Susan Horsnell's His Undercover Wolf is a thrilling blend of crime fiction and supernatural fantasy that promises to captivate readers with its unique premise and engaging characters. The novel deftly combines the gritty realism of police procedural with the mystique of the supernatural, creating a narrative that is both intriguing and refreshingly original.

At the heart of the story is Otsana Brooks, a character who embodies duality in every sense. By day, she is a senior police detective, a role that demands intelligence, perseverance, and a keen sense of justice. By night, however, she embraces her identity as a werewolf, a secret that adds layers of complexity to her character. Horsnell does an excellent job of portraying Otsana's internal struggle as she navigates these two worlds, making her a deeply relatable and compelling protagonist.

The novel's setting in the world of corporate fraud and white-collar crime adds an additional layer of intrigue. Otsana's role as second in command of the corporate fraud squad places her in the midst of high-stakes investigations, where the line between right and wrong is often blurred. This backdrop allows Horsnell to explore themes of power, corruption, and morality, all of which are pertinent in today's society.

Opposite Otsana is Xavier Bennett, the enigmatic CEO of Worlds Apart. Xavier is a character shrouded in mystery, with rumors of corporate espionage and unethical practices swirling around him. His character serves as a perfect foil to Otsana, embodying the very challenges she faces in her professional life. The tension between them is palpable, and Horsnell skillfully builds this dynamic into a central element of the plot.

The supernatural aspect of the novel is seamlessly integrated into the narrative. Horsnell's portrayal of Otsana's werewolf nature is both imaginative and grounded, allowing readers to suspend disbelief and fully immerse themselves in the story. The supernatural elements are not just a gimmick but are integral to the plot, influencing Otsana's decisions and the unfolding of events. This blend of genres is reminiscent of works by authors like Patricia Briggs and Kelley Armstrong, who also excel at weaving supernatural elements into contemporary settings.

Character development is one of the novel's strongest points. Otsana is a well-rounded character whose growth is evident throughout the story. Her journey is not just about solving a case but also about self-discovery and acceptance. The supporting characters, too, are well-crafted, each adding depth and dimension to the narrative. Xavier, in particular, is a character who evolves as the story progresses, revealing layers that challenge initial perceptions.

The themes explored in His Undercover Wolf are both timeless and timely. The novel delves into the nature of identity and the masks we wear, both in our personal and professional lives. It also examines the concept of justice and the lengths one will go to uphold it, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. These themes resonate with readers, prompting reflection long after the final page is turned.

Horsnell's writing style is engaging and accessible, with a pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, and the descriptions are vivid, painting a clear picture of the world Otsana inhabits. The balance between action and introspection is well-maintained, ensuring that the story remains dynamic and engaging throughout.

In comparison to other works in the genre, His Undercover Wolf stands out for its unique blend of crime and fantasy. While it shares similarities with series like Briggs' Mercy Thompson or Armstrong's Women of the Otherworld, Horsnell's novel carves its own niche with its focus on corporate crime and its nuanced exploration of identity. This makes it a refreshing addition to the genre, appealing to fans of both crime fiction and supernatural fantasy.

Overall, His Undercover Wolf is a compelling read that offers a fresh take on familiar themes. Susan Horsnell has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the story concludes. Whether you're a fan of crime fiction, supernatural tales, or simply enjoy a well-told story, this novel is sure to satisfy.