Title: The Cat
Author: Jean Johnson
First published June 3, 2008
361 pages, Trade Paperback
ISBN: 9780425221495 (ISBN10: 0425221490)
Rating: 4.03
Overview
Eliana has always been cautious around magic users. After all, they are the reason she lost everything she held dear.
However, when she meets the infamous mage, Lucien of Shadowcrest, she can’t help but feel drawn to him. But can she trust him with her darkest secret?
Pursuing a woman as guarded as Eliana won’t be easy, but Lucien is determined to win her over. She may be strong-willed, independent, and from a completely different world, but as the infamous Cat, Lucien knows he’s up for the challenge.
About the Author
Meet Jean Johnson, a talented author hailing from the Pacific Northwest. With a passion for writing romance and science fiction, Jean has made a name for herself in the literary world.
When she’s not crafting stories, she can be found participating in the Society for Creative Anachronism, singing, or playfully arguing with her cat over who gets to sit in her office chair. Jean’s writing is not only entertaining, but infused with a unique sense of humor that is sure to captivate readers.
While she currently resides in a cozy home with modern amenities, Jean dreams of one day transforming it into a castle complete with turrets and ramparts. Connect with Jean and share in her love of storytelling!
Editoral Review
The Cat by Jean Johnson is a unique addition to the fantasy genre, offering a refreshing take on the familiar concept of shapeshifters. Johnson’s writing is engaging and imaginative, skillfully balancing action, romance, and world-building.
The novel follows the story of Lily, a young woman who discovers that she has the ability to transform into a cat. As she struggles to come to terms with her new identity, she becomes embroiled in a dangerous conflict between two rival shapeshifter clans.
Along the way, she meets a charismatic alpha male named Sean, who becomes her partner in both love and war.
One of the strengths of The Cat is its world-building. Johnson creates a vivid and detailed setting, populated by a diverse cast of characters with their own unique abilities and motivations.
The conflicts between the clans are complex and nuanced, with no clear-cut villains or heroes.
The romance between Lily and Sean is also well-executed, with plenty of chemistry and tension. However, some readers may find Sean’s alpha male persona to be somewhat clichéd.
Johnson’s prose is accessible and engaging, with a good balance of dialogue and description. The pacing is generally strong, although there are a few slow sections in the middle of the book.
One possible weakness of The Cat is its lack of originality in terms of its basic premise. Shapeshifters are a common trope in fantasy literature, and some readers may find the concept to be derivative.
Additionally, some of the plot twists and character motivations may be predictable for experienced readers.
Overall, The Cat is a well-crafted and entertaining read that will appeal to fans of fantasy and paranormal romance. While it may not break new ground in terms of its concepts, it offers a fresh and engaging take on familiar themes.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun and engaging read, particularly those who enjoy shapeshifter stories. I would give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.