Full Moon Madness

Full Moon Madness is my first tale by Beth Wylde, though after finishing it, I am sure it will not be my last. Currently Beth has only one other story available, Switching Sides, a short lesbian novella in the third Red Silk Diaries anthology, but she does have more works in the pipeline. Currently a stand alone, Full Moon Madness has the potential to be developed into a great series, though at present the author gives no indication that this is her intent.

Full Moon Madness is an electrifying read and kept my eyes riveted to the screen. Though not for the faint of heart, this is a simply superb paranormal novella that I am glad I took the time to devour – I think you will be too when you also read this great tale, as you should. Make no mistake, Ms Wylde has a way of putting a story together that has a little of everything: high emotions, steamy sex, suspense, some violence and a tad of the paranormal, all coming together to make one fabulous, fast-paced read.

Tara's life had been perfect up until six months ago. She had had a devoted husband, Bryan, and a wonderful four year old little girl. Then Bryan was shot in the line of duty, and he hasn't been the same since. Their relationship is not what it used to be. He's more distant, unwilling to share himself, but she still loves him as much as she ever did. Awaking from a nightmare one night, she is concerned when she notes Bryan also in the throes of struggling with his own night terrors – until she finds his hand wrapped around her throat, squeezing the very breath from her. Then her concern becomes her very life. When he wakes in the nick of time, he's horrified and determined to leave, without explanation or justification. Just like that, this once gentle and loving man is going to throw away their marriage. Tara cannot allow him to do that. But even she is unprepared for the secrets Bryan has been keeping from her, or the consequences these secrets are to have on her own life. The reality of Bryan's existence is brutally forced on Tara, but she is determined to pull through for the sake of her family. Revenge is sweet, and protecting one's own is all important. Will Tara manage either?

Full Moon Madness has proven to be a stunning story that captured my attention from the get go and didn't release me until it was ready to. Much in the story came as a complete surprise, largely because the author, Ms Wylde, has a talent for keeping her plot secret from her readers until ready to reveal all, but also because the publisher does not advise us/the reader of the violence or rape contained herein (*frown*). Full Moon Madness is a rapid paced novella with a dash of everything, including suspense, hot sex, werewolves and much more. Please be warned that whilst this tale is sure to get your heart pounding and keep your gaze firmly affixed to the screen, it is not for everyone. There are multiple scenes of violence, some of which result in murder. There is also a brutal rape, though there is also consensual sex which is de-li-cious. All of this does get described, rather than glossed over, so if you cannot bear to read this then sadly you'd best give this tale a wide birth. There is nudity and some sex in front of other individuals, which is all part of being a werewolf. If you're willing to risk it, like myself (although I didn't know any of this was coming and at first was a bit taken aback), you should find yourself enjoying a novella that is so much more than it's length or synopsis promises and I doubt you'll regret picking up this fabulous tale.

Reviewed By Elizabeth
© September 2006