Beasts by John Crowley

Set in a dystopian future where genetic engineering has blurred the lines between humans and animals, the story follows the journey of Painter, a genetically modified creature known as a "leopard-man." As society grapples with the ethical implications of such creations, Painter finds himself caught in a struggle for survival and identity. Amidst political turmoil and societal collapse, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each grappling with their own sense of belonging in a world where the definition of humanity is constantly evolving. The narrative explores themes of freedom, identity, and the consequences of playing god with nature.