On Writing "Catch a Wolf"

I had a lot of fun writing the sequel to my debut novel, “In a Wolf’s Eyes”. Not only was it fun getting my characters out of the predicament I put them in, and, of course, dropping them into other life-threatening situations, I found myself delving into the realms of subplots and inner turmoil. When I read a book, whether it be a Stephen King horror, a Dick Francis mystery or a Tami Hoag thriller, I always got a kick out of the very human side of the characters created by authors like these. Perhaps I even learned something from them.

“In a Wolf’s Eyes” set up the essential plot and gave my readers the characters they both loved and hated, and a storyline to follow. But “Catch a Wolf” sets the stage for Raine’s innermost terrors – the beast within himself. He doesn’t want to acknowledge he’s different from everyone else. He’s terrified of finding out what he truly is and hides from the truth. He runs from what he is and refuses to accept the base creature that is himself.

Ly’Tana also suspects there’s something unique about her. Like Raine, she’s frightened of the influences granted her by the powers that be, and wishes such had never come to her. She has the power none other can wield, and that power can be removed from her – if she wants it badly enough. But does she really? While it scares her silly, does she dare spurn such a gift?

Raine and Ly’Tana find themselves falling desperately, headlong in love with one another. Yet, both realize their union can never be. Ly’Tana knows her father will never permit it. Raine believes he’s not good enough for her, and never will be. I think that was probably the most fun of all: letting them fall for each other while knowing it’ll never work.

But will it work?

I dunno. Do you?