Mark J. Engels

With a surprise transformation, Pawly and her twin brother suddenly discover their family's big secret. They're part of a clan of werecats.

The story mainly focusses on Pawly and her uncle Ritzi. It's half a coming-of age tale - as the twins work through the challenges of adapting to their new reality and now-secret existence - and half suspense/thriller, as the adults deal with various groups that want to exploit their people.

The characters' intertwining stories made for an enjoyable read. The inclusion of non-English words added depth, although it would have been helpful if their meanings were more explicitly presented. Sometimes the context wasn't quite enough to get what was being said.

With a lot of action and conflict, and family drama too, this is a gripping story of some members of the modern-day remnant of an ancient clan of werecats trying to come to terms with their "Affliction", as they call it, while at the same time trying to do their best for their family. They make questionable choices and do questionable things, with all sorts of consequences, as they just try to help their family. It makes for an engaging read.… (meer)

Always Grey in Winter by Mark J. Engels is an epic science fiction tale full of shapeshifters, secrets, and military war.

Pawlina Katczynski is a werecat. A shapeshifter. She's special and that's what makes her dangerous. All of the shapeshifters are potential deadly weapons, so the Polish military is after them. The feuds and battles have gone on for years, and now the fighting is only going to get worse. Throw in family secrets, dangerous love affairs, and a wicked threat, and you've got yourself one epic storyline.

Mark J. Engels has crafted a thrill ride that reminds me of The Bourne series mixed with The Fast and the Furious, all topped with shapeshifting fantasy. The book is intense, complex, and a great read for those who really want to amp up their reading time. I highly recommend this book as it's a great sci-fi tale with lots of intrigue.

Four out of five stars!

I received this book for free from the author, Mark J. Engels, in exchange for an honest review.… (meer)