Before she was a bounty hunter, she was the hunted.
It’s been three months since I ended up on the streets of Anchorage with nothing but the clothes on my back and Teekon, my spirit animal, for company. Once upon a time, I had dreams. Now, I’d settle for a hot meal and somewhere warm that doesn’t come with a side of rats.
I steal to survive, but I’m spectacularly bad at it. Hunger makes you reckless. Stupid. Desperate. My stomach was loud, and I ignored my whispering instincts that told me using magic to steal was a bad idea.
Naturally, I got caught.
Now the Magical Enforcement Agency has my scent, and they’ve sent a grizzled bounty hunter to drag my sorry ass in. Because rule one of the magical underground? Don’t flash your power in front of humans. Whoops.
I’ve got two trust a stranger with a badge and a scowl, or end up dead, or worse. And life has taught me there is always a worse.
Teekon says this bounty hunter could be our chance at something better. I reckon he’s just another predator in a world full of them.
But when your life’s on the line, you don’t get the luxury of easy choices.
One mistake landed me here. One choice might set me free.
Jilleen Dolbeare is the author of the Shadow Winged Chronicles, an urban fantasy series about a shape-shifting bush pilot in Alaska.
She loves riding horses, warm ocean beaches, and long walks in the mountains, none of which she can do in the Arctic, so she writes.
Her activities are riding her four-wheeler on cold ocean beaches (often frozen or covered with ice), and long walks to and from work when it’s 40 below—in the dark. She does keep her stakes sharp for those vamps that show up during the 67 days of night.
Jilleen lives with her husband and two hungry cats in Barrow, Alaska where she also discovered her love and admiration of the Inupiaq people and their folklore.
As this book begins it looks like it is the end of Astrid caught by the magical bounty hunter but this book is full of surprises. She has a spirit animal named Teekon and can draw power from the Aurora Borealis which is a cool way to recharge. The story is fast paced, has lots of magical creatures and some skills tests that left me in awe of her abilities. Now with a new name I can’t wait to see what Honey Badger does next!
The Bounty Hunter and the Spirit Wolf by Jilleen Dolbeare is an upbeat prequel to her Bounty Hunter series. Astrid Iliamna is a runaway with mad magic skills, she has a Spirit Wolf named Teekon, Teek for short, who does amazing things. Astrid is hungry, she can steal pretty much anything she wants because she has an invisibility magic where humans can't see her but she's a growing teenager.
When she is caught in the grasp of the Bounty Hunter, even though she is invisible, Astrid is furious. She's thrown in a Jeep and zip tied with something that zeros out her magic and she passes out. When she comes to, she is facing a big, burly man with a thick file folder. Astrid 's life is about to change forever.
The Bounty Hunter and the Spirit Wolf prequel is a romp through the world of the Bounty Hunter, and a journey along with Astrid as she adjusts to her new life. Jilleen Dolbeare always has the most interesting characters and I can't wait for The Bounty Hunter and the Assassin.
This read totally caught me right from the beginning. I was lured in, very quickly, by the vibrant and intense action, which didn't dissipate til the end! Goodness me, my heart pounded in tune with the drama and what a shocker the ending was!
Astrid is super SUPER cool. Firstly she's a witch, secondly the Northern Lights are superbly special to her and, as I'm obsessed with the Northern Lights, as well as all things witchy, this was a read I really relished! Then there's the fact that this read was so unique, nothing like I've read before and heck, now you get me! She's had a tough life, tossed around the foster system until she turned 18, then tossed out to fend for herself. No biggie, she finds a place to squirrel in, she "takes" what she needs to survive and she's strong, both with magic and of will. Ok, back to Astrid... she's the product of an Irish mum and an indigenous Alaskan father and she is a powerful witch with one of a kind skills, plus she has Teek with her, constantly. Within her would be more appropriate but he's never far, which is why she's shocked to her core when he doesn't come to her aid. Instead, she's captured and bound. And now the really interesting stuff starts...instead of incarceration, she's offered a job, as a Magical Bounty Hunter. But, as fate would have it, she doesn't get the time to be trained as promised, there's an urgent job that needs, well, urgency. The MEA, Magical Enforcement Agency tasked with keeping rogue's exposing magic to normal humans, is a whole new experience for Astrid. Security, for one, they all get "call names", like nicknames, which is really cool and they are, for the most part, fearless in serving justice.
What Astrid wasn't prepared for was being plunged feet first on her first day, hunting and apprehending killers. Nor was she prepared for the "test" the next day. But if there's one thing Astrid is, is that she's a fighter, she's smart and resourceful and magical to boot. Jill had all my senses at high alert throughout this story, the sympathy for Astrid, the adrenaline pumping in the chase for the baddies and angst during the trial and the warmth of fitting in. These characters are so real, so likeable, from Chaos, to Josie, to Chick, to Hook, they all evoked a warmth, kindness. In fact, I can't say who I enjoyed the most. I'm really looking forward to uncovering more, especially of Teek and Astrid. I know this is going to be a ride of note!
Gosh, it's so impressive how much Jill packed into this novella, not skimping for one second. Clear, concise, brimming with action, a full story, a full cast, an adrenaline charged read, with exceptional pacing unfolds before me. Jill, who lives in Alaska, brings a culture and tradition I know little of, right into my living room. It's real, it's authentic and, if I'm totally honest, it's magical!
Astrid is a young woman who has been living in the foster system. As soon as she turned 18, she was living on the streets of Anchorage since no one wanted to take care of her if they weren't getting paid. When she is picked up by a magical bounty hunter, she is given a second chance. Instead of taking her in and charging her, the bounty hunter, Chaos gives her the opportunity to join the ranks with him. After a stressful first few days with on-the-job training and then a stressful physical test, Astrid comes out with a new nickname/calltag (Honey Badger), a new job and a new outlook on her life. Honey (Badger) is a great character. She won’t let anything keep her down, even when she thinks all is lost. Even though she is forced out of her foster home, she makes it work somehow living on the street. She’s got her spirit wolf, Teek, by her side and making sure she survives as well. Even if Honey doesn’t agree with having to be taken into custody, she eventually realizes he is doing what’s best for her. We get to see a little bit of their magic in this prequel and I’m looking forward to seeing what else they can do, esp after being trained. Even though this is a prequel, there is definitely some supernatural shenanigans! Honey must think on the fly and figure out to battle new to her (and even me!) creatures. We get a small taste of some Alaskan folklore as well. I always love learning about new mythology and folklore and hope we get more of that in this series as well! I’ve enjoyed all of Jilleen’s books I’ve read and look forward to this series as well!
great prequel to what looks to be another interesting series
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Quite a few of Jileen Dolbeare’s inhabit the same universe so I’m not sure yet if this goes for this series. But it’s not necessarily required to be absolutely invested into this character and her journey and growth as a magical bounty hunter.
From starving, homeless thief on to the run , albeit with a magical companion, to a trained respected bounty is a great storyline and character.
Especially her tough beginnings. We really emphasize with her. It’s an emotional, scary start.
At only 126 pages, we have a lot of background that still needs developing and main characters, aside from Astrid, who also require additional history. I feel that’s coming in the first book.
What The Bounty Hunter and the Spirit Wolf successfully does is make the reader want that next book, the next step in Astrid’s journey now!
Unfortunately we’re going to have to wait until next year. But I’ll be sure to keep my eye out for the release.
Until then? Pick up the prequel and get ready for the next urban fantasy series that looks to be a winner.
A great, intriguing start to a new series. Fast paced with captivating characters, new magic, what more could I ask for, I am so hooked/smitten. Living on the street, surviving by her teeth with only her spirit animal Teek, Astrid thought life could not get worse when captured by a bounty hunter of the Bounty Hunter Guild, Chaos. Life was about to change drastically as she's recruited as a trainee hunter. No more street living. She's got her own room, new clothes and food plus a mentor, a job and possibly new friends. Dd to that a new identity going by Honey Badger. I'd love to know how Chaos came by his. Though she's got no idea what she really is, she's definitely magically an anomaly with her Teek and her both being able to draw magic from the Aurora Borealis and much more though she's not yet familiar with her magic capabilities. Yes, I'm positively drooling and can't wait to get my hands on the next book. This series is for sure going to be a blast. I received an advanced review copy from the author and leave this review voluntary Thank you Jill.
Astrid Has Brains, Bite, and Better Survival Skills Than Me
The Bounty Hunter and the Spirit Wolf is a fantastic kickoff novella that does exactly what an intro story should: set the stage, hook you in, and leave you itching for more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Astrid starts off in a bit of a rough spot, but she and her spirit wolf, Teek, handle it like pros.
I really like her mix of grit and practicality -- she keeps her head, comes up with good ideas even when shit hits the fan, and actually asks for help when she needs it (mostly from Teek right now, but still, it counts).
The side characters we meet are intriguing, and there are some hanging threads meant to pique your curiosity and boy, do they.
World building is solid, the pacing tight, and the action hits the right notes. It sets the tone for what feels like the beginning of a really fun urban fantasy ride.
Bottom line: this novella got me hooked, got me invested, and got me super excited for book one. I can’t wait to see what kind of excitement Astrid and Teek find themselves in when the real adventure begins.
This prequel is a fabulous introduction to a new (guaranteed to be) must read series by this author. A storyline that is unique, introduces us to Astrid, a young woman who has recently left the foster system and has been trying to survive on her wits and her magic. She is given an opportunity for a fresh start and to become a magical bounty hunter. Astrid’s magical origins are a mystery, but she also has a spirit wolf companion, who can only be seen by her.
I love the way this author gives us strong and feisty MFCs who are far from being stereotypes. Astrid clearly has hidden depths and mysterious origins to intrigue the reader. The hint of indigenous folklore may lead to greater understanding in time and I look forward to learning more. I can’t wait to find out more about Astrid’s life as a magical bounty hunter, learn how her mentor got his nickname, and find out more about Teek the spirit wolf. I’ll be eagerly waiting for the next book and hope this will prove to be a long running series, as it’s already drawn me in and left me wanting more.
Okay, I want more. This book grabbed me on the first page. Astrid was turned out onto the streets as soon as she eighteen. She has no where to go, has to steal to get food, and her only companion is Teek, her spirit wolf. When she is caught by a bounty hunter, she is also recruited at the same time. This book covers her first few days in the Magical Bounty Hunters. For a short book, it holds a huge amount of information. You feel for Astrid, the tough times she’s had, you understand why she doesn’t trust anyone but her wolf. And you cheer for her determination. I just loved this book and definitely want more in this world. Highly recommended.
This is the start for a new series and wow, does it pack a punch. Jill has long been a favorite author, so I knew I was getting a treat. Our MC has magic, a spirit animal and moxie. She gets caught using magic and a human seeing it and gets a bounty on her head. What's a young woman to do? Well, you will find out! It's a novella, so it's not long, but there's a ton packed into it. An introduction to a new world, new characters, and some good old Alaskan Lore. It has a steady, enthralling pace and some morality questions. It makes you think and it has a great twist near the end. All in all, highly recommended and I can not wait for the next!
Prequel novella into a new series. Basically, YA since the main character in this offering is 18. "Honey Badger" is pulled off the streets by "Chaos". She has little control or understanding of her magic, she is malnourished, and untrusting (for many reasons). She has a spirit animal others can't see that supports her. Teek mostly appears as a wolf but has other forms. Chaos submits her into the Bounty Hunter training program, and you will see what she is made of as she works through admissions testing. Interesting first start with plenty of runway to go in many directions. I look forward to reading more in the series.
I was introduced to this author when she co-wrote with another author, and I’ve been a fan since. This is a prequel story to her new series, and man, I need the next book now! We are Honey, not her born name, who is picked up off the streets to become a magical bounty hunter. She’s tested, meets new friends, and finds a new home. I just loved this, and I can’t wait to see how she grows into her new role in the first book of the series. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
Honey Badger and her spirit wolf are finally caught by the Bounty Hunter and she is ready to fight for her freedom. But Teeko says to trust the man as he has something better for them. She is unsure and is very weak having been a street kid for a number of months. She is tested and decided to go with the offer. Another amazing story from this author. I love all her books because she has a talent for many different magical beings that surpass the old fairy stories I knew.. Well worth reading if you want imagination.
I do love starting a new series and this novella is exciting and captivating and introduces us to Astrid aka Honey Badger and her spirit wolf Teek. Their story starts on the streets of Anchorage after aging out of the care system, struggling to survive when she finds herself taken in by a magical bounty hunter. Given a second chance, she grabs it with both hands and after a few teething issues, finds her way. It may be short but it grabbed my attention from the get go and I cannot wait to see where this takes us next!
Warning it leave you wanting to read more great new series
1st it leaving you wanting to read more. This is pretty much honey start after betting caught living on streets by bounty hunter chance of life , she has s Decpirit guide wolf . She accepts if they send bounty hunters after you pretty much death sentence . gets her new name honey for short . it really originally take on bounty hunters , great characters lot of mystery background secrets to be revealed
Short preview to what seems to be a brilliant new series
I have always liked Jillian's work, but I must say that this is one I think I will llike even more than most. A great main character with a dificult back story pulling herself up by her own boot straps. Her Spirit Worlf is a marvelous character as well, and I look forward to learning more about Chaos as well. Looking forward to the next edition!
I love prequels for the foundation they supply to a new world, and this one definitely promises action filled follow up stories!
The FMC was crafted to be empathetic, inspirational and determined - and I enjoyed every moment spent with her. Her magic and new career path guarantee to combine to provide sparks and energy and I know this author is infinitely capable of delivering amazing stories centred around her.
I presume this is a starter for a series - an intro to our heroine and how she became a bounty hunter. She’s an engaging soul, claims to be a shaman but only because she has no idea what else to say, and she has Teek, her shadow wolf… or otter! I imagine the actual series will start with her fledged, not a trainee, but who knows?!
Oh my goodness I loved this book. I lived in Anchorage about 30 years ago and I love how I know some of the places in the book. The gentleman’s club still sounds the same. I can’t wait for the next book to come out. It’s going to be a long year. Read this book. Did I mention that I loved it.
I've read, and loved everything Ms Dolbeare has written, and this is no exception. I can't wait to discover more about Honey Badger and Teek! I'm intrigued about her magic, and am thrilled that she seems to have landed on her feet after such a rough start. I'm all in on this one!
Honey is down on her luck and living on the streets when she is arrested by a Bounty Hunter and given chance at a whole new world. I absolutely loved all the characters is this book and hope they all show up in the series. The world building was great and I am looking forward to meeting more supernatural beings in the following books.
Finished Jill's prequel to her new set of characters. It was great, going to really like this character, Honey Badger, as she evolves from a street smart teen to an adult bounty hunter that is even smarter. I love the way Jill weaves the Alaska Natives and their folklore into her stories. This is part history lesson, part folklore and urban fantasy ficition.
Wow, what a cracking start to a new series. This story was right up my street. I do so love this kind of adventure writing and this one was excellent. I loved it. What on earth is the next one going to be about, cannot wait to find out. Highly recommended.
I couldn't put the book down, fell in love with Honey Badger and her Spirit Wolf. Rescued from the streets she begins training as a bounty hunter. The first in a series that you just know will be one you will eagerly await the next book.
New life! An interesting, fast paced, easy to read story about becoming a magical bounty hunter in Alaska. Good characters and descriptions bring this story to life. Looking forward to the series. My honest review for reading the ARC.
Awesome what a great start to a new series cant wait for next book to come out ,I love it when you can really picture everything that's happening as you go along as it's so well written a really well deserved 5 stars
I liked the writing style and the main characters. This short story gives me an incentive to look forward to the real deal, the first book. Enough questions about honey badger, chaos and their work have been made up in my mind to start looking for answers.
A quick peak at a new series only 100 pages. Meeting Chaos her mentor getting offered a job and getting her new name honey badger. Plus meeting Teekon.
I want to know what she really is so got me hooked.
This was a fun short read, crafting the backstory of a new series. I look forward to the release of next book(s), and seeing the adventures these characters get into.