What do you think?
Rate this book
Forsaken Worlds #1
Wolf Dawn
Ashton Chayton was born with a powerful gift, a unique inhuman ability. Orphaned, raised by the Red Wolves of Opan, captured and enslaved - he is now free and on the run. Unfortunately everybody wants Ashton. Admiral Jones will torture him to get the secret of his power. Lady Lindha feels he is "The One" as named in Temple prophecy. The influential Lord Andros just wants him dead.
Ashton only wants two things: revenge, and the Lady Lindha. If you had unique powers, wouldn't you use them to get what you want?
Ashton only wants two things: revenge, and the Lady Lindha. If you had unique powers, wouldn't you use them to get what you want?
388 pages, Paperback
First published August 18, 2011
53 people are currently reading
1175 people want to read
About the author
Susan Cartwright
3 books51 followersLiving in Sydney, Australia
Author of "Wolf Dawn" and "Wolf Revenge"
Author of "Wolf Dawn" and "Wolf Revenge"
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
January 21, 2012
Wolf Dawn was a highly engaging read. It departs from what seems a tradition in adult fantasy literature in making language flowery and obscure. Cartwright instead writes with a crisp directness--at no point in the book is the pacing slowed by the language. The style is a blend of genres--I would characterize it as fantasy but with some science fiction tropes and some attention to a romance subplot with erotic elements. Readers who enjoy Octavia Butler or Ursula LeGuinn will probably like this author's style.
The key event in the world this author creates is a genocide that wipes out all but two members of a race of expatriate earth folks called Delians (the action occurs several hundred years in the future and many worlds have been colonized). The central character is one of these (the other is his mother, the Queen)--Ashton Clayton. The first part of the book is a coming of age story with a twist: this royal personnage can communicate with animals. The key fantasy element is what the author calls mind-touch, an experience in which the "soul" migrates to another person's (or in Ash's case animal's) body and all experiences are felt from that body's point of view. This fantasy element is explored creatively (cross-gender and cross-species).
A second key charater is the villain, who is an adept scholar of human behavior. He uses his knowledge to torture his victims--there are some creative twists here too.
The torture and erotica elements make this not a book for underage readers; however, they are presented with sufficient literary value that your average adult sci fi or fantasy reader will not be put off. The author is able to approach topics normally relegated to relatively hardcore erotica with sufficient taste and skill that they would not make my grandmother blush.
The feminist subtext is well-presented and allows it to rise above the good guy/bad guy conflict despite all of the main figures in conflict being male. The queen mother character's raising of Ash is pivotal to his developing persona; the scenes in her point-of-view help establish who Ash is. His son-like relationship with a female wolf also helps flesh out his character. Ash's love interest late in the book is also a very strong character. There are a few poignant and funny lines in which the book's feminism is driven home.
It is a pity that this book will likely put off romance readers with the torture element associated with the villain--the end for Ash and his love would please a romance audience.
My favorite aspect of this book is how the author brings a sci fi sensibility to fantasy. Mindtouch is explored with the same level of detail and development as you would find an engineering application explored in hard science fiction. Icomm--a telepathic communication device installed during childhood--is used as a plot device throughout but also provides "quotations" to start the chapters in a way reminiscent of Isaac Asimov (e.g., the laws of robotics that punctuate his robot work). This book is cross-genre in the best of ways; I recommend it highly to either sci fi or fantasy fans.
The key event in the world this author creates is a genocide that wipes out all but two members of a race of expatriate earth folks called Delians (the action occurs several hundred years in the future and many worlds have been colonized). The central character is one of these (the other is his mother, the Queen)--Ashton Clayton. The first part of the book is a coming of age story with a twist: this royal personnage can communicate with animals. The key fantasy element is what the author calls mind-touch, an experience in which the "soul" migrates to another person's (or in Ash's case animal's) body and all experiences are felt from that body's point of view. This fantasy element is explored creatively (cross-gender and cross-species).
A second key charater is the villain, who is an adept scholar of human behavior. He uses his knowledge to torture his victims--there are some creative twists here too.
The torture and erotica elements make this not a book for underage readers; however, they are presented with sufficient literary value that your average adult sci fi or fantasy reader will not be put off. The author is able to approach topics normally relegated to relatively hardcore erotica with sufficient taste and skill that they would not make my grandmother blush.
The feminist subtext is well-presented and allows it to rise above the good guy/bad guy conflict despite all of the main figures in conflict being male. The queen mother character's raising of Ash is pivotal to his developing persona; the scenes in her point-of-view help establish who Ash is. His son-like relationship with a female wolf also helps flesh out his character. Ash's love interest late in the book is also a very strong character. There are a few poignant and funny lines in which the book's feminism is driven home.
It is a pity that this book will likely put off romance readers with the torture element associated with the villain--the end for Ash and his love would please a romance audience.
My favorite aspect of this book is how the author brings a sci fi sensibility to fantasy. Mindtouch is explored with the same level of detail and development as you would find an engineering application explored in hard science fiction. Icomm--a telepathic communication device installed during childhood--is used as a plot device throughout but also provides "quotations" to start the chapters in a way reminiscent of Isaac Asimov (e.g., the laws of robotics that punctuate his robot work). This book is cross-genre in the best of ways; I recommend it highly to either sci fi or fantasy fans.
November 17, 2012
Hundreds of centuries in the future, where humans have conquered and settled the galaxy, Wolf Dawn tells the tale of Ashton Chayton; the Prince of Delian. Delian was one of the first planets in the galaxy to become colonised by the human race. Because of this fact, the long period of habitation there has given the Delians a unique evolutionary gift, the ability to mind-touch. Mind-touch lets Delians read another being’s mind and for a time, lets them jump into that being’s body and become them. However, the gift is also a curse on the Delians as the evil and cunning Admiral Neopol Jones and his overlord John Andros attack Delian in an attempt to exterminate the Delian race because of this unique gift!
Luckily, Ash’s father, the King of Delian, mind-touches Neopol Jones and discovers his plans. The King smuggles Ash and his mother off Delian in an attempt to save his life and in an attempt to save the Delian race. They make it just in time and escape into space. However, this is only the first trail in young Ashton’s life. The death of his home world will plague him for the rest of his life. Ash’s need for revenge will see him grow older and stronger in the hopes of killing the man who was wrongly accused of destroying Delian; Larren Forseth. But during that time, Ash will learn to control his gift and find love as he tries to answer the many questions asked about his past and his future.
This book was amazing, but I must confess that when I picked it up to read I didn’t think it was going to be as good as it was. I don’t know why, but I got the feeling the book was going to be about werewolves! I think the front cover threw me a little bit. However, when I started reading it, I was pleasantly and excitingly surprised to find that it was an epic sci-fi novel and I mean it was really epic! From the first page, I was hooked! I love Ashton as a character. He is so vulnerable at the start of the book but he grows to become the hero he is destined to be!
I also loved the detail Susan Cartwright puts into the book. At the top of each chapter there is a short verse giving some context to the themes that happen in the chapter. I thought it was great how Cartwright used these to subtly give some more depth to her universe by giving the reader a little bit of history to help explain events in the book.
What I will say is that there are some weird parts to the book like Ash mind-touching a man who is making love to his mother! It may seem a bit of a strange topic, but stick with it because it is a crucial part in explaining what Ash’s motives and goals are and why he is the way he is.
Overall, this book was great and is by far one of the best books I’ve read this year. I think I liked it so much because it was not what I was expecting. Also, I was already looking for a sci-fi epic to read and Wolf Dawn really fits the bill!
I’d like to say a massive thank you to Susan Cartwright for getting in touch and introducing me to her wonderful work, I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series Wolf Revenge! I would suggest this book to anyone who is a sci-fi lover! If you would like to purchase this novel, it is available in both paperback and for Kindle at Amazon.co.uk.
For more great book reviews check out http://adam-p-reviews.blogspot.co.uk/
Luckily, Ash’s father, the King of Delian, mind-touches Neopol Jones and discovers his plans. The King smuggles Ash and his mother off Delian in an attempt to save his life and in an attempt to save the Delian race. They make it just in time and escape into space. However, this is only the first trail in young Ashton’s life. The death of his home world will plague him for the rest of his life. Ash’s need for revenge will see him grow older and stronger in the hopes of killing the man who was wrongly accused of destroying Delian; Larren Forseth. But during that time, Ash will learn to control his gift and find love as he tries to answer the many questions asked about his past and his future.
This book was amazing, but I must confess that when I picked it up to read I didn’t think it was going to be as good as it was. I don’t know why, but I got the feeling the book was going to be about werewolves! I think the front cover threw me a little bit. However, when I started reading it, I was pleasantly and excitingly surprised to find that it was an epic sci-fi novel and I mean it was really epic! From the first page, I was hooked! I love Ashton as a character. He is so vulnerable at the start of the book but he grows to become the hero he is destined to be!
I also loved the detail Susan Cartwright puts into the book. At the top of each chapter there is a short verse giving some context to the themes that happen in the chapter. I thought it was great how Cartwright used these to subtly give some more depth to her universe by giving the reader a little bit of history to help explain events in the book.
What I will say is that there are some weird parts to the book like Ash mind-touching a man who is making love to his mother! It may seem a bit of a strange topic, but stick with it because it is a crucial part in explaining what Ash’s motives and goals are and why he is the way he is.
Overall, this book was great and is by far one of the best books I’ve read this year. I think I liked it so much because it was not what I was expecting. Also, I was already looking for a sci-fi epic to read and Wolf Dawn really fits the bill!
I’d like to say a massive thank you to Susan Cartwright for getting in touch and introducing me to her wonderful work, I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series Wolf Revenge! I would suggest this book to anyone who is a sci-fi lover! If you would like to purchase this novel, it is available in both paperback and for Kindle at Amazon.co.uk.
For more great book reviews check out http://adam-p-reviews.blogspot.co.uk/
August 22, 2012
Just received this book on my "Kindle". Thanks Susan for having this book availble and thanks for offering it free as a e-book on "Amazon.Com. Plan on starting this book today. Will probably read this to my wife. She has low vision and has difficulty reading. We are both looking forward to get into this book. Thanks again Susan. George
I am now in Chapter 7. The book is very interesting and looking forward to getting back into it. Susan is a good writer, and this book is well written so far. Am enjoying it very much.
August 17, 2012. Just completed "Wolf Dawn". Fantastic, can hardly wait to get into "Wolf Revenge", which will probably by this afternoon.
Susan sure has a way of writing that makes you feel like you are part of the story. She has a way of you connecting with her characters, whether they are human or animal. It's amazing how you get into the animal's mind and feel as if you are part of that animal, thinking and reacting like it. Makes you realize they are intelligent beings thinking and reacting to survive same as humans. There was never a dull moment or should I say a dull page in Wolf Dawn, there was always something happening, making if very difficult to put down, because you had to go on to the next page to see what happens next. Thank you Susan for a very entertaining book.
I highly recommend this book for reading. Susan goes down on my list of favorite authors which are William Manchee (The Tarizon Trilogy), Rnald Dahl (The Churning Caldron & Grey Death), Wilbur Smith, Allistair MacLain, W.E.B. Griffin, Dale Brown and Howard Peace.
HOPE TO SEE A SEQUEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I am now in Chapter 7. The book is very interesting and looking forward to getting back into it. Susan is a good writer, and this book is well written so far. Am enjoying it very much.
August 17, 2012. Just completed "Wolf Dawn". Fantastic, can hardly wait to get into "Wolf Revenge", which will probably by this afternoon.
Susan sure has a way of writing that makes you feel like you are part of the story. She has a way of you connecting with her characters, whether they are human or animal. It's amazing how you get into the animal's mind and feel as if you are part of that animal, thinking and reacting like it. Makes you realize they are intelligent beings thinking and reacting to survive same as humans. There was never a dull moment or should I say a dull page in Wolf Dawn, there was always something happening, making if very difficult to put down, because you had to go on to the next page to see what happens next. Thank you Susan for a very entertaining book.
I highly recommend this book for reading. Susan goes down on my list of favorite authors which are William Manchee (The Tarizon Trilogy), Rnald Dahl (The Churning Caldron & Grey Death), Wilbur Smith, Allistair MacLain, W.E.B. Griffin, Dale Brown and Howard Peace.
HOPE TO SEE A SEQUEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!
August 12, 2012
First thank you to Susan for giving me a chance to read this book. It was a very diffrent book for me to read being a first time sci-fi reader, it was a very enjoyable story.I found it full of suspense,drama,romance and diffrent worlds,I was totally unprepared for such a great story at times I could not put it down. Susan made the story believeable with very strong character's I would recommend it to any sci-fi readers.
July 31, 2012
Wolf Dawn was simply amazing, exhilarating and I was deliriously drowned and drunk in the story. I loved the characters and the world they've all been scratched onto paper. Fresh, quirky and free, I loved it from the start till the end. All I'm saying is, "Go for it and you won't regret it!" because at the end of the day, you'll realize it was truly what you would imagine... Amazing.
May 30, 2012
This was great fun to read, from the first page right up to the ending. I don't thing I put it down for more than 2 seconds until I finished! Plenty of complex and controversial concepts that I think sophisticated readers will really enjoy. Definitely recommnded!
July 28, 2012
A smacker of a tale. I could not put it down and spent several unproductive days reading it because I could not bear to put it down before I got to the end. Sci-fi, horror, and just enough erotica to keep me going. Ms Cartwright is simply brilliant!
September 12, 2012
Original review found at: The Indie Bookshelf
If I had to sum up Wolf Dawn in one word, it would have to be intelligent. I will admit it was hard to initially get into this book. I haven’t read much science fiction/fantasy since my pre-teen and teenage years, and it was evident my tastes had changed. Science fiction can create a confusing and overwhelming world and has the tendency to make me feel quite dense. That is why the word I choose for this book is intelligent. Yes, there was a world that I found hard to wrap my head around and terms that made my head spin, but I kept thinking that the author had to be one smart cookie to think of these unique descriptions and terms and names. What an imagination! I was a bit confused about how the red wolves really fit into the story, but it then became evident that a human/animal connection was quite significant to the overall story (and probably the series).
This novel is divided into two books and that is what it felt like to me…two books. I finished book one curious, but not as intrigued as I had hoped to be. I began book two and my mind began to perk up. It was like the background story had been developed and now we were getting into the meat of the story. I was intrigued at this point as we were introduced to new characters, especially Lindha. I’ll admit I’m a sucker for a good romance story and was excited to see the budding romance begin between Ash and Lindha. I enjoyed reading how the two were basically destined to find and be with each other. That seemed to be a major theme in this story. Everything is destined and written in the stars and there is a reason for every event. Book two started giving those reasons and things began clicking into place. I started really wondering where this story was going to end up.
The character development was done nicely. There were characters I liked and others that turned my stomach. There are dark moments, but many times, it is darkness and turmoil that can make for a great story. This book did an excellent job of setting up the next in the series. It left so many unanswered questions that will leave the readers thirsty for answers. Overall, this book was a good read. As I stated earlier, it ended up not really being my forte, but I can guarantee that this book would be phenomenal for any science fiction or fantasy fan. Both the imagination and intelligence levels are off the charts. So, if you’re looking for a book that will transport you into the future to different worlds and delve into animal/human connection, then this book is for you.
If I had to sum up Wolf Dawn in one word, it would have to be intelligent. I will admit it was hard to initially get into this book. I haven’t read much science fiction/fantasy since my pre-teen and teenage years, and it was evident my tastes had changed. Science fiction can create a confusing and overwhelming world and has the tendency to make me feel quite dense. That is why the word I choose for this book is intelligent. Yes, there was a world that I found hard to wrap my head around and terms that made my head spin, but I kept thinking that the author had to be one smart cookie to think of these unique descriptions and terms and names. What an imagination! I was a bit confused about how the red wolves really fit into the story, but it then became evident that a human/animal connection was quite significant to the overall story (and probably the series).
This novel is divided into two books and that is what it felt like to me…two books. I finished book one curious, but not as intrigued as I had hoped to be. I began book two and my mind began to perk up. It was like the background story had been developed and now we were getting into the meat of the story. I was intrigued at this point as we were introduced to new characters, especially Lindha. I’ll admit I’m a sucker for a good romance story and was excited to see the budding romance begin between Ash and Lindha. I enjoyed reading how the two were basically destined to find and be with each other. That seemed to be a major theme in this story. Everything is destined and written in the stars and there is a reason for every event. Book two started giving those reasons and things began clicking into place. I started really wondering where this story was going to end up.
The character development was done nicely. There were characters I liked and others that turned my stomach. There are dark moments, but many times, it is darkness and turmoil that can make for a great story. This book did an excellent job of setting up the next in the series. It left so many unanswered questions that will leave the readers thirsty for answers. Overall, this book was a good read. As I stated earlier, it ended up not really being my forte, but I can guarantee that this book would be phenomenal for any science fiction or fantasy fan. Both the imagination and intelligence levels are off the charts. So, if you’re looking for a book that will transport you into the future to different worlds and delve into animal/human connection, then this book is for you.
September 2, 2012
Thank you Susan Cartwright for having this book available in electronic format free on amazon for awhile so I received this book on my "Kindle". Thank you again and as I promised here is my honest opinion about your book.
I would start this review telling you that this is NOT a young adult book.
This book is in the Sci-Fi genre and as an adult, if you are going to read this book, you must have an open mind and be less judgmental since there are some controversial aspects.
The author, Susan Cartwright set her story into a universe where every world has something different. She contours a few of her worlds almost to the thinnest details.
Human nature is revealed to the extreme in some characters. You can find extreme hate and anger, also you will witness jealousy and love, despair and guilt. There are characters that are pure evil and others that are very gentle but the main character, Ash, seems to have all the ingredients.
With a delicate health, prone to illness, with an amazing gift of mind-touch, Ash as a prince lived in a fairytale world soon to be destroyed through the genocide. After a crash landing, he found himself wounded and the last of his kind, on another planet, in a harsh environment, raised by a pack of wolves into a world completely different from his. His chances of survival? Close to zero.
Even though the plot is not always fast paced, you will enjoy being into a totally different world and environment, a world that is magnificently described and also you will explore deep into the soul, into the complex personality of characters where the combination between emotions and behavior are sometimes extreme.
The book has it all, from the mystical and religious beliefs to the new and modern and incomprehensible technology, from the human, pure and noble characters to the most ignoble and brutish evil ones.
The author, Susan Cartwright used her creative power in all areas. Using graphic description she generates new worlds and she is going straight to the bottom of the soul. But she did not stop there. Aided by her brilliant intelligence, unusual power of observation and mastery of drawing her characters, she conducted studies of human nature around a twisted plot.
This first book of the series has a good foundation for the following ones.
The only thing that kept me from reading the book right away is the cover. In my opinion, the cover is far from reflecting the value of the story.
I would start this review telling you that this is NOT a young adult book.
This book is in the Sci-Fi genre and as an adult, if you are going to read this book, you must have an open mind and be less judgmental since there are some controversial aspects.
The author, Susan Cartwright set her story into a universe where every world has something different. She contours a few of her worlds almost to the thinnest details.
Human nature is revealed to the extreme in some characters. You can find extreme hate and anger, also you will witness jealousy and love, despair and guilt. There are characters that are pure evil and others that are very gentle but the main character, Ash, seems to have all the ingredients.
With a delicate health, prone to illness, with an amazing gift of mind-touch, Ash as a prince lived in a fairytale world soon to be destroyed through the genocide. After a crash landing, he found himself wounded and the last of his kind, on another planet, in a harsh environment, raised by a pack of wolves into a world completely different from his. His chances of survival? Close to zero.
Even though the plot is not always fast paced, you will enjoy being into a totally different world and environment, a world that is magnificently described and also you will explore deep into the soul, into the complex personality of characters where the combination between emotions and behavior are sometimes extreme.
The book has it all, from the mystical and religious beliefs to the new and modern and incomprehensible technology, from the human, pure and noble characters to the most ignoble and brutish evil ones.
The author, Susan Cartwright used her creative power in all areas. Using graphic description she generates new worlds and she is going straight to the bottom of the soul. But she did not stop there. Aided by her brilliant intelligence, unusual power of observation and mastery of drawing her characters, she conducted studies of human nature around a twisted plot.
This first book of the series has a good foundation for the following ones.
The only thing that kept me from reading the book right away is the cover. In my opinion, the cover is far from reflecting the value of the story.
August 21, 2012
My gracious thank you to author Susan Cartwright for the gift of 'Wolf Dawn.'
I look forward to reading, enjoying and reviewing.
I have had the good fortune of having a couple of authors send me their books. I admire them very much for the obvious reason that they are very thoughtful and kind to reading fans and because they believe in the quality of their work.
Author, Susan Cartwright catapults the reader into a new and futuristic world of diabolical intent. It is a Sci-Fi coming-of-age tale. Reminded me of Superman. A doomed planet. One sole, child survivor with special powers. Good vs evil.
This was written with a brilliant and creative imagination that knows no limits.
Susan Cartwright soars to uncharted heights in her debut novel 'Wolf Dawn.'
I loved the thrill ride and thank Susan for the opportunity to read, review and recommend.
I look forward to reading, enjoying and reviewing.
I have had the good fortune of having a couple of authors send me their books. I admire them very much for the obvious reason that they are very thoughtful and kind to reading fans and because they believe in the quality of their work.
Author, Susan Cartwright catapults the reader into a new and futuristic world of diabolical intent. It is a Sci-Fi coming-of-age tale. Reminded me of Superman. A doomed planet. One sole, child survivor with special powers. Good vs evil.
This was written with a brilliant and creative imagination that knows no limits.
Susan Cartwright soars to uncharted heights in her debut novel 'Wolf Dawn.'
I loved the thrill ride and thank Susan for the opportunity to read, review and recommend.
August 22, 2012
I was quite impressed with the development of Ash's character as he grows to adulthood in very stressful conditions. Good characterization. [I immediately bought the second book in the series]
First paragraphs, "The day his life changed forever, Ash’s morning began like any other. Icom woke him with an internal mental alarm as chilly crimson fingers of light touched the windowsill of his bedroom in Castle Delian. The Castle had been his ancestors’ Imperial home for more than three centuries, which was about how long it felt that he’d slept. Groggily, the young prince slipped out of bed. Ash’s bare feet felt warm on the heated flooring as he dressed."
Cartwright, Susan (2011-08-18). WOLF DAWN: Adventure Sci-Fi/ Heroic Fantasy/ Romance (Forsaken Worlds) (Kindle Locations 73-76). Hotspur Publishing. Kindle Edition.
First paragraphs, "The day his life changed forever, Ash’s morning began like any other. Icom woke him with an internal mental alarm as chilly crimson fingers of light touched the windowsill of his bedroom in Castle Delian. The Castle had been his ancestors’ Imperial home for more than three centuries, which was about how long it felt that he’d slept. Groggily, the young prince slipped out of bed. Ash’s bare feet felt warm on the heated flooring as he dressed."
Cartwright, Susan (2011-08-18). WOLF DAWN: Adventure Sci-Fi/ Heroic Fantasy/ Romance (Forsaken Worlds) (Kindle Locations 73-76). Hotspur Publishing. Kindle Edition.
March 30, 2012
First I'd like to thank the wonderful author, Susan, for introducing me to her book. I'm truly glad she did. I was afraid I'd have to tell her some hard truths, but I was most fortunately wrong.
This book is awesome. I love the characters and she skillfully sets up for a following book and more character growth. I love that Lindha isn't immediately heads over heels in love with Ash. I love that their first true meeting is so controversial. I love how devious and sadistic Neopol is.
I cannot wait to read more of Mrs. Cartwright's novels.
This book is awesome. I love the characters and she skillfully sets up for a following book and more character growth. I love that Lindha isn't immediately heads over heels in love with Ash. I love that their first true meeting is so controversial. I love how devious and sadistic Neopol is.
I cannot wait to read more of Mrs. Cartwright's novels.
July 7, 2015
I won this book through the GoodReads first reads program.
Wolf Dawn is an interesting blend of sci-fi and fantasy. It's philosophy interwoven with the hero's journey. The author is well versed in sociology, and it comes forth in the way that mind-touch affects Ash. The author is well versed in some basic religious principles as well, and that comes forth in how the Temple of Jana works on each of the free worlds, what it means to the people, and ultimately in the very history of the Temple of Jana itself. There's a lot beneath the surface of this book that's really quite good.
Ultimately Wolf Dawn didn't quite work for me. The book suffered from too much repetition. Motives were reiterated constantly, which in the end only seemed to lessen the characters resolve rather than heighten it. Perspectives shifts meant to give a wider view of the world made too many scenes feel redundant - Part 1 itself seemed to be simply reading the exact same events from every character's perspective. If the book stayed with Ash for the whole of Part 1, or only shifted to his mother's perspective when she met Forseth rather than shifting to Forseth and his father's view as well it might have worked better. Likewise, I felt later in the book Neopel was focused on a bit too heavily. His motivation would have come clear through the torture scene even without focusing on his perspective.
There's a great universe created in Wolf Dawn, compelling characters and a captivating story. The book just ultimately needs a bit of work to tighten it up and make it more readily apparent.
Wolf Dawn is an interesting blend of sci-fi and fantasy. It's philosophy interwoven with the hero's journey. The author is well versed in sociology, and it comes forth in the way that mind-touch affects Ash. The author is well versed in some basic religious principles as well, and that comes forth in how the Temple of Jana works on each of the free worlds, what it means to the people, and ultimately in the very history of the Temple of Jana itself. There's a lot beneath the surface of this book that's really quite good.
Ultimately Wolf Dawn didn't quite work for me. The book suffered from too much repetition. Motives were reiterated constantly, which in the end only seemed to lessen the characters resolve rather than heighten it. Perspectives shifts meant to give a wider view of the world made too many scenes feel redundant - Part 1 itself seemed to be simply reading the exact same events from every character's perspective. If the book stayed with Ash for the whole of Part 1, or only shifted to his mother's perspective when she met Forseth rather than shifting to Forseth and his father's view as well it might have worked better. Likewise, I felt later in the book Neopel was focused on a bit too heavily. His motivation would have come clear through the torture scene even without focusing on his perspective.
There's a great universe created in Wolf Dawn, compelling characters and a captivating story. The book just ultimately needs a bit of work to tighten it up and make it more readily apparent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2012
Wolf Dawn by Susan Cartwright
This book is the coming of age story of Ashton Chayton, aka The Trueborn of Delian - the One as named in the prophecy, but make no mistake, he is far from being another Harry Potter and there isn’t a Hogwarts in sight. Instead Susan Cartwright has given us, in her unique straightforward and highly readable style, a future raw and true where political correctness has been rendered powerless by the forces of nature. Ash lives in a time when global governments have yielded to interplanetary government. It is a time when there is peace and some measure of prosperity safeguarded by the United Freeworld Government. The UFG rules by means of the absolute power of its military fleet. As if to prove the validity of the primordial law of nature concerning absolutes, within that absolute power are those who are absolutely corrupted nearly to the status of pure evil. Since the beginning of time mankind has fought to control if not eliminate evil but, like cockroaches, it just doesn’t go away. Could Ash, or someone like him, be humanities new weapon in the fight? Can his love for Lindha, a prefect of the Sisters of Jana, give him the direction and impetus he needs? I can’t wait for the story to continue to find out.
Through excellent characterization, dialog, description, narrative and a fairly simple yet fast moving story line Ash’s world is made not merely believable but recognizable. It is so recognizable and natural that, like in real life, the outcome of the battle is not assured by either side. I highly recommend Wolf Dawn to all adult lovers of science fiction, fantasy, politics, philosophy and those who just enjoy a good story.
This book is the coming of age story of Ashton Chayton, aka The Trueborn of Delian - the One as named in the prophecy, but make no mistake, he is far from being another Harry Potter and there isn’t a Hogwarts in sight. Instead Susan Cartwright has given us, in her unique straightforward and highly readable style, a future raw and true where political correctness has been rendered powerless by the forces of nature. Ash lives in a time when global governments have yielded to interplanetary government. It is a time when there is peace and some measure of prosperity safeguarded by the United Freeworld Government. The UFG rules by means of the absolute power of its military fleet. As if to prove the validity of the primordial law of nature concerning absolutes, within that absolute power are those who are absolutely corrupted nearly to the status of pure evil. Since the beginning of time mankind has fought to control if not eliminate evil but, like cockroaches, it just doesn’t go away. Could Ash, or someone like him, be humanities new weapon in the fight? Can his love for Lindha, a prefect of the Sisters of Jana, give him the direction and impetus he needs? I can’t wait for the story to continue to find out.
Through excellent characterization, dialog, description, narrative and a fairly simple yet fast moving story line Ash’s world is made not merely believable but recognizable. It is so recognizable and natural that, like in real life, the outcome of the battle is not assured by either side. I highly recommend Wolf Dawn to all adult lovers of science fiction, fantasy, politics, philosophy and those who just enjoy a good story.
October 31, 2012
This review is based on the second version that has the corrections to errors that I detected. Sue Cartwright took my suggestions in hand and made the corrections, which would have lost a star had they remained in the story.
This book is the first in The Forsaken Worlds Series. It is a Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Romance based on future worlds that have been colonized by the human race. Ash, the main character in this story has the ability to communicate mentally with some people and most animals. He escapes the destruction of his home planet but crashes en route and is rescued by a family of wolves who train him with some unique capabilities besides his mental ones. Meanwhile the "bad guy" in this story is the Admiral of a battleship that has destroyed Ash's home planet. The admiral is searching for both Ash because of his unique abilities and the man upon whom the admiral has placed the blame for the planet's destruction. Ash goes through several adventures before the end of the book, which leaves you in a cliff hanger. The story continues in the sequel Wolf Revenge. There is a List of Characters and a Glossary at the end to help keep track of the myriad of new characters.
I consider this book amazingly well written for a first author. It deserves a high rating and suffers only by the excessive cliff hanger at the end. If that were re-written to be a bit smoother it would be a solid five star book. As is it rates a 4.5, but that rating doesn't exist so I gave it 4 stars. I would recommend that one reads Wolf Dawn before Wolf Revenge.
Well done Sue. I look forward to the third in this series.
This book is the first in The Forsaken Worlds Series. It is a Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Romance based on future worlds that have been colonized by the human race. Ash, the main character in this story has the ability to communicate mentally with some people and most animals. He escapes the destruction of his home planet but crashes en route and is rescued by a family of wolves who train him with some unique capabilities besides his mental ones. Meanwhile the "bad guy" in this story is the Admiral of a battleship that has destroyed Ash's home planet. The admiral is searching for both Ash because of his unique abilities and the man upon whom the admiral has placed the blame for the planet's destruction. Ash goes through several adventures before the end of the book, which leaves you in a cliff hanger. The story continues in the sequel Wolf Revenge. There is a List of Characters and a Glossary at the end to help keep track of the myriad of new characters.
I consider this book amazingly well written for a first author. It deserves a high rating and suffers only by the excessive cliff hanger at the end. If that were re-written to be a bit smoother it would be a solid five star book. As is it rates a 4.5, but that rating doesn't exist so I gave it 4 stars. I would recommend that one reads Wolf Dawn before Wolf Revenge.
Well done Sue. I look forward to the third in this series.
October 7, 2014
I decided to read this story because of how it's preview seemed on my Kindle and the good and bad reviews on this story in the Amazon store. It is a free book, and it did have a good plot and story-line, it's just that the story was getting a little bit off track, and a bit confusing. I didn't like this. It was starting to get cliche and kept reusing some words over and over again like "she laughed out loud" or "she thought about laughing out loud" is what it said repeatedly. It made me cringe so much, and did have some explicit material for a book like this, but hey, whadya gonna expect? It's a free book. But this story kept going up and down on how I liked the book and how I didn't like it, I just couldn't make up my mind and it did made me wander from my book a lot. So... i give this book 2 outta 5 stars because of all that. I don't really recommend this book that much. I wish i could withstand it enough to finish it.
April 18, 2012
I was at first sceptical as to whether I was going to enjoy this book, it being a romantic sci-fi novel but I prevailed through the first few chapters to be pleasantly surprised.
There is plenty of action and surprise with a few nice bits of technology thrown in. The writer has a brilliant talent for making the reader feel many different emotions throughout the book. Sometimes you'll wish she hadn't killed someone or sometimes wish she had. A truly remarkable read that should entertain the majority of readers from avid sci-fi to readers of romance and adventure. The story does't end here either as the sequel is out soon and will extend the story to even higher heights and no doubt cause more pain or joy.
A must read!
There is plenty of action and surprise with a few nice bits of technology thrown in. The writer has a brilliant talent for making the reader feel many different emotions throughout the book. Sometimes you'll wish she hadn't killed someone or sometimes wish she had. A truly remarkable read that should entertain the majority of readers from avid sci-fi to readers of romance and adventure. The story does't end here either as the sequel is out soon and will extend the story to even higher heights and no doubt cause more pain or joy.
A must read!
June 1, 2012
This book reminds me of the classic sci-fi golden age of Asimov, Heinlein, and Scott Card. Not too much fantasy but the sort of plot I can see myself in or at least wish I was in. Maybe a bit too sexy to be classic fifties but hey, who doesn't like sex! What an adventure! This is a really different "coming of age" novel that presents one possible science fiction future, with danger, romance, and lots of character interaction. It is a love story without romance as the main story arch, which makes a nice change. The main character is orphaned in his early teens and raised by wolves on another planet. He has many fun wolf traits, which cause him trouble in the human world. I loved the wolves. I loved this book and plan to read it again. I can't wait for the sequel.
January 28, 2012
Overall, not a bad beginning for a series.
I especially liked the way the author incorporated the wolf element of the title into the storyline and how this element wrought such a change in the protagonist.
I did have some plausibility problems with the author's use of technology to drive the plot in the first quarter of the book, but the rest of the story made up for those problems, in my opinion.
There is also a little more 'romance' in this story than I normally like in my fiction, but it is appropriate to the story, and the author has done it tastefully.
I would recommend this story to speculative fiction readers who are more interested in character interaction than high science.
I especially liked the way the author incorporated the wolf element of the title into the storyline and how this element wrought such a change in the protagonist.
I did have some plausibility problems with the author's use of technology to drive the plot in the first quarter of the book, but the rest of the story made up for those problems, in my opinion.
There is also a little more 'romance' in this story than I normally like in my fiction, but it is appropriate to the story, and the author has done it tastefully.
I would recommend this story to speculative fiction readers who are more interested in character interaction than high science.
August 9, 2012
I loved this book. I began reading it without looking at the synopsis, so I had absolutely no idea what the story would be about when I got started. I honestly thought it was going to be a Native American/Western themed book. So when I realized it was sci-fi I was thrilled. Everything was incredibly clear in the story, and all of the concepts were very easy for me to get, and I could visualize them perfectly. It had the feel (for me) of one of my favorite movies (Serenity) which was awesome. I loved Ash's connection with animals. And he was a great character in general. And Neopol was just disgusting, which is of course exactly the point. I can't wait to read the second one!
May 20, 2012
*cough* Not a young adult book! Thank you to the author for giving this to me, as a younger reader to try out!
I should have skipped those scenes but I read them out of morbid curiosity.
Buuuuuut anyway, this book was really good! It took me a while to read, it was quite long!
I loved the premise, all the different worlds and stuff. I liked the charcters a lot. The mind touch was great, especially with the wolves. I loved the wolves! Neopol was really scary. It was a great book and I enjoyed it a lot!
I should have skipped those scenes but I read them out of morbid curiosity.
Buuuuuut anyway, this book was really good! It took me a while to read, it was quite long!
I loved the premise, all the different worlds and stuff. I liked the charcters a lot. The mind touch was great, especially with the wolves. I loved the wolves! Neopol was really scary. It was a great book and I enjoyed it a lot!
January 21, 2012
This is a coming of age story I couldn't put down. Hooked me and had to find out what was going to happen next. I thought it was a really good read. The story contains a mixture of sex, violence, torture, sexual abuse and genocide - and even though it is set in the future it mirrors real life. I read alot of SF and this was top shelf. The characters are riveting. The bad guy is twisted and gets under your skin. Its an excellent example of good vs evil.
March 21, 2012
Wolf Dawn is a great read. Spiritual, philosophical, action packed and with sex as only a woman can write it.
A future reality is presented that is both believable and full of surprises.
The cast of characters spans the spectrum from the most depraved to the most elevated
and we not only observe the protagonists but find ourselves a party to their innermost thoughts and feelings.
You cannot help but be involved!
The wolves are wonderful too!
Hurry up 'Wolf Revenge' and thanks Sue.
May 8, 2012
Susan is a great new writer, and I think everyone should take a careful look at her work. If you think you're reading just some simple fantasy novel, think again. She has an important message about child abuse to tell within the pages of this book, and that fact makes Wolf Dawn hard to put down. Beyond that, Sue is a natural story teller. She's able to bring all her worldly experience to bear, and this I believe makes her characters so three dimensional.
Overall, a great debut novel.
Overall, a great debut novel.
February 24, 2012
This book is totally worth 5 stars! This book has it all from romance, sci – fi to drama. A completely engrossing read that makes you forget the world around you and wishing that you lived in the vivid red world of Opan and the wolves. Cannot wait for the next installment. A must read for all book lovers!
April 9, 2012
Thoughtful and well written. The author effectively tells the story and also provides a glimpse into the lives of the characters by helping us understand their psychology, giving the read an additional dimension. I was immediately drawn into this plotline and felt a true kinship with the characters. Can't wait for the sequel!
July 12, 2012
I received this book from Goodreads. This is a good book. The story is science fiction and is well written. It is for adults due to a few parts that are sexually explicate. The story line is very good as you follow this boy through his fight for survival. It is a cliff hanger and I am going to go out and find the next book.
August 5, 2012
I have to commend Cartwright: she did a lot of research for the novel. Far more than I could ever dream of doing! The result: a realistic future world.
Neopol scared the crap out of me. And I'm rarely scared by villians in novels.
Good job!
Neopol scared the crap out of me. And I'm rarely scared by villians in novels.
Good job!
August 13, 2012
I found myself liking this book mainly for the third person narrative and excellently described characters and situations. That was probably why as soon as I received it, I started reading, and didn't stop until the end. An appealing science fiction novel, and can't wait for the next one.
June 20, 2012
Review to come...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews