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Tracks
"It ain't nothin' like you've ever seen before, Sheriff."
That was when Sheriff Cotton Briggs found the body, slaughtered beyond recognition inside a random boxcar. The trains have always moved through McGregor Falls, Texas, but now they have brought something into town, something Briggs had hoped was forever in the past.
Fifteen-year-old Travis Braniff while exploring an old trainyard with a friend, encounters that same something. Both boys escape the creature's murderous intent, but now it is after them and will stop at nothing to prevent its secret from being revealed...too soon.
In Lyn I. Kelly's newest novel, the werewolf mythology is explored and rewritten, as vengeance is rendered onto a small Texas town and secrets are revealed. Skinwalker. Lycanthrope. Werewolf. Whatever the name, whatever the legend, an old evil has found its way into McGregor Falls, and no one is safe.
That was when Sheriff Cotton Briggs found the body, slaughtered beyond recognition inside a random boxcar. The trains have always moved through McGregor Falls, Texas, but now they have brought something into town, something Briggs had hoped was forever in the past.
Fifteen-year-old Travis Braniff while exploring an old trainyard with a friend, encounters that same something. Both boys escape the creature's murderous intent, but now it is after them and will stop at nothing to prevent its secret from being revealed...too soon.
In Lyn I. Kelly's newest novel, the werewolf mythology is explored and rewritten, as vengeance is rendered onto a small Texas town and secrets are revealed. Skinwalker. Lycanthrope. Werewolf. Whatever the name, whatever the legend, an old evil has found its way into McGregor Falls, and no one is safe.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2022
123 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
February 2, 2025
✒︎4 stars
I liked this book a lot more than the other book that my local librarian recently recommended to me. It seems that she has a specific kind of trope that she gravitates to when reading horror/thriller books...
Tracks follows a couple different characters after a horrific and grisly murder took place near some of the town's railroad tracks. As the investigation unfolds, more strange and inhuman things begin to take place, and one of our main characters, 15 year-old Travis, unintentionally finds himself in the middle of it all.
The plot in this book was solid. The story developed at the perfect pace- not too fast, but also not too slow. The book never felt boring, but it also didn't feel rushed from beginning to end. We find out fairly early on as to who- or what- is the real culprit of the murders, but other events start to take place that fill out the storyline well. There is a rhyme and a reason to where this serial killer comes from- it's never left unexplained. The ending was also satisfying, and didn't leave any loose ends (as far as I can remember.)
I thought that the gore was tasteful as well. The author went into a good enough amount of detail that I was disturbed and on edge, but never overdid it. Although this book is certainly an adult book, it felt pretty tame in the horror sense of things, though this didn't take away anything from the book. If anything, it made it more enjoyable to read.
Overall, this was a fun read that I can't really complain much about. It's not at that five star level for me since I find it's hard for me to really connect to or enjoy horror/thriller books than I do with other genres, but it's not a bad book by any means.
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I liked this book a lot more than the other book that my local librarian recently recommended to me. It seems that she has a specific kind of trope that she gravitates to when reading horror/thriller books...
Tracks follows a couple different characters after a horrific and grisly murder took place near some of the town's railroad tracks. As the investigation unfolds, more strange and inhuman things begin to take place, and one of our main characters, 15 year-old Travis, unintentionally finds himself in the middle of it all.
The plot in this book was solid. The story developed at the perfect pace- not too fast, but also not too slow. The book never felt boring, but it also didn't feel rushed from beginning to end. We find out fairly early on as to who- or what- is the real culprit of the murders, but other events start to take place that fill out the storyline well. There is a rhyme and a reason to where this serial killer comes from- it's never left unexplained. The ending was also satisfying, and didn't leave any loose ends (as far as I can remember.)
I thought that the gore was tasteful as well. The author went into a good enough amount of detail that I was disturbed and on edge, but never overdid it. Although this book is certainly an adult book, it felt pretty tame in the horror sense of things, though this didn't take away anything from the book. If anything, it made it more enjoyable to read.
Overall, this was a fun read that I can't really complain much about. It's not at that five star level for me since I find it's hard for me to really connect to or enjoy horror/thriller books than I do with other genres, but it's not a bad book by any means.
✂︎----------
Check me out on other platforms!
✒︎Instagram
✒︎YouTube
✒︎Patreon
February 25, 2023
This was an awesome read. I have recently re-evaluated my scoring system. With my new system I would have given more 4 stars and less 5 stars in the past. I feel that when I finish a book, wishing there would be a sequel, then it deserves a 5 star rating. To say the least there was never a boring moment. Everything moved fast. There was little that was predictable. I would really encourage you readers of this genre to try this book out.
September 8, 2022
Great Read
Great Werewolf book with suspense and a detailed plot of many facets. My first read by this author and not my last. I hope there is a second book, if so I'm reading it. I must read...All in all Great Read
Great Werewolf book with suspense and a detailed plot of many facets. My first read by this author and not my last. I hope there is a second book, if so I'm reading it. I must read...All in all Great Read
November 6, 2023
A book like Tracks can easily fly under the radar with a less established author writing supernatural fiction, but this one is an unmistakable sign of greatness that shouldn't be overlooked by horror fans.
Tracks has nuanced characters and thoughtful thrills while maintaining a propulsive pace and an exciting narrative. Kelly has a strong sense of the balance necessary to elicit suspension-of-disbelief in a supernatural story.
The closest comparisons I can make are with other under-the-radar gems like Tim Curran's Skull Moon and Owl Goingback's Crota. Another would be Alister Hodge's book The Cavern.
I don't think I've ever read a book in which a character's retort is characterized as "pungent," but man, is it effective and functional. Kelly knows when to take risks and when to use familiar signposts to guide the reader through the narrative, parts of which are arranged with alternating character perspectives within a chapter as it builds to a reveal--wonderfully effective for maximizing suspense and surprise while building momentum.
The ending is an elegant, delicate construction that touches all the right notes and ties up the loose ends. If you've exhausted a to-read list of the more readily available and heavily recommended supernatural horror titles, Fortean County and McGregor Falls are your next destination. Pack your carpet bag and maybe a little thermite, it's going to be a bumpy ride across these Tracks.
Tracks has nuanced characters and thoughtful thrills while maintaining a propulsive pace and an exciting narrative. Kelly has a strong sense of the balance necessary to elicit suspension-of-disbelief in a supernatural story.
The closest comparisons I can make are with other under-the-radar gems like Tim Curran's Skull Moon and Owl Goingback's Crota. Another would be Alister Hodge's book The Cavern.
I don't think I've ever read a book in which a character's retort is characterized as "pungent," but man, is it effective and functional. Kelly knows when to take risks and when to use familiar signposts to guide the reader through the narrative, parts of which are arranged with alternating character perspectives within a chapter as it builds to a reveal--wonderfully effective for maximizing suspense and surprise while building momentum.
The ending is an elegant, delicate construction that touches all the right notes and ties up the loose ends. If you've exhausted a to-read list of the more readily available and heavily recommended supernatural horror titles, Fortean County and McGregor Falls are your next destination. Pack your carpet bag and maybe a little thermite, it's going to be a bumpy ride across these Tracks.
September 11, 2022
Tracks
Whew, this was a doozy! One of the best written of wolf tales, and different as well. Right up there with JR Rice's Bane County. And well edited to boot. I only noticed 2 errors toward the end, and the action was going so fast by that point that I didn't care. I could've done without the sex scene, but it was important to the story, not just thrown in there. I would've liked for Beverly to get a man, the hookers to have gotten some kicks in, one lives and they all think she's nuts type, and where is Reilly? Hopefully it's her tracking Travis. I really liked her. Rainey was too possessive, even towards Reilly before either of them were bitten. Really hoping for book 2!! Very well done.
Whew, this was a doozy! One of the best written of wolf tales, and different as well. Right up there with JR Rice's Bane County. And well edited to boot. I only noticed 2 errors toward the end, and the action was going so fast by that point that I didn't care. I could've done without the sex scene, but it was important to the story, not just thrown in there. I would've liked for Beverly to get a man, the hookers to have gotten some kicks in, one lives and they all think she's nuts type, and where is Reilly? Hopefully it's her tracking Travis. I really liked her. Rainey was too possessive, even towards Reilly before either of them were bitten. Really hoping for book 2!! Very well done.
October 2, 2022
Gripping
This book had me trapped from the beginning. It peaks your interest and holds it. Fast paced with never a dull moment. I would have liked a little more Native American in put. Well written. I appreciate the lack of heavy curse words, especially the "f" word. They add nothing to the story!!
Ready for the second book.
This book had me trapped from the beginning. It peaks your interest and holds it. Fast paced with never a dull moment. I would have liked a little more Native American in put. Well written. I appreciate the lack of heavy curse words, especially the "f" word. They add nothing to the story!!
Ready for the second book.
July 17, 2022
Not your average werewolf story. Love the Native American legend of Skinwalkers and how he ties it all together. Definitely a book you can not put down. I will be obviously waiting the next book in the series. I sincerely hope he continues this storyline. So many possibilities...
October 21, 2022
Creative, deliciously tense, well paced and a flawless balance of mystery, suspension and action, descriptive without being gratuitous Kelly has a masterful grip on the thriller genre and the creature feature.
September 28, 2022
A really good book, fast moving and scary book. Great plot and I would love more books like this or
sequences Best Werewolf book I have read
.
sequences Best Werewolf book I have read
.
October 7, 2022
Tracks: You'll soon find out why the name
No spoiler that you know from the beginning a werewolf or something related is in this story. A body is torn to pieces and found at an old train switching yard. The characters are built for a few chapters then the plot is set. However, there are a few twists and turns to keep you guessing how the end will play out. Things don't necessarily turn out like you hope; either good or bad. This is a must read.
No spoiler that you know from the beginning a werewolf or something related is in this story. A body is torn to pieces and found at an old train switching yard. The characters are built for a few chapters then the plot is set. However, there are a few twists and turns to keep you guessing how the end will play out. Things don't necessarily turn out like you hope; either good or bad. This is a must read.
October 23, 2022
tracks is a read. Job well done in Lyn I. Kelly
I enjoyed this book. The characters well enjoyable to read about. The kids in this book had substance. Would like to read more.
I enjoyed this book. The characters well enjoyable to read about. The kids in this book had substance. Would like to read more.
September 17, 2023
This book was an absolute delight. I won't bore you with the story basics - as you can find those easily - but the story is well told. The book has a steady pace, never rushing the story along but never the tendency to get dull either. The characters are well worked out, the dialogue was natural and the story is realistic (as far as possible with a subject as this, of course). It was a chance recommendation from Amazon and I'm glad I followed up on it. I would love to read more but I can easily live with the story as it is.
July 23, 2023
He could smell death - there was no other way to describe it - on the creatures breath. It took in a deep breath, its eyes branding themselves into Travis', before gurgling out its malodorous exhalation in a repugnant fog.
Werewolf stories are a dime a dozen, and actually wading through the troves of rather mediocre creature feature novels to unearth that rare gem is a job in and of itself. However, it's an undertaking that's massively worth the effort, as every once in a while you stumble upon a novel like Tracks. This is a werewolf novel that's actually bloody terrifying, it combines all the eerie and spooky small town horror vibes that make the genre so great, with unnerving and grotesque portrayals of beasts that elicit true dread.
In a similar vein to other books in the horror genre, Tracks starts out paced on the slower side. Tension carefully builds as the pages pass, eventually giving way to out-and-out, heart pounding action. This is by no means a typical werewolf novel, truly, this is something quite unique, full of folkloric wonder and superstitious tales. It seems almost grounded in reality, seeking to utterly terrify readers with werewolves that feel as if they should really exist. With page upon page stuffed full of lore, this is perhaps one of the best werewolf novels out there.
Tracks does end on a slight cliffhanger, a fact which, in many novels, does nothing but irritate me to no end. However, here, the reader isn't left guessing over major details, there's no serious plot points that go unanswered, it's just more than a little obvious that the groundwork has been laid for a second novel. Personally, that's something I'd love to see. This was a beautifully tense story, and visiting these characters once more would be a delight.
The sound of a distant train suddenly shatters his solitude, haunting the night, temporarily silencing the other sounds about him. He listens as it cries, its disharmony all too familiar.
Werewolf stories are a dime a dozen, and actually wading through the troves of rather mediocre creature feature novels to unearth that rare gem is a job in and of itself. However, it's an undertaking that's massively worth the effort, as every once in a while you stumble upon a novel like Tracks. This is a werewolf novel that's actually bloody terrifying, it combines all the eerie and spooky small town horror vibes that make the genre so great, with unnerving and grotesque portrayals of beasts that elicit true dread.
In a similar vein to other books in the horror genre, Tracks starts out paced on the slower side. Tension carefully builds as the pages pass, eventually giving way to out-and-out, heart pounding action. This is by no means a typical werewolf novel, truly, this is something quite unique, full of folkloric wonder and superstitious tales. It seems almost grounded in reality, seeking to utterly terrify readers with werewolves that feel as if they should really exist. With page upon page stuffed full of lore, this is perhaps one of the best werewolf novels out there.
"Caught between the glow of fire and shadow of trees, stood a macabre vision Travis knew would forever be seared in his memory. He had seen it in the switching yard, but that had been in the darkness. Now, he was seeing it for what it was. It rested on two legs like a man, a hulking man larger than anyone he had ever seen, but that is where its humanity ended. It was matted with fur, a thick, grisly dark fur excepting on its chest and stomach where the hair tapered off, exposing overly sinewed muscle pulsing under dark calloused flesh."
Tracks does end on a slight cliffhanger, a fact which, in many novels, does nothing but irritate me to no end. However, here, the reader isn't left guessing over major details, there's no serious plot points that go unanswered, it's just more than a little obvious that the groundwork has been laid for a second novel. Personally, that's something I'd love to see. This was a beautifully tense story, and visiting these characters once more would be a delight.
The sound of a distant train suddenly shatters his solitude, haunting the night, temporarily silencing the other sounds about him. He listens as it cries, its disharmony all too familiar.
October 20, 2023
Werewolves. Bipedal. Long fangs. Tall pointy ears. Sharp claws. And the very unnatural way they look and move. All very horrific. One of my favorite cryptids.
Imagine one of these creatures stalking you. Waiting for the right time and place. And then……. there’s no place to hide. That’s what happens to Travis and his best friend. They’re just doing what teenagers do. Out exploring a trainyard. Then they see something. Something unnatural. And it sees them.
The killings begin. One body after another. Bloody, mangled corpses. What’s strange is there seems to be a purpose to the killings. Soon you learn this isn’t the first time the beast has visited McGregor Falls. It’s back to settle the score.
This story moves quickly, the plot is unique, and the characters, even the minor ones, are genuine. But don’t get too attached. The werewolves are cunning. They like a game of cat and mouse before they move in to rip you to shreds.
I can’t remember how I came across this book. Maybe it was the cover. Eerie and foreboding. Whatever made me stop and take a closer look, I’m glad. This was a howling good read.
Imagine one of these creatures stalking you. Waiting for the right time and place. And then……. there’s no place to hide. That’s what happens to Travis and his best friend. They’re just doing what teenagers do. Out exploring a trainyard. Then they see something. Something unnatural. And it sees them.
The killings begin. One body after another. Bloody, mangled corpses. What’s strange is there seems to be a purpose to the killings. Soon you learn this isn’t the first time the beast has visited McGregor Falls. It’s back to settle the score.
This story moves quickly, the plot is unique, and the characters, even the minor ones, are genuine. But don’t get too attached. The werewolves are cunning. They like a game of cat and mouse before they move in to rip you to shreds.
I can’t remember how I came across this book. Maybe it was the cover. Eerie and foreboding. Whatever made me stop and take a closer look, I’m glad. This was a howling good read.
March 17, 2024
A great balance of suspense and horror. Cleverly written with a few meaningful plot twists.
I always appreciate new takes on a familiar legend. Usually when we encounter the character in the role of the beast, its’ behavior is fueled by instinct, survival. In this version the animal side retains human intelligence and memory, and the creature side is used for revenge.
A spate of brutal killings in a small Texas city starts the story. More killing ensues, but messages are left at the crime scene for the local sheriff, whom the killer has had previous encounters. The rest of the narrative is settling old scores and protecting the pack.
There is lots of gore and graphic violence, probably not suited for young readers.
Can recommend.
I always appreciate new takes on a familiar legend. Usually when we encounter the character in the role of the beast, its’ behavior is fueled by instinct, survival. In this version the animal side retains human intelligence and memory, and the creature side is used for revenge.
A spate of brutal killings in a small Texas city starts the story. More killing ensues, but messages are left at the crime scene for the local sheriff, whom the killer has had previous encounters. The rest of the narrative is settling old scores and protecting the pack.
There is lots of gore and graphic violence, probably not suited for young readers.
Can recommend.
April 3, 2023
Tracks.
I've read a couple of werewolf novels and they've been pretty much the same but Tracks was different. The plot, the surroundings, the werewolves were all different than anything else I had read in this genre. The biggest difference, though, was the writing style. Most times the words are just words but in Tracks they're like a projector casting images to my mind's eye. As I read I was able to see what was happening, the author's description of each scene being so complete. The book is an adventure and I'm glad to have experienced it.
I've read a couple of werewolf novels and they've been pretty much the same but Tracks was different. The plot, the surroundings, the werewolves were all different than anything else I had read in this genre. The biggest difference, though, was the writing style. Most times the words are just words but in Tracks they're like a projector casting images to my mind's eye. As I read I was able to see what was happening, the author's description of each scene being so complete. The book is an adventure and I'm glad to have experienced it.
January 16, 2023
This is not my usual reading
I am usually a murder mystery, thriller reader. But this came up as a suggestion, so I tried it. The characters are many and multilayered. The story captivated me . The chapters changed narrators so it was confusing sometimes but they were labeled. I did enjoy this book much more than I expected. If you are looking for something different give it a go.
I am usually a murder mystery, thriller reader. But this came up as a suggestion, so I tried it. The characters are many and multilayered. The story captivated me . The chapters changed narrators so it was confusing sometimes but they were labeled. I did enjoy this book much more than I expected. If you are looking for something different give it a go.
August 24, 2023
Werewolves Who Knew
I really enjoyed this book. Been a long time since I've read anything having to do with the existence of werewolves. This one has a great storyline and excellent characters that you hope live long lives but sadly they do not. If you decide to read this one know it is an excellent story but its going to blow apart everything you've ever read or seen when it comes to the existence of werewolves😁
I really enjoyed this book. Been a long time since I've read anything having to do with the existence of werewolves. This one has a great storyline and excellent characters that you hope live long lives but sadly they do not. If you decide to read this one know it is an excellent story but its going to blow apart everything you've ever read or seen when it comes to the existence of werewolves😁
October 11, 2023
A different take on werewolves
The first thing that got my attention was the werewolf storyline. I like a good werewolf story that does make the werewolf into a tortured soul that has to deal with a terrible curse, wringing of hands, that they have wrongly been given. This one is just an exciting story from beginning to end. You do have two sides to deal with in this story the werewolves, who see themselves as the
The first thing that got my attention was the werewolf storyline. I like a good werewolf story that does make the werewolf into a tortured soul that has to deal with a terrible curse, wringing of hands, that they have wrongly been given. This one is just an exciting story from beginning to end. You do have two sides to deal with in this story the werewolves, who see themselves as the
January 18, 2024
I read this book in 3 days, that’s how enjoyable it was. Besides Jeff Robin’s amazingly dark and fun “Return of the Wolf Man” this is Absolutely the best werewolf book I’ve ever read (and I’ve read a lot)
Just a breeze to read. So fast given its 400+ pages.
The only thing I had an issue with was the normalcy of folk talking about regular wolves roaming around Texas, as there hasn’t been wolves in Texas in ages. But I’ll let that slide because this book was just that much fun.
Just a breeze to read. So fast given its 400+ pages.
The only thing I had an issue with was the normalcy of folk talking about regular wolves roaming around Texas, as there hasn’t been wolves in Texas in ages. But I’ll let that slide because this book was just that much fun.
December 20, 2022
Very nicely done
Well, this book was really good from beginning to end. As I got closer to the end I could only get excited about a follow up book. Everything pointed to another book to answer the question what happens next? Disappointed the author chose not to continue but its still well worth the read.
Well, this book was really good from beginning to end. As I got closer to the end I could only get excited about a follow up book. Everything pointed to another book to answer the question what happens next? Disappointed the author chose not to continue but its still well worth the read.
January 30, 2023
Whoa! Just whoa! I really loved how the book was written and the story it told. I spoke with the author for a little bit before buying the book at a con. Both my daughter and I read this book together and it was the perfect bonding time for teenager and mother. I don’t want to give anything away but 10/10 I definitely recommend reading this book. Can’t wait to read other titles by this author.
February 4, 2023
Wow! Just wow!
This is an amazing read. Sometimes it did come off a bit childish but that aside this is the best werewolf book I have read in a long while. In fact one of the best books I have read in a while. Very gripping and an amazing buildup that leads to a spectacular ending. I just wish this hadn’t ended!
This is an amazing read. Sometimes it did come off a bit childish but that aside this is the best werewolf book I have read in a long while. In fact one of the best books I have read in a while. Very gripping and an amazing buildup that leads to a spectacular ending. I just wish this hadn’t ended!
February 28, 2023
A sleepy Texas town awakens to terror
Lyn I. Kelly does a superb work crafting Native American lore, in depth character development, a few " red herrings" , references to actual towns, roadways and areas into this tale.
Being a native Texan, I especially enjoyed this.
A page turner that is worth the time.
Lyn I. Kelly does a superb work crafting Native American lore, in depth character development, a few " red herrings" , references to actual towns, roadways and areas into this tale.
Being a native Texan, I especially enjoyed this.
A page turner that is worth the time.
March 1, 2023
Loved it!!
Other than Bane County , Tracks is one of the better werewolf books I have read. Ready for a sequel please. I loved Travis and especially sheriff Briggs. Reading books like this is the reason I'm terrified to go outside at night but I just can't stop myself from reading them. Keep them coming Lyn Kelly. I'll be on the lookout .
Other than Bane County , Tracks is one of the better werewolf books I have read. Ready for a sequel please. I loved Travis and especially sheriff Briggs. Reading books like this is the reason I'm terrified to go outside at night but I just can't stop myself from reading them. Keep them coming Lyn Kelly. I'll be on the lookout .
December 13, 2024
This is one of the better Werewolf books I have read. Lyn does an excellent job building the scene and developing the characters. In this case, a teenage boy runs afoul of a vicious werewolf bent on vengeance. The local sheriff knows the deal but can he stop this threat in time? It is interesting and fast paced action you won't get bored.
January 22, 2023
Please use correct terms
As a writer you're expected to research and use proper terms when writing. Many times Kelly used the term "clip" when referring to what is "CORRECTLY" known as a magazine when referring to the firearms in book. A small amount of research or common knowledge and the writer would have known. Other than that I enjoyed the book and hoping for a series.
As a writer you're expected to research and use proper terms when writing. Many times Kelly used the term "clip" when referring to what is "CORRECTLY" known as a magazine when referring to the firearms in book. A small amount of research or common knowledge and the writer would have known. Other than that I enjoyed the book and hoping for a series.
February 8, 2023
Thrilling!
Good writing, grammar-wise, which is always a plus for me!
This story is a new twist on the werewolf mythology. It's easy to read and hard to put down until finished. It has a good end.
Good writing, grammar-wise, which is always a plus for me!
This story is a new twist on the werewolf mythology. It's easy to read and hard to put down until finished. It has a good end.
April 27, 2023
a pleasant surprise!
Thoroughly enjoyed this book! I’m not typically drawn to this genre, but thought I would give it whirl. The writing was excellent with above average plot and character development. I am hoping for a follow up book.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book! I’m not typically drawn to this genre, but thought I would give it whirl. The writing was excellent with above average plot and character development. I am hoping for a follow up book.
July 23, 2023
Starts slow, ends with a bang.
At first, I didn't care for the book, but something kept me coming back. I'm glad I did, because it turned out great. A twist I didn't see coming (which rarely happens ) and some interesting tweaks to the werewolf / skinwalker mythos. Check it out.
At first, I didn't care for the book, but something kept me coming back. I'm glad I did, because it turned out great. A twist I didn't see coming (which rarely happens ) and some interesting tweaks to the werewolf / skinwalker mythos. Check it out.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews