looking for a quick fix of blood and guts certainly won’t be disappointed at the graphic depictions within Duncan’s text, but the joys to be had from this incredibly well written tome should not be limited to genre readers. Seriously, this is a story that crosses into the literary realm with its vivid prose and contemplative themes–and miraculously, it balances its sophistication and smarts with the expected brutality in very complicated and effective ways.

The story is told in a self confessional diary format written by the world’s last known werewolf Jacob Marlowe. Marlowe is resigned to his fate and plans to lay down his life for the team of international hunters that have expunged the rest of his brethren. He’s lived his life and every day must face the emotional consequences of his actions. It’s simply time. But Marlowe is not in full control of his destiny and, even as he readies for death, finds that the course to this final solution may still be impeded by unexpected obstacles. With brutal crimes enacted against his friends, a covert operation within the hunter ranks, an alternative plot arranged by other supernatural entities, and a last ditch chance at fulfillment and happiness–”The Last Werewolf” establishes and maintains a relentless pace. But through it all, Duncan never loses sight that this is a character piece of life or death significance.

I love werewolf tales. My contemporary favorite is the Martin Millar saga of a Lonely Werewolf Girl. But where that story embraces the lunacy and comedic potential of beasts in the modern age, Duncan plays it straight. He challenges readers to face the atrocities of his central character and to STILL care for him as an individual. At first, Duncan’s style surprised me and I wasn’t sure that I’d get hooked into this fundamentally human story. But the flow and pacing starts to establish an almost rhythmic feel and I started devouring the pages with ferocity. Emotionally satisfying and propulsively entertaining, I really enjoyed spending time with Marlowe and facing the world with him. Never having read Glen Duncan before, he is definitely someone I plan to follow and to check out his back catalogue of titles. Give this a chance, even if it isn’t your normal genre–Duncan is a seriously good writer! KGHarris, 5/11.