What do you think?
Rate this book
The Order of the Seven Stars #2
The Wolf's Eye
Under the full moon of World War I, a baleful curse threatens to tear apart a witch’s found family in a novel by the Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Raven Spell.
Petra Kurková—a witch who wields magic worth its weight in gold—is tasked with combating the undead on World War I’s eastern front. The battlefield has yielded a newfound closeness for her spellbound team, especially for Josef Svoboda, a recruiter for the Order of the Seven Stars. But Josef was bitten at the start of the war, leaving his blood tainted by a strain of the vlkodlak curse, which makes him a target of the Order’s latest mission: slay the werewolves prowling the eastern front under the moonlight.
Petra refuses to give up on one of their own. From the hasty kill order of a clandestine society to the long-lost spells in an old grimoire to the unraveling mysteries of Petra’s own past, the urgency to save Josef grows, particularly as his feral impulses become harder to control. The werewolves are closing in. So, too, are the bounty hunters eager to collect. As Petra’s team finds itself at a magical crossroads, Josef devises an ambush of his own—one that could wipe out the cursed threat forever or endanger everything and everyone he loves.
Petra Kurková—a witch who wields magic worth its weight in gold—is tasked with combating the undead on World War I’s eastern front. The battlefield has yielded a newfound closeness for her spellbound team, especially for Josef Svoboda, a recruiter for the Order of the Seven Stars. But Josef was bitten at the start of the war, leaving his blood tainted by a strain of the vlkodlak curse, which makes him a target of the Order’s latest mission: slay the werewolves prowling the eastern front under the moonlight.
Petra refuses to give up on one of their own. From the hasty kill order of a clandestine society to the long-lost spells in an old grimoire to the unraveling mysteries of Petra’s own past, the urgency to save Josef grows, particularly as his feral impulses become harder to control. The werewolves are closing in. So, too, are the bounty hunters eager to collect. As Petra’s team finds itself at a magical crossroads, Josef devises an ambush of his own—one that could wipe out the cursed threat forever or endanger everything and everyone he loves.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2024
584 people are currently reading
3687 people want to read
About the author
Luanne G. Smith
9 books1,708 followersLuanne G. Smith is the Washington Post and Amazon Charts bestselling author of The Vine Witch series, The Raven Spell books, The Witch's Lens, The Wolf's Eye, and The Golden Age of Magic and The Gilded City of Dreams (out June 9th).
(*Scam Alert* SHE IS NOT ON FACEBOOK and she does not sell or recommend marketing or writing advice online. It is a scam.)
.
(*Scam Alert* SHE IS NOT ON FACEBOOK and she does not sell or recommend marketing or writing advice online. It is a scam.)
.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
June 3, 2024
**2.5 stars** This unfortunately suffered from second book syndrome. I LOVED the first book and this one didn't even come close to the first.
Following the revelation from the first book's ending, our main characters are notified of the order to destroy Ava Konig's creatures. They find themselves working with a group of magical researchers in hopes to find the cure to save our mmc, Josef.
This being a shorter read at around 260 pages, it read like it was ~500 pages long. This was unbelievably slow to get through. It was such a disappointment because I breezed through the first book in a few hours and this one took me SO long to read because I was so bored. Not a lot was happening the first 70% of the book and then BAM action finally happens but the pay off was unsatisfactory. I had high hopes for this one but it sadly didn't live up to my expectations. :(
I gave this a 2.5 stars because I really like Luanne G. Smith's writing. It suits this type of genre. For those who said that this can be read as a standalone is mistaken. You DO have to read the first book to understand this one. I'm not sure what book they were reading but it certainly was not this one.
Following the revelation from the first book's ending, our main characters are notified of the order to destroy Ava Konig's creatures. They find themselves working with a group of magical researchers in hopes to find the cure to save our mmc, Josef.
This being a shorter read at around 260 pages, it read like it was ~500 pages long. This was unbelievably slow to get through. It was such a disappointment because I breezed through the first book in a few hours and this one took me SO long to read because I was so bored. Not a lot was happening the first 70% of the book and then BAM action finally happens but the pay off was unsatisfactory. I had high hopes for this one but it sadly didn't live up to my expectations. :(
I gave this a 2.5 stars because I really like Luanne G. Smith's writing. It suits this type of genre. For those who said that this can be read as a standalone is mistaken. You DO have to read the first book to understand this one. I'm not sure what book they were reading but it certainly was not this one.
May 26, 2024
A magical story of witches, werewolves, and curses!
The story takes place during the war, where the bite from a werewolf could turn you into a vicious killer.
When the main character, Petra becomes desperate to save her friend from the curse, she becomes a target.
Book 2 in The Order of the Seven Stars, Petra continues building her story, which began with the 1st book, The Witch’s Lens. In this book Petra learns answers to many secrets and uncovers the source of her magic. She learns that her father became aware that he had unknowingly put her at risk and did his best to protect her.
Just past the halfway point, the story really takes off and the last quarter was very action packed.
The story takes place during the war, where the bite from a werewolf could turn you into a vicious killer.
When the main character, Petra becomes desperate to save her friend from the curse, she becomes a target.
Book 2 in The Order of the Seven Stars, Petra continues building her story, which began with the 1st book, The Witch’s Lens. In this book Petra learns answers to many secrets and uncovers the source of her magic. She learns that her father became aware that he had unknowingly put her at risk and did his best to protect her.
Just past the halfway point, the story really takes off and the last quarter was very action packed.
April 13, 2025
I love this author’s style and her narrative speed. I really liked both the main characters and could believe their actions in each circumstance. It was nice to see a bit more from Josef’s perspective. Although the story seems mainly wrapped up, it would be interesting to see more or the groups adventures.
November 3, 2024
DNF 25%
The Wolf’s Eye by Luanne Smith continues the story from the first book, The Witch’s Lens. This story begins as if both books were one complete manuscript and it was broken into two books, which wouldn’t be bad except this literally picks up right where the first book ends. In doing that, you’d expect the pacing to stay consistent to connect to the plot line of the first book, but it drops off immediately. The action just ends and goes into a state of recovery but with pressing plot lines left dangling. It completely changes directions and even introduces another narrative voice, breaking with the consistency of the first book.
I noticed this right away, especially at the first chapter from a different character’s voice, but I gave it some more to try to settle into the book. It did not entertain me the same way the first one did and I found myself unable to find any interest to read.
Like the first one, it is written well. I had no issue with the prose or the author’s idea for writing the book, I just didn’t connect.
Until Next Time,
MC
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for access to the ARC.
The Wolf’s Eye by Luanne Smith continues the story from the first book, The Witch’s Lens. This story begins as if both books were one complete manuscript and it was broken into two books, which wouldn’t be bad except this literally picks up right where the first book ends. In doing that, you’d expect the pacing to stay consistent to connect to the plot line of the first book, but it drops off immediately. The action just ends and goes into a state of recovery but with pressing plot lines left dangling. It completely changes directions and even introduces another narrative voice, breaking with the consistency of the first book.
I noticed this right away, especially at the first chapter from a different character’s voice, but I gave it some more to try to settle into the book. It did not entertain me the same way the first one did and I found myself unable to find any interest to read.
Like the first one, it is written well. I had no issue with the prose or the author’s idea for writing the book, I just didn’t connect.
Until Next Time,
MC
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for access to the ARC.
July 9, 2024
I got this as a free giveaway book from the publisher (very grateful) but it does not affect my review.
The first book was magical and bleak, which gave it a realistic sense of hopelessness and urgency. Petra was fascinating and the other characters revealing their magics were a lovely supporting cast. That was fast and interesting read.
This one started out with a clear quest that felt drawn out. Although it was short, it felt really long. The lead up tension slowly built but then it mostly fell flat to me because the emotional buildup and chemistry of the characters in the first book was not really there and the author employs a few deus ex machina moments that eliminate the bleak desperation of the first book.
The first book was magical and bleak, which gave it a realistic sense of hopelessness and urgency. Petra was fascinating and the other characters revealing their magics were a lovely supporting cast. That was fast and interesting read.
This one started out with a clear quest that felt drawn out. Although it was short, it felt really long. The lead up tension slowly built but then it mostly fell flat to me because the emotional buildup and chemistry of the characters in the first book was not really there and the author employs a few deus ex machina moments that eliminate the bleak desperation of the first book.
May 10, 2024
The Wolf’s Eye is the second book in ‘The Order of the Seven stars’ series and picks right up where the first book ‘The Witches Lens’ ended.
Like the first book this sequel was very well written and hard to put down since it was so exciting to read. With many twist and turns this book contains mystery, curses, mystical beings, and magic.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
Like the first book this sequel was very well written and hard to put down since it was so exciting to read. With many twist and turns this book contains mystery, curses, mystical beings, and magic.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
October 31, 2024
I devour everything Luanne G. Smith writes.
Her books are always *chef’s kiss*.
Her books are always *chef’s kiss*.
September 15, 2025
Sadly, this book suffered from "2nd book in a series suck syndrome". We went from the battlefield of WW1 where the battle was being fought by mortals and creatures that go bump in the night to running back to the city where Petra had come from and to running around trying to a cure for Josef's werewolf issue, how Petra could do what she does, while trying to hide from The Order. It was ALOT of dialogue and barely any action, and the action that did happen was lackluster and kind of boring. Twice I came close to DNF the thing, but stuck to it just to see if the ending would make it worth it. It did not. 1 star for the beautiful cover and another star for the attempt of the story.
June 4, 2024
tried so hard to like these books but i had to DNF at 18% ):
June 1, 2024
You don't have to read the first book in the series to understand this novel. However, it would help.
Unlike the first book, I thought the story dragged until the last quarter of the book.
Unlike the first book, I thought the story dragged until the last quarter of the book.
June 30, 2024
A little bit of urban fantasy now and then is a good thing. Good finale for the series.
May 15, 2024
I didn’t love it. It’s not bad per se just kinda boring to me?
May 11, 2024
Much like the first book in this series (The Witch’s Lens) this is a historical fantasy/alternate/parallel history with a supernatural twist rather than a historical romance…Though, there is a bit more of the sloooow burn/imagine what could be between Petra and Josef in the future if we don’t get anymore of their story.
The Wolf’s Eye takes place in Prague immediately after our characters flee the Eastern Front after the events at the end of book one. After losing the cure for Josef’s ailment they are notified that the Order wants all of Ava König’s creatures destroyed…In a bid to save Josef from this fate Viktor reaches out to a group of magical researchers that may have Ava’s old journals/spells and may hold the key to saving Josef…but this information won’t come without a cost…these witches want to study Petra and essentially use her as a lab rat in order to figure out where her extremely rare gift comes from. Petra is willing to do anything to save Josef from his fate but has she just doomed herself?
If you enjoy the scientific and historical aspect of Deborah Harkness’ books and the way Juliet Marillier seamlessly weaves folklore and mythology into her stories, you’ll enjoy the second installment of this series. Luanne G. Smith is able to describe well known Prague landmarks so vividly you could close your eyes and trick your brain into thinking you were actually there in Sedlec Ossuary or standing in the Josefov.
I enjoyed this book as much as the first in the series. I think my only wish would have been to have had an actual romance storyline included, but that my own personal wish. I know this was a romance book and wasn’t marketed as one, I just would have liked to see Petra and Josef in love.
Thank you to NetGalley for supplying me with an ARC of this book.
The Wolf’s Eye takes place in Prague immediately after our characters flee the Eastern Front after the events at the end of book one. After losing the cure for Josef’s ailment they are notified that the Order wants all of Ava König’s creatures destroyed…In a bid to save Josef from this fate Viktor reaches out to a group of magical researchers that may have Ava’s old journals/spells and may hold the key to saving Josef…but this information won’t come without a cost…these witches want to study Petra and essentially use her as a lab rat in order to figure out where her extremely rare gift comes from. Petra is willing to do anything to save Josef from his fate but has she just doomed herself?
If you enjoy the scientific and historical aspect of Deborah Harkness’ books and the way Juliet Marillier seamlessly weaves folklore and mythology into her stories, you’ll enjoy the second installment of this series. Luanne G. Smith is able to describe well known Prague landmarks so vividly you could close your eyes and trick your brain into thinking you were actually there in Sedlec Ossuary or standing in the Josefov.
I enjoyed this book as much as the first in the series. I think my only wish would have been to have had an actual romance storyline included, but that my own personal wish. I know this was a romance book and wasn’t marketed as one, I just would have liked to see Petra and Josef in love.
Thank you to NetGalley for supplying me with an ARC of this book.
July 21, 2024
Luanne Smiths magical stories
I am addicted to Luanne Smith's books. Every book is better than the last. My favorite will probably always be The Vine Witch but I will read and love every book she writes.
The Wolfs Eye is the second part of a two book series., though honestly it's the seventh book in a complete magical world that she created. In this book we travel to a new time and place from five of her other books. This book and the one before it take place in an Old Eastern European setting with a war raging. Our heroes are among those who yearn for independence but are caught in the middle of a war where politics and powers collude to inflict casualties. In addition to the usual weapons of war, magic is also pressed into service making the results even more terrible. But we are rooting for our talented group of friends who have all the qualities that we hope can balance out the great evil in the world. There is loyalty, sacrifice, ingenuity, and hope against great odds.
The author gives us wonderful characters who we attach to. Sometimes we see a character fron a different book walk though or be alluded to, as Luanne Smith has given us a whole world with it's own special Quantum rules. The author expertly builds tensión thoughout until You find yourself staying up all night to find out how it ends. All of These books have a fairy tale Quality to them that satisfy our adult inner child. They are Fun to read. They are unexpected. They are addictive.
This was Great series. I can't wait until Luanne Smith's next book
I am addicted to Luanne Smith's books. Every book is better than the last. My favorite will probably always be The Vine Witch but I will read and love every book she writes.
The Wolfs Eye is the second part of a two book series., though honestly it's the seventh book in a complete magical world that she created. In this book we travel to a new time and place from five of her other books. This book and the one before it take place in an Old Eastern European setting with a war raging. Our heroes are among those who yearn for independence but are caught in the middle of a war where politics and powers collude to inflict casualties. In addition to the usual weapons of war, magic is also pressed into service making the results even more terrible. But we are rooting for our talented group of friends who have all the qualities that we hope can balance out the great evil in the world. There is loyalty, sacrifice, ingenuity, and hope against great odds.
The author gives us wonderful characters who we attach to. Sometimes we see a character fron a different book walk though or be alluded to, as Luanne Smith has given us a whole world with it's own special Quantum rules. The author expertly builds tensión thoughout until You find yourself staying up all night to find out how it ends. All of These books have a fairy tale Quality to them that satisfy our adult inner child. They are Fun to read. They are unexpected. They are addictive.
This was Great series. I can't wait until Luanne Smith's next book
May 6, 2024
4.5 ⭐
0 🌶️
Coming into this duology in the second book didn't hurt terribly. I was prepared to read the first one if I found myself lost. I started reading and was pleased with how the author built a robust recap just in the telling of the second book. I did not feel lost, and as the story was built, the characters from the first book were explained in greater detail. This story was quite riveting, and I enjoyed the steampunk atmosphere and blending of true historical events with those in this steampunk-ish urban fantasy. I sensed a good deal of growth in Petra's character and enjoyed her bravery in protecting her band of investigators. I was delighted, along with the crew in the book, when the characters, who were thought dead, turned up to help in their mission. The book's pacing was good; I didn't get bored or frustrated. More than anything, the pace quickened as the crew's time was getting shorter, and they needed to find what they were looking for; there is a crazed werewolf (or the word the author uses for him), a multifaceted mystery, diabolical scheming, and a most exciting battle scene at the end. This could definitely be a longer series, but the author did an outstanding job of closing the storyline enough that the reader will be content if there are no more books in the series. Honestly, I wish more books were doing this. Bravo!
Thank you #NetGalley and #47North for the ARC. These opinions are my own.
0 🌶️
Coming into this duology in the second book didn't hurt terribly. I was prepared to read the first one if I found myself lost. I started reading and was pleased with how the author built a robust recap just in the telling of the second book. I did not feel lost, and as the story was built, the characters from the first book were explained in greater detail. This story was quite riveting, and I enjoyed the steampunk atmosphere and blending of true historical events with those in this steampunk-ish urban fantasy. I sensed a good deal of growth in Petra's character and enjoyed her bravery in protecting her band of investigators. I was delighted, along with the crew in the book, when the characters, who were thought dead, turned up to help in their mission. The book's pacing was good; I didn't get bored or frustrated. More than anything, the pace quickened as the crew's time was getting shorter, and they needed to find what they were looking for; there is a crazed werewolf (or the word the author uses for him), a multifaceted mystery, diabolical scheming, and a most exciting battle scene at the end. This could definitely be a longer series, but the author did an outstanding job of closing the storyline enough that the reader will be content if there are no more books in the series. Honestly, I wish more books were doing this. Bravo!
Thank you #NetGalley and #47North for the ARC. These opinions are my own.
August 19, 2024
The Wolf’s Eye is the sort of sequel that gets into the nuts and bolts of how magic in the world it’s set works. It’s not devoid of action, but it’s also not super full of it, either. What there is, is well done. The conflict stems mainly from wanting Petra’s powers and finding a cure for Josef.
I was originally confused when Dimitri, the second vlkodlak, was constantly referred to as “the starshina.” There’s no explanation as to what that means in the book. I had thought it was some other supernatural creature, but a quick google reveal that a starshina was a military rank in some Slavic states. While I appreciate not being spoon-fed everything, an explanation of that would have been nice.
That’s really my only complaint about the book. I may not have been super captivated, but the story held my attention and was entertaining enough. I know, not exactly glowing praise, but… yeah. Solid story. Solid sequel. Not a whole lot to say.
The last thing I’ll discuss is Petra and Josef’s romance. I like that they’re both kind of awkward around each other. They’ve only know each other for maybe a week or two, so this makes sense. They also haven’t had any time alone together, so the slow nature of the romance also makes sense. I buy them as a couple and I appreciate that we, as readers, aren’t slammed over the head with it.
So yes, The Wolf’s Eye is a solid sequel. I’d be content if the story ends up ending here. I’m not sure if this is a duology or not.
I was originally confused when Dimitri, the second vlkodlak, was constantly referred to as “the starshina.” There’s no explanation as to what that means in the book. I had thought it was some other supernatural creature, but a quick google reveal that a starshina was a military rank in some Slavic states. While I appreciate not being spoon-fed everything, an explanation of that would have been nice.
That’s really my only complaint about the book. I may not have been super captivated, but the story held my attention and was entertaining enough. I know, not exactly glowing praise, but… yeah. Solid story. Solid sequel. Not a whole lot to say.
The last thing I’ll discuss is Petra and Josef’s romance. I like that they’re both kind of awkward around each other. They’ve only know each other for maybe a week or two, so this makes sense. They also haven’t had any time alone together, so the slow nature of the romance also makes sense. I buy them as a couple and I appreciate that we, as readers, aren’t slammed over the head with it.
So yes, The Wolf’s Eye is a solid sequel. I’d be content if the story ends up ending here. I’m not sure if this is a duology or not.
March 16, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and author Luanne G. Smith for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
"Petra Kurková—a witch who wields magic worth its weight in gold—is tasked with combating the undead on World War I’s eastern front. The battlefield has yielded a newfound closeness for her spellbound team, especially for Josef Svoboda, a recruiter for the Order of the Seven Stars. But Josef was bitten at the start of the war, leaving his blood tainted by a strain of the vlkodlak curse, which makes him a target of the Order’s latest mission: slay the werewolves prowling the eastern front under the moonlight.
Petra refuses to give up on one of their own. From the hasty kill order of a clandestine society to the long-lost spells in an old grimoire to the unraveling mysteries of Petra’s own past, the urgency to save Josef grows, particularly as his feral impulses become harder to control. The werewolves are closing in. So, too, are the bounty hunters eager to collect. As Petra’s team finds itself at a magical crossroads, Josef devises an ambush of his own—one that could wipe out the cursed threat forever or endanger everything and everyone he loves."
This is a second book in the "The Order Of The Seven Stars" series. I enjoy reading this book, so does the first one. It picks up to where the last one ended. I read this in one sitting.
"Petra Kurková—a witch who wields magic worth its weight in gold—is tasked with combating the undead on World War I’s eastern front. The battlefield has yielded a newfound closeness for her spellbound team, especially for Josef Svoboda, a recruiter for the Order of the Seven Stars. But Josef was bitten at the start of the war, leaving his blood tainted by a strain of the vlkodlak curse, which makes him a target of the Order’s latest mission: slay the werewolves prowling the eastern front under the moonlight.
Petra refuses to give up on one of their own. From the hasty kill order of a clandestine society to the long-lost spells in an old grimoire to the unraveling mysteries of Petra’s own past, the urgency to save Josef grows, particularly as his feral impulses become harder to control. The werewolves are closing in. So, too, are the bounty hunters eager to collect. As Petra’s team finds itself at a magical crossroads, Josef devises an ambush of his own—one that could wipe out the cursed threat forever or endanger everything and everyone he loves."
This is a second book in the "The Order Of The Seven Stars" series. I enjoy reading this book, so does the first one. It picks up to where the last one ended. I read this in one sitting.
May 11, 2024
I absolutely loved "The Witch's Lens" last month, so I was overjoyed to read the second book of this duology, "The Wolf's Eye." Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for this ARC.
This book picks up right where "The Witch's Lens" leaves off. However, it is very different than Book 1. Instead of the battlefield, the majority of this book takes place in the city. However, I didn't mind as much because the plot line was so intriguing.
Our found family band of witches and soldiers were on a mission to reverse a werewolf-like curse
and met some incredible villains and new friends along the way. I loved the mysteries, the magic system, the twists, and how this duology wrapped up.
The pacing was really well done, especially as the reader learns a timeline is involved in the characters' quest. Once you hit the 50% mark, the pace really speeds up and comes to an exciting conclusion with an exciting battle scene.
Overall, I enjoyed this entire series. There is little to no romance (only fleeting glances and what-ifs), and the focus is mainly on the magic system and mythology. I would love to read more by this author, as the writing is extremely vivid.
If you're looking for a completed duology available on KU with no spice and lots of magic, this is the one for you!
This book picks up right where "The Witch's Lens" leaves off. However, it is very different than Book 1. Instead of the battlefield, the majority of this book takes place in the city. However, I didn't mind as much because the plot line was so intriguing.
Our found family band of witches and soldiers were on a mission to reverse a werewolf-like curse
and met some incredible villains and new friends along the way. I loved the mysteries, the magic system, the twists, and how this duology wrapped up.
The pacing was really well done, especially as the reader learns a timeline is involved in the characters' quest. Once you hit the 50% mark, the pace really speeds up and comes to an exciting conclusion with an exciting battle scene.
Overall, I enjoyed this entire series. There is little to no romance (only fleeting glances and what-ifs), and the focus is mainly on the magic system and mythology. I would love to read more by this author, as the writing is extremely vivid.
If you're looking for a completed duology available on KU with no spice and lots of magic, this is the one for you!
May 15, 2024
The Wolfs Eye The Order of the Seven Stars Book 2 by Luanne G Smith
255 Pages
Publisher: 47North
Release Date: October 1, 2023
Fiction, Historical Fiction, Sci Fi, Fantasy, Alchemy, Carpathian Mountains, World War I
Petra Stamitz Kurkova, Josef Svoboda, and Viktor Vesely just arrived home from their work with the army in the Carpathian Mountains. Along with Yanis, a priest, they are members of the Order of the Seven Stars.
The Emperor’s Witch, Ava Konig, created the cure for the Vlkodlak curse, which turns men into wolves after being bit. She promised to cure Josef, but died before she could. Now Petra is the research subject at the Libuse Society. Since she was a child, she can change things into other things. The scientists, Martina Danek, Franz Burian, and Max Decker, want to know how and why it is possible. Martina knew Petra’s father, Honza Stamitz, when they studied together at university. Petra agrees to help them if they can help cure Josef.
The story has a building pace with the action continuing from the first book. The characters are developed, and it is written in the third person point of view. I love how the characters have grown from the first book through this one. I really hope there is another book in this series because I am grown fond of them. If you like historical fiction with a magical twist, you may enjoy reading this book.
255 Pages
Publisher: 47North
Release Date: October 1, 2023
Fiction, Historical Fiction, Sci Fi, Fantasy, Alchemy, Carpathian Mountains, World War I
Petra Stamitz Kurkova, Josef Svoboda, and Viktor Vesely just arrived home from their work with the army in the Carpathian Mountains. Along with Yanis, a priest, they are members of the Order of the Seven Stars.
The Emperor’s Witch, Ava Konig, created the cure for the Vlkodlak curse, which turns men into wolves after being bit. She promised to cure Josef, but died before she could. Now Petra is the research subject at the Libuse Society. Since she was a child, she can change things into other things. The scientists, Martina Danek, Franz Burian, and Max Decker, want to know how and why it is possible. Martina knew Petra’s father, Honza Stamitz, when they studied together at university. Petra agrees to help them if they can help cure Josef.
The story has a building pace with the action continuing from the first book. The characters are developed, and it is written in the third person point of view. I love how the characters have grown from the first book through this one. I really hope there is another book in this series because I am grown fond of them. If you like historical fiction with a magical twist, you may enjoy reading this book.
September 27, 2024
The Wolf’s Eye, by Luanne G. Smith, is the second book in Smith’s Order of the Seven Stars series. In this story our band of paranormals retreat from the front to the city in order to find a cure for Josef’s vikodlak (werewolf) curse.
When they arrive in the city, they find their way to The Libuse Society, the organization that Viktor works for, dedicated to the scientific study of the origins of magic. It is here that the group hopes to find clues to the cure for Josef’s curse.
At first, the group is welcomed to the Society and allowed access to their extensive magic library; however, it soon becomes apparent that they are really after the secret to Petra’s ability to change any matter into whatever else she wants.
They are also being followed by Dimitri, another soldier with the vikodlak curse, but who does not have access to the elixir. Saved by the group on the front, he is also after Petra ad her special powers.
The story goes on as both the group, the Society and Dimitri pursue their individual but converging objectives.
Aided by the local outpost of the Order of the Seven Stars, the group is able to thwart the efforts of the Society and Dimitri to control Petra’s powers.
While the story diverged from the original story of fighting on the Austrian-Russian front, this was one of the better sequels. The action is slow to develop but becomes more constant towards the last 20% of the story.
When they arrive in the city, they find their way to The Libuse Society, the organization that Viktor works for, dedicated to the scientific study of the origins of magic. It is here that the group hopes to find clues to the cure for Josef’s curse.
At first, the group is welcomed to the Society and allowed access to their extensive magic library; however, it soon becomes apparent that they are really after the secret to Petra’s ability to change any matter into whatever else she wants.
They are also being followed by Dimitri, another soldier with the vikodlak curse, but who does not have access to the elixir. Saved by the group on the front, he is also after Petra ad her special powers.
The story goes on as both the group, the Society and Dimitri pursue their individual but converging objectives.
Aided by the local outpost of the Order of the Seven Stars, the group is able to thwart the efforts of the Society and Dimitri to control Petra’s powers.
While the story diverged from the original story of fighting on the Austrian-Russian front, this was one of the better sequels. The action is slow to develop but becomes more constant towards the last 20% of the story.
June 17, 2024
The historical setting is perfect for this fantasy that weaves magic, folklore, and werewolves into World War I. In book two, Petra’s team draws back from the front and returns to the city to find a cure for Josef. Tainted by the vlkodlak (werewolf) curse, Josef struggles to control his wildness. But the team believes there may a be a cure.
Fighting a vlkodlak kill order, Petra and the others team up with another group of magicians. Academics who are hungry for knowledge and power agree to help as long as they are able to study Petra whose singular talent is coveted by everyone. The academics are hiding something, keeping Petra close and delaying the discovery of a cure for Josef. All the while, a violent, depraved lone wolf is closing in on the group, eager to join with Petra.
In The Wolf’s Eye, Petra will learn more about her father and how she came to be who she is. Also, the development of the vlkodlak curse is revealed.
Magical horrors echo the real time war evils while spinning a character-driven tale filled with empathic heroines and heroes who charm the reader of this dark fantasy.
Through Netgalley, the publisher provided a copy of this book. My review is my honest opinion.
Fighting a vlkodlak kill order, Petra and the others team up with another group of magicians. Academics who are hungry for knowledge and power agree to help as long as they are able to study Petra whose singular talent is coveted by everyone. The academics are hiding something, keeping Petra close and delaying the discovery of a cure for Josef. All the while, a violent, depraved lone wolf is closing in on the group, eager to join with Petra.
In The Wolf’s Eye, Petra will learn more about her father and how she came to be who she is. Also, the development of the vlkodlak curse is revealed.
Magical horrors echo the real time war evils while spinning a character-driven tale filled with empathic heroines and heroes who charm the reader of this dark fantasy.
Through Netgalley, the publisher provided a copy of this book. My review is my honest opinion.
December 9, 2023
The Wolf's Eye is the second book in the Order of the Seven Stars duology by Luanne G. Smith. It picks up right where the first book ended, following Petra and her motley crew of supernatural friends back to Prague where they must find a cure for the wolf curse or else risk having one of their own killed by the nefarious war forces.
I enjoyed this story and duology for its Eastern European magic and fast paced adventure. I loved that this story took place entirely in Prague as it's such a magical city, on the threshold of magic and science. Alchemy, family secrets, and scientific explorations are the gold and silver threads woven throughout this story that added another layer of mystery to the plot. I liked learning more about Petra and the origins of her magic which was a nice conclusion to this story. The fantasy elements in this book were whimsical but still entrenched within the Eastern European folklore, culture, and mythology.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and thought the duology was entertaining and bewitching.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this story and duology for its Eastern European magic and fast paced adventure. I loved that this story took place entirely in Prague as it's such a magical city, on the threshold of magic and science. Alchemy, family secrets, and scientific explorations are the gold and silver threads woven throughout this story that added another layer of mystery to the plot. I liked learning more about Petra and the origins of her magic which was a nice conclusion to this story. The fantasy elements in this book were whimsical but still entrenched within the Eastern European folklore, culture, and mythology.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and thought the duology was entertaining and bewitching.
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2024
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
In Book 2 of The Order of the Seven Stars Series, Petra Kurková (a witch who is able to change objects merely by touching them) has been working with the Order on the frontlines of World War I to combat magic. A witch had cast a curse that was turning soldiers into vlkodlak, and it was up to Petra and the Order to find the cure and reverse the curse. One of their own, Josef Svoboda, was infected with the curse, and Petra had a special fondness for Josef, so this created even more urgency in the matter. They will have to deal with a kill order from a clandestine society, trying to recover long-lost spells from an old grimoire , and unraveling mysteries from Petra’s past, all while Josef is battling the urges that are driving him to change over.
This book was excellent. I have really enjoyed this series. It has a motley cast of characters, and it puts them in a setting you would be unlikely to find them. You definitely want to read them in order so you can get the whole picture of what is going on. If you are a fan of fantasy fiction then I definitely think you should check this out.
In Book 2 of The Order of the Seven Stars Series, Petra Kurková (a witch who is able to change objects merely by touching them) has been working with the Order on the frontlines of World War I to combat magic. A witch had cast a curse that was turning soldiers into vlkodlak, and it was up to Petra and the Order to find the cure and reverse the curse. One of their own, Josef Svoboda, was infected with the curse, and Petra had a special fondness for Josef, so this created even more urgency in the matter. They will have to deal with a kill order from a clandestine society, trying to recover long-lost spells from an old grimoire , and unraveling mysteries from Petra’s past, all while Josef is battling the urges that are driving him to change over.
This book was excellent. I have really enjoyed this series. It has a motley cast of characters, and it puts them in a setting you would be unlikely to find them. You definitely want to read them in order so you can get the whole picture of what is going on. If you are a fan of fantasy fiction then I definitely think you should check this out.
May 28, 2024
This was an alternate historical fantasy. We start with a group of friends fleeing the battlefront in search of a way to support their friend, Josef, from a werewolf bite. They had a cure that kept the wolf at bay, except for the full moon, but they lost it. They hoped to find the cure's creator or the records of its creation. Petra is the lone female within their group and has a special magical ability to reform things. She agrees to be studied by magical researchers in trade for what might lead them to a cure for their friend. There is a slow-burn-maybe-type of romance between Petra and Josef, but it really doesn't go beyond hints of interest.
I liked the timeline and the hints of history, including the landmarks of the city they were in. There were some good action scenes and a bit of mystery and intrigue to keep it moving. It did feel slow in places but that could just be me. The second half was definitely better than the first as far as pacing went. I also didn't realize that it was the second in a series until after I had finished.
Many thanks to author Luanne Smith and NetGalley for the free copy of this Audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
I liked the timeline and the hints of history, including the landmarks of the city they were in. There were some good action scenes and a bit of mystery and intrigue to keep it moving. It did feel slow in places but that could just be me. The second half was definitely better than the first as far as pacing went. I also didn't realize that it was the second in a series until after I had finished.
Many thanks to author Luanne Smith and NetGalley for the free copy of this Audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
June 28, 2025
I've had this book quite a while, but only recently got round to reading it. I bought it because I really enjoying the previous book - The Witch's Lens. I've read quite a few of the author's books - some I have really liked and others, although highly rated, I found just OK (even in the same series). I was not disappointed with this book at all and found it followed on well from the first book, was exciting and interesting. We learn more about Petra's past as she and her group search for a way to rid one of them from a curse. This involves visiting a secret society who it turns out her father used to work for. I liked the way magic and science interlinked - a lot of science would have been thought of as magic in the past (and guess in some cases still is). This society want to understand more about Petra's magic and will only allow them access to try to cure their friend if they can experiment on her, which in turn reveals a lot more information about Petra's past and raises a lot of questions, and reveals more about people's motives and the lengths they are prepared to go to get what they want. A very exciting read.
January 15, 2024
This was an excellent sequel to an already amazing book — The Witch’s Lens!
Smith continues to build and detail a fantastic world where magic simultaneously co-existing within government, yet hidden from average society. This book shines with the fully thought out magic system, ties to science and lore.
Smith nicely was able to write multiple 3rd person POVs that each navigated nicely the story and internal thoughts of each POV character. Additionally, I felt the action in this book was well paced for a 3 act structure.
Additionally, I enjoyed seeing the continued building of tension in the brewing relationship of Petra and Josef without it being the center focus of the book. I truly appreciate the careful consideration Smith used in this work to build a slow burn romance that somehow only takes place within less than a month across these two books???? Also, I appreciate the attention to detail in the growing interest in each other, rather than a sudden “love at first site” romance.
I hope to see more books in this series in the future!
Smith continues to build and detail a fantastic world where magic simultaneously co-existing within government, yet hidden from average society. This book shines with the fully thought out magic system, ties to science and lore.
Smith nicely was able to write multiple 3rd person POVs that each navigated nicely the story and internal thoughts of each POV character. Additionally, I felt the action in this book was well paced for a 3 act structure.
Additionally, I enjoyed seeing the continued building of tension in the brewing relationship of Petra and Josef without it being the center focus of the book. I truly appreciate the careful consideration Smith used in this work to build a slow burn romance that somehow only takes place within less than a month across these two books???? Also, I appreciate the attention to detail in the growing interest in each other, rather than a sudden “love at first site” romance.
I hope to see more books in this series in the future!
January 9, 2025
I decided the read the Wolf’s Eye, because I had already read the Witch’s Lens last year and found it every enjoyable. This book certainly did not disappoint, in my opinion.
The Wolf’s Eye picks up after the events from The Witch’s Lens and you find our merry band of companions waiting on instructions from the Order on what their next mission is to be. They finally get word and they start contemplating whether they should do what the order asks or go to the city to try and find the cure for Josef’s condition or curse like they refer to it.
They finally decide to go to the city and search for more information about the cure for Josef’s curse. Without giving too much away, all members embark on a search where they uncover half-truths, lies, deceit, determination, revenge, and finally redemption for certain things they have done.
I’ve always enjoyed books about fantasy, especially with magical aspects mixed in. This series also touches on some historical fiction which I liked. It was a great read, fast paced and not dragging on.
The Wolf’s Eye picks up after the events from The Witch’s Lens and you find our merry band of companions waiting on instructions from the Order on what their next mission is to be. They finally get word and they start contemplating whether they should do what the order asks or go to the city to try and find the cure for Josef’s condition or curse like they refer to it.
They finally decide to go to the city and search for more information about the cure for Josef’s curse. Without giving too much away, all members embark on a search where they uncover half-truths, lies, deceit, determination, revenge, and finally redemption for certain things they have done.
I’ve always enjoyed books about fantasy, especially with magical aspects mixed in. This series also touches on some historical fiction which I liked. It was a great read, fast paced and not dragging on.
March 18, 2025
Character: 6
Atmosphere: 5.5
Writing: 6
Plot: 6
Intrigue: 6
Logic: 6
Enjoyment: 5
CAWPILE: 5.49
Honestly, despite reading Witch’s Lens last year I didn’t really remember the first book that well other than it was a weird mix of interesting and boring. Interesting enough to want to see if the second book got better, but boring enough that it was not memorable. Well, needless to say, I guess you don’t really need the first book to read the second? Petra uses her camera once and we don’t even see the results of the picture. They talk about Ava a lot and while I was thinking I should read a summary of the Witch’s Lens to refresh memory, I didn’t and I don’t think I suffered for it. Is this the end of the series? Is there going to be more war stories and more curses? Is Petra just going to keep doing what she has been doing? I think I will be okay not knowing these answers, but just like last time, if there does happen to be a third book, I’ll probably pick it up.
Atmosphere: 5.5
Writing: 6
Plot: 6
Intrigue: 6
Logic: 6
Enjoyment: 5
CAWPILE: 5.49
Honestly, despite reading Witch’s Lens last year I didn’t really remember the first book that well other than it was a weird mix of interesting and boring. Interesting enough to want to see if the second book got better, but boring enough that it was not memorable. Well, needless to say, I guess you don’t really need the first book to read the second? Petra uses her camera once and we don’t even see the results of the picture. They talk about Ava a lot and while I was thinking I should read a summary of the Witch’s Lens to refresh memory, I didn’t and I don’t think I suffered for it. Is this the end of the series? Is there going to be more war stories and more curses? Is Petra just going to keep doing what she has been doing? I think I will be okay not knowing these answers, but just like last time, if there does happen to be a third book, I’ll probably pick it up.
May 16, 2024
My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and 47North. I'm voluntarily leaving a review.
Genre: Adult Fantasy, Paranormal, Alternate History, Historical Fantasy
I became interested in this author after reading THE VINE WITCH. One thing I'm enjoying is how different each of her novels are.
This is the second after WITCH'S LENS. Now we're focused on the werewolves. I liked how she gives a fresh perspective on an old paranormal subject. I think you could also draw lesson from this of how we view others and the monster within.
WWI isn't written about as WWII, and that reason alone makes me interested to see what happens in this alternate reality. Instead of looking at Europe, this book focuses on the people and their individual struggles. The slow burn romance is still working through this book—and that's a detail I've enjoyed.
I think you're going to love this book if you love alternate history, shapeshifters, and fantasy.
Happy reading!
Genre: Adult Fantasy, Paranormal, Alternate History, Historical Fantasy
I became interested in this author after reading THE VINE WITCH. One thing I'm enjoying is how different each of her novels are.
This is the second after WITCH'S LENS. Now we're focused on the werewolves. I liked how she gives a fresh perspective on an old paranormal subject. I think you could also draw lesson from this of how we view others and the monster within.
WWI isn't written about as WWII, and that reason alone makes me interested to see what happens in this alternate reality. Instead of looking at Europe, this book focuses on the people and their individual struggles. The slow burn romance is still working through this book—and that's a detail I've enjoyed.
I think you're going to love this book if you love alternate history, shapeshifters, and fantasy.
Happy reading!
June 19, 2024
The novel takes root in Prague and is a delicate blend of fantasy and historical genres with plenty of room to enrich the story with elements from a parallel universe. In this second volume of the saga, the story opens up a bit to emotions, though they remain subtle, a detail I greatly appreciated.
As a lover of mythology, I loved the care with which mythological elements were woven into the events, aiming to make the story as engaging and relatable as possible. Another detail I appreciated is how the author effectively concluded the duology of a series that could have continued but instead wrapped up by tying together all the threads and resolving all the issues presented.
However, I did find the first half a bit slow, decidedly less frenetic (in a good way) compared to the second half where the pace picks up and it becomes harder to put the book down. Finally, I found the first volume to be more engaging than this second book, but it could simply be that my expectations were higher after reading the first. It's a beautiful book, undoubtedly well-thought-out and worth reading and discovering.
As a lover of mythology, I loved the care with which mythological elements were woven into the events, aiming to make the story as engaging and relatable as possible. Another detail I appreciated is how the author effectively concluded the duology of a series that could have continued but instead wrapped up by tying together all the threads and resolving all the issues presented.
However, I did find the first half a bit slow, decidedly less frenetic (in a good way) compared to the second half where the pace picks up and it becomes harder to put the book down. Finally, I found the first volume to be more engaging than this second book, but it could simply be that my expectations were higher after reading the first. It's a beautiful book, undoubtedly well-thought-out and worth reading and discovering.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews