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The Wolf Warden
Varda Glipwood has trained nearly her entire existence for one thing: to destroy life. When her beloved sister is brutally murdered, an opportunity arises for Varda to prove herself capable. She must find her sister’s killer and destroy him, and in doing so she hopes to gain the acceptance and approval she so desperately needs. But a task like that is never easy, and Varda quickly learns that everything she thought she knew must change if she is to unlock the key to saving the world.
- GenresFantasyChristian Fantasy
302 pages, Paperback
Published October 19, 2024
1 person is currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Jordan
10 books27 followersKathryn Jordan is an indie author who writes faith-filled, YA and NA fantasy. She likes to describe herself as neurospicy, slightly unhinged, and unapologetically weird. She enjoys digital art, taking walks, watching crows, and reading books by her fellow indie authors. Much of her time is dedicated to raising and homeschooling her three awesome kids, but creating is a nonnegotiable outlet, a creature within she must heed.
Her works include the Keeper of Light series, The Girl Who Has Stars on Her Shoulder (a companion novel), The Wolf Warden, and House of Dragons (Book One of The Emberstone Trilogy). Visit her official website to explore her books, connect on social media, and more!
Her works include the Keeper of Light series, The Girl Who Has Stars on Her Shoulder (a companion novel), The Wolf Warden, and House of Dragons (Book One of The Emberstone Trilogy). Visit her official website to explore her books, connect on social media, and more!
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 28, 2025
Oh my gracious! Five stars.
This book was so well built! The world. The characters. The way the gifts work. The redemption arcs. Chef’s kiss.
I loved all the main characters so much (except the villain of course they were wholly despicable)! They were all fully flawed and yet redeemed humans with struggles and victories. Doubts and faith. As I said I loved them all. But I’ll highlight Varda. She was so complex and had such a beautiful spirit. I absolutely loved her! I’m rarely invested in the FMC of stories but this was a wonderful exception. Where it was wholly her POV and I never got tired of her! Her ARC was beyond amazing.
I have no more words right now. Except this: if you love epic, non-magical, Christian, Fantasy you will love this book!!
*I received an ARC copy from the author and was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was so well built! The world. The characters. The way the gifts work. The redemption arcs. Chef’s kiss.
I loved all the main characters so much (except the villain of course they were wholly despicable)! They were all fully flawed and yet redeemed humans with struggles and victories. Doubts and faith. As I said I loved them all. But I’ll highlight Varda. She was so complex and had such a beautiful spirit. I absolutely loved her! I’m rarely invested in the FMC of stories but this was a wonderful exception. Where it was wholly her POV and I never got tired of her! Her ARC was beyond amazing.
I have no more words right now. Except this: if you love epic, non-magical, Christian, Fantasy you will love this book!!
*I received an ARC copy from the author and was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 15, 2024
Kathryn Jordan’s ‘The Wolf Warden’ is a testament to the power of love and forgiveness to heal the world. Unashamedly Christian, it expounds the truth of the primacy of God’s love for each of us as the only thing that ultimately matters. All of the main characters are broken in one way or another, but they all find acceptance and forgiveness through each other, and because of that, are able to bring the terrible suffering of their world to an end.
Kathryn’s prose is lovely, painting a vivid picture of her world and characters, which are both well-realised. Fans of classic fantasy will appreciate its flow. She also did a wonderful job of creating some surprising twists toward the end, and giving a nice redemption arc to one particular character who shall remain nameless.
A word of caution: this book may not be for you if you don’t enjoy Biblical truths being explained by one character to another, but if you are ok with that, then this is a heartwarming story full of sweet romance, self-acceptance, and forgiveness. I would also recommend it for older YA audiences only due to some mature themes/implications.
Kathryn’s prose is lovely, painting a vivid picture of her world and characters, which are both well-realised. Fans of classic fantasy will appreciate its flow. She also did a wonderful job of creating some surprising twists toward the end, and giving a nice redemption arc to one particular character who shall remain nameless.
A word of caution: this book may not be for you if you don’t enjoy Biblical truths being explained by one character to another, but if you are ok with that, then this is a heartwarming story full of sweet romance, self-acceptance, and forgiveness. I would also recommend it for older YA audiences only due to some mature themes/implications.
November 14, 2024
This is an extremely well written book and I am not just talking about the plot and the characters. They are great, but the imagery in the book is classic.
The author makes you care for the characters so much, and it feels like you heal along with them. Every time the FMC started trusting herself, my heart was full and I was so proud of her. It actually felt that I knew her and wanted her to be happy. Despite being a fantasy the book is also realistic, since the FMC doesn't grow overnight, she takes time, she falls back, she cries, and your heart breaks along with her. But oh, you will love the ride.
I always thought that faith based books might become boring, but the author has weaved this story in a way that makes you turn the pages. You understand what she is trying to say and you actually start believing that you have to believe in yourself.
The character growth over the course of the book was awesome, and then there's a plot twist I never saw coming (Oh My!).
This book deserves all the hype it's getting and more. So happy that I picked it up.
The author makes you care for the characters so much, and it feels like you heal along with them. Every time the FMC started trusting herself, my heart was full and I was so proud of her. It actually felt that I knew her and wanted her to be happy. Despite being a fantasy the book is also realistic, since the FMC doesn't grow overnight, she takes time, she falls back, she cries, and your heart breaks along with her. But oh, you will love the ride.
I always thought that faith based books might become boring, but the author has weaved this story in a way that makes you turn the pages. You understand what she is trying to say and you actually start believing that you have to believe in yourself.
The character growth over the course of the book was awesome, and then there's a plot twist I never saw coming (Oh My!).
This book deserves all the hype it's getting and more. So happy that I picked it up.
October 27, 2024
If you're looking for a heart-warming fantasy that explores deep themes, you can find it in The Wolf Warden by Kathryn Jordan.
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 4/5
From the first page, I was sucked into a new, unfamiliar world with characters that felt so real. Varda Glipwood is very relatable, and her arc and growth is beautiful to see. Rhyll is a great counterpart, and I really loved the family dynamic between Varda and her friends. The story picks up quickly, to the point where I was checking how far along I was to see if I was nearing the halfway point but I was only at 20%! I loved that I felt like I went on a journey with Varda, and many elements that were introduced at the beginning came up again at the end. There was one moment towards the end that a few details and events felt a bit rushed, but the resolution was perfect!
Worldview was also great! This book is fantasy, and it includes magic, but it's all under the authority of the Creator (God). People, like Rhyll, have gifts from the Creator, like making things grow or sensing thoughts. I really loved that Kathryn explored how a person's value is not tied to their gift or what they look like but to who they are--and that they were created by God. Everyone has value, and everyone can be forgiven and redeemed by the Creator. I loved forgiveness was stressed as important, but that even after forgiveness is given, that doesn't mean you have to put yourself back in the position to get hurt. I loved seeing the characters pray and ask God for help, guidance, and deliverance.
Worldview did drop a bit for me, however, with the mention of soulmates/marks. This is the concept in the story where two people are "marked" for each other. That means that the people made for each other and they should not marry/be with anyone else. But soulmates are not biblical, so I didn't like that point.
Content Notes (did not affect the rating, just for context): There is an older character in the book that was mentioned as having groomed young girls to fall in love with him to manipulate them (emphasis on the emotional manipulation). This was painted as unacceptable. Another character at one point tries to take their own life, but it is discussed and they are given hope. In terms of language, there is one mention of whore. The romance was super sweet, just a few mild kisses with affection, but a very clear line for marriage. There are non-descriptive mentions of torture.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Wolf Warden! The themes were stunning, and I loved getting to know Varda and the other characters! I've had Kathryn's other books on my TBR for a while, and I can't wait to dig into them to learn more about this world!
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the author but all opinions expressed are my own!
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 4/5
From the first page, I was sucked into a new, unfamiliar world with characters that felt so real. Varda Glipwood is very relatable, and her arc and growth is beautiful to see. Rhyll is a great counterpart, and I really loved the family dynamic between Varda and her friends. The story picks up quickly, to the point where I was checking how far along I was to see if I was nearing the halfway point but I was only at 20%! I loved that I felt like I went on a journey with Varda, and many elements that were introduced at the beginning came up again at the end. There was one moment towards the end that a few details and events felt a bit rushed, but the resolution was perfect!
Worldview was also great! This book is fantasy, and it includes magic, but it's all under the authority of the Creator (God). People, like Rhyll, have gifts from the Creator, like making things grow or sensing thoughts. I really loved that Kathryn explored how a person's value is not tied to their gift or what they look like but to who they are--and that they were created by God. Everyone has value, and everyone can be forgiven and redeemed by the Creator. I loved forgiveness was stressed as important, but that even after forgiveness is given, that doesn't mean you have to put yourself back in the position to get hurt. I loved seeing the characters pray and ask God for help, guidance, and deliverance.
Worldview did drop a bit for me, however, with the mention of soulmates/marks. This is the concept in the story where two people are "marked" for each other. That means that the people made for each other and they should not marry/be with anyone else. But soulmates are not biblical, so I didn't like that point.
Content Notes (did not affect the rating, just for context): There is an older character in the book that was mentioned as having groomed young girls to fall in love with him to manipulate them (emphasis on the emotional manipulation). This was painted as unacceptable. Another character at one point tries to take their own life, but it is discussed and they are given hope. In terms of language, there is one mention of whore. The romance was super sweet, just a few mild kisses with affection, but a very clear line for marriage. There are non-descriptive mentions of torture.
Overall, I really enjoyed The Wolf Warden! The themes were stunning, and I loved getting to know Varda and the other characters! I've had Kathryn's other books on my TBR for a while, and I can't wait to dig into them to learn more about this world!
Note: I received an ARC of this book from the author but all opinions expressed are my own!
January 18, 2025
**HIGHLY RECOMMENDED WHOLESOME CHRISTIAN FANTASY READ!**
Kathryn Jordan's The Wolf Warden tenderly and thoroughly deconstructs insecurities surrounding self-worth, belonging, desirability, and love, reinforcing Truth with characters and revelations that reflect God's nature. Protagonist Varda Glipwood, an assassin sent to kill a magical Wolf Warden who has been accused of murdering Varda's sister, begins her arc debilitated by feelings of worthlessness and despair. By the book's end, both platonic and romantic connections in her life assert that even the seemingly unattractive and irredeemable are of great value to God - and no human's opinion can rob them of their identity in Him.
The Wolf Warden, while imperfect in a few spots - a character I don't recall ever hearing about is found guilty of facilitating a kidnapping (it is written to be a shock, but I didn't know the individual even existed until then), and the ending is a bit rushed - remains one of the most quietly powerful books I have ever read. Its gentle exploration of complex emotions like rage, unforgiveness, envy, and female-to-female comparison, and its honesty in approaching the characters' feelings and struggles in these areas, is incredibly tactful and on-point. I've never read a book quite this emotionally intelligent; Jordan thinks and feels deeply, qualities that reflect strongly in her prose.
I read a fair amount of books last year (in 2024); The Wolf Warden was by far my favorite read. I love the intimacy of the setting and narrative, how deeply Jordan entwines her cast. And while I didn't initially resonate with the fall-fast, teasing-filled romance between two characters, their connection quickly grew on me and I found myself longing for that kind of truthful, open-hearted love myself. In many ways, this book read ME. I felt a kinship with Varda and her insecurities; Jordan writes insecurity with so much sincerity that I found myself gripping this book really hard at times, desperate to see Varda's deliverance! Side characters are all beautifully fleshed out and likable, and I usually don't enjoy them because they're not treated with the same care as the main cast. That wasn't the case here!
The Wolf Warden is the perfect fantasy book for readers craving character-driven stories brimming with meaning, wholesomeness, healing Truth, and inspiring reminders of where our value comes from. Soulful and sweet without avoiding struggles of existential pain, this beautiful tale about a girl seeking purpose in a darkness-cloaked land will cleanse and refresh anyone who's ever wondered, "What am I worth?" As it turns out, quite a lot!
Kathryn Jordan's The Wolf Warden tenderly and thoroughly deconstructs insecurities surrounding self-worth, belonging, desirability, and love, reinforcing Truth with characters and revelations that reflect God's nature. Protagonist Varda Glipwood, an assassin sent to kill a magical Wolf Warden who has been accused of murdering Varda's sister, begins her arc debilitated by feelings of worthlessness and despair. By the book's end, both platonic and romantic connections in her life assert that even the seemingly unattractive and irredeemable are of great value to God - and no human's opinion can rob them of their identity in Him.
The Wolf Warden, while imperfect in a few spots - a character I don't recall ever hearing about is found guilty of facilitating a kidnapping (it is written to be a shock, but I didn't know the individual even existed until then), and the ending is a bit rushed - remains one of the most quietly powerful books I have ever read. Its gentle exploration of complex emotions like rage, unforgiveness, envy, and female-to-female comparison, and its honesty in approaching the characters' feelings and struggles in these areas, is incredibly tactful and on-point. I've never read a book quite this emotionally intelligent; Jordan thinks and feels deeply, qualities that reflect strongly in her prose.
I read a fair amount of books last year (in 2024); The Wolf Warden was by far my favorite read. I love the intimacy of the setting and narrative, how deeply Jordan entwines her cast. And while I didn't initially resonate with the fall-fast, teasing-filled romance between two characters, their connection quickly grew on me and I found myself longing for that kind of truthful, open-hearted love myself. In many ways, this book read ME. I felt a kinship with Varda and her insecurities; Jordan writes insecurity with so much sincerity that I found myself gripping this book really hard at times, desperate to see Varda's deliverance! Side characters are all beautifully fleshed out and likable, and I usually don't enjoy them because they're not treated with the same care as the main cast. That wasn't the case here!
The Wolf Warden is the perfect fantasy book for readers craving character-driven stories brimming with meaning, wholesomeness, healing Truth, and inspiring reminders of where our value comes from. Soulful and sweet without avoiding struggles of existential pain, this beautiful tale about a girl seeking purpose in a darkness-cloaked land will cleanse and refresh anyone who's ever wondered, "What am I worth?" As it turns out, quite a lot!
July 31, 2025
I loved the sibling relationships and friendships in this one. I also really enjoyed the sweet romance, the world-building, and the messages. It was a fast-moving story and drew me in from the start. Varda's character growth was neat to watch. There were values of self-worth and forgiveness.
November 12, 2024
A beautiful story of redemption, humility, love, grace, teamwork and choice. And a great reminder that we are all loved and worthy just as we are, not because of what we can do or provide. ❤️
November 15, 2024
The Wolf Warden has great themes about forgiveness and redemption. It has a cast of very flawed characters who perfectly show that there is no one too far gone for redemption.
This is a clean book (no explicit content or language) but it does deal with mature themes of coercion (sometimes sexual), suicide, and abuse. Though no scene dealing with these topics are graphic in detail, the emotional effect of some of these scenes was intense for me.
I believe this book is best for readers who enjoy character-driven stories. I personally struggle to relate to characters if I don’t see them work through a lot of external plot first, so it took me a long time to make a connection with the characters.
This is a clean book (no explicit content or language) but it does deal with mature themes of coercion (sometimes sexual), suicide, and abuse. Though no scene dealing with these topics are graphic in detail, the emotional effect of some of these scenes was intense for me.
I believe this book is best for readers who enjoy character-driven stories. I personally struggle to relate to characters if I don’t see them work through a lot of external plot first, so it took me a long time to make a connection with the characters.
September 17, 2024
Endorsement:
A tale of beautiful truths wrapped in broken stories. Kathryn Jordan elegantly portrays the importance of knowing who you are and the dangers of listening to those who don't recognize your worth. Ripe with mind-blowing revelations, Biblical truths, relatable characters, and sweet romance, The Wolf Warden is sure to deliver all you desire in a novel!
— S.L. Klein, author of Waves of Redemption
A tale of beautiful truths wrapped in broken stories. Kathryn Jordan elegantly portrays the importance of knowing who you are and the dangers of listening to those who don't recognize your worth. Ripe with mind-blowing revelations, Biblical truths, relatable characters, and sweet romance, The Wolf Warden is sure to deliver all you desire in a novel!
— S.L. Klein, author of Waves of Redemption
October 4, 2024
Have you ever been betrayed by someone who was supposed to love you?
Have you ever felt less worthy than someone else?
Have you ever thought you weren’t good enough to be loved?
Have you ever wondered why you are the way you are and how you can possibly have anything special to offer?
Varda has.
Varda isn’t your typical confident, strong female lead. She’s feisty at times, but only because it’s a survival instinct. Inside she’s broken, hurt, and lonely. And that is what makes her so real.
In this wonderful story, Varda learns that she is loved, but that it isn’t what she can do that makes her worthy. Her worth is simply in being who the Creator made her to be – herself. And her greatest gift isn’t a magical ability, but the kindness and love she shows to others.
Other things I love about this book:
Wolf companions. I love wolves!
Strong world-building, and the supernatural gifts in the magic system are intriguing and unique.
It’s perfect reading for fall weather, because of the chilling storyline and wintry setting.
Christian themes are firmly, but naturally woven in.
Rhyll, the male main character, is an honorable hero. He isn’t perfect, but he respects women, strives for purity and integrity, and models unconditional love.
The found family element is especially strong and sweet.
The Wolf Warden is one of the best books I’ve read this year.
From the very first page, the conversation was smooth and witty, and the story just flowed, washing me away like a current I couldn’t fight.
Have you ever felt less worthy than someone else?
Have you ever thought you weren’t good enough to be loved?
Have you ever wondered why you are the way you are and how you can possibly have anything special to offer?
Varda has.
Varda isn’t your typical confident, strong female lead. She’s feisty at times, but only because it’s a survival instinct. Inside she’s broken, hurt, and lonely. And that is what makes her so real.
In this wonderful story, Varda learns that she is loved, but that it isn’t what she can do that makes her worthy. Her worth is simply in being who the Creator made her to be – herself. And her greatest gift isn’t a magical ability, but the kindness and love she shows to others.
Other things I love about this book:
Wolf companions. I love wolves!
Strong world-building, and the supernatural gifts in the magic system are intriguing and unique.
It’s perfect reading for fall weather, because of the chilling storyline and wintry setting.
Christian themes are firmly, but naturally woven in.
Rhyll, the male main character, is an honorable hero. He isn’t perfect, but he respects women, strives for purity and integrity, and models unconditional love.
The found family element is especially strong and sweet.
The Wolf Warden is one of the best books I’ve read this year.
From the very first page, the conversation was smooth and witty, and the story just flowed, washing me away like a current I couldn’t fight.
November 5, 2024
What a phenomenal story! It has all the elements of adventure, romance, healing, and faith! The world-building Kathryn created with this story is magical! I loved the characters and watching them heal and grow together throughout the story. This book contained so many biblical truths. I loved that Kathryn repeatedly pointed to God as being first in our lives and the foundation that everything else is built upon including our healing. This story was emotional, swoony, and funny! I highly recommend this book!
My favorite quotes:
“A woman doesn’t want a guy thinking her feet are cute. That’s like telling a man his elbow is impressive.”
"I didn’t want praise to puff me up or fill my head with unrealistic expectations of my own abilities. I just wanted someone to see me, to affirm the good in me."
"A lifetime of feeling worthless leaves a mark on a person’s soul, but I rejoiced at the thought that it wasn’t the only mark upon mine."
"She was an enigma that I would never fully understand."
"I went to bed with a growing peace building up inside, like the volume of a river ready to flood its banks. It seemed at every turn, where I expected rejection or abuse, I was met with a beautiful impossibility. And every time, I began to believe it was a little less impossible."
My favorite quotes:
“A woman doesn’t want a guy thinking her feet are cute. That’s like telling a man his elbow is impressive.”
"I didn’t want praise to puff me up or fill my head with unrealistic expectations of my own abilities. I just wanted someone to see me, to affirm the good in me."
"A lifetime of feeling worthless leaves a mark on a person’s soul, but I rejoiced at the thought that it wasn’t the only mark upon mine."
"She was an enigma that I would never fully understand."
"I went to bed with a growing peace building up inside, like the volume of a river ready to flood its banks. It seemed at every turn, where I expected rejection or abuse, I was met with a beautiful impossibility. And every time, I began to believe it was a little less impossible."
November 6, 2024
This book was great! I started it and it immediately caught my attention. A couple chapters in and I realized I was hooked. The book has a FMC that struggles with finding her value and worth. The MMC is confident in who he is but struggles with a mistake made in the past. They are surrounded by friends who are encouraging and made me wishing they were my friends. Add in some hidden gifts, adventure, skill and chosen one vibes and you'll find this book hard to put down. A must read and one that reminds you over and over again He sees you and you are valuable and chosen by God for reasons you may not even know yet.
May 21, 2025
There’s lots to like about this story: a young woman (Varda) growing into a role where people of all ages and genders will follow her, Varda demonstrating the love of Jesus in practical ways and some strong Christian messages. We need more stories in Christian Fiction that demonstrate what having a relationship with Jesus looks like rather than just providing the message. Jordan does this well with Varda.
Varda is a complex character who Jordan has clearly thought a lot about. She’s been trained all her life to be an assassin, even though strangely her skills don’t appear to be that strong which I found odd. Varda has low self-esteem due to living in the shadow of her younger sister, Amelia, who is both gorgeous and loved by everyone. Varda adores her, perhaps too much, and is devastated when she finds out she has been murdered.
Her father, Bane Glipwood, sends Varda to avenge her sister’s death by killing her apparent murderer. The Wolf Warden. Ryall Corian, who has a special connection with wolves. Think telepathy. Her meeting this man she discovers he is not whom his father believes he is and Varda’s life is turned upside down as she is drawn into the love and fellowship of the Wolfsvane community.
I appreciated the notion of giftings which each character possessed and some of them were very clever and easily used for mischievous purposes. The themes of forgiveness, repentance and destiny are well written and demonstrated.
I found the ‘woe is me’ self-flagellation of Varda and Rhyll tiresome in its repetitive nature. I began to bore me. Interesting that hanging onto our ‘sin’ and ‘mistakes’ can in fact be idolatry, not allowing God’s forgiveness to redeem us and move on. I think Varda got to this point by the story’s end.
The conflicts could have been tighter with greater tension and suspense. The torture scenes were tough to read, and Hardis’ brutality reflected the evil that consumed him. However, the resolution of the conflicts was too neat without a great deal of suspense which took away from the battle.
I appreciated reading the story and may recommend it with some qualifications.
Varda is a complex character who Jordan has clearly thought a lot about. She’s been trained all her life to be an assassin, even though strangely her skills don’t appear to be that strong which I found odd. Varda has low self-esteem due to living in the shadow of her younger sister, Amelia, who is both gorgeous and loved by everyone. Varda adores her, perhaps too much, and is devastated when she finds out she has been murdered.
Her father, Bane Glipwood, sends Varda to avenge her sister’s death by killing her apparent murderer. The Wolf Warden. Ryall Corian, who has a special connection with wolves. Think telepathy. Her meeting this man she discovers he is not whom his father believes he is and Varda’s life is turned upside down as she is drawn into the love and fellowship of the Wolfsvane community.
I appreciated the notion of giftings which each character possessed and some of them were very clever and easily used for mischievous purposes. The themes of forgiveness, repentance and destiny are well written and demonstrated.
I found the ‘woe is me’ self-flagellation of Varda and Rhyll tiresome in its repetitive nature. I began to bore me. Interesting that hanging onto our ‘sin’ and ‘mistakes’ can in fact be idolatry, not allowing God’s forgiveness to redeem us and move on. I think Varda got to this point by the story’s end.
The conflicts could have been tighter with greater tension and suspense. The torture scenes were tough to read, and Hardis’ brutality reflected the evil that consumed him. However, the resolution of the conflicts was too neat without a great deal of suspense which took away from the battle.
I appreciated reading the story and may recommend it with some qualifications.
April 27, 2025
Oh my goodness. The Wolf Warden by Kathryn Jordan was my first foray into Biblical fantasy, and it was everything I never knew I needed. Watch the pages melt away when you read this book! This is a compelling, unputdownable story filled with realistic, balanced, well-developed characters whose flaws make them all the more lovable. This story also touches on many universal truths and Christian themes, like healing, redemption, and selfless love. Not to mention the writing is impeccable and immersive; I could see, hear, and experience the story as if I were Varda Glipwood herself. Truly amazing when an author can do that!
If all of that weren't enough to convince you to pick up this incredible book, there's also a thread of mystery that pulls you effortlessly through the story. I was questioning everyone and everything; my brain felt like that meme where three Spidermen are all pointing at each other in confusion, wondering who dun it. The author reveals vital pieces of information in small doses so you're trying to piece the puzzle together with the characters, and I loved that.
There were many times while reading this book that I despaired because I had to put it down and get back to real life. I just wanted to live in this world with these complex characters, despite the darkness they grapple with. But that's the other thing--this story never feels too dark, despite all the grim things happening around the characters. The author does such an amazing job of balancing some of the bleaker realities of life with hope and truth, so the story never feels too depressing.
I cannot wait to read more books by Kathryn Jordan!
If all of that weren't enough to convince you to pick up this incredible book, there's also a thread of mystery that pulls you effortlessly through the story. I was questioning everyone and everything; my brain felt like that meme where three Spidermen are all pointing at each other in confusion, wondering who dun it. The author reveals vital pieces of information in small doses so you're trying to piece the puzzle together with the characters, and I loved that.
There were many times while reading this book that I despaired because I had to put it down and get back to real life. I just wanted to live in this world with these complex characters, despite the darkness they grapple with. But that's the other thing--this story never feels too dark, despite all the grim things happening around the characters. The author does such an amazing job of balancing some of the bleaker realities of life with hope and truth, so the story never feels too depressing.
I cannot wait to read more books by Kathryn Jordan!
November 15, 2024
The Wolf Warden by Kathryn Jordan
What I loved about this book!
🐺 An assassin who's tiny but fierce
🐺 Lies and manipulation vs hope and trust
🐺 Themes of forgiveness and healing
🐺 A land in darkness
🐺 Fated mates, closed door romance
Genre: Christian fantasy
Definitely enjoyed this one! Loved all the twists and turns. I did feel sorry for Varda, every time it seems like she figured something out it turns out she's been lied to again! I would have liked to see things from Amelia's POV. I was internally screaming by the end (in a good way of course). There are some darker topics so I would recommend for adults and older teenagers. This seems to be a standalone although I would love to see more books in this world!
Favorite quote: “Your father sought to turn you into a weapon, but that’s not who you are."
Favorite scene: Varda's training sessions
Favorite character: Varda, our main female character (although I also had a sneaking liking for Castor!)
What I loved about this book!
🐺 An assassin who's tiny but fierce
🐺 Lies and manipulation vs hope and trust
🐺 Themes of forgiveness and healing
🐺 A land in darkness
🐺 Fated mates, closed door romance
Genre: Christian fantasy
Definitely enjoyed this one! Loved all the twists and turns. I did feel sorry for Varda, every time it seems like she figured something out it turns out she's been lied to again! I would have liked to see things from Amelia's POV. I was internally screaming by the end (in a good way of course). There are some darker topics so I would recommend for adults and older teenagers. This seems to be a standalone although I would love to see more books in this world!
Favorite quote: “Your father sought to turn you into a weapon, but that’s not who you are."
Favorite scene: Varda's training sessions
Favorite character: Varda, our main female character (although I also had a sneaking liking for Castor!)
February 8, 2025
To say that I loved this wholesome, Christian, fantasy novel would be an understatement. The Wolf Warden had the perfect amount of adventure, romance, and faith. The main female character Verda is “broken”, and must learn that true love and purpose comes from the creator alone. Although she does have a magical gift, her kind heart is what makes her truly special. The world building was phenomenal and I wish that I could visit wolfsvane to pet all of their wolves and see the beautiful landscapes there. *Before the darkening of course* I even loved all of the side characters except you Hadris, you can go kick rocks. Envy, Romance, Assasins, Kidnapping, Sibling comparison, Magical Abilities, and Gods redemption are just a few reasons why I think everyone should immediately read The Wolf Warden.
October 15, 2024
This story had me hooked from the first page!
“Tiny” Varda Glipwood, the world’s worst assassin, is a lovable and relatable FMC with a wonderful sense of humor.
There are so many aspects of this story that resonated deeply with me on multiple levels. With strong themes of redemption and restoration, this is an excellent book for anyone who’s struggled with self-worth and the feeling of inadequacy.
Each page is filled with hope and a beautiful reminder that there’s healing in forgiveness and our true worth is only found in our Creator. Beautifully done!
“Tiny” Varda Glipwood, the world’s worst assassin, is a lovable and relatable FMC with a wonderful sense of humor.
There are so many aspects of this story that resonated deeply with me on multiple levels. With strong themes of redemption and restoration, this is an excellent book for anyone who’s struggled with self-worth and the feeling of inadequacy.
Each page is filled with hope and a beautiful reminder that there’s healing in forgiveness and our true worth is only found in our Creator. Beautifully done!
January 22, 2025
It was pretty darn good for self published! Good vs evil type story.....
January 18, 2025
I don't read a lot of fantasy, but I'm so glad I had the privilege of reading this one! Can I just say, wow!
This story had me hooked from the first page. I kept trying to carve out space to get back to reading, and it lingered in my mind long after I put it down each day. Her setting is so vivid and so sweeping, that I felt completely immersed in her fantasy world. The characters were layered and real, with a compelling balance of flaws and strengths. There were threads of redemption woven all throughout the story, making it absolutely beautiful. If you're looking for an epic, gripping story that will leave you contemplating its deep themes for days afterward, I absolutely recommend it.
TW: There is some torture, mostly off page and described in vague terms. There is also allusion to sexual activity and/or abuse (nothing explicit and nothing on-page, relevant to the story).
This story had me hooked from the first page. I kept trying to carve out space to get back to reading, and it lingered in my mind long after I put it down each day. Her setting is so vivid and so sweeping, that I felt completely immersed in her fantasy world. The characters were layered and real, with a compelling balance of flaws and strengths. There were threads of redemption woven all throughout the story, making it absolutely beautiful. If you're looking for an epic, gripping story that will leave you contemplating its deep themes for days afterward, I absolutely recommend it.
TW: There is some torture, mostly off page and described in vague terms. There is also allusion to sexual activity and/or abuse (nothing explicit and nothing on-page, relevant to the story).
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