Gary Brandner ‘The Howling II’ Review
Written by: David Blackthorn
The sequel to The Howling is every bit as good as the first novel. Marcia and Roy are still alive and searching for Karen, even when she goes on the move. It’s a chase that leads to Mexico, to an area inhabited by gypsies. These gypsies, of course, dare not go against the commands of the werewolves, making things even more difficult for Karen.
There are bloody moments in this story, as one would expect. However, there are the more subtle torments which Karen must endure. She is forced to leave her new family behind and face her adversaries where her husband and stepson are clear of the danger.
Brandner manages to add in some new twists while keeping the back story and action coming. The gypsies have more involvement this time around, almost bringing to mind their minor role in the original Wolfman movie. Even Marcia’s character adds some new life into the tale, surviving the wound from the silver bullet in the first book but transforming into something more hideous as a result.
I would have liked a more exciting finish between Marcia and Karen but it was still a fun read. Anyone who has read the first book and enjoyed it will certainly get nearly as much pleasure from this one. This is classic werewolf terror as only Brandner can serve up. Subtle yet enjoyable.
Rating: 4.5/5
Horror Novel Reviews 
Never read any of these but I am interested. Is it best to read them in order? Your review makes it sound so.
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The first two in the series should certainly be read in order as they share some of the same characters. The second picks up a few years after the first but is definately a continuation. I’ve started reading the third, which shares a bit in common but could be considered more of a stand alone to the point I’ve reached. I’ll let you all know more when I finish and review the third 🙂
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