“The bullet we’re running from is almost never the one that hits us.”  – Toby Barlow, Sharp Teeth

Toby Barlow’s Sharp Teeth is one of my favourite books.

A few years back, I flew from London to New York City for the first time with a few friends and while browsing a store in Williamsburg, I came across a book sporting a striking red cover and ferocious dog on the front. I bought it for $3 and it was the best $3 I’ve ever spent.

The entire book is written in free form poetry and although I found it difficult to read for the first few pages, it didn’t take long to get immersed in Barlow’s rhythmic prose and get completely hooked – in fact, I read the entire book in two sittings.

To give away too much would spoil the experience, but here’s a brief synopsis (a little something for you to sink your teeth into)…

An ancient race of lycanthropes has survived to the present day, and its numbers are growing. Hell bent on supremacy, rival factions are recruiting the down-and-out of L.A. into their ranks. Caught in the crossfire are Anthony, a kind-hearted, lovesick dog-catcher, and the object of his affection: a female werewolf who has abandoned her pack.

And here’s an excerpt…

The tale is tender, yet the fangs are out from start to finish and in terms of originality, Toby Barlow’s Sharp Teeth is hard to beat.

Happy reading and if you do pick up a copy, please feel free to let me know what your think.