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The Yellow Hoods #1
Along Came a Wolf
"...intriguing contraptions, appealing characters, snide villains, humor, and an exciting story." & "A very promising series opener featuring a young heroine and her pals that should win fans." - Kirkus Reviews
In a world quietly coming to the brink of war, where our fairy tales and rhymes are their real world events and people, a critical invention is at hand, the steam engine. As an agent for a secret society (the Fare) is dispatched to retrieve the plans, three tweens get caught in the middle as they try to protect brilliant inventor, Nikolas Klaus.
Meet Tee Baker, granddaughter of the baker from secret society The Tub and of Nikolas Klaus, and her best friends Elly and Richy, as they come together heroically for the first time as the legendary Yellow Hoods. Danger, intrigue and secrets await, and the intense grows, as the series builds. A hit with those 9-15 and adults.
"highly recommended" - Readers' Favorite, 5 Star
The Yellow Hoods books 1 & 2 were finalists for Book of the Year in Teen/Young Adult and Fantasy - Independent Authors Network's 2015.
See the trailer for The Yellow Hoods at AdamDreece.com/booktrailer
In a world quietly coming to the brink of war, where our fairy tales and rhymes are their real world events and people, a critical invention is at hand, the steam engine. As an agent for a secret society (the Fare) is dispatched to retrieve the plans, three tweens get caught in the middle as they try to protect brilliant inventor, Nikolas Klaus.
Meet Tee Baker, granddaughter of the baker from secret society The Tub and of Nikolas Klaus, and her best friends Elly and Richy, as they come together heroically for the first time as the legendary Yellow Hoods. Danger, intrigue and secrets await, and the intense grows, as the series builds. A hit with those 9-15 and adults.
"highly recommended" - Readers' Favorite, 5 Star
The Yellow Hoods books 1 & 2 were finalists for Book of the Year in Teen/Young Adult and Fantasy - Independent Authors Network's 2015.
See the trailer for The Yellow Hoods at AdamDreece.com/booktrailer
141 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2014
47 people are currently reading
1528 people want to read
About the author
Adam Dreece
30 books276 followersIn 2014, I stopped my "hopefully one day" dream of becoming an author, stopped doing nothing with my writing, and kicked off my indie author life. Twenty-five years of doing nothing with my writing was enough, and after two medical events, I was filled with drive to change my life.
I've written the much loved young adult series, The Yellow Hoods, a world where steampunk and fairy tale meet.
In 2016, I showed two other sides of myself as an author, The Wizard Killer - Season One which is post-apocalyptic fantasy written in an episodic style, and the upcoming science fiction book, The Man of Cloud 9, which is infused with some of my high tech life from before I was an author.
I'm a frequent public speaker at schools and conventions, a dyslexic with some motivational chronic issues, and live in Calgary, Alberta with my wife and kids.
I've written the much loved young adult series, The Yellow Hoods, a world where steampunk and fairy tale meet.
In 2016, I showed two other sides of myself as an author, The Wizard Killer - Season One which is post-apocalyptic fantasy written in an episodic style, and the upcoming science fiction book, The Man of Cloud 9, which is infused with some of my high tech life from before I was an author.
I'm a frequent public speaker at schools and conventions, a dyslexic with some motivational chronic issues, and live in Calgary, Alberta with my wife and kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
January 7, 2015
Along Came a Wolf combines fairy tale elements with a steampunk setting to create an action-packed adventure that children and adults can enjoy.
The story is centered around a young girl named Tee and her two best friends, Elly and Richy. They are the Yellow Hoods, and they are brave, daring adventure-seekers. Tee's grandfather, Nikolas is an inventor who encourages Tee to be the explorer that she is. Tee and Nikolas's relationship was a strong theme in this book, which I really appreciated since young adult novels usually lack a strong family presence.
The big, bad wolf in this story is Andre Leloup, who is after one of Nikolas's inventions. His character is a wonderful villain with a huge ego. The Yellow Hoods are put to the test when faced with Leloup and his men. Tee and her friends face their enemy with bravery and wisdom well beyond their years. I enjoyed how well written the characters were and how they worked together.
I had a lot of fun reading this book - reliving parts of my childhood through Tee, Elly, and Richy.
I look forward to reading this story to my son in the coming years and have a feeling that it will become a classic in my house!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review
The story is centered around a young girl named Tee and her two best friends, Elly and Richy. They are the Yellow Hoods, and they are brave, daring adventure-seekers. Tee's grandfather, Nikolas is an inventor who encourages Tee to be the explorer that she is. Tee and Nikolas's relationship was a strong theme in this book, which I really appreciated since young adult novels usually lack a strong family presence.
The big, bad wolf in this story is Andre Leloup, who is after one of Nikolas's inventions. His character is a wonderful villain with a huge ego. The Yellow Hoods are put to the test when faced with Leloup and his men. Tee and her friends face their enemy with bravery and wisdom well beyond their years. I enjoyed how well written the characters were and how they worked together.
I had a lot of fun reading this book - reliving parts of my childhood through Tee, Elly, and Richy.
I look forward to reading this story to my son in the coming years and have a feeling that it will become a classic in my house!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review
January 3, 2015
Ohmigod, meant to do this a while ago, and just kept forgetting. My mind is like a steel sieve.
Like steampunk? Like YA? You'll love Along Came a Wolf. The MC, Tee, is okay--she isn't deeply irritating, like a lot of YA hero/ines--but the show-stealers here are the loveable but enigmatic grandfather, Klaus, and the charismatically crazy assassin LeLoup. I'm hoping there's a future sidestory somewhere dedicated specifically to LeLoup, in fact. I don't want to spoil anything, but there's an escape scene in here with some serious FLAIR.
The steampunk elements presented--the 'inventions' of Tee and her grandfather--are played out just right, too, neo-Victorian and a little clunky and just plain believable for the setting and the timeframe espoused by the storyline. Some of them would make excellent movie scenes, as well.
Well-edited, clear-moving, and gripping.
Like steampunk? Like YA? You'll love Along Came a Wolf. The MC, Tee, is okay--she isn't deeply irritating, like a lot of YA hero/ines--but the show-stealers here are the loveable but enigmatic grandfather, Klaus, and the charismatically crazy assassin LeLoup. I'm hoping there's a future sidestory somewhere dedicated specifically to LeLoup, in fact. I don't want to spoil anything, but there's an escape scene in here with some serious FLAIR.
The steampunk elements presented--the 'inventions' of Tee and her grandfather--are played out just right, too, neo-Victorian and a little clunky and just plain believable for the setting and the timeframe espoused by the storyline. Some of them would make excellent movie scenes, as well.
Well-edited, clear-moving, and gripping.
September 10, 2015
Along Came A Wolf is delightful YA adventure that pays unique tribute to some classic fairy tales—with a clever steampunk twist. It tells the story of Tee, a spirited teen who, along with her friends Elly and Richy, attempt to stop antagonist Andrea Leloup from stealing the inventions of Tee’s grandfather, Nikolas.
Despite the threat of danger to Tee and her friends, the book had a light, positive feel. A strong sense of family could be felt throughout the book, as shown in Tee’s happy, healthy relationship with her parents and grandfather. Tee, as a protagonist, is loyal, brave, happy, energetic and enthusiastic. While this lends itself to a nice, upbeat mood (which, personally, I think is important for a YA, as is a strong female character), I did find myself wanting a bit more depth from her and several other characters. As this is the first in a series, I have no doubt the author will show us other sides of their personalities in subsequent novels. The plot is entertaining and doesn’t slow down, but I hope for some more complexities to emerge as there is so much potential for the world he’s created. The ending alludes to a possible darker turn for the next book, and I’m anxious to see where the plot goes and what trouble Tee and her friends find themselves in next.
Mr. Dreece has created a well-written, inventive, and charming tale full of action, heartwarming friendship, cool gadgets, and even a secret society. Along Came a Wolf is a fun read for all ages, and a modern fairy tale in its own right. Great work!
Despite the threat of danger to Tee and her friends, the book had a light, positive feel. A strong sense of family could be felt throughout the book, as shown in Tee’s happy, healthy relationship with her parents and grandfather. Tee, as a protagonist, is loyal, brave, happy, energetic and enthusiastic. While this lends itself to a nice, upbeat mood (which, personally, I think is important for a YA, as is a strong female character), I did find myself wanting a bit more depth from her and several other characters. As this is the first in a series, I have no doubt the author will show us other sides of their personalities in subsequent novels. The plot is entertaining and doesn’t slow down, but I hope for some more complexities to emerge as there is so much potential for the world he’s created. The ending alludes to a possible darker turn for the next book, and I’m anxious to see where the plot goes and what trouble Tee and her friends find themselves in next.
Mr. Dreece has created a well-written, inventive, and charming tale full of action, heartwarming friendship, cool gadgets, and even a secret society. Along Came a Wolf is a fun read for all ages, and a modern fairy tale in its own right. Great work!
September 11, 2014
A delightful book with a heroine that is normal! The story is about a young girl caught up in a creative situation, with a plot that moves along quickly. Finally a lead that is not from a dysfunctional family, not living in hardship and not someone we feel sorry for. And the book is not about magic. There are things used to help fight 'the bad guys' but they are based on simple science, physics and ingenuity. The heroine is living in the country with her parents, with her grandfather and friends nearby. She isn't preoccupied with Facebook, Twitter nor Instagram. She isn't using a cell phone, an iPad nor a PC. She has energy, likes the outdoors and respects others. By accident she gets herself into an adventure that is much bigger than her.
This is a book I highly recommend for readers of all ages. Absolutely give it to your children to read, or read it with them so you can discuss the concepts: a normal family, the 'tools' are not magic, the relationships are healthy, the story is simple but intriguing. For sure I'm going to read the next book...
This is a book I highly recommend for readers of all ages. Absolutely give it to your children to read, or read it with them so you can discuss the concepts: a normal family, the 'tools' are not magic, the relationships are healthy, the story is simple but intriguing. For sure I'm going to read the next book...
August 10, 2015
This book marks my introduction to the steampunk genre, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Along Came a Wolf, is the first book in the Yellow Hoods series by Adam Dreece, and takes readers on a perilous adventure with some innocent, yet cunning members of a secret society.
I enjoyed getting to know the story’s characters, who ranged from quirky and heroic to dastardly and sinister. Dreece does an excellent job of conveying the depth of familial relationships without overtly describing them, and his ability to build suspense is expert.
I was also grateful that his descriptions of various gadgetry were easy to follow (without being overly dumbed down), for those of us who are less mechanically inclined.
Although I was left with one or two questions about the extended plot, I anticipate being pleasantly enlightened as I continue the series.
Dreece has built an entertaining and intriguing foundation for this tale of right versus might, and I am eager to follow the continued escapades of the Yellow Hoods.
I enjoyed getting to know the story’s characters, who ranged from quirky and heroic to dastardly and sinister. Dreece does an excellent job of conveying the depth of familial relationships without overtly describing them, and his ability to build suspense is expert.
I was also grateful that his descriptions of various gadgetry were easy to follow (without being overly dumbed down), for those of us who are less mechanically inclined.
Although I was left with one or two questions about the extended plot, I anticipate being pleasantly enlightened as I continue the series.
Dreece has built an entertaining and intriguing foundation for this tale of right versus might, and I am eager to follow the continued escapades of the Yellow Hoods.
December 20, 2014
In Along Came a Wolf, Adam Dreece has written a great children's book full of adventure, high jinx and bravery in the very best traditions of the Famous Five and the books of Roald Dahl. The story is set in a very believable, fictional world where the technology many science fiction fans would recognise as Steampunk is in its infancy and inventors are king.
The story is very loosely based around the three little pigs, only instead of a wolf we have the dastardly Andre Leloup, who has come to steal top secret plans from the master inventor Nicholas Klaus, only to be confronted by the Yellow Hoods - Klaus's granddaughter Tee and her friends Richy and Elly - who decide to do something about it.
This is a cleverly written, rich children's story, interweaving classic fairy tales into this unique setting to deliver something both recognisable and very, very new. For those of us a little older, it's great fun seeing Dreece subtly reveal the various inspirations for his characters, until you find yourself second guessing whenever a new character appears.
In Tee, Dreece has created a clever, stubborn and ingenious lead character who beats her enemies using quick thinking and the help of her friends. The Yellowhoods face their foes with optimism and excitement and always believe they will win, and throughout the book there is a feeling of excitement and adventure, taking those of us a little older than we once were back to the fun and games of our youth, whether in the thrill of riding a sail-cart or the joy in developing plans to bring down our enemies.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes their their adventures innocent, their heroes plucky and their villains just the right side of scary.
The story is very loosely based around the three little pigs, only instead of a wolf we have the dastardly Andre Leloup, who has come to steal top secret plans from the master inventor Nicholas Klaus, only to be confronted by the Yellow Hoods - Klaus's granddaughter Tee and her friends Richy and Elly - who decide to do something about it.
This is a cleverly written, rich children's story, interweaving classic fairy tales into this unique setting to deliver something both recognisable and very, very new. For those of us a little older, it's great fun seeing Dreece subtly reveal the various inspirations for his characters, until you find yourself second guessing whenever a new character appears.
In Tee, Dreece has created a clever, stubborn and ingenious lead character who beats her enemies using quick thinking and the help of her friends. The Yellowhoods face their foes with optimism and excitement and always believe they will win, and throughout the book there is a feeling of excitement and adventure, taking those of us a little older than we once were back to the fun and games of our youth, whether in the thrill of riding a sail-cart or the joy in developing plans to bring down our enemies.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes their their adventures innocent, their heroes plucky and their villains just the right side of scary.
March 3, 2015
Along Came a Wolf is Book One of a YA series that is a fun read for all ages. Adam Dreece's characters are so ALIVE and ENGAGING you want to keep reading to find out what happens next. The villain, LeLoup, really makes you root for the Yellow Hoods to win. We could all use a guy like Nikolas Klaus (a Nikola Tesla/Santa Claus-like character) in our lives to help us out of jams. The titular Yellow Hoods, Tee, Elly and Richy, are feisty, funny and make a great team. I'm looking forward to seeing what kinds of trouble they get themselves into and out of in future installments of the series. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Thanks, Adam!
September 12, 2014
The yellow hoods by Adam Dreece is an entertaining fasted passed roller coaster. I read every moment of my free time until I finished it. I wanted to know what was about to happen. Focusing on story only, there were some spots I was a little bit lost here and there, but that may have been me. Overall I loved the story I will order the second book as a reward because I know once I start reading I will put all my other chores on hold. If you wish to be entertained this book for you.
April 8, 2014
A gripping read. Lots of fun for kids and adults both. A wonderful mixture of action, mystery and whimsy that leaves an impression on you long after you've turned the last page.
March 23, 2015
Set in the greatly imagined world of Adam Dreece, this first book in an emergent steampunk series, ‘Along came a wolf’, is a captivating tale of a young girl called Tee, her brave and fearless Yellow Hood friends and her mysterious, inventor grandfather facing off against a wolfish and cunning enemy.
From the beginning it is evident that Tee gravitates towards dangerous situations and one such encounter leads her into the company of Andre LeLoup. LeLoup closely resembles the big bad wolf and Tee can easily be seen as Little Red Riding Hood. There are a number of other characters which are recognisable but distinguishable of those in fairy tales and myth. Nicholas Klaus could be imagined as Father Christmas and the three brothers who closely resemble the three pigs. After their encounter LeLoup’s visit to the town and in particular her Grandfather, who is a master inventor, unveils his true intent of retrieving the plans for an invention which is sought after by an old acquaintance of Klaus. LaLoup is a confident, proud and cunning enemy who will not tarnish his reputation by not completing what he sets out to do and will go to great lengths to do so. It is down to the Yellow Hoods, Tee and her friends Elly and Richey, to stop LeLoup and prevent him from achieving his goal.
The book is written in a way which is both compelling and heart-warming, the wit and dialogue within the book make it a fun read. It would be a great book to read both as a child or adult, with compelling characters and imaginative setting this would make an instant family favourite. I especially liked the three Cochon brothers who, at first, seemed like thugs but as the story progressed and you learnt about their past, they soon became favourites of mine. The rest of the characters were well developed and each was interesting, there are those you will love and LeLoup who you will loathe. I’d like to learn more of the setting in the following books and can’t wait to see how the Yellow Hoods develop and the adventure they find themselves on.
From the beginning it is evident that Tee gravitates towards dangerous situations and one such encounter leads her into the company of Andre LeLoup. LeLoup closely resembles the big bad wolf and Tee can easily be seen as Little Red Riding Hood. There are a number of other characters which are recognisable but distinguishable of those in fairy tales and myth. Nicholas Klaus could be imagined as Father Christmas and the three brothers who closely resemble the three pigs. After their encounter LeLoup’s visit to the town and in particular her Grandfather, who is a master inventor, unveils his true intent of retrieving the plans for an invention which is sought after by an old acquaintance of Klaus. LaLoup is a confident, proud and cunning enemy who will not tarnish his reputation by not completing what he sets out to do and will go to great lengths to do so. It is down to the Yellow Hoods, Tee and her friends Elly and Richey, to stop LeLoup and prevent him from achieving his goal.
The book is written in a way which is both compelling and heart-warming, the wit and dialogue within the book make it a fun read. It would be a great book to read both as a child or adult, with compelling characters and imaginative setting this would make an instant family favourite. I especially liked the three Cochon brothers who, at first, seemed like thugs but as the story progressed and you learnt about their past, they soon became favourites of mine. The rest of the characters were well developed and each was interesting, there are those you will love and LeLoup who you will loathe. I’d like to learn more of the setting in the following books and can’t wait to see how the Yellow Hoods develop and the adventure they find themselves on.
January 16, 2015
I thought I knew what this book was about going into it, but I was very wrong. Adam Dreece mixes fairytale stories and characters into his book, in a way that fits perfectly, and I loved it! The more I read the book, the more I began to match the fairytale characters to the characters in this book, which was a lot of fun.
I loved the writing style , and the way that all the pieces fit together in the end. I highlighted so many quotes in my kindle from this book, because there were just so many amazingly worded sentences and phrases, for example:
“The machine that was his mind had lost another bolt.”
“These sheep … they forget that I am the wolf.”
The villain in this book is one of my favorites of all time, because the things he said were so planned out and menacing. He said things that I thought a real villain would say and do, and I loved it.
My only complaint about this book was that I felt the main character acted much younger than twelve, and some of the things she said and did just weren’t fitting for her age. Having said that, she did mature and grow up by the end of the book which I really appreciated.
There is so much more that I could say, but I don’t want to ruin any of the plot twists.
Overall, I loved this book and highly recommend it. I can’t wait to continue on with the second one.
My favorite character would have to be a tie between LeLoup and Bakon, which is a bit odd since they have almost nothing in common, but in the end I loved them equally.
This book had no swearing, no romance, and extremely mild violence.
I loved the writing style , and the way that all the pieces fit together in the end. I highlighted so many quotes in my kindle from this book, because there were just so many amazingly worded sentences and phrases, for example:
“The machine that was his mind had lost another bolt.”
“These sheep … they forget that I am the wolf.”
The villain in this book is one of my favorites of all time, because the things he said were so planned out and menacing. He said things that I thought a real villain would say and do, and I loved it.
My only complaint about this book was that I felt the main character acted much younger than twelve, and some of the things she said and did just weren’t fitting for her age. Having said that, she did mature and grow up by the end of the book which I really appreciated.
There is so much more that I could say, but I don’t want to ruin any of the plot twists.
Overall, I loved this book and highly recommend it. I can’t wait to continue on with the second one.
My favorite character would have to be a tie between LeLoup and Bakon, which is a bit odd since they have almost nothing in common, but in the end I loved them equally.
This book had no swearing, no romance, and extremely mild violence.
February 5, 2015
This was a long awaited read for me. I'd heard nothing but positive reviews about this book, so it had a lot to live up to. Needless to say, it did not disappoint. Adam Dreece is a phenomenal author who has found his calling. This series entertains all ages as it weaves together the folktales of old into a wild new story that no one ever knew just might be the truth.
Tee is the sweetest character to come along and steal the hearts of those who meet her since the eleven-year-old Harry Potter burst onto the page years ago. As she is forced into a world full of inventions that can be used for either good or evil, she will face more than her fair share of adventure as she steps up to protect her family and her home. Growing up can be tough, but with the help of dear friends, Tee is poised to change her world forever.
Tee is the sweetest character to come along and steal the hearts of those who meet her since the eleven-year-old Harry Potter burst onto the page years ago. As she is forced into a world full of inventions that can be used for either good or evil, she will face more than her fair share of adventure as she steps up to protect her family and her home. Growing up can be tough, but with the help of dear friends, Tee is poised to change her world forever.
November 13, 2014
This is a great story and I enjoyed sharing it with my 9 year old daughter. It is a fast-paced action-adventure story where a group of kids are really put to the test. They collaborate with a grand father and I think that is a unique aspect -- not many stories have the grandfather as an active and involved character. I really appreciated that this story did not need to use a romance tie-in or focus on how good-looking the characters are (or are not). The bad-guys are fought using brains and bit of hand-to-hand action. The cops are the good guys, but in the end it is up to The Yellow Hoods to save the day.
March 15, 2017
Series Video Review: https://youtu.be/WIhk4Z0TUFw
Along Came a Wolf is the first novel in a fun, fantasy steampunk series known as The Yellow Hoods. I have previously read and enjoyed the author's other two novels, The Wizard Killer & The Man of Cloud 9, so I was eager to try his popular young adult series.
The plot of this first book is a retelling of the folktale, Little Red Riding Hood, with a fresh twist on the classic story. The world is a creative blend of fairy-tale elements mixed with steampunk technology. The result is a fast-paced, engaging narrative with plenty of action. I enjoyed the frequent use of the humour, which keeps the tone of the story light and whimsical.
The cast of characters features some memorable personalities. I particularly appreciated reading a fantasy story with a female main character. The young protagonist, Tee, is a bright, fearless girl with plenty of gumption. Her lovable friends, Elly and Richy, round out the group to form the Yellow Hoods. I also adored the parents and grandfather, who added loving support roles in the story. The inclusion of the family members felt refreshing, in the YA genre where parents are notoriously absent or missing.
This book felt very reminiscent of the fantasy and adventure stories of my own childhood, which gave me all the nostalgic feels. While this is young adult fantasy, the Yellow Hoods series appeals to a wide audience, including adult readers. The author includes many clever nods and winks to adults readers, while incorporating classic themes of family and friendship for the younger audience. This is a series I would love to gift to my nieces one day (once they get a little older).
I can't wait to start the second book in this series and read more adventures of the Yellow Hoods. The fifth, final book in the series comes out in spring 2017 so I'm planning to catch up in time to read the exciting conclusion.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. As always, my opinions are my own.
Along Came a Wolf is the first novel in a fun, fantasy steampunk series known as The Yellow Hoods. I have previously read and enjoyed the author's other two novels, The Wizard Killer & The Man of Cloud 9, so I was eager to try his popular young adult series.
The plot of this first book is a retelling of the folktale, Little Red Riding Hood, with a fresh twist on the classic story. The world is a creative blend of fairy-tale elements mixed with steampunk technology. The result is a fast-paced, engaging narrative with plenty of action. I enjoyed the frequent use of the humour, which keeps the tone of the story light and whimsical.
The cast of characters features some memorable personalities. I particularly appreciated reading a fantasy story with a female main character. The young protagonist, Tee, is a bright, fearless girl with plenty of gumption. Her lovable friends, Elly and Richy, round out the group to form the Yellow Hoods. I also adored the parents and grandfather, who added loving support roles in the story. The inclusion of the family members felt refreshing, in the YA genre where parents are notoriously absent or missing.
This book felt very reminiscent of the fantasy and adventure stories of my own childhood, which gave me all the nostalgic feels. While this is young adult fantasy, the Yellow Hoods series appeals to a wide audience, including adult readers. The author includes many clever nods and winks to adults readers, while incorporating classic themes of family and friendship for the younger audience. This is a series I would love to gift to my nieces one day (once they get a little older).
I can't wait to start the second book in this series and read more adventures of the Yellow Hoods. The fifth, final book in the series comes out in spring 2017 so I'm planning to catch up in time to read the exciting conclusion.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. As always, my opinions are my own.
January 29, 2016
If you love Roald Dahl or E.B. White, you will most likely love this book.
I picked up this book due to its sweet allure. And for a YA it sure delivered, but Dreece composed the story with enough humor, adventure, and unpredictable turns that, as an adult, I found it quite enjoyable. Along Came A Wolf was a refreshing visit to the fairy tales I know and love, only… Dreece was so unique in his telling that I was eager to see which tale would come next and how he would alter the retelling of each old story.
Along Came A Wolf is primarily a spin-off of Red Riding Hood and The Three Little Pigs, but with enough steampunk and alterations that it left the story unpredictable and eager for the next chapter. It’s like Dreece pulled the cousins of the fairy tale characters and spun something completely new. It was a delightful little read that ended on such a dark note, that the adult in me went, “Whoa! This is deeper than I thought.” And that final chapter gets dark! Without that final chapter, I would have put the book down with a content smile on my face, pleased to have revisited the stories we raise our children on. Yet, it still was something new and different enough to keep me as entertained as my children who are now reading it (8 and 13). But that last chapter packs such a punch that I’m now dying to get my hands on book #2!
Dreece’s story was original. His writing skills were professional and properly edited complimenting his wonderful story telling that captured me from the first paragraph. His style and technique were clean and clear yet wonderfully simple and entertaining that it reminded me very much of Roald Dahl and E.B. White.
I picked up this book due to its sweet allure. And for a YA it sure delivered, but Dreece composed the story with enough humor, adventure, and unpredictable turns that, as an adult, I found it quite enjoyable. Along Came A Wolf was a refreshing visit to the fairy tales I know and love, only… Dreece was so unique in his telling that I was eager to see which tale would come next and how he would alter the retelling of each old story.
Along Came A Wolf is primarily a spin-off of Red Riding Hood and The Three Little Pigs, but with enough steampunk and alterations that it left the story unpredictable and eager for the next chapter. It’s like Dreece pulled the cousins of the fairy tale characters and spun something completely new. It was a delightful little read that ended on such a dark note, that the adult in me went, “Whoa! This is deeper than I thought.” And that final chapter gets dark! Without that final chapter, I would have put the book down with a content smile on my face, pleased to have revisited the stories we raise our children on. Yet, it still was something new and different enough to keep me as entertained as my children who are now reading it (8 and 13). But that last chapter packs such a punch that I’m now dying to get my hands on book #2!
Dreece’s story was original. His writing skills were professional and properly edited complimenting his wonderful story telling that captured me from the first paragraph. His style and technique were clean and clear yet wonderfully simple and entertaining that it reminded me very much of Roald Dahl and E.B. White.
September 5, 2014
Great for young adults and adults alike! This book is well written and Adam's imagination is wonderfully fresh. I immediately loved his MC Tee, she reminded me so much of my daughter. This story is fast paced and fun to read, and made me feel like I was born in the wrong time. I loved this time period where everything was simple and kids were creative in their play. I now want to build my own sail cart with my daughter.
Adam's characters are well developed, each having their own personalities, making your love the good characters and love to hate the bad guys. I found myself talking to the book they way you would while watching a movie saying things like "No Tee don't!" The yellow hoods do a fantastic job in staying calm, cool, so they can think clearly and quickly to handle the situation they were in. I laughed at a few of his "parenting" sayings like "Don't panic." My husband tells that to my daughter all of the time.
Nikolas Klaus is a very smart and fun man, and is described as a wonderful grandpa that everyone would want. My grandpa never made me cookies when I was coming to visit. Oh and his house....I want one just like it.
Along came a Wolf will keep you on the edge of the page, making you laugh, yell, smile, and sigh relief. Adam does a wonderful job with his story telling and he makes me a bit jealous of his creative mind. I am looking forward to book 2 in this series Breadcrumb trail where the story of Nikolas Klaus, Tee and the Yellow Hoods continue with the nameless man.
Adam's characters are well developed, each having their own personalities, making your love the good characters and love to hate the bad guys. I found myself talking to the book they way you would while watching a movie saying things like "No Tee don't!" The yellow hoods do a fantastic job in staying calm, cool, so they can think clearly and quickly to handle the situation they were in. I laughed at a few of his "parenting" sayings like "Don't panic." My husband tells that to my daughter all of the time.
Nikolas Klaus is a very smart and fun man, and is described as a wonderful grandpa that everyone would want. My grandpa never made me cookies when I was coming to visit. Oh and his house....I want one just like it.
Along came a Wolf will keep you on the edge of the page, making you laugh, yell, smile, and sigh relief. Adam does a wonderful job with his story telling and he makes me a bit jealous of his creative mind. I am looking forward to book 2 in this series Breadcrumb trail where the story of Nikolas Klaus, Tee and the Yellow Hoods continue with the nameless man.
December 20, 2017
Lemme start off by explaining, this isn't a story. It's a ride. A hilarious, spin the top, mile a minute, laugh riot. I loved it. I will be reading all of his books. (Fair warning since I am going to post reviews for all of those as well.) I love goofy. I love smart, wily characters. I love adventure. I love mystery. I love stony faced bad looking guys that are actually the good guys. I like sneaky, snarky villains that are bested by quick thinking, compassionate good guys.
Now lemme tell you about the conductors of this ride. You have three awesome kids. Tee, who makes great puns and loves to invent and build things. Elly, who is loyal to the point of risking her life and helps Tee build and test her inventions. And Richy, who isn't as brave as his friends but also won't let them down and sometimes even teaches them a thing or two. And their tree house. A tree house that was built, and stocked, perfectly for them. By who? They don't know. But it keeps getting better. Maybe it's magic? Maybe you learn in the books to follow? Only one way to find out!
And the adults. Oh these poor adults. Tee's parents have a crossbow they keep on hand with a bolt that has a rope attached. So they can catch their daughter before she goes flying over the cliff in one of her inventions. Again. Nikolas is the mother's father. And he is so soft hearted. So kind and caring and loving. He can't help but help everyone that needs it. And with his brilliant mind and wondrous inventions he can help a lot of people. Or his kind heart might lead to his inventions being used by evil men.
Now lemme tell you about the conductors of this ride. You have three awesome kids. Tee, who makes great puns and loves to invent and build things. Elly, who is loyal to the point of risking her life and helps Tee build and test her inventions. And Richy, who isn't as brave as his friends but also won't let them down and sometimes even teaches them a thing or two. And their tree house. A tree house that was built, and stocked, perfectly for them. By who? They don't know. But it keeps getting better. Maybe it's magic? Maybe you learn in the books to follow? Only one way to find out!
And the adults. Oh these poor adults. Tee's parents have a crossbow they keep on hand with a bolt that has a rope attached. So they can catch their daughter before she goes flying over the cliff in one of her inventions. Again. Nikolas is the mother's father. And he is so soft hearted. So kind and caring and loving. He can't help but help everyone that needs it. And with his brilliant mind and wondrous inventions he can help a lot of people. Or his kind heart might lead to his inventions being used by evil men.
March 19, 2015
As the first novel in the Yellow Hoods series, Along Comes a Wolf is a great introduction to Adam Dreece’s fictional world. The characters are rich and vibrant, and the mystery which drives the plot is exciting. Despite the peril faced by the characters, Dreece’s adventure-loaded story is balanced with levity and silliness. The characters and emergent technology evolve with the plot, and the novel delivers a tantalizing glimpse of what is to come in the series.
While Dreece segues his flashbacks well, it can make the narrative confusing and even jarring at times. Quite a lot of backstory is introduced through characters’ internal conflict and flashbacks. However, the flashbacks and the internal narratives develop a richness and depth to the characters who populate Adam Dreece’s world.
This delightful tale is a rollicking ride on a sail-cart through his wonderful world, which cleverly combines nursery rhymes and steam engines. With his clever and humorous storytelling fueling this genre mash-up, I believe Mr. Dreece blends these two disparate genres quite successfully.
Along Came a Wolf is a grand adventure to read aloud as a family or for tween-aged readers to read for themselves.
While Dreece segues his flashbacks well, it can make the narrative confusing and even jarring at times. Quite a lot of backstory is introduced through characters’ internal conflict and flashbacks. However, the flashbacks and the internal narratives develop a richness and depth to the characters who populate Adam Dreece’s world.
This delightful tale is a rollicking ride on a sail-cart through his wonderful world, which cleverly combines nursery rhymes and steam engines. With his clever and humorous storytelling fueling this genre mash-up, I believe Mr. Dreece blends these two disparate genres quite successfully.
Along Came a Wolf is a grand adventure to read aloud as a family or for tween-aged readers to read for themselves.
April 12, 2015
Thanks Netgalley for a free book to read and review.
I came across this book through a blog tour and since I loved steampunk, I decided to take a chance. It's decidedly young adult themed, even though adults can read it as well. It's more fantasy though than steampunk. Also seemed like a play on little read riding hood, but with yellow hoods. So the book amused me with the title, along came a wolf. Tee is taking something to her grandfather that lives in the woods. He is a genius inventor and on the way there she meets the wolf. Andre LeLoup is looking for Tee's grandfather and plans to steal his steam machine drawings. Tee and her two friends,(Elly, and Richy) who are the yellow hoods fight to save the day. I was captivated by the story and I enjoyed it. Four stars for entertainment!
I came across this book through a blog tour and since I loved steampunk, I decided to take a chance. It's decidedly young adult themed, even though adults can read it as well. It's more fantasy though than steampunk. Also seemed like a play on little read riding hood, but with yellow hoods. So the book amused me with the title, along came a wolf. Tee is taking something to her grandfather that lives in the woods. He is a genius inventor and on the way there she meets the wolf. Andre LeLoup is looking for Tee's grandfather and plans to steal his steam machine drawings. Tee and her two friends,(Elly, and Richy) who are the yellow hoods fight to save the day. I was captivated by the story and I enjoyed it. Four stars for entertainment!
September 26, 2014
I will say I have been drawn into the book quite quickly and have now purchased your second book Breadcrumb Trail through Amazon.
As an avid reader I had forgotten how I can still enjoy young adult adventure books such as this. I enjoyed how you brought together the fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood. It's great how the invention are brought into the story. Love it.
Although my grand-daughter is 7 this would be a series she would enjoy in a few years time. This story also reminds me of her Dad when he was younger was told he had talent in writing by his teacher, but never had the confidence. He enjoys reading to his daughter. This is a series I will bring to his attention
Patty
As an avid reader I had forgotten how I can still enjoy young adult adventure books such as this. I enjoyed how you brought together the fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood. It's great how the invention are brought into the story. Love it.
Although my grand-daughter is 7 this would be a series she would enjoy in a few years time. This story also reminds me of her Dad when he was younger was told he had talent in writing by his teacher, but never had the confidence. He enjoys reading to his daughter. This is a series I will bring to his attention
Patty
July 27, 2016
Along Came a Wolf is simply a fun read. Dreece mixes enough of the familiar fairy tale with a little Steam-Punk lite and a smattering of Santa Claus(?) in a rural and small town setting that could be somewhere in the past, or maybe in a post-apocalyptic future that has re-settled itself. Tee and her friends are adventurous kids that remind me of my own youth. (Particularly their treehouse headquarters that I would have killed to had when I was young.) LeLoup is just the right amount of villain to cross swords with Tee and her inventor grandfather. An adventurous tale written for younger readers, but certainly enjoyable at any age. There are several more books in this "Yellow Hoods" series.
January 22, 2015
Not very often, does a novel come along that can capture the attention of both a child and an adult. Along Came a Wolf captures your attention with Tee's enthusiasm for adventure and her undying loyalty to her family and friends. Tee's grandfather, Nikolas, a great inventor, encourages Tee and her friends adventurous spirits. Tee and her friends make up the infamous group of The Yellow Hoods. They battle hoodlums and race sail carts. At the heart of Along Came a Wolf, is the story of a girl and her grandfather coming together to fight evil. Along Came a Wolf is the perfect book to settle down with over the weekend. The story is a fun wild ride.
July 28, 2015
Along Came a Wolf opens with a close-up view of one girl's happy-go-lucky exploits in the woods near the seemingly insignificant small town of Minnette. From there, the vista quickly expands as an outsider visits the town hoping to uncover secrets with the potential to change the world.
Fast-paced and well-written, this is a tale of intrigue and adventure that pays tribute to Jolly Old St. Nick and Little Red Riding Hood, but skews the familiar narrative and avoids being a stale rehashing of those classic stories. Who knew the master toymaker also had a penchant for inventing steampunk machinery? Lots of fun for any age.
Fast-paced and well-written, this is a tale of intrigue and adventure that pays tribute to Jolly Old St. Nick and Little Red Riding Hood, but skews the familiar narrative and avoids being a stale rehashing of those classic stories. Who knew the master toymaker also had a penchant for inventing steampunk machinery? Lots of fun for any age.
February 2, 2015
Do you remember what it was like to dream? To run around with your friends, embarking on grand adventures? I had forgotten those wonderful feelings of elation. This book reminded me, and made me long for those lost years.
Along Came A Wolf is a wonderfully crafted tale that incorporates everything I love about steampunk with everything I love about fantasy. It’s emotions are real, the pacing is pitch perfect for the adventure Tee and her fellow Yellow Hoods find themselves in.
Adam Dreece is an author that you should watch, and Along Came A Wolf is a story you won’t soon forget.
Along Came A Wolf is a wonderfully crafted tale that incorporates everything I love about steampunk with everything I love about fantasy. It’s emotions are real, the pacing is pitch perfect for the adventure Tee and her fellow Yellow Hoods find themselves in.
Adam Dreece is an author that you should watch, and Along Came A Wolf is a story you won’t soon forget.
October 8, 2015
It was really enjoyable to read this book. There were plot twists and surprises. It had everything you want in a science fiction books: mainly science. It would be really nice to have a treehouse like the Yellow Hoods. And the buzz batons were cool. The sail carts are really awesome and I liked those parts of the book best of all.
I heard about this book from my mum and we saw Mr Dreece at a fan convention in Prince George.
I would recommend this book to steampunk and science fiction lovers.
I heard about this book from my mum and we saw Mr Dreece at a fan convention in Prince George.
I would recommend this book to steampunk and science fiction lovers.
March 11, 2017
2017- Gave it a re-read so I can binge through the rest of the series and I loved it just as much the second time through!
That was super fun! Although I won't be able to read the next one without thinking of The Hound from Game of Thrones, but that's fine with me because he's one of my favorite characters! :)
Can't wait to get the next one!
That was super fun! Although I won't be able to read the next one without thinking of The Hound from Game of Thrones, but that's fine with me because he's one of my favorite characters! :)
Can't wait to get the next one!
May 27, 2016
This was my first YA steampunk book. Overall I thought it was a pretty good book. It was a fun and easy read with great characters. The only problems I had with it was that it was a little slow at some places for me and the characters made some decisions I didn't really understand. Will be continuing on with the series
January 4, 2015
An exciting original story sprinkled with bits of familiar fairy tale. Colorful characters you fall in love with. I especially like how Dreece seamlessly weaves important lessons into the narrative. A great book for young readers, and fun for grown-ups too.
October 26, 2014
This book was brilliant, fun, and exciting. I can't wait to read the next one.
April 4, 2015
Oh well it is a book aimed at ten year olds! Having said that it was a well crafted story I am just more interested in mid grade books. Should be great for the younger set.
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