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The Magpie and the Wolf Duology #2
Wolftamer
Not yet published
Expected 25 Aug 26Win a free print copy of this book!
29 days and 03:09:31
25 copies available
U.S. only
Legends don't die.
Saoirse and Foalan's quest for freedom turns into a battle for the fate of their entire world, in this aching and lush conclusion to the Magpie and the Wolf duology.
Faolan has escaped death. Twice.
After a lifetime chasing freedom and legends, he was finally on the brink of becoming one himself when it all went up in flames. Stranded on the Isle of Lost Souls, bound by an oath he did not make, Faolan is plagued by dreams of drowning and a past he swore never to revisit. The pirate in him wants nothing more than to raise hell and run away—but with no ship, and no way to untether his wife, Saoirse, from the land she’s pledged herself to, Faolan is trapped.
And everyone knows who tamed the Wolf.
When their sinister rival King Maccus unveils an ancient godly relic—one with the power to unbalance their entire world—Faolan knows the game has changed. There’s only one person who can hunt down the missing relics before Maccus can, and the Wolf of the Wild will do anything to protect his wife.
Even if that means leaving her behind.
Saoirse and Foalan's quest for freedom turns into a battle for the fate of their entire world, in this aching and lush conclusion to the Magpie and the Wolf duology.
Faolan has escaped death. Twice.
After a lifetime chasing freedom and legends, he was finally on the brink of becoming one himself when it all went up in flames. Stranded on the Isle of Lost Souls, bound by an oath he did not make, Faolan is plagued by dreams of drowning and a past he swore never to revisit. The pirate in him wants nothing more than to raise hell and run away—but with no ship, and no way to untether his wife, Saoirse, from the land she’s pledged herself to, Faolan is trapped.
And everyone knows who tamed the Wolf.
When their sinister rival King Maccus unveils an ancient godly relic—one with the power to unbalance their entire world—Faolan knows the game has changed. There’s only one person who can hunt down the missing relics before Maccus can, and the Wolf of the Wild will do anything to protect his wife.
Even if that means leaving her behind.
512 pages, Paperback
Expected publication August 25, 2026
About the author
Maggie Rapier
2 books221 followersMaggie Rapier is an incurable romantic and part-time kitchen witch who loves nothing more than wordplay and wandering around the globe.
When she’s not elbows-deep in her garden under the watchful eye of her two cats, you can find her at the library, the thrift store, or the D&D table where she plays with her partner and friends.
When she’s not elbows-deep in her garden under the watchful eye of her two cats, you can find her at the library, the thrift store, or the D&D table where she plays with her partner and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
💫⚔️ Wolftamer by Maggie Rapier ⚔️💫
This picks up right where book one left off, and I was immediately pulled back into the story. I am genuinely sad this duology is over, but it was such a strong one from start to finish. We need more duologies like this. The worldbuilding and character relationships were well developed. I was never bored in either book.
I will say Faolan tested my patience in the first half. He was deep in his no freedom spiral and I really wanted to shake him a bit. Thankfully he pulls it together because I was struggling there for a minute. He just seemed so opposite of how he was for book one!
Saoirse had me stressed the entire time. That woman cannot catch a break and I just wanted to hug her through most of this book.
Overall, I was really happy with how everything wrapped up. Now I just need the audiobook because I loved the narration for book one and already know I will want to experience this one that way too.
✨ What to Expect
• Soulgazer FMC
• Pirate MMC
• Quest for freedom
• Touch her and die
• Cursed island
• Oath bound
• Ancient relic hunt
• Duology finale
_ _ _ _
⭐ Final Rating: 5 Stars
📅 Pub Date: August 25, 2026
📝 Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group, Ace, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
This picks up right where book one left off, and I was immediately pulled back into the story. I am genuinely sad this duology is over, but it was such a strong one from start to finish. We need more duologies like this. The worldbuilding and character relationships were well developed. I was never bored in either book.
I will say Faolan tested my patience in the first half. He was deep in his no freedom spiral and I really wanted to shake him a bit. Thankfully he pulls it together because I was struggling there for a minute. He just seemed so opposite of how he was for book one!
Saoirse had me stressed the entire time. That woman cannot catch a break and I just wanted to hug her through most of this book.
Overall, I was really happy with how everything wrapped up. Now I just need the audiobook because I loved the narration for book one and already know I will want to experience this one that way too.
✨ What to Expect
• Soulgazer FMC
• Pirate MMC
• Quest for freedom
• Touch her and die
• Cursed island
• Oath bound
• Ancient relic hunt
• Duology finale
_ _ _ _
⭐ Final Rating: 5 Stars
📅 Pub Date: August 25, 2026
📝 Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group, Ace, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Want to Read
March 13, 2026YES! one of my anticipated continuations! Call me an incurable romantic but if you want a pirate romantasy, look no further! :)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group and the author, Maggie Rapier for an early copy!
Publication date: August 25, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group and the author, Maggie Rapier for an early copy!
Publication date: August 25, 2026
Want to Read
November 29, 2025look at that cover I'm OBSESSED
December 1, 2025
Already my second favourite book ever (the first is Soulgazer.)
June 8, 2026
Wolftamer absolutely delivered on the things I came for. The action and adventure sequences are genuinely thrilling -Maggie Rapier keeps the pacing tight and the stakes feel real in a way that had me flying through chapters. And the found family dynamic? My kryptonite! Watching these characters choose each other, protect each other, and build something that feels like home in the middle of chaos is exactly the kind of emotional core that makes romantasy worth reading.
So why only 3.5 stars? Faolan.
I love him, I do, but his arc in this book genuinely frustrated me. Now that Saoirse has come into her power as queen, Faolan is struggling hard with no longer being the center of the story, labeled a 'tamed wolf" and honestly? I felt that struggle right alongside him, just not in the way the author probably intended. There were moments where his resentment of being sidelined felt repetitive, and his sense of feeling trapped by Saoirse's new role started to drag on me after a while. I understood where it was coming from emotionally, but it pulled me out of the story more than it drew me in.
That said, the world, the romance, and the found family threads are strong enough that I found myself turning pages as fast as I could.
I recommend this for romantasy readers who love: action-heavy plots, queens coming into their power, and a found family that will absolutely wreck you.
So why only 3.5 stars? Faolan.
I love him, I do, but his arc in this book genuinely frustrated me. Now that Saoirse has come into her power as queen, Faolan is struggling hard with no longer being the center of the story, labeled a 'tamed wolf" and honestly? I felt that struggle right alongside him, just not in the way the author probably intended. There were moments where his resentment of being sidelined felt repetitive, and his sense of feeling trapped by Saoirse's new role started to drag on me after a while. I understood where it was coming from emotionally, but it pulled me out of the story more than it drew me in.
That said, the world, the romance, and the found family threads are strong enough that I found myself turning pages as fast as I could.
I recommend this for romantasy readers who love: action-heavy plots, queens coming into their power, and a found family that will absolutely wreck you.
May 22, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Faolan and Saoirse are back with another high-stakes adventure which is sure to satisfy fans of the first book. Having more background on Faolan in Wolftamer was a stand out aspect for me, and definitely felt like a valuable part to balancing the two main characters out.
Despite loving these two characters so much, I felt the pacing was quite slow for roughly the first 40% of the book which made it difficult to feel invested in the plot and mythological elements. Additionally, despite Wolftamer picking up where Soulgazer ended, the characters undergo a level of emotional and physical separation which makes the whole first part feel disjointed and “off” compared to Soulgazer. However, the plot did pick up quickly after the 40% mark and the characters became more reminiscent of all their great qualities further into the book which motivated me to keep reading.
Overall, Wolftamer was a solid end to an engaging duology and it was a pleasure reading about Faolan and Saoirse’s experiences! Big thanks to NetGalley and Ace/Berkley Publishing for the e-arc to review!
#indigoemployee
Faolan and Saoirse are back with another high-stakes adventure which is sure to satisfy fans of the first book. Having more background on Faolan in Wolftamer was a stand out aspect for me, and definitely felt like a valuable part to balancing the two main characters out.
Despite loving these two characters so much, I felt the pacing was quite slow for roughly the first 40% of the book which made it difficult to feel invested in the plot and mythological elements. Additionally, despite Wolftamer picking up where Soulgazer ended, the characters undergo a level of emotional and physical separation which makes the whole first part feel disjointed and “off” compared to Soulgazer. However, the plot did pick up quickly after the 40% mark and the characters became more reminiscent of all their great qualities further into the book which motivated me to keep reading.
Overall, Wolftamer was a solid end to an engaging duology and it was a pleasure reading about Faolan and Saoirse’s experiences! Big thanks to NetGalley and Ace/Berkley Publishing for the e-arc to review!
#indigoemployee
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5 stars.
I'm torn after reading this, because despite liking the world and mythology and getting a fuller sense of Faolon as a character, Wolftamer just didn't have the same magic as Soulgazer. The pacing and plotting were weaker, but I actually flew through the first 25 percent: the tension Saoirse's crowning caused in her relationship with Faolon was excellent, as was seeing them learn how to navigate each other in a new context. Saoirse remained a softer protagonist—yay!—but unfortunately never did much of anything besides swoon and cry and be incapacitated by her magic. Her journey here—to not become a martyr, to reestablish her friendship with Cal and reforge a bond with her brother, to develop a kinder relationship with magic—never fully felt realized. This book was much more Faolon's, and Rapier didn't shy away from showing how so much of the Faolon we met in the first book was built on smoke and mirrors. I loved seeing him spiral and lift himself up from rock bottom, and the way his two dearest wants—fame, a name, and to love and be loved by Saoirse—were generally in opposition made for great drama. The romance itself didn't quite charm me this time around, but I enjoyed seeing Saoirse and Faolon be vulnerable and get angry with each other, and Faolon's complicated history with Kiara? So good.
I liked the story we got on the whole, but the quest of Faolon and the wolves searching for the relics was underutilized since nearly all the relics were already in one place; as it was, the stakes never felt as high as they could have. I'm always glad to see an author write consequences and character deaths, but the climax had no depth, motivations weren't explored satisfactorily, and the conclusion left me underwhelmed. Faolon's past and the "threat" of the Gan Ainm; Saoirse's ties to godhood; the Knowing Sea—these plot points were tied up very loosely. Not currently sure whether I'll pick up a physical copy, but I still think Soulgazer is a fun romantasy and worth the read, and I'd check out more from Maggie Rapier in the future!
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm torn after reading this, because despite liking the world and mythology and getting a fuller sense of Faolon as a character, Wolftamer just didn't have the same magic as Soulgazer. The pacing and plotting were weaker, but I actually flew through the first 25 percent: the tension Saoirse's crowning caused in her relationship with Faolon was excellent, as was seeing them learn how to navigate each other in a new context. Saoirse remained a softer protagonist—yay!—but unfortunately never did much of anything besides swoon and cry and be incapacitated by her magic. Her journey here—to not become a martyr, to reestablish her friendship with Cal and reforge a bond with her brother, to develop a kinder relationship with magic—never fully felt realized. This book was much more Faolon's, and Rapier didn't shy away from showing how so much of the Faolon we met in the first book was built on smoke and mirrors. I loved seeing him spiral and lift himself up from rock bottom, and the way his two dearest wants—fame, a name, and to love and be loved by Saoirse—were generally in opposition made for great drama. The romance itself didn't quite charm me this time around, but I enjoyed seeing Saoirse and Faolon be vulnerable and get angry with each other, and Faolon's complicated history with Kiara? So good.
I liked the story we got on the whole, but the quest of Faolon and the wolves searching for the relics was underutilized since nearly all the relics were already in one place; as it was, the stakes never felt as high as they could have. I'm always glad to see an author write consequences and character deaths, but the climax had no depth, motivations weren't explored satisfactorily, and the conclusion left me underwhelmed. Faolon's past and the "threat" of the Gan Ainm; Saoirse's ties to godhood; the Knowing Sea—these plot points were tied up very loosely. Not currently sure whether I'll pick up a physical copy, but I still think Soulgazer is a fun romantasy and worth the read, and I'd check out more from Maggie Rapier in the future!
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really, really, really loved the first book of this duology, Soulgazer. It was just about perfect -- swashbuckling, full of longing to be free, full of longing to be loved. It was Saoirse's book, through and through. With that said -- Wolftamer is Faolan's book. Boy's got a LOT of trauma hidden in the background, and well, it was nice to see him grow and realize that he is more than what he's labelled himself as. Saoirse's got a lot to work through, too, but her's takes less time than Faolan's does.
HOWEVER, Wolftamer doesn't feel quite the same as Soulgazer did, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. My least favorite thing happens in this book, though, and that's that the two main love interests spend 80% of the book apart. I hate, hate, hate it when this happens in romances, fantasy or otherwise. We spent the whole of the first book getting them to both realize and admit that they actually cared for each other, and then like 20% of the way into the second book they have to separate to move the book along?
LAME. LAME, I TELL YOU.
Anyway, the story itself is pretty cool, though. Faolan and Saoirse need to gather the relics of all the old, slaughtered gods in order to save the Crescent from sure-destruction, and other horrible things that I'm not going to spoil here. They know where two of the relics are, and that leaves finding five others.
Unfortunately, I feel the book suffers from pacing issues. There's a lot of hurry-up-and-wait, and it makes the book feel both simultaneously too long, and way too short. In fact, it feels like nothing really happens until like the last like...20% of the book. I was reading furiously, looked down at the percentage, and wondered out loud, "How in the hell are they gonna wrap this up if I'm already at 83%?" They do, in fact, manage it, but the ending felt rushed. Shocker.
Despite my whining, I did still like the story. I just wish there had been heavier editing at some point in this book's journey. Three and a half stars.
HOWEVER, Wolftamer doesn't feel quite the same as Soulgazer did, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. My least favorite thing happens in this book, though, and that's that the two main love interests spend 80% of the book apart. I hate, hate, hate it when this happens in romances, fantasy or otherwise. We spent the whole of the first book getting them to both realize and admit that they actually cared for each other, and then like 20% of the way into the second book they have to separate to move the book along?
LAME. LAME, I TELL YOU.
Anyway, the story itself is pretty cool, though. Faolan and Saoirse need to gather the relics of all the old, slaughtered gods in order to save the Crescent from sure-destruction, and other horrible things that I'm not going to spoil here. They know where two of the relics are, and that leaves finding five others.
Unfortunately, I feel the book suffers from pacing issues. There's a lot of hurry-up-and-wait, and it makes the book feel both simultaneously too long, and way too short. In fact, it feels like nothing really happens until like the last like...20% of the book. I was reading furiously, looked down at the percentage, and wondered out loud, "How in the hell are they gonna wrap this up if I'm already at 83%?" They do, in fact, manage it, but the ending felt rushed. Shocker.
Despite my whining, I did still like the story. I just wish there had been heavier editing at some point in this book's journey. Three and a half stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this so much!!
It's such a great story, that honestly feels just like a folktale that is being passed down, in a lot of ways.
In this story, Faolan and Saoirse really need to find their own ways — both together and individually — and that's never without its challenges. Saoirse is now a queen and considered a goddess which means everyone is demanding her time and attention (and her magic). At the same time, Faolan has no ship, and is the king consort to a woman who is bound to an island. Who even is he without his ship, galavanting all over, being the colorful Wolf of the Wild?
Besides the truly wonderful philosophy and introspection, there is all the external pressure from ancient magical artifacts and scheming kings. Playing the game of politics and gods is not Saoirse's forté, but it was really satisfying to see her grow more confident.
There was so much heart in this book, and great messages about figuring out who you are, what TRULY matters, and finding the strength to stand up for what you want. It's the kind of story that sits with you and makes you think, and I love the way Maggie slowly unfolds it all.
As with Soulgazer, the found family in this is so fantastic! Most of the wolves are back, and we get better acquainted with some characters that were less featured before, like Saoirse's cousin, Callan, her brother, Aidon, and Faolan's cousin, Kiara. They round out the supporting cast well, adding in some more non-pirates to the mix (though they're all plenty colorful in their own ways!).
This book will make you feel all the feels, with fun banter, swoon-worthy romance, grief that is viscerally real, and hope. I cried, laughed, and laughed through tears.
Faolan is still ridiculous in this, by the way, but I didn't mind a bit. ;)
Thank you to Maggie Rapier, Ace, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. This in no way influenced my review. My opinion is 100% my own.
It's such a great story, that honestly feels just like a folktale that is being passed down, in a lot of ways.
In this story, Faolan and Saoirse really need to find their own ways — both together and individually — and that's never without its challenges. Saoirse is now a queen and considered a goddess which means everyone is demanding her time and attention (and her magic). At the same time, Faolan has no ship, and is the king consort to a woman who is bound to an island. Who even is he without his ship, galavanting all over, being the colorful Wolf of the Wild?
Besides the truly wonderful philosophy and introspection, there is all the external pressure from ancient magical artifacts and scheming kings. Playing the game of politics and gods is not Saoirse's forté, but it was really satisfying to see her grow more confident.
There was so much heart in this book, and great messages about figuring out who you are, what TRULY matters, and finding the strength to stand up for what you want. It's the kind of story that sits with you and makes you think, and I love the way Maggie slowly unfolds it all.
As with Soulgazer, the found family in this is so fantastic! Most of the wolves are back, and we get better acquainted with some characters that were less featured before, like Saoirse's cousin, Callan, her brother, Aidon, and Faolan's cousin, Kiara. They round out the supporting cast well, adding in some more non-pirates to the mix (though they're all plenty colorful in their own ways!).
This book will make you feel all the feels, with fun banter, swoon-worthy romance, grief that is viscerally real, and hope. I cried, laughed, and laughed through tears.
Faolan is still ridiculous in this, by the way, but I didn't mind a bit. ;)
Thank you to Maggie Rapier, Ace, and NetGalley for the advanced copy. This in no way influenced my review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up to 4!
Thank you to Maggie Rapier, Ace/Berkley, and NetGalley for the advance copy!
Wolftamer had a difficult task following Soulgazer, which felt tightly focused and emotionally grounded in Saoirse’s journey. This sequel shifts that center to Faolan, and while his arc is meaningful, it is also heavier and more uneven. His internal conflict drives much of the story, but at times it feels inconsistent enough to pull you out of it rather than deepen the experience.
The biggest challenge, for me, was structural. After spending an entire book building the relationship between Saoirse and Faolan, keeping them apart for so long takes away some of the emotional payoff you expect from a sequel like this.
There is still a strong sense of adventure here. The quest for the relics and the broader mythology continue to expand in interesting ways. However, the pacing struggles. Large portions feel stalled, only for the final stretch to move too quickly in an attempt to resolve everything at once.
I did enjoy seeing how the duology concludes, and there are moments that work well, particularly as the story leans more into its fantasy elements. Still, this is one of those cases where the sequel just did not have the same balance or impact that made the first book stand out.
Thank you to Maggie Rapier, Ace/Berkley, and NetGalley for the advance copy!
Wolftamer had a difficult task following Soulgazer, which felt tightly focused and emotionally grounded in Saoirse’s journey. This sequel shifts that center to Faolan, and while his arc is meaningful, it is also heavier and more uneven. His internal conflict drives much of the story, but at times it feels inconsistent enough to pull you out of it rather than deepen the experience.
The biggest challenge, for me, was structural. After spending an entire book building the relationship between Saoirse and Faolan, keeping them apart for so long takes away some of the emotional payoff you expect from a sequel like this.
There is still a strong sense of adventure here. The quest for the relics and the broader mythology continue to expand in interesting ways. However, the pacing struggles. Large portions feel stalled, only for the final stretch to move too quickly in an attempt to resolve everything at once.
I did enjoy seeing how the duology concludes, and there are moments that work well, particularly as the story leans more into its fantasy elements. Still, this is one of those cases where the sequel just did not have the same balance or impact that made the first book stand out.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I... wanted to like this. But honestly, I really struggled to read this. I don't let myself DNF books, generally, but I almost found myself DNF-ing this one... I had struggled a little with the world building and magic system of this world in the previous book, but I was mostly able to look past it because the plot at least kept me entertained. In this one, though, the plot just didn't hold my attention, so the things in the magic system that I didn't understand just felt even more apparent -- I had nothing to distract me, basically. I love Saoirse and Faolon, I really do, but they weren't together for so much of the book, and when they were, the focus on the story was so much about the plot that I didn't fully understand or a character side journey for Faolon that didn't really interest me. The whole thing about Faolon struggling with going unnoticed or unremembered lingered for far longer than it should have, I think.
The emotional beats at the end were good, I think. When [redacted] [redacted], I actually felt so many things... but that one thing couldn't really make up for the other issues I felt existed.
The writing was good, if a little too poetic when it should have been more prose-like to focus on the plot, but I just couldn't find my way through this, really.
---------------------
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley for the ARC!
The emotional beats at the end were good, I think. When [redacted] [redacted], I actually felt so many things... but that one thing couldn't really make up for the other issues I felt existed.
The writing was good, if a little too poetic when it should have been more prose-like to focus on the plot, but I just couldn't find my way through this, really.
---------------------
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
SPOILERS ISH???
Ok so I have lots of feelings about this book and I do kind of think I need a bit more time to process it, I’m just going to word vomit for a bit right now.
I was so excited to read this book and thank you so much to Berkley for approving me. With that said, while I had an enjoyable time reading this one, I am a little disappointed.
The one thing I loved and will continue to love about these two books are the characters. Faolan and Saorsie are precious to me. Their love for each other knows no bounds, no sacrifice and no end. They are truly meant to be. I was upset that this book started with them splitting them up on different adventures but I’m glad they found their way back to each other. I also love the Wolves, my favourite rat pack. There is nothing like a found family.
Unfortunately, I think the plot of this one lost me. I think the pacing of the book didn’t help either. There was too much going on. Too many storylines and too many relics and objects and it just felt confusing. And it was a lot of plans and all of them going wrong, which made the resolution feel out of nowhere and slightly rushed for me. And honestly I still don’t really understand what happened? What was sacrificed? What did Faolan do? But at the end of the day I’m glad they got there happily ever after.
Ok so I have lots of feelings about this book and I do kind of think I need a bit more time to process it, I’m just going to word vomit for a bit right now.
I was so excited to read this book and thank you so much to Berkley for approving me. With that said, while I had an enjoyable time reading this one, I am a little disappointed.
The one thing I loved and will continue to love about these two books are the characters. Faolan and Saorsie are precious to me. Their love for each other knows no bounds, no sacrifice and no end. They are truly meant to be. I was upset that this book started with them splitting them up on different adventures but I’m glad they found their way back to each other. I also love the Wolves, my favourite rat pack. There is nothing like a found family.
Unfortunately, I think the plot of this one lost me. I think the pacing of the book didn’t help either. There was too much going on. Too many storylines and too many relics and objects and it just felt confusing. And it was a lot of plans and all of them going wrong, which made the resolution feel out of nowhere and slightly rushed for me. And honestly I still don’t really understand what happened? What was sacrificed? What did Faolan do? But at the end of the day I’m glad they got there happily ever after.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I liked how this one picked up where the last left off. Although it was a little bit slow at first but nonetheless I think it made it a perfect way to see what comes after the after before the actual happy after. Saoirse and Faolan definitely have some things to figure out in this and need to learn how to work together. I will say that from book one to this one the characters definitely have changed quite a bit. I'm still on the fence whether that's a good thing or a bad thing but it could be a mix of both which isn't bad in itself. But aside from that I liked the way this one progressed. However, it did take me a little bit to get into the story but once I got into it I did not want to put it down. It's actually a pretty decent read and has a good solid storyline with amazing characters. And it's messy in a good way with just a touch of heaviness. Overall, I loved reading this and I understood why things were going the way they were from that first chapter until the very end. A beautiful story and I would suggest reading it. I mean it's worth it in my opinion. Thanks so much to Netgalley and Berkley for a copy of this. All opinions are my own and freely expressed expressed.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Favorite quote(s):
"Stories. We're all made of stories... Shall I tell you one?”
"Legends don't die."
Review:
Wow. This was an incredible sequel and end to this duology. The writing was descriptive and engrossing. I loved both Saoirse and Faolan so much. They were an incredible couple who loved each other so much. Both were still dealing with so much, which did put a bit of strain on the relationship, but they worked through it. I loved the Wolves as a crew and found family. They deeply loved each other. I hated how there were losses that hurt them, but that's how things go. The banter was fantastic and funny. The world and magic were both beautiful and devastating in description and the way it affected the characters. There were many characters I loved, especially how they were with Saoirse and Faolan. I hated Maccus so much to the very end. The stuff with the gods and lands and world was interesting, and I loved the journey it took the characters on. The ending was beautiful and perfect for the story, and I loved it so much. I am sad this journey is over.
Favorite quote(s):
"Stories. We're all made of stories... Shall I tell you one?”
"Legends don't die."
Review:
Wow. This was an incredible sequel and end to this duology. The writing was descriptive and engrossing. I loved both Saoirse and Faolan so much. They were an incredible couple who loved each other so much. Both were still dealing with so much, which did put a bit of strain on the relationship, but they worked through it. I loved the Wolves as a crew and found family. They deeply loved each other. I hated how there were losses that hurt them, but that's how things go. The banter was fantastic and funny. The world and magic were both beautiful and devastating in description and the way it affected the characters. There were many characters I loved, especially how they were with Saoirse and Faolan. I hated Maccus so much to the very end. The stuff with the gods and lands and world was interesting, and I loved the journey it took the characters on. The ending was beautiful and perfect for the story, and I loved it so much. I am sad this journey is over.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
No one is sadder than me that I'm giving Wolftamer 3 stars. Soulgazer surpassed all my wildest expectations but Wolftamer just didn't quite work for me.
First off idk who that Foalan was because he sure wasn't the same Foalan from Soulgazer. He was a completely different person. He was so frustrating and his emotions were all over the place. I was getting whiplash trying to understand what was going on with him. He was one of my favorite parts of Soulgazer and in Wolftamer he was my biggest struggle.
The book did get better as it went on though. The frustrating personality transplant got a little better as the book became more about the adventure and less about the characters' personal journeys. So if you're struggling with the beginning it might be worth pushing through. I considered dnfing for the first like 25-30% of the book, but after loving Soulgazer so much I couldn't do it. I am glad I stuck with it because now I know how the duology ends and it ended on an ok note instead of a frustrating note.
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley for the eARC!
First off idk who that Foalan was because he sure wasn't the same Foalan from Soulgazer. He was a completely different person. He was so frustrating and his emotions were all over the place. I was getting whiplash trying to understand what was going on with him. He was one of my favorite parts of Soulgazer and in Wolftamer he was my biggest struggle.
The book did get better as it went on though. The frustrating personality transplant got a little better as the book became more about the adventure and less about the characters' personal journeys. So if you're struggling with the beginning it might be worth pushing through. I considered dnfing for the first like 25-30% of the book, but after loving Soulgazer so much I couldn't do it. I am glad I stuck with it because now I know how the duology ends and it ended on an ok note instead of a frustrating note.
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Ace for the arc!
In the conclusion of this duology, readers are reunited with Faolan and Saoirse. I strongly recommend reading Soulgazer first- and you too can fall in love with their magical story. The second half of their journey begins where it left off, and they must face many trials together and separately.
I think it’s important to note that this book is its own and quite different from Soulgazer. I loved Soulgazer so much that I think it got in the way of my enjoyment of this book for a bit, until I realized that I was comparing the two books and needed to just enjoy the story and see how it would unfold.
This book is filled with adventure, a new quest, pirates galore, a villain, and of course, romance. We are given more backstory on Faolan and the gods and goddesses, and how Saoirse came to have her new role. I would’ve loved more of Faolan and Saoirse together! I missed that marriage of convenience/forced proximity/caregiving that Soulgazer really had. However, the fantasy and adventure lovers will eat this one up for sure!
In the conclusion of this duology, readers are reunited with Faolan and Saoirse. I strongly recommend reading Soulgazer first- and you too can fall in love with their magical story. The second half of their journey begins where it left off, and they must face many trials together and separately.
I think it’s important to note that this book is its own and quite different from Soulgazer. I loved Soulgazer so much that I think it got in the way of my enjoyment of this book for a bit, until I realized that I was comparing the two books and needed to just enjoy the story and see how it would unfold.
This book is filled with adventure, a new quest, pirates galore, a villain, and of course, romance. We are given more backstory on Faolan and the gods and goddesses, and how Saoirse came to have her new role. I would’ve loved more of Faolan and Saoirse together! I missed that marriage of convenience/forced proximity/caregiving that Soulgazer really had. However, the fantasy and adventure lovers will eat this one up for sure!
April 5, 2026
Thanks Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Soulgazer left us on a good ending: Saoirse had found the island, was able to restore soulstones, and she and Faolan finally admitted that they were in love. Wolftamer starts and immediately everything is going wrong. To no one, surprised, Fallon feels trapped on the island. Saoirse has made herself a martyr and is always bleeding to restore the soulstones. And our old enemy Maccus has re-emerged with even more trouble.
It actually took me a little while to get into this book because some of the writing felt very disjointed. I understand that both characters were in turmoil, dealing with their own issues, but the constant dramatic phrases and bits of magic being revealed honestly had me confused. Faolan especially was dealing with an identity crisis that dragged through the book. It resolved well but definitely put a damper on the relationship.
Overall, I wish more of the fantasy world-building was explained in book one. The story moved fast after getting through the first quarter and I enjoyed myself.
Soulgazer left us on a good ending: Saoirse had found the island, was able to restore soulstones, and she and Faolan finally admitted that they were in love. Wolftamer starts and immediately everything is going wrong. To no one, surprised, Fallon feels trapped on the island. Saoirse has made herself a martyr and is always bleeding to restore the soulstones. And our old enemy Maccus has re-emerged with even more trouble.
It actually took me a little while to get into this book because some of the writing felt very disjointed. I understand that both characters were in turmoil, dealing with their own issues, but the constant dramatic phrases and bits of magic being revealed honestly had me confused. Faolan especially was dealing with an identity crisis that dragged through the book. It resolved well but definitely put a damper on the relationship.
Overall, I wish more of the fantasy world-building was explained in book one. The story moved fast after getting through the first quarter and I enjoyed myself.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book!
I really wanted to love this book but I didn’t like it as much as the first. It’s getting ⭐️⭐️⭐️ because i think 2 is too low but I would rate it lower than Soulgazer.
I like getting to know some of the other characters more in this book. Especially Brona- I think she is such a great character and even better friend.
The best part of book one was the tension and chemistry between Faolon and Saoirse and you don’t get that in this book because they are already together. I still think they are a great couple but it just didn’t have the same effect.
My other issue was that the story was written in a way that significant events didn’t feel significant. It was worse in the first book but I still felt like everything that happened was a bit random and I never knew where the story was going. I don’t quite know how to describe it but it made things hard to follow.
Overall I think that the author is really good at writing characters but not as good at storytelling.
I really wanted to love this book but I didn’t like it as much as the first. It’s getting ⭐️⭐️⭐️ because i think 2 is too low but I would rate it lower than Soulgazer.
I like getting to know some of the other characters more in this book. Especially Brona- I think she is such a great character and even better friend.
The best part of book one was the tension and chemistry between Faolon and Saoirse and you don’t get that in this book because they are already together. I still think they are a great couple but it just didn’t have the same effect.
My other issue was that the story was written in a way that significant events didn’t feel significant. It was worse in the first book but I still felt like everything that happened was a bit random and I never knew where the story was going. I don’t quite know how to describe it but it made things hard to follow.
Overall I think that the author is really good at writing characters but not as good at storytelling.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was just really not impressed with this duology. And that's disappointing because I kept seeing great reviews for it, so I was so excited.
I also HATE the "feck" thing. Just say the actual word or don't say anything at all. That was so annoying to me. That really added to me not digging this duology.
I also really didn't care for the characters. I didn't find there to be anything special about them. They were flatter than I would've liked them to be. I also felt like the characters changed quite a bit between books. They really didn't feel like they were the same people. It was so weird. It really confused me.
I was just left wanting more from nearly every aspect of this book/duology.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I also HATE the "feck" thing. Just say the actual word or don't say anything at all. That was so annoying to me. That really added to me not digging this duology.
I also really didn't care for the characters. I didn't find there to be anything special about them. They were flatter than I would've liked them to be. I also felt like the characters changed quite a bit between books. They really didn't feel like they were the same people. It was so weird. It really confused me.
I was just left wanting more from nearly every aspect of this book/duology.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars
I was so excited to go right from Stargazer to Wolftamer. Saoirse and Faolan went through a lot to find the mystical island in book one. Book two was a lot of coming to grips with the changes that resulted from events in Stargazer. The vibes were different and it was a bit of a process for the adjustment. Faolan gave off a petulant energy (his words) and Saoirse was struggling to figure out what to do next. Unfortunately, that requires them splitting up on a quest for most of the book to gather relics to save the Crescent. I did enjoy their adventures, though it left the ending to do a lot of heavy lifting in a short amount of time. .
*Thanks to Ace/Berkley and NetGalley for the free copy
I was so excited to go right from Stargazer to Wolftamer. Saoirse and Faolan went through a lot to find the mystical island in book one. Book two was a lot of coming to grips with the changes that resulted from events in Stargazer. The vibes were different and it was a bit of a process for the adjustment. Faolan gave off a petulant energy (his words) and Saoirse was struggling to figure out what to do next. Unfortunately, that requires them splitting up on a quest for most of the book to gather relics to save the Crescent. I did enjoy their adventures, though it left the ending to do a lot of heavy lifting in a short amount of time. .
*Thanks to Ace/Berkley and NetGalley for the free copy
June 6, 2026
Wow!
This was honestly the most magical, adventurous, pirate tale I have ever read. I absolutely loved this second book. What a beautifully written duology.
Saoirse and Foalan’s relationship really grew in this one and it was so beautiful. It gave me everything I wanted for her. She just deserves to be happy. After everything they had to go through, I was so happy with the ending.
I was also so heartbroken towards the end too. I teared up when they reveal the long awaited name of the ship. 🥲
I truly loved reading this ❤️
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC in Exchange for an honest review!
This will be released August 25, 2026
This was honestly the most magical, adventurous, pirate tale I have ever read. I absolutely loved this second book. What a beautifully written duology.
Saoirse and Foalan’s relationship really grew in this one and it was so beautiful. It gave me everything I wanted for her. She just deserves to be happy. After everything they had to go through, I was so happy with the ending.
I was also so heartbroken towards the end too. I teared up when they reveal the long awaited name of the ship. 🥲
I truly loved reading this ❤️
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC in Exchange for an honest review!
This will be released August 25, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5
This story was the perfect follow up to Soulgazer. It was painful, beautiful, devastating, and captivating. I found the writing to be a little easier to follow than the first book, maybe because we understand the world a little better. I love Faolan and Saoirse's love story and how much they support each other and bring out the best in one another. I wish we could have had more time with just the two of them but there was so much adventure in this book, it kept me fed the whole time.
Thanks so much to Maggie Rapier and Netgalley for this eARC.
This story was the perfect follow up to Soulgazer. It was painful, beautiful, devastating, and captivating. I found the writing to be a little easier to follow than the first book, maybe because we understand the world a little better. I love Faolan and Saoirse's love story and how much they support each other and bring out the best in one another. I wish we could have had more time with just the two of them but there was so much adventure in this book, it kept me fed the whole time.
Thanks so much to Maggie Rapier and Netgalley for this eARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really wanted to like this book to maybe make up for whatever happened in the first one
But I could not for the life of me to get past 10% of this
It’s the same kind of confusing writing that happened in the first book. Even though I’m not sure why there is part 2 of this. But there could’ve been a better representation of the magic system or the terms being used, cause again it’s confusing. I can NOT tell when she’s seeing a vision and when it’s reality and it’s confusing AF
Thank you netgalley for the opportunity of review the book and thank you Berkeley publishing for this too.
But I could not for the life of me to get past 10% of this
It’s the same kind of confusing writing that happened in the first book. Even though I’m not sure why there is part 2 of this. But there could’ve been a better representation of the magic system or the terms being used, cause again it’s confusing. I can NOT tell when she’s seeing a vision and when it’s reality and it’s confusing AF
Thank you netgalley for the opportunity of review the book and thank you Berkeley publishing for this too.
May 26, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ - Saoirse and Foalan are back in the conclusion of their story. I hate to say this but I was a bit disappointed in this one. I really enjoyed learning more about Foalan and getting a better understanding of him. However, the issues Foalan was working through during this book took away from the plot and relationship with Saoirse. His issues kind of dragged on for too long. I definitely think he was right to have the issues and felt bad for the struggles he was facing. It was just too distracting in the end. After the ending of the first book, I think I was just hoping for more from Saoirse and Foalan’s relationship and their next big adventure. It fell a bit short for me. Besides that plot issue, I liked we had a full circle conclusion with our main villain, King Marcus. I also enjoyed that Saoirse’s friendship with Foalan’s crew was stronger in this book. She finally had a family that loved her and welcomed her. While this wasn’t my favorite, I was happy with how the duology ended. I also really enjoyed the epilogue into the future. It was probably my favorite part.
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group | Ace for the ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group | Ace for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was the absolute perfect ending to the series! ❤️ I loved how this book really focused on both of the main characters perspectives, letting us get to know more about Faolan and his past. This was a very emotional book and I genuinely have so much empathy for both Saoirse and Faolan. They both had a very rough upbringing and you can see how that shaped them. Maccus is probably one of the most vile villians I have ever encountered. This is definitely a conclusion you'll attempt to read in one sitting.
Thank you Netgalley and Ace/Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to Arc read this. 🙏
Thank you Netgalley and Ace/Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to Arc read this. 🙏
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maggie Rapier does it again! Wolftamer was the perfect continuation and conclusion to Saoirse and Faolan's epic high seas love story. With plenty of magic, action, and quiet tender moments delivered by delicious evocative prose (seriously, Maggie's writing style is SO BEAUTIFUL), this is a world you'll want to revisit again and again. Thank you to the author, Netgalley, and Penguin Random House for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I liked this enough to want to finish it, and I would recommend it if you want something lighter with interesting world building.
I do not understand why pirates would spend so much time being bad at being pirates but that’s just me!
I do not understand why pirates would spend so much time being bad at being pirates but that’s just me!
Want to Read
April 11, 2026Expected publication August 25
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
i hate to say this but Wolftamer just didn’t really work for me after how reading Soulgazer. that first book fully hooked me, so i went in with high expectations and this one just didn’t hit the same.
Faolan was my biggest struggle because he felt like a totally different character here and a lot of his reactions left me confused instead of invested. that disconnect made it really hard for me to get into the story the same way i did with book one.
Saorsie, the wolves and the found family were still the highlights for me, but the plot felt a bit overloaded and chaotic at times. by the end i was just glad to have closure on the duology, even if it didn’t fully land for me.
✨ tropes ✨
⭐️ second book in a duology
🌙 found family
💫 adventure quest
⭐️ magical relics
🌙 forced separation
Faolan was my biggest struggle because he felt like a totally different character here and a lot of his reactions left me confused instead of invested. that disconnect made it really hard for me to get into the story the same way i did with book one.
Saorsie, the wolves and the found family were still the highlights for me, but the plot felt a bit overloaded and chaotic at times. by the end i was just glad to have closure on the duology, even if it didn’t fully land for me.
✨ tropes ✨
⭐️ second book in a duology
🌙 found family
💫 adventure quest
⭐️ magical relics
🌙 forced separation
April 14, 2026
Slight Spoilers Ahead.
I love Maggie Rapier, and I am so thankful that she introduced me to pirate books!
Because of where the last book ended, this one did start out very slow. Faolan's mood was understandable, but it definitely affected the atmosphere of the book for me. The last quarter grabbed my attention and didn't let go though, and I'm very glad I read it.
I was glad to get to know some of the minor characters more deeply. And even though it made the book drag a bit, it was nice to see the "after" of "happily ever after". Maggie and Faolan were still together at the end of the last book, but their circumstances meant they were not in a great place. It's kind of nice to see a couple that has to work through the hard stuff of life together.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this ARC.
I love Maggie Rapier, and I am so thankful that she introduced me to pirate books!
Because of where the last book ended, this one did start out very slow. Faolan's mood was understandable, but it definitely affected the atmosphere of the book for me. The last quarter grabbed my attention and didn't let go though, and I'm very glad I read it.
I was glad to get to know some of the minor characters more deeply. And even though it made the book drag a bit, it was nice to see the "after" of "happily ever after". Maggie and Faolan were still together at the end of the last book, but their circumstances meant they were not in a great place. It's kind of nice to see a couple that has to work through the hard stuff of life together.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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