Baylee’s Brief Thoughts: Beast of the Northwoods

Beast of the Northwoods by Annelise Ryan

5 Stars — Is the Hodag of Rhinelander really as friendly as the locals portray?

Brief Synopsis

In the serene north woods of Wisconsin, the small town of Rhinelander is rocked by a tragic and horrifying murder that leaves the community reeling. The only person to witness—or perhaps, to suspect—what transpired is a local man who insists he saw a beast with scales, tusks, and glowing eyes: the infamous Hodag. Although the Hodag, a creature born from folklore, has long been woven into the fabric of Rhinelander's identity, the witness staunchly claims that he encountered the beast just moments before the gruesome event unfolded.

Enter Morgan Carter, a determined cryptozoologist drawn into the fray not just by her passion for uncovering the truth about cryptids, but also because the witness and primary suspect is her beloved nephew. Despite her skepticism about the Hodag's existence, Morgan takes on the case, driven by familial ties and a sense of duty.

As she delves deeper into the investigation, Morgan begins to uncover unusual clues that suggest something sinister is lurking in the woods. While she grapples with her disbelief in the legendary creature, she must confront the unsettling reality that a real menace may indeed be watching her every move.

Baylee’s Brief Thoughts

The Monster Hunter Mystery Series continues! I eagerly awaited this book’s release in 2025. As a Wisconsin resident, it's exciting to read about local legends, especially the Hodag. The story is filled with mystery and danger that keeps you turning the pages. Annelise Ryan writes so well that it's easy to get lost in the suspenseful tale.

This gripping narrative weaves a blend of folklore and contemporary mystery, as Morgan Carter's quest for the truth leads her into the heart of the unknown. The stakes rise as she races against time to unravel the enigma, proving that sometimes, the line between myth and reality is thinner than we dare to believe. A thrilling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this tale explores the complexities of belief, family, and the darkness that can reside in even the most peaceful of places.

If you ever find yourself in the Wisconsin North Woods…keep your eyes out for the Hodag!

“Those kinds of similarities added up to…Plausible existability.”