I LOVE shapeshifters of all kinds, so finding this was a dream-come-true. I wish some of them were longer, especially the one where the woman turns into the spider. Overall, this is one of the few anthologies I would recommend and I hope this gets turned into an audio version so I can listen to it! Either way, I'm grabbing a copy for myself - thank you!

WereTales: Shapeshifter Anthology is a dark, thrilling, and deeply atmospheric collection that brings together a talented group of authors to explore the fascinating world of shapeshifters. With stories ranging from werewolves and berserkers to kitsune and trickster spirits, this anthology captures the eerie, primal allure of shapeshifting beings. It’s an exhilarating mix of horror, mystery, dark fantasy, and even a touch of humor, with each story offering a unique take on the mythic figures that have haunted human folklore for centuries.

The anthology features contributions from a stellar lineup of authors, including Jonathan Maberry, Stephanie Ellis, Gabino Iglesias, and Michelle Garza, just to name a few. Each writer brings their own voice and vision to the genre, ensuring a diverse and dynamic reading experience. The result is a series of stories that are as varied as they are captivating, ranging from terrifying accounts of monstrous transformations to tales of shapeshifters who use their abilities for trickery or humor.

The strength of WereTales lies in its ability to blend mythology with modern sensibilities. Some stories delve into deep, psychological horror, while others offer lighter, more playful takes on shapeshifting creatures. The wide array of tones—from chilling to strange and whimsical—keeps the anthology fresh and engaging throughout. Whether you’re looking for spine-tingling suspense or a clever twist on the familiar, this anthology delivers it all.

The diversity of shapeshifters represented in the collection is particularly noteworthy. There’s no shortage of werewolves, but readers will also find berserkers, fox spirits, and other lesser-known creatures that add depth and variety to the genre. Whether these shapeshifters are foes, allies, or victims themselves, their transformations serve as powerful metaphors for themes of identity, loss, and the human struggle with our darker instincts.

The writing throughout the anthology is consistently strong, with each author bringing a compelling narrative style to their work. Some stories are haunting and thought-provoking, while others provide heart-pounding action or moments of dark humor. The versatility of the authors ensures that there is something for every reader, whether you’re a fan of traditional horror, fantasy, or even speculative fiction.

WereTales isn’t just a collection for fans of shapeshifters—it’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys dark fiction that explores the boundaries between humanity and monstrosity. The anthology’s blend of mythology, horror, and literary talent makes it a standout in the genre.

Rating: 4.5/5

If you’re a fan of shapeshifters, folklore, or just enjoy well-crafted, immersive short stories that will leave you both unsettled and intrigued, WereTales is a collection you won’t want to miss.