Taming Jackal, a coming-of-age novella
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Whether it’s a podcast or an event, reach out to get in touch.
Email: isabel@ipenaalfaro.com
Praise:
“In Taming Jackal, Peña Alfaro explores the depths of the human psyche and what it takes to emerge from the darkness, if not unscathed, then at least whole. The mesmerizing journey of Martina and Ellis in a speculative world of gritty danger and resilience invites the reader to ponder what it really takes to survive. Inventive and authentic, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and can’t wait to see what Peña Alfaro comes up with next.”
—Valerie Wetlaufer, author of Mysterious Acts by My People
“Savagely beautiful and touchingly relatable. A wonderfully crafted story, Isabel grabs your attention from the first line and every page that follows. I’ve walked those streets and explored those caves, one way or another, there’s a beast stirring in us all!” —Shriner
“I couldn’t stop reading this extraordinary book "Taming Jackal" written by Isabel Peña Alfaro. Wonderful metaphor of the jackal we all have inside and how to tame it. I am looking forward to the next one!” —Marisa
“Sick in bed today ... which sucks, but gave me time to devour this book! And wow. So much more complex and dark and wonderful than I imagined. I want to share it with all the people I know who are battling their jackal and debating medicine. I was routing for M the whole time! The author made her into a friend from the start.” —Emma
“I stormed through this novella in no time at all! It started off with beach read vibes, which I was here for - but it took a dark and complex turn that I absolutely loved. The author has interwoven so many relatable themes and experiences here, describing emotions and feelings in such great depth and detail that I could feel them myself. I recognized my own inner jackal (I think for me a wolf actually) that I have spent years learning to tame.
I had to get it for a few friends for the holidays - they'll love it. And the cover art was gorgeous too! Don't miss out. So eager to read what's next from this author!” —C7A7H
“Relationships bring out our most vulnerable fears and insecurities … this book took me back to many past relationships where I learned the most about myself .. what I wanted and what I didn’t want. It’s real and a great validation that you are not alone living your greatest self doubts and fears … everyone has jackal inside!” —Gaby
“Excellent, thought-provoking exploration of the voices within us and how we either submit to, or can tame, our fears in order to live with inner peace and power.” —Silda Wall
“This book took my breath from the first page. There is a playfulness /dance in writing of a deep world. I love how the writer guides us in and out of the characters mind. It beautifully captivated fears and what it is to face them.” —Jorge Guimaraes
About Taming Jackal:
Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble
If it’s not yet available at your local bookstore, please request the book.
Martina, a Latina student from Queens, becomes entwined with Ellis, a hockey player from New Jersey, at a predominantly White university, against the backdrop of the early 21st century. As their connection grows, Martina encounters Ellis's inner demon, embodied by the enigmatic entity known as the Black Cat.
Years later, the pair reunite in a serendipitous meeting while both working in Manhattan. Their romance rekindled, we meet Martina's inner beast, Jackal. Their relationship unfolds, resurrecting not only their past liaison but also Black Cat and Martina's own creature, Jackal.
Their nascent connection unravels the intricate tapestry of their identities, revealing the manifestation of Ellis's inner torment, through the Black Cat.
A decade hence, having once again drifted apart, Martina's subconscious beckons with vivid recollections of an intimate encounter with Ellis. Her quest to discern his whereabouts ensues, leaving readers in suspense as they traverse the labyrinthine depths of passion, identity, and the perpetual pursuit of connection.