The Sacred Book of the Werewolf: A Novel by Victor Pelevin

book The Sacred Book of the Werewolf: A Novel by Victor Pelevin

This has to be one of the most magnificent books I’ve read in ages.  Full of humor, suspense, romance, philosophy, Buddhist principles, and enchanting prose, “The Sacred Book of the Werewolf” is one that I’d recommend a thousand times over.

This is a book about werewolves….actually, a werewolf and a werefox in Russia; Alexander and A Hu-li. 

 A Hu-li is the werefox, who is able to transform herself into an irresistible woman, and use her charms in her occupation as a prostitute.  She hypnotizes her Johns into thinking they’re having sex with her, and she takes their money while retaining her purity.

Alexander is a Russian Intelligence officer…and werewolf.  He and Hu-li fall for each other and enter into a steamy affair that is at once very erotic and terribly sweet. 

But only part of their relationship is sexual.  The rest of it, and perhaps the most intimate, is completely cerebral.  The two talk about everything from religion and art to government and war.  The talks between the two are ultimately what lead to the dramatic change in their relationship, as they attempt to reconcile their need to overpower each other intellectually, physically, and even supernaturally, with the fact that they are hopelessly in love with one another.

But as I said, this is so much more than some paranormal romance.  This book is deep, and at times challenging to read.  The author, Victor Pelevin, takes us on a journey through post Soviet Russia, and laments at the changes in the culture and character of the Country.  Through Alexander, he shows the dangers of globalism to Russia and the rest of the world. In one moving scene, Alexander is in werewolf form, and howls forlornly next to a dried up oil well. 

There is also a deep exploration of suffering and enlightenment in this novel, bringing the principles of Buddhism into the mix.  Throughout, satire and wit are used to highlight much larger issues and agendas, and frankly, it can be enjoyed on either level.

There are major plot twists, huge surprises, and so many tangents, one might be in danger of frustration if the characters weren’t so engaging.  And the seductive, sensual nature of the scenes inside Hu-li’s bomb shelter where she carries out her affair with Alexander….I’m fanning myself just recalling those moments!

So, with an alluring and hypnotic flick of my bushy foxtail, I command you to read and savor this once in a lifetime story.  You will not regret it, I promise you.

xoxo

Natalina

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