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The Wolvryn Courts #1

King of Fangs and Frost

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An addictive wolf romantasy must-read for fans of The Wolf King and Shield of Sparrows! Enter frost-covered Lunaris, survive the Blood Hunt, and fall for the Savage King behind the mask...


In Lunaris, crowns are won in blood.
Calista Vale was never meant to wear one.
Wolfless. Disposable. A promised bride to the Savage Wolvryn King—meant to stand behind him, never beside him.

But Calista does what no bride has done in centuries.
She demands more than a consort’s crown.

She invokes the Blood Hunt.

A five-night race through the frost for the Moon Crown, the crown of the goddess. A true queen’s crown. The only crown with the power to command even kings.

If she’s captured, she dies and all hope of saving her court with her.
If she survives, she can protect them all.

Twelve competitors. Twelve hunters. No mercy.

The king’s bloodsworn weapon is bound to guard her in the rite … and bound to the throne she seeks to usurp.
He watches too closely. Knows too much. And he’s hiding something.
But so is she.

In the Blood Hunt, trust is a weakness. And desire is a death sentence.
He was never meant to want her.
She was never meant to crave him.

In Lunaris, power always comes at a price.
And with each secret that unravels in the hunt, the kingdom edges closer to collapse.
To win the crown… she may have to destroy the only male who could have saved her.


Perfect for readers who love:
Enemies-to-lovers, arranged marriages, deadly moonlit trials, possessive wolf kings, and heroines who bite back.

466 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 12, 2026

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About the author

G.K. DeRosa

72 books1,609 followers
G.K. De Rosa has been an avid reader from a very young age. In fact, before she could even read, she tried fooling everyone into thinking that she could. At the precocious age of two, while living in Italy, she had memorized an entire children’s book in Italian and expertly turned the pages at the exact right moments of the story. As she grew up, she always enjoyed literature, no doubt having been instilled with a love of story telling from her early years in Catholic school where she was greatly influenced by exemplary teachers who taught her the value of English and Literature. Though she did not pursue writing in college and instead went for the more traditional route of International Business inspired by her love for travel and all things foreign, after a move to New York City, she found her creative writing side calling once again. She began writing a restaurant review blog, City Lights and Tasty Bites, detailing her other passion – food! The hectic hustle and bustle of the city, combined with long commuting times gave her the opportunity to spend more time reading and rekindled a lost love. After reading countless books in many diverse genres over the two years in New York City, and returning to her home state of Florida, she felt compelled to write something for herself. She had always felt particularly drawn to Young Adult novels and having been an eternal romantic at heart, a fantasy romance was a natural choice. She currently lives in South Florida with her real life Prince Charming and their fur baby, Nico the German Shepherd.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
Profile Image for Ehva .
366 reviews8 followers
May 29, 2026
Holy fckk!!! You did not end on this cliffhanger, GK 😩🔥 I am absolutely obsessed with this couple and their yearn filled story! Thank you so much for this ARC 😍 I wanted to know about the other kingdoms when I read Courts of Aetheria series and now we have them!

Calista Vale 🔥 This feisty, independent, brave woman 🥹 Her character is so beautiful and brilliantly written. I adored the way she stood up for herself and her people. She challenged anybody with fiercesness, and bravery. Including the intense, sexy, grumpy Alpha King 😏 She feels so drawn to Everest, yet knows he is only her guard 😩 The way she banters with and feels safe with him 😈

Everest 🔥 Fck me! Everest is so frickin hawt, banterful, protective. charming and fierce. He is so protective over the woman he was charged to protect by his King 😩 He will do anything for her, and all it takes is one look and he is on his knees for her 😈 He shouldn't want her but can't help it 🙂‍↕️

Savage 😩🔥 The Alpha King, The Savage King 🧎‍♀️ He is so intense, quiet, protective, possessive and brutal. Nobody hurts his bride, whether by words or their stares 🤭 He is so protective over her, especially when she challenges him 😩 Her banter makes him smile and feel something he doesn't want to but always does 😎

This was such a slow burn, and kept me on the edge of my seat with the yearning, angst and mystery. I was so torn between the two mmc's 😩 Like Gk!!! I need book 2 urgently 🔥
190 reviews2 followers
May 3, 2026
For over 5 years I have read G.K. DeRosa’s books. This one is one of the top series’ entries I’ve read so far from her! This was just absolutely brilliant, and I can’t wait to read book 2!

Calista is bound and determined to save her family, and to do that it’ll come at a cost. A small chance to win the Moon Crown against twelve daughters and hunters over the course of 5 days and 5 nights. In order to participate, she is given a guard by the King - the Black Wolf. As time moves on, there are many things Calista discovers and still more waiting for future books.

The world building was great, and the villains were villaining!
Profile Image for Kiyana.
6 reviews
Review of advance copy
May 3, 2026
OH MY GOD. This book is amazing. I love all things shifter this book is so well written it keeps you on the edge of your seat constantly, it has a good mixture of suspense and romance, I cant wait for book Two already
191 reviews1 follower
May 31, 2026
2 stars

Really liked how it started out but slowly liked it less and less. Our FMC was pretty reckless and had to be saved over and over. The “twist” was so obvious I was almost insulted. Their relationship was so lust forward at least on her end that i never felt invested. I dont think ill be reading the next one
Profile Image for Jenn (loves_a_good_book).
179 reviews10 followers
May 12, 2026
What a fantastic start to a new series. I love a good shifter story and this did it for me. Secrets, deception, blood hunt, arranged marriage, so many aspects and tropes I love are in this book and it’s done so well.

Calista is an underdog being wolfless but she’s feisty, determined, a protector who does everything she can for her loved ones and her realm. Savage is the king, touch her and ☠️, who did this to you alpha male 😍. I love a strong FMC paired with a MMC who’s ruthless but has a soft side just for her.

I can’t wait to see how this story continues
Profile Image for Sara Books & Tips.
259 reviews15 followers
May 19, 2026
🇬🇧/🇮🇹 BILINGUAL REVIEW

🇬🇧 ENGLISH REVIEW

A world divided both internally and externally, where one must constantly watch one's back and where the Fae have the ability to shapeshift... all but a few. Those few who haven't received the Goddess's "approval" are considered outcasts and relegated to Hollowcrest Island.

That's where Calista, our protagonist, lives. A girl who bears the burden of her family's survival, trying to protect them in every way, both from those who consider her inferior and from the harsh and difficult conditions in which they live. This is her primary desire, so when she is chosen to be the future queen of her kingdom, she doesn't hold back. In fact, she has every intention of making the most of this opportunity.

What I loved most about her is that she's a girl with a goal and is willing to do anything to achieve it. She's undeterred and fights tooth and nail, even when everything seems to be going against her. When she finally meets the king, she has already decided that she will not be just a trophy queen, someone who simply stands by the king in silence. She wants to have a voice, she is determined to be strong for her people and will bow to no one.

Savage is known for being cruel and a lover of violence, but that is only a facade. Calista will discover that he is not what she expected, and he will equally be amazed by the steely character of his future wife. But Savage is also a complex character, a man full of nuances and secrets, someone who must balance duty, power, and politics with matters of the heart, a balance that is quite difficult to manage... especially when there is someone in the shadows working against him, waiting for the right moment to launch their attack and wound him exactly where it hurts most.

🔅🔆🔅

🇮🇹 ITALIAN REVIEW

Un mondo diviso sia all’interno che all’esterno, dove bisogna continuamente guardarsi le spalle e dove i Fae hanno la capacità di mutare forma… tutti tranne alcuni. Quei pochi che non hanno ottenuto il “benestare” della Dea vengono considerati come reietti e relegati nell’isola di Hollowcrest.

Lì è dove vive Calista, la nostra protagonista, una ragazza che porta sulle spalle il peso della sopravvivenza della propria famiglia, cercando di proteggerla in ogni modo, sia da coloro che la considerano inferiore sia dalle condizioni impervie e difficili in quali vivono. Questo è il suo desiderio primario, per cui quando viene prescelta per essere la futura regina del suo regno non si tira indietro. Anzi, ha tutta l’intenzione di fare preziosa questa occasione.

La cosa che ho più amato di lei è che è una ragazza che ha un obiettivo ed è disposta a tutto pur di ottenerlo, non si scoraggia e combatte con le unghie e con i denti, anche quando tutto sembra remare contro di lei. Quando finalmente incontrerà il re ha già deciso che non sarà solo una regina trofeo, qualcuno che deve solo stare accanto al re in silenzio. Vuole avere una voce, è decisa ad essere forte per il suo popolo e non si inchinerà di fronte a nessuno.

Savage è famoso per essere crudele e amante della violenza, ma quella è solo una facciata. Calista avrà modo di scoprire che non è quello che si aspettava e, altrettanto, lui si stupirà del carattere d’acciaio della sua futura moglie. Ma Savage è anche un personaggio complesso, un uomo ricco di sfaccettature e segreti, qualcuno che deve far bilanciare dovere, potere, politica agli affari di cuore, un equilibrio alquanto difficile da gestire… specialmente quando c’è qualcuno nell’ombra che opera contro di lui e aspetta il momento per sferrare il suo attacco e ferirlo proprio dove fa più male.
Profile Image for Southern Lady Reads.
1,081 reviews1,459 followers
May 20, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive a digital ARC of the first book in GK DeRosa’s *Wolvryn Court* series... and listen… it was SO good that I immediately stopped reading halfway through because I realized I already had the prequel sitting on my Kindle from signing up for emails 😂 So naturally I went back, read the prequel first, and then came back to finish book one - which just made me even more obsessed...

***AND THEN I RECEIVED AN AMAZING PR PACKAGE WITH A PHYSICAL COPY! It is GORGEOUS!! You need to read & grab a physical copy ASAP! The on-page artwork is TOO good!!

What really surprised me about this series was the grit. If you’ve been in a softer, lighter romantasy era lately, just know this one leans darker. There’s more tension, more danger, a little gore, and a much rougher edge to the world-building — but not in an over-the-top way. It never felt gory or overwhelmingly graphic. Instead, it gave the story weight and made the stakes feel REAL. (Like the 'lighthouse' scene? So. Well. Written!!

The atmosphere was incredible too. The cold, frosty setting, the furs, the sigils, the markings… it all had this Nordic-inspired vibe that I absolutely loved. And the adventure itself honestly gave me *The Hunger Games* energy at times; that constant feeling of danger, survival, strategy, and never fully knowing what’s coming next-- or knowing who's about to pop out of their fur and into a furry killing machine.

The romance was also SUCH a strong point for me because I’m always weak for hidden-identity storylines. The foreshadowing was done really well, too. You can tell DeRosa really wanted readers to start figuring things out without relying only on shock value! TBH- I thought I had the big reveal figured out. When the reveal I expected finally happened, I had a tiny moment of “oh… okay?” because I thought I’d called it too early.

Then DeRosa threw another curveball entirely.

And THAT was the moment this story fully locked me in.

Overall, this is absolutely a series I’d recommend if you want romantasy with darker edges, strong adventure elements, layered reveals, and a story that keeps escalating. Plus, it’s on Kindle Unlimited, which makes diving in even easier. I’m already impatiently waiting for the next book!!!

#BookReview #RomantasyBooks #FantasyRomance #KindleUnlimited #DarkRomantasy I posted a video about this one on IG already, and if you love shifter romance - make sure you follow G.K DeRosa's IG as well for updates on the next book!!

HOUSEKEEPING:
* Spice: 🌶️/5 - There is more tension than spice IMO!!
* Reader Age Suggestions: New Adult to Adult
* Content Warnings: a little graphic violence
* Kindle Unlimited: ✅
* Part of A Series: ✅ / Can it be read alone?: No & IMO the prequel is incredily importan!!

**Thank you to Grey's Promotions & DeRosa's team for the book! I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR🖤

Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🖤
Profile Image for Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance).
2,290 reviews77 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 2, 2026
A brilliantly written frost covered world with high stakes, wolf shifters, and a prize bride who chances at giving up the throne to either save her people or doom an entire kingdom. King of Fangs and Frost is pure DeRosa magic and I was riveted.

Calista Vale, a wolfless outcast, is chosen as the Frost King bride. She’s known as a Hallow, wolfless or never being able to shift. She lives on Hallowcrest Isle, a Court where all the outcasts have been banished, and basically a Court that barely survives on a good day. Now on top of being the caregiver and provider for her family she's picked to be taken away from them. Normally a position that others covet, but Calista doesn't exactly relish the thought of being a prize bride and consort. She's a warrior at heart. Trained by her father, not only for her lack of Wolvryn, but also for the harsh conditions they live in. Calista is dynamic and unforgiving in who she is. She doesn't cower in fear for her lack of being a wolf, instead she's trained and worked twice as hard to hone skills beyond those that would otherwise come naturally. She's fierce, bold, and everything she is and everything inside her is what attracts the frost king to her more.

Where most women would have bowed, kneeled, and said thank you for being chosen as the prize bride Calista is tough, a fighter, and she never gives up. She didn't exactly want to marry a stranger and just lay on her back for the rest of her life doing nothing. It is what leads her to take up the Blood Hunt. A trial that hopefully, if won, will save her people and give her the respect that being a Frost Queen demands. She isn’t someone that wants to just sit prettily upon the throne, she wants to command it like the frost king does. Not as a pretty bauble by his side, but as an equal. Kudos to her fighting spirit, which was relentless!! I love reading a tough FMC that never gives up, especially one that catches the eye of a hero or two.

There is an element of a love triangle between her and her betrothed, the Frost King and The Black Wolf, who is the hunter sent along to guard her while she faces the Blood Hunt. It creates the best angst and emotional turmoil especially since Calista is torn on so many fronts. She struggles with how she could be attracted to two men, especially when she is destined to marry one and the other is his loyal and trusted guard. It makes for so much angst and I loved it!!

On top of the emotional turmoil, there is a ton of action, a kickass heroine that I couldn’t stop rooting for, plus a slow burn, forbidden romance that I really wanted to happen more than anything, and then I cannot forget to mention that ending!!!! But, I'm also not going to mention that ending.😏
Profile Image for Liz.
2,328 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy
May 11, 2026
King of Fangs and Frost by G.K. DeRosa is a strong start to the Wolvryn Court series, blending shifter romance, political intrigue, and deadly trials into a fast-paced and addictive read. The story centres on Calista Vale, who is forced into an arranged marriage with the masked Wolvryn King, the ruler who united the twelve clans. Refusing to quietly accept the role of an obedient consort, Calista invokes the Blood Hunt, a dangerous five-night competition between the daughters of the clans where only one can claim the Moon Crown. Winning would give her the power to protect her family and stand above the king himself, while losing could cost her life. To make matters even more complicated, the king assigns one of his loyal guards, known as the Black Wolf to watch over her throughout the competition.

Calista makes for a compelling heroine. Unable to shift into her wolf form, she has spent her entire life treated as an outsider, yet she refuses to let that define her with her father training her to fight so she’ll be able to defend those she loves. Her determination, resilience, and loyalty to her family make her an easy character to root for, especially as every choice she makes is driven by her need to protect. What begins as a fight for survival soon becomes far more complicated and the emotional tension builds steadily as Calista finds herself caught between her growing attraction to both the mysterious king and the fiercely protective guard he assigned to her. The romance element is very much slow burn, but it works well within the story adding another layer while allowing the relationships to develop naturally alongside the action and intrigue. The pacing keeps the story engaging throughout, with plenty of twists, danger, and political tension woven into the Blood Hunt itself. The world-building is another highlight, creating an atmospheric setting with an almost magical, wintry feel that perfectly suits the tone of the story. Between the high-stakes competition, layered romance, and strong romantasy elements, this book delivers everything that makes shifter fantasy romance so entertaining. And after that ending, the next book is definitely one I’m looking forward to.
108 reviews4 followers
June 17, 2026
I absolutely loved King of Fangs and Frost. From the very first chapter, I was completely hooked and honestly, this book cost me a lot of sleep... and I regret absolutely nothing. Every time I told myself I would read just one more chapter, I ended up reading a lot more than one.

One of my favorite things about this book was Everest. He was such a standout character and easily became one of my biggest book crushes. Every scene he was in had me completely invested, and I loved getting to know him more as the story progressed. He brought so much heart, intensity, and emotion to the story that I couldn't help but fall for him.

I also have to talk about Calista because she was such an incredible FMC. What I loved most about her was her courage and determination. No matter what obstacles were thrown in her path, she refused to give up. She faced impossible situations, heartbreaking challenges, and constant danger, yet she kept moving forward. Her strength wasn't just physical it came from her resilience, her loyalty, and her willingness to fight for the people she cares about.

The world-building was phenomenal. G.K. De Rosa created a rich and immersive world that felt alive on every page. I loved discovering all the different aspects of the magic, the politics, and the lore. Every new revelation made me want to keep reading and explore even more of this universe.
I also loved the little nod to the Court of Aetheria series. As someone who enjoyed that world, it was such a fun surprise and added an extra layer of excitement to the story. Those small connections always make a fantasy world feel even bigger and more alive.

The pacing was perfect for me. There was always something happening, whether it was action, tension, emotional moments, or shocking revelations. I was completely invested in the characters and their journey from beginning to end.

And then there was that ending. That cliffhanger was absolutely cruel. I reached the final pages and just sat there staring at my book because there was no way it could end like that. Now I'm left with a million questions and an unbearable wait for the next book
Profile Image for Amber Oakes.
178 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy
May 12, 2026
I was offered this as an ARC read through G.K. DeRosa and Grey's Promotions. This did not disappoint! I could not put this down and would have read this in one sitting if adult responsibilities did not get in the way. This author will have you sucked into the worlds she creates as soon as you open her books. This being book one of the Wolvryn Courts is no exception.

If you love your FMC's who refuse to bow down, then Calista Vale is the one. She lives on the Isle of Hollowcrest and is home to the Hollowborns, they are wolfless people who are cast aside from the other courts to live their days on the Isle. She is betrothed to the Alpha King of the Wolvryn Courts, the Savage King, and sees this as a way to save not only Hollowcrest, but her family as well. She soon finds out that standing by the king as his bride and future Queen means to remain silent and watch her home become even more defenseless to raids that seems to be coming closer every day. This is something she cannot stand by and let happen. So, she does the only thing she has the ability to do and invokes the Blood hunt. As long as she survives the hunt and is able to reach the kingdom before any of the other courts’ daughters in five days, she will be crowned a true queen. She then can mandate three laws to be honored that even the savage king or the courts cannot deny. Determined to save her family and home she has to work with the Black wolf, who is entrusted with keeping her alive by the King. But the more she is with the Black Wolf the more she questions him, herself and the King. Will Calista be crowned Queen or will secrets be her downfall? This is book one of the Wolvryn Courts and does leave on a cliffhanger and will leaving you wishing book 2 was available now, but appears to be in the works.
Profile Image for Yaneth Alvarado.
86 reviews1 follower
May 12, 2026
ARC REVIEW 🐺

This story absolutely had me in a chokehold from beginning to end!!
AND THAT ENDING?!?!?!? EXCUSE ME?!?! I need book two immediately because that plot twist and cliffhanger had me GAGGED. There is no way I’m being left like this. I need answers. I need the rest of the story. I need emotional damages paid in full.

Calista lives in Hollowcrest, where the wolfless are stripped of everything; their titles, money, and power. When she’s chosen to become the king’s bride, she quickly realizes promises from a king are as fragile as glass. Instead, she invokes the Blood Hunt: a brutal five-night death race between ten daughters of the courts. The first woman to reach the castle and touch the king wins not only marriage, but the crown itself and real power beside the throne.
And Calista will do anything to save her people.

The entire journey was addictive. Hunters lurking in the shadows, daughters tearing each other apart for survival, deadly court politics, betrayals, secrets, and nonstop tension. While every other competitor can shift into wolves, Calista is the only one who cannot… yet somehow she still refuses to break.

And then there’s Everest 😮‍💨
The king’s right hand. The most feared wolf in the kingdom. Protective, dangerous, loyal, and constantly fighting the pull between duty and desire. The banter between him and Calista??? 10/10. Every single time he stepped in to protect her I was kicking my feet and giggling like an idiot.

The pacing was so easy to fall into and the story was incredibly easy to follow while still keeping all the twists and court politics exciting. Just when you think you understand the game, you realize the real games are only beginning.
“Little Wolf” … we are NOT okay after that ending.

This story is a must read!
Please run to add to your TBR
Profile Image for laureadswhat.
284 reviews10 followers
July 8, 2026
𝙳𝚎𝚍𝚒𝚌𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 : To all the readers who dream of being claimed by a savage king and crowned by moonlight, this one’s for you!

𝚃𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚜 : badass FMC | arranged marriage | wolf shifters | deadly hunt | touch her and die | “fuck it” | “say my name” | one bed | “who did this to you?”

𝙵𝚒𝚛𝚜𝚝 𝚜𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎 (𝚙𝚕𝚞𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎): On Hollowcrest Isle, we didn’t fear the sea. We feared the moon. The sea only drowned you once, while the moon waited. It watched and remembered.

𝙾𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚏 𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎 : “Why didn’t you try to lick my thigh?”

𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯 : You know those books where you finish it and you immediately call your bestfriend who has read it because your husband doesn’t understand your incoherent thoughts? That you don’t even say hi, you just jump right in to nonsense land of your outburst and she has no ideas what’s going? King of Fangs and Frost, enter the chat.

I truly loved every single moment of this book. & I wanted more. MORE. There are a ton of things I cannot say about this book. But know that they’re worth it.

I can say though that the FMC + MMC are ABSOLUTELY amazing. Calista is an FMC for the books. She is a force to be reckoned with. One of the fiercest FMCs that I’ve met in a while. I love her. Girl crush. The MMC. Just drool. I can’t wait for you to meet him.

Calista is a hollow - she was born without a wolf. When she’s chosen to be queen, she doesn’t quite understand why though. She does know one thing for sure - she won’t just be a queen in name. She’s going to make changes. She’s going to make sure that hollows are seen as equals.

Enter the blood hunt. She has to win against other “daughters” - beat them to the thrown. It’s her and her warrior against the world. Okay, let’s be honest. It’s a rough ride. ALL THE WAY TO THE END.

Oh, and let’s be honest. There’s a cliffhanger to get an award.
Profile Image for Blaire.
200 reviews24 followers
Review of advance copy
May 6, 2026
Holy wow this was a fantastic little indie Romantasy find that I’m so happy I took a chance on! This book was such a good time. It was fast paced and thrilling and it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time.

The FMC is probably one of the fiercest females I’ve read it a while. As a wolfless prize bride from a remote downtrodden island Calista accepts her arranged marriage to the Savage King with the intent of using her sacrifice to save her people. But when the king is stuck between a rock and a hard place and must renege on his promises Calista invokes the Blood Hunt. 5 days and 5 nights, 12 daughters and their chosen hunter have to endure and survive the hunt. The first daughter to reach the throne can claim the crown and/or the king and 3 goddess blessed edicts.

This was like the Romantasy, wolf shifter version of the Hunger Games. It was high stakes, dangerous and bloody and I couldn’t put it down. The whole time I kept thinking I had guessed a pretty important plot twist but just the thrill of is it or isn’t it was enough to have me devouring this book. The MMC is masked, gruff and fiercely protective and I loved the absolute savage “touch her and die” moments and boy there were many. But when he was soft for her I was ready to lose my mind and kick my feet. The banter and tension and yearning were all positively delicious.

What I never guessed was the second crazy plot twist of an ending. My mind is reeling and I’m left staring into the void. So yeah I’m going to need book 2 like stat. Please and thank you.

What’s inside:
- wintery Viking-esque vibes
- arranged marriage
- wolf shifters
- fierce badass FMC
- deadly trial/hunt
- fighting for a crown
- slow burn/little spice
- tension & yearning
- forced proximity
- epic touch her and die
Profile Image for Aria .
380 reviews
May 16, 2026
King of Fangs and Frost sets up a dark, icy fantasy world with a battle for the crown that feels both brutal and mythic—Calista Vale, the “wolfless, disposable” bride, risks everything in the Blood Hunt, a five‑night race through the frost for the Moon Crown, a true queen’s crown that can command even kings. The stakes are high, the atmosphere is sharp and cold, and the tension between survival and sacrifice anchors the story well.
The premise shines brightest: a promised bride who refuses to be a mere consort, choosing to invoke an ancient rite instead. The dynamic between Calista and the king’s bloodsworn weapon—bound to protect her yet bound to the throne she wants—is where the story’s most compelling tension lives. Their slow‑burn, forbidden connection, layered with secrets and the threat that trust is a weakness and desire is a death sentence, is the core that keeps the pages turning.
However, the execution feels a bit uneven. The pacing drags in stretches, and the prose occasionally leans toward repetition instead of deepening either the magic, the politics, or the characters beyond the central conflict. Some of the world’s lore and the threat of the kingdom’s collapse hover at the edges without fully sinking in, which makes the emotional payoff feel slightly underpowered.
Still, King of Fangs and Frost offers a solid dark fantasy experience for readers who like icy thrones, fated‑adjacent tension, and morally charged choices. It’s a promising, 3‑star read—stronger on premise and mood than on polish, but with clear potential.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
301 reviews15 followers
August 1, 2026
Ok I wouldn't normally rate a book I DNF, BUT as I read nearly 70% and got a good feel for the book I think 3 stars is accurate.

I think this book has a good base for a 4/5 star book - everything is there. For me, the execution needs refinement.

Firstly, the relationship between the MMC and FMC feels forced and rushed... They are constantly jumping from one crisis to the next that there is no actual time for them to get to know each other. Their relationship therefore feels forced and hollow. I think some of the action should have made way for more dialogue and actual connection between the characters.

The repetition is what made me finally DNF. The character Trystan uses "there it is" or "there she is" like 5 or 6 times in a couple of chapters. He constantly talks about her having 'Hollowcrest spine' or whatever he says. This repetition really grated on me.

I struggled with the FMC as she is quite cringe at times using the word 'frost' as a curse word, and constantly flipping her fingers to show 'fangs' made me get secondhand embarrassment more than once. She also makes stupid choices and is quite reckless. She flip flops on her choices a lot too.

I also felt like some of the lore was shoved into conversations rather than it being revealed in a more natural way. Almost like the author thought 'I will just stick that in this conversation here' - it often felt a bit random and unexpected.

I did Google the ending because of the 'shock' reveal which is not shocking at all. It's very obvious and I'm more shocked that readers didn't pick up on it.

Honestly, this is a good book but there are just areas that need refinement.
Profile Image for Romantasy Bookbird.
79 reviews3 followers
May 10, 2026
❄️ ARC REVIEW ❄️

I was delighted to receive this after reading and loving GK DeRosa’s other series.

Calista was selected to be the bride to the savage king, but she uses this as a chance to ensure Hollowcrest is no longer shunned or forgotten by inciting the blood hunt.
From the beginning you are thrown into a world full of tension and desperation in Hollowcrest especially in Calista where so much more is a stake. This is a wolf shifter series with a twist.

Calista is the strong, warrior, heroine FMC who has suffered and struggled at the hands of old laws and prejudices but has a caring heart that never hardened in her trauma. She feels an instant draw to the Savage king who comes to collect his bride, who is enraptured by this bold female willing to sacrifice her life at a chance of saving others.

There’s a slight love triangle situation when Everest, her guard for the blood hunt, gives serious protective and possessive alpha wolf vibes but has that forbidden love aspect too. The internal conflict Calista suffers between her attraction to Savage and the affection for Everest creates this building tension with a sprinkle of slow burn leaves you yearning for them to give in.

The plot is fast paced, action packed and filled with combat between those partaking in the hunt, a slow burn romance with duty tied in the mix and building tension and an ending that leaves you reeling and worried for the MCs. This was a fantastic read that I devoured and eagerly wait for book two.
Profile Image for bymeg..
28 reviews
July 5, 2026
That cliffhanger though!!!!

As a die-hard Direbound fan, I was a little nervous stepping into a brand-new wolfie-verse... but thankfully, G.K. DeRosa delivers a world that's icy, brutal and easy to sink your teeth into.
Calista isn't your typical sacrificial heroine. She's stubborn, fiercely loyal and has just the right amount of sass to challenge a king who has spent his life ruling through fear. When the only way to save her family and homeland is to offer herself to the savage Wolvryn King, she willingly enters the Blood Hunt—a deadly trial where survival is never guaranteed.
As the hunt unfolds, Calista finds herself forging an unexpected connection with someone who isn't quite who he seems, and those shifting loyalties kept me turning the pages. The wintery atmosphere, political intrigue and wolf mythology made for a really enjoyable fantasy world that I'm excited to explore further.
Where this one lost a couple of stars for me was the romance. While there are definitely sparks between Calista and the Savage King, I never quite felt the yearning. The chemistry is there, but that all-consuming tension and emotional ache I crave in romantasy just didn't fully land. It feels like the foundations have been laid, though, and I have a strong feeling book two is where the pining, longing and emotional payoff will truly shine.
And that ending...
Prepare yourself, because that cliffhanger will leave you absolutely REELING.
Now excuse me while I impatiently count down to 20th October, because I'll definitely be picking up book two. 🖤❄️
Profile Image for Allison Pace.
91 reviews2 followers
July 15, 2026
I really enjoyed this. From the very first chapter, this story hits the ground running. I loved that there wasn't a long setup phase. You are thrown right into the action, and it immediately grabs your attention. Once I started, I genuinely didn't want to put it down.

One of the biggest highlights for me was the FMC. She is tough, outspoken, and refuses to simply accept the hand she's dealt. I loved that she pushed back when necessary and didn't just quietly endure the crap thrown her way. She felt strong, capable, and incredibly easy to root for.

And can we talk about the banter, yearning, and tension? Because it was so good. Every interaction had me hooked, and the chemistry, ugh so good. The term "literary edging" comes to mind. The author knew exactly how to keep the anticipation high, and I was completely here for it.

This was one of those books that just clicked for me. While some things felt a little predictable as the story unfolded, there was always enough uncertainty that I was never quite sure where everything was headed. More importantly, I was so invested in the characters and the journey that I didn't even care if I guessed a few things along the way.

I enjoyed every minute of this book and found myself completely immersed in the world. The pacing, action, character work, and romantic tension all came together perfectly to create a story I didn't want to end. I am absolutely invested in this series now and cannot wait to see where the story goes next. Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Teresa.
838 reviews59 followers
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
May 10, 2026
✨𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
📖: King of Fangs and Frost (The Wolvryn Courts Book 1)

Calista of Hollowcrest Isle is offered as a bride to the Savage Wolvryn King. In a last resort to secure the safety of her village, she invokes an ancient challenge instead. She must survive and also compete to win the Moon Crown and the respect of the court.

But Calista, her assigned protector, and the ruthless king all harbor dangerous secrets that could bring their downfall.

Tropes:
🐺Possessive alpha
🚫Touch her & 💀
🙋🏻He falls first
💍Arranged marriage
⚔️Deadly trials
⁉️“Who did this”?
🔥Slow burn Romantasy

The world of Lunaris is gritty and brutal. Calista is wolfless but vowed to never be helpless. She is such a BA FMC who knows how to wield her cunning, wit, and crescents. She doesn’t trust easily and fiercely protects her family.

The Savage King sends his trusted Black Wolf as her guard during the Blood Hunt. Despite the frosty atmosphere, the sizzling tension with the love interest had me burning up and I loved seeing them get under each other’s skin. The morally grey touch and unalive energy is on point and the MMC had me howling inside.

This fast-paced and action-packed story delivers some of my favorite microtropes and I devoured this enemies-to-lovers arranged marriage story. The next installment cannot come soon enough!

Huge thanks to the author and @greyspromo for the review copy. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Muffin~.
471 reviews
June 16, 2026
My biggest issue with *King of Frost and Fangs* wasn't what I usually tend to criticize. Normally, in these types of books, I find myself complaining about the overarching plot falling apart, or the arena and battle royale themes getting the short end of the stick. Surprisingly, that wasn't the case here. Instead, the real problem lies in the relationships between the characters.
> Because the story is so relentlessly paced, everything between the characters feels completely hollow. They are constantly moving from one crisis to the next, which means they never get a single moment to just stop, connect, and actually breathe. Without those quiet moments to build genuine chemistry or development, it’s hard to feel invested in their dynamics.
> On top of that, the big twist was so obvious that I saw it coming from a mile away. Because it lacked any real surprise, it ended up feeling entirely unnecessary to the story.
> And then there is the ending... please. That would have been the absolute perfect moment to finally slow down and let the characters process everything they had just survived. Instead of giving the readers and the characters that emotional payoff, the book pushes forward with bad plotting just to set up the next conflict. That sequel setup really could have waited.
> Ultimately, the book is a frustratingly mixed bag—it somehow manages to be genuinely good and deeply lackluster at the exact same time.
Profile Image for CeCe novelnlit.
178 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 5, 2026
**ARC REVIEW**

Overall: 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Plot: 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
World Building: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Magic System 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ending: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️

Quiet female rage leads to high stakes for the freedom of choice and the chance to save her family and the wolfless. Calista is the chosen bride prize for the Alpha King. But when protection is no longer a guarantee, she invokes an old law to compete for a different type of crown. One that gives her a voice and the chance to protect those she loves. With a 5 moons deadline, can Calista be the first one to reach the throne while surviving the harsh terrain, hunters, and ruthless gang of women who also desire the political advantage of winning the hunt?

King of Fangs and Frost is a terrific shifter Romantasy. Solid world building. The blood hunt was thrilling, and the author did a great job writing tension and building up the conflict. Pace quickly picks up and became hard to put down. There was good dialogue and yearning. Great twists along the way. Story hints at several storylines that I imagine will continue throughout the series. I did find myself more interested in the mom/lunar rage than Tarrick’s storyline. Interested to see how things unfold with Caelen. It does end of a cliffhanger.

But what a great book 1. Im looking forward to continuing the series. Highly recommend for any shifter fans. Thanks Greys Promotion for the advanced digital copy.
Profile Image for Jiban Khan.
44 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2026
King of Fangs and Frost completely pulled me in. The mix of deadly trials, court politics, wolf shifters, and slow-burn tension made this ridiculously easy to binge.

Calista was such a strong FMC. I loved that even though she is constantly underestimated for being wolfless, she never lets that stop her from fighting for herself and for her people. She’s stubborn, capable, and refuses to quietly accept the role everyone expects her to play.

The Blood Hunt kept the pacing intense the entire time. Every chapter felt stressful in the best way because it constantly felt like something could go wrong at any moment. And the tension between Calista and the king’s dangerous protector??? Absolutely carried this book for me. The chemistry, the restraint, the protectiveness, all of it worked.

I also really enjoyed that the romance didn’t overpower the actual fantasy plot. There were enough secrets, betrayals, and twists to keep me fully invested outside of the relationship dynamics too.

And that ending honestly left me staring at the page for a solid minute because WHAT??? I need book two immediately.

I received the ARC copy from the Grey Promotions and author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mairi Swan.
637 reviews49 followers
Review of advance copy
April 30, 2026
*Romantasy
*Arranged marriage
*Full of tension and action
*Deadly trial
*Slow burn
*World building
*Wolves with some Fae elements
*Enemies to lovers
*Who did this to you
*Fuck it moment
*Possessive king
*Strong heroine

What did I just read?! Seriously?! My only disappointment is that it ended in a huge cliffhanger.
Heroine, Calista, is betrothed to the King, Savage, after being chosen by the Goddess. Savage is notorious while his reputation precedes him. But Calista is willing to fight for her family and her people and refuses to be just a pawn so she demands the Moon Hunt, a trial where the winner is crowned the Moon Crowned Queen and not just a consort. Calista is accompanied by Black Wolf, the King's most trusted guard and tries to win despite all adversities.
I'm not going to spoil anything as you HAVE to read it. The tension was palpable and my heart stuttered in a lot of scenes. As it is a series I can't comment the end but the feeling was WTF? In a good way obviously.
I really can't wait for the next book to come out yesterday. Author please spare my mind and my heart and come soon with the next one.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion
Profile Image for Nicole.
81 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 30, 2026

So I totally devoured this book. It was as good as I expect from @gkderosa

The driving force behind the book is Calista, who willingly goes along with being the Savage Kings arranged bride in order to gain access to the resources her people need to survive. She quickly learns a King’s consort has no power and invokes the Blood Hunt, a five night race against other females that will either kill her or see her crowned Queen.

I love Calista. She is wolfless, but she is just as bad a** if not more so than her competitors with wolvryn. She has a hunter with her in the competition, someone assigned by the king. Their angst and tension is fabulous. She knows she can’t have him. Not if she wants to save her people. But their journey makes you cheer for them anyway, even when she resigns herself to having to marry the king if she wins.

The competition has you turning pages fast. The other competitions, their hunters, the danger…. It’s very fast paced, even the parts where it is just the two of them trying to rest.

Then the ending…. Gah!! I can’t wait for the next one to come out!

Make sure you pick the book up on May 12 and get hooked like I did!
Profile Image for Cassiereadsromantasy.
66 reviews14 followers
May 10, 2026
I received an eARC to read and review. Here are my thoughts.
My first book by GK DeRosa and it definitely will not be my last because WOW. King of Fangs and Frost completely enganged me from start to finish. This is exactly the kind of romantasy I love: fast-paced, action packed, high stakes, and impossible to put down. Every single chapter ended in a way that had me saying “nope… one more chapter” until suddenly it was midnight and I had binged the final 25% in one sitting because the twists, action, and chaos would not let me stop.
Calista is such a strong FMC. She’s fierce, resilient, willing to do absolutely anything for her family, but also stubborn, impulsive, and reckless enough to keep you stressed the entire time, I was questioning her decisions at times. And the MmC is protective, possessive, touch her and die energy in the BEST way.
I had a few theories while reading and some actually happened… but THAT ending??? Absolutely not. I did not see that coming at all. The cliffhanger was a full shock and now I’m already desperate for book two.
If you love romantasy with nonstop action, tension, high stakes, and characters that keep you completely invested, add this one to your TBR immediately.
Profile Image for Natasha.
103 reviews6 followers
May 13, 2026
Holy wolf! This book surprised me and I could not put it down!

Strong and fierce with a heart of a warrior, Calista is the provider for her family on an isle court where outcasts are sent too and struggle to survive. When she is chosen as the Savage Wolvyrn King’s bride, Calista invokes the Blood Hunt, a trial that will test her strength and survival but has the ability for her to save her home.

What I loved:
Calista. I love a strong, wolfless FMC who is underestimated and outcast and who absolutely shocks everyone when she has the opportunity. And Calista exceeds all expectations.
The alpha protectiveness. I love that the Frost King is so interested in Calista. I think too often arranged marriages equate indifference, but that isn’t the case here. There is also the protectiveness from the King’s trusted guard, who he sends to protect Calista during the Blood Hunt. Be warned, there is a bit of a love triangle developing.
The great world building that occurs. The ground work is laid for a phenomenal series and I can’t wait to see how it develops.

The one thing that killed me is the cliffhanger….only because I now have to wait and that is going to be an agonizing one. 💙
57 reviews
May 13, 2026
King of Fangs and Frost by G.K. DeRosa is the first book in the brand-new series The Wolvryn Courts!
And it's part of the same world and Courts of Aetheria! ❤️

I really, really loved this book.
It was fast-paced, full of action, secrets, and tension, and it kept me interested the whole time.

I liked Calista a lot because she refused to let others control her and fought for what she wanted. The Blood Hunt was one of my favourite parts of the book because it made everything feel dangerous and exciting. The romance was also really good, with lots of tension and chemistry between Calista and The Frost King. 🩵

The world-building was interesting without feeling too complicated, and I liked the dark winter atmosphere of the story. I also feel like the author’s writing motto is basically “never let them know your next move” because every time I thought I knew what would happen, something else surprised me.

That cliffhanger, though...😱🫣

If you like fantasy romance with enemies-to-lovers, deadly trials, wolf shifters, and a strong female main character, I would definitely recommend this book.

❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️
Profile Image for Nicole(thereadingrebel).
280 reviews
May 22, 2026
King of Fangs and Frost by GK Derosa

Genre: Romantasy

Romance: MF paring main couple

First off if you love wolf shiftier Romantasy this is the book for you. I don't want to give away to much for the plot in this review so I am not going to say much about it other than arranged marriage, tournament and a women who will stop at nothing not to be just a pawn in the kingdom's game. Calista is my all time favorite character GK has ever written. She is the most well written and well rounded character she has ever written. This is the best world building she has ever done. The descriptions of Lunaris and its people are breath taking, savage and unforgiving but beautiful all at the same time. There is a lot of travel in this book but you wouldn't know it because the world building, romance, and action make it fly by.

Just want to tell all my spicy readers that this is a slow burn and only has one spicy scene, I am betting there will be more in book 2. There is not 1 not 2 but 3 plot twists at the end. I only figured out one of them. But the other two didn't see coming. Especially the final one. My scream of OMG could be heard a few blocks away. So go and grab this book and prepare for a trip to a cold unforgiving land with strong main characters and a new love interest to swoon over.
Profile Image for Marissa McCrady - reezzareads.
175 reviews34 followers
May 26, 2026
I devoured this book just to get to end with the meanest cliffhanger ever! I don’t know if I can wait until October for book 2. 😭😂

I love the characters in this book and I loved the snowy icy setting. This book had some really good banter and I really enjoyed the writing. The lighthouse scene OMG!!🔥

Calista is wolfless but she is determined to save her family at any cost. Even if that means she has to marry the Savage Alpha King of the Wolvryn Courts. When she doesn’t gain the power to save her family right away she invokes the Blood Hunt. A chance to win the Moon Crown and become a Queen in her own right.

For 5 days and nights 12 daughters and hunters must complete in the Blood Hunt. Each daughter gets a guard to aid them in their journey to reach the throne in Frostcrag and win the Moon Crown.

Calista’s guard, the Black Wolf is more than he seems and as they journey together she learns many things about the Wolvryn Courts. He swears to protect her and that he will make sure she wins the hunt but she isn’t sure she can trust him. The tension between these two is steamy and I’m obsessed. I may have predicted the reveal but I loved it all the same.
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