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He Who Ate the Wild
Not yet published
Expected 26 Jun 26I have grown hungry. Grief no longer nourishes me. I will eat the wild.
Whisper your prayers, light your candles, watch your steps, cherish your life, and— most importantly— never let the spirits hear your name.
These were his mother's rules before she disappeared. And Kazuki followed them, even when his father was ripped apart by a malevolent spirit. When he decides to go in search of his mother, an encounter with a corrupted bear leaves him weak, wounded, and worst of all, tainted.
With her rules and his father’s sword, he ventures north into the unknown. Demons, spirits, and gods all haunt his steps, and the closer he gets to the truth, the further from himself he becomes. His name forgotten.
Can he find his mother, or will the wild consume him?
Whisper your prayers, light your candles, watch your steps, cherish your life, and— most importantly— never let the spirits hear your name.
These were his mother's rules before she disappeared. And Kazuki followed them, even when his father was ripped apart by a malevolent spirit. When he decides to go in search of his mother, an encounter with a corrupted bear leaves him weak, wounded, and worst of all, tainted.
With her rules and his father’s sword, he ventures north into the unknown. Demons, spirits, and gods all haunt his steps, and the closer he gets to the truth, the further from himself he becomes. His name forgotten.
Can he find his mother, or will the wild consume him?
Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
my rating is 4.25
Greg is a fantastic writer and this newest novel proves that in spades.
Absolutely lyrical, deeply emotional and a new genre, He Who Ate The Wild takes on the Shinto side of Japanese culture. While I don't think I'm the right audience for this standalone novel, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to meet Ku and other characters like Susu and Kara. The gods, the tricksters, the monsters....all interesting and unique. There is real emotion in this tale. Ku goes through many ups and downs and my heart was with him through them all. It's not a happy story but that does add to the overall feel. The betrayal Ku experiences several times is dark and speaks to the difficulties fitting in wherever he goes. It's a hard life for a young man grieving.
I hope we see more in this world...this is Greg's finest work to date.
Greg is a fantastic writer and this newest novel proves that in spades.
Absolutely lyrical, deeply emotional and a new genre, He Who Ate The Wild takes on the Shinto side of Japanese culture. While I don't think I'm the right audience for this standalone novel, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to meet Ku and other characters like Susu and Kara. The gods, the tricksters, the monsters....all interesting and unique. There is real emotion in this tale. Ku goes through many ups and downs and my heart was with him through them all. It's not a happy story but that does add to the overall feel. The betrayal Ku experiences several times is dark and speaks to the difficulties fitting in wherever he goes. It's a hard life for a young man grieving.
I hope we see more in this world...this is Greg's finest work to date.
Review of advance copy received from Author
He Who Ate the Wild ARC Review
A brand new fantastic standalone, that will get you hooked and leave you as a empty shell.
Written in first person, with amazing character development. If you love Z.B Steels world Song of the Damned, you are for sure gonna love thisone too!
My biggest favorite here is the characters, I don't really trust any of them until the opposite is proven, and after that I still don't trust them. And I love those types of books that makes you question everyone, and still don't really trust them when the book is done.
This was such a calm and quiet read. Maybe not for the main pov, but that's what we love right? Beautiful but such a sad story.
As mentioned on top, this is a standalone. But I actually hope it's not the case. After finishing the story, I personally feel that it could be enough story left for a next adventure for our main character. So I would actually be a bit sad if it ends here. But It can be that I'm wrong and it's a reason for it to be one book story.
Good and bad spirits, demons and a bit of magic on the side, this is a awesome quick and easy adventure to join along.
A brand new fantastic standalone, that will get you hooked and leave you as a empty shell.
Written in first person, with amazing character development. If you love Z.B Steels world Song of the Damned, you are for sure gonna love thisone too!
My biggest favorite here is the characters, I don't really trust any of them until the opposite is proven, and after that I still don't trust them. And I love those types of books that makes you question everyone, and still don't really trust them when the book is done.
This was such a calm and quiet read. Maybe not for the main pov, but that's what we love right? Beautiful but such a sad story.
As mentioned on top, this is a standalone. But I actually hope it's not the case. After finishing the story, I personally feel that it could be enough story left for a next adventure for our main character. So I would actually be a bit sad if it ends here. But It can be that I'm wrong and it's a reason for it to be one book story.
Good and bad spirits, demons and a bit of magic on the side, this is a awesome quick and easy adventure to join along.
January 10, 2026
ARC Review
He Who Ate the Wild is a harrowing coming of age story of a young boy in a Muromachi era inspired fantasy world, where spirits and humans either find harmony or go to war.
Things I love about HWATW:
The prose - the prose style is almost lyrical, which adds to the overall folktale tone of the book.
Man vs Nature - The addition of spirits that have a foot in the human world adds some bite to “nature” in this dynamic. The consequences of man mistreating the natural world comes with dire consequences that exceed destroying natural resources.
The Action - I’m into that magical anime shit, and the battles have the extravagant quality that hits right.
He Who Ate the Wild is a harrowing coming of age story of a young boy in a Muromachi era inspired fantasy world, where spirits and humans either find harmony or go to war.
Things I love about HWATW:
The prose - the prose style is almost lyrical, which adds to the overall folktale tone of the book.
Man vs Nature - The addition of spirits that have a foot in the human world adds some bite to “nature” in this dynamic. The consequences of man mistreating the natural world comes with dire consequences that exceed destroying natural resources.
The Action - I’m into that magical anime shit, and the battles have the extravagant quality that hits right.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐ 4.5 stars
He Who Ate The Wild is a beautifully eerie story about grief, identity, and the long road toward self-discovery.
Following Kazuki on his journey after the loss of his parents felt almost dreamlike at times. The early chapters capture that strange feeling of moving through life on autopilot after loss, and it immediately pulled me into the story.
The world is filled with spirits, gods, and unsettling encounters, all written with a poetic style that makes even the darker moments feel strangely beautiful. I especially loved the mythological elements and the many spirits Kazuki encounters along the way.
I also really enjoyed the companions he meets during his journey. I’m always a sucker for a good companion dynamic, and the characters felt honest and human in the way they spoke and interacted.
If I had one small wish, it would simply be to spend even more time with the characters and their relationships as they grow throughout the story. There is a time jump that moves things forward quite quickly, and I would have loved to see even more of those moments on page.
The ending was powerful and fitting, and the final scenes felt epic in a way I did not expect. This is the kind of story that feels layered with meaning, and I suspect a reread would reveal even more beneath the surface.
Perfect for readers who enjoy atmospheric fantasy, mythological spirits, and character-driven journeys about grief, identity, and self-discovery.
He Who Ate The Wild is a beautifully eerie story about grief, identity, and the long road toward self-discovery.
Following Kazuki on his journey after the loss of his parents felt almost dreamlike at times. The early chapters capture that strange feeling of moving through life on autopilot after loss, and it immediately pulled me into the story.
The world is filled with spirits, gods, and unsettling encounters, all written with a poetic style that makes even the darker moments feel strangely beautiful. I especially loved the mythological elements and the many spirits Kazuki encounters along the way.
I also really enjoyed the companions he meets during his journey. I’m always a sucker for a good companion dynamic, and the characters felt honest and human in the way they spoke and interacted.
If I had one small wish, it would simply be to spend even more time with the characters and their relationships as they grow throughout the story. There is a time jump that moves things forward quite quickly, and I would have loved to see even more of those moments on page.
The ending was powerful and fitting, and the final scenes felt epic in a way I did not expect. This is the kind of story that feels layered with meaning, and I suspect a reread would reveal even more beneath the surface.
Perfect for readers who enjoy atmospheric fantasy, mythological spirits, and character-driven journeys about grief, identity, and self-discovery.
January 27, 2026
I just wrapped up this latest gem from Greg, and I’m stewing in the perfect bliss of a well done story.
We start with a young man, Kazuki, in the throes of misery after having lost his father in a most brutal and tragic manner, slain by a malevolent and vicious spirit. His mother had already gone missing some time ago, and he was lost. Living in his grief, which had nearly become a tangible thing.
There are rituals, means by which to ward against spirits, that his mother taught to him, and which he continues to practice, because the world is full of spirits, some full of evil intent, as our young man discovers on his quest to find his mother.
There is so much that comprises his journey, which takes him first into the path of a tainted bear; a Gangan, infected by a spirit’s festering. In defending himself, the tainted blood from the Gangan splashes into his mouth. When he wakes, a spirit animal, a sparrow, called a Susu, is entreating him to get up, leave this place. Benevolent by nature, which was fortunate because Kazuki had broken a rule and looked it in the eyes.
The path they travel together takes them deeper into the eldritch forest, all the while Kazuki deteriorates from the spread of the malevolence he’s absorbed. And another spirit in the guise of a crow, a Kara by name which is more mischievous and wily, saw and heard all, wanting to capture Kazuki’s eye, his name, whereby he could be controlled.
The curse left behind in Kazuki from the Gangan’s blood is threatening to overwhelm him, until he stumbles upon a warded and guarded village. And this is where my heart began breaking for him.
He went from being in a secluded environment, living with his parents, no others near them, to becoming an orphan, with no one, not even friends.
He’s now in a place that is like a dream for his companionship-starved existence, having been saved by the guardian warrior of the village, Lord Juji. Ku has been cleansed of most of the scourge, and it’s now held in a warded glass sphere. But removing that evil has erased his name from his memory. And the inhabitants all wear masks carved from wood, animals mostly, but they hide their faces, their expressions. He’s given his own wood to carve, and it’s quite hideous, emerging to resemble the Gangan-bear, an outward representation of what he believes himself to be. And now Ku, which he is calling himself, feels even more alone. He carves many new masks, each a bit better as his skill improves, as well as he's begun training with the blade master, Lord Juji. He at last earns some grudging respect from his peers, and gains a friend in Nu, over a year living and training there, until another threat makes it clear he needs to leave the village, because this entity, The Hungering Mountain, is tracking him and the darkness within, so he flees, alone, save the company of the sparrow, Susu.
What GJ has done is written one of the most profoundly poignant characters I’ve had the pleasure to read. Ku’s arc takes him from extreme loneliness, to feeling like he finally had a home, belonged, and that people cared about him, to being once again cast away, ready to just give up, give in, to the darkness which threatens to take over his soul. But the ever watchful, benevolent presence of Susu keeps him going.
What Kazuki comes to discover is that he is enough. He cannot force others to love him, to understand what drives him relentlessly to keep others from harm. He wanted to be accepted, but learned it was enough for him to accept himself. He’s let go of expecting friendship, a home, a place of belonging, even love, because it’s been within all along. He doesn’t need affirmation from without, because he already knows deep down that he is enough. And Furen, the woman to whom he’s given his heart, sees him, but knows that now is not their time, but points to a future where it can be. Only Susu remains, his faithful companion and guide.
I am sitting here shattered, moved so deeply by this sweeping tale that I’ve found myself unable to write coherently about what I’ve just read. Suffice it to say, I’m keeping this story with me for a long time to come. I want nothing more than for other readers to experience this exquisite bittersweetness that lingers. It’s some powerful magic. I’ll leave you with the last line to close.
“Alone once again. I walk silently away. Seeped in what ails me.”
I received this as an ARC, in exchange for an unbiased review.
We start with a young man, Kazuki, in the throes of misery after having lost his father in a most brutal and tragic manner, slain by a malevolent and vicious spirit. His mother had already gone missing some time ago, and he was lost. Living in his grief, which had nearly become a tangible thing.
There are rituals, means by which to ward against spirits, that his mother taught to him, and which he continues to practice, because the world is full of spirits, some full of evil intent, as our young man discovers on his quest to find his mother.
There is so much that comprises his journey, which takes him first into the path of a tainted bear; a Gangan, infected by a spirit’s festering. In defending himself, the tainted blood from the Gangan splashes into his mouth. When he wakes, a spirit animal, a sparrow, called a Susu, is entreating him to get up, leave this place. Benevolent by nature, which was fortunate because Kazuki had broken a rule and looked it in the eyes.
The path they travel together takes them deeper into the eldritch forest, all the while Kazuki deteriorates from the spread of the malevolence he’s absorbed. And another spirit in the guise of a crow, a Kara by name which is more mischievous and wily, saw and heard all, wanting to capture Kazuki’s eye, his name, whereby he could be controlled.
The curse left behind in Kazuki from the Gangan’s blood is threatening to overwhelm him, until he stumbles upon a warded and guarded village. And this is where my heart began breaking for him.
He went from being in a secluded environment, living with his parents, no others near them, to becoming an orphan, with no one, not even friends.
He’s now in a place that is like a dream for his companionship-starved existence, having been saved by the guardian warrior of the village, Lord Juji. Ku has been cleansed of most of the scourge, and it’s now held in a warded glass sphere. But removing that evil has erased his name from his memory. And the inhabitants all wear masks carved from wood, animals mostly, but they hide their faces, their expressions. He’s given his own wood to carve, and it’s quite hideous, emerging to resemble the Gangan-bear, an outward representation of what he believes himself to be. And now Ku, which he is calling himself, feels even more alone. He carves many new masks, each a bit better as his skill improves, as well as he's begun training with the blade master, Lord Juji. He at last earns some grudging respect from his peers, and gains a friend in Nu, over a year living and training there, until another threat makes it clear he needs to leave the village, because this entity, The Hungering Mountain, is tracking him and the darkness within, so he flees, alone, save the company of the sparrow, Susu.
What GJ has done is written one of the most profoundly poignant characters I’ve had the pleasure to read. Ku’s arc takes him from extreme loneliness, to feeling like he finally had a home, belonged, and that people cared about him, to being once again cast away, ready to just give up, give in, to the darkness which threatens to take over his soul. But the ever watchful, benevolent presence of Susu keeps him going.
What Kazuki comes to discover is that he is enough. He cannot force others to love him, to understand what drives him relentlessly to keep others from harm. He wanted to be accepted, but learned it was enough for him to accept himself. He’s let go of expecting friendship, a home, a place of belonging, even love, because it’s been within all along. He doesn’t need affirmation from without, because he already knows deep down that he is enough. And Furen, the woman to whom he’s given his heart, sees him, but knows that now is not their time, but points to a future where it can be. Only Susu remains, his faithful companion and guide.
I am sitting here shattered, moved so deeply by this sweeping tale that I’ve found myself unable to write coherently about what I’ve just read. Suffice it to say, I’m keeping this story with me for a long time to come. I want nothing more than for other readers to experience this exquisite bittersweetness that lingers. It’s some powerful magic. I’ll leave you with the last line to close.
“Alone once again. I walk silently away. Seeped in what ails me.”
I received this as an ARC, in exchange for an unbiased review.
January 29, 2026
He Who Ate the Wild was one of the best fantasy adventure stories I’ve read in a long time!
The story centers around a young man who has lost his father and whose mother has gone missing. In this world, there are spirits, both benign and malevolent. After his father’s death, he strikes out to learn what became of his mother, and he has to battle and befriend spirits and new people along the way.
I loved the descriptions of the different spirits and how complex they are. The plotline and details were well thought out, and it seems well-researched. The main character not only is on a journey to find answers about his mother, but also on a journey of escaping loneliness and creating connections. It was so easy to get lost in his world and in the story! I found myself staying up late to read what would happen next. I also loved that the story showed the human impact on nature and the corrupting influence that people can have on the natural world.
I’m hoping that the author continues on with another book with what happens next in this world and with is character! I absolutely recommend this to anyone who loves rich world building!
I received this as an ARC in exchange for a fair review.
The story centers around a young man who has lost his father and whose mother has gone missing. In this world, there are spirits, both benign and malevolent. After his father’s death, he strikes out to learn what became of his mother, and he has to battle and befriend spirits and new people along the way.
I loved the descriptions of the different spirits and how complex they are. The plotline and details were well thought out, and it seems well-researched. The main character not only is on a journey to find answers about his mother, but also on a journey of escaping loneliness and creating connections. It was so easy to get lost in his world and in the story! I found myself staying up late to read what would happen next. I also loved that the story showed the human impact on nature and the corrupting influence that people can have on the natural world.
I’m hoping that the author continues on with another book with what happens next in this world and with is character! I absolutely recommend this to anyone who loves rich world building!
I received this as an ARC in exchange for a fair review.
January 3, 2026
What a lush and rich world as seen through the eyes of a boy who is so naive and yet so jaded. Terral did such a good job creating a living, breathing world full of spirits and gods and demons and magic and hope and horror.
Our MC is so complex and believable. He wants so badly to trust but is repeatedly put into circumstances that break him. He simultaneously keeps reaching for hope and connection while also fighting with his inner doubts and self-loathing that naturally push people away. I am just so astonished at how much characterization is packed into him that is contradictory on its face but completely in line with his past and how he views himself and the world.
I definitely see the inspiration from Princess Mononoke but Terral really makes this story his own.
If it isn’t already on your TBR, add it! It comes out in June.
Thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Our MC is so complex and believable. He wants so badly to trust but is repeatedly put into circumstances that break him. He simultaneously keeps reaching for hope and connection while also fighting with his inner doubts and self-loathing that naturally push people away. I am just so astonished at how much characterization is packed into him that is contradictory on its face but completely in line with his past and how he views himself and the world.
I definitely see the inspiration from Princess Mononoke but Terral really makes this story his own.
If it isn’t already on your TBR, add it! It comes out in June.
Thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2026
This love letter to Princess Mononoke is compelling, well-written, and transporting, but by the end it felt more like a retelling of Miyazaki than an homage.
Terral's world of spirits and the people that live among (beneath? in spite of?) them is magical in more ways than one. The descriptions of the forests and its denizens are full of sensory details and its light magic system of elemental expression (I won't say more to avoid spoilers) is cool and deeply tied to its characters. I felt myself getting lost in the main character's grief and guilt. Unfortunately, we never stay long enough with any character or location to learn more about their relationship to the world. We get a few introspective nuggets, sure, but they're more about life in general than life in this world.
Though the loss of identity is central to the main character's journey, from the midpoint on I didn't feel like I knew who he was. I was told again and again what he thought his traits were, but they were often expressed inconsistently or not at all. Ku is a very blank slate, and not in an interesting amnesiac or unreliable narrator kind of way. The rest of the characters in this world are even more one-dimensional, and both aspects made the book's ending less satisfying than it could have been.
The plot is my favorite part, however! It twists and turns, and the uncertainty you feel along the way echoes what Ku is feeling. Each set piece is unique - grand underground chambers containing a sealed God, quiet and glowing sacred springs guarded by a tricky crow spirit, a village ravaged by soldiers and haunted by their corpses...the list goes on. Fights are quick and clear, leaning on the strengths of its combatants and serving them challenge after interesting challenge to overcome.
Like I mentioned at the top, the ending veers from Mononoke-inspired to nearly a beat-for-beat retelling, which sours the experience a bit. It's definitely the first book in a series, which was unexpected but welcome. I'd love to get some of these outstanding questions answered and see if we get a happy ending or a tragic one, and explore more of the world alongside Ku and Susu!
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy!
Terral's world of spirits and the people that live among (beneath? in spite of?) them is magical in more ways than one. The descriptions of the forests and its denizens are full of sensory details and its light magic system of elemental expression (I won't say more to avoid spoilers) is cool and deeply tied to its characters. I felt myself getting lost in the main character's grief and guilt. Unfortunately, we never stay long enough with any character or location to learn more about their relationship to the world. We get a few introspective nuggets, sure, but they're more about life in general than life in this world.
Though the loss of identity is central to the main character's journey, from the midpoint on I didn't feel like I knew who he was. I was told again and again what he thought his traits were, but they were often expressed inconsistently or not at all. Ku is a very blank slate, and not in an interesting amnesiac or unreliable narrator kind of way. The rest of the characters in this world are even more one-dimensional, and both aspects made the book's ending less satisfying than it could have been.
The plot is my favorite part, however! It twists and turns, and the uncertainty you feel along the way echoes what Ku is feeling. Each set piece is unique - grand underground chambers containing a sealed God, quiet and glowing sacred springs guarded by a tricky crow spirit, a village ravaged by soldiers and haunted by their corpses...the list goes on. Fights are quick and clear, leaning on the strengths of its combatants and serving them challenge after interesting challenge to overcome.
Like I mentioned at the top, the ending veers from Mononoke-inspired to nearly a beat-for-beat retelling, which sours the experience a bit. It's definitely the first book in a series, which was unexpected but welcome. I'd love to get some of these outstanding questions answered and see if we get a happy ending or a tragic one, and explore more of the world alongside Ku and Susu!
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an advanced reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was very interested in the premise of this book, which suggested a dark fantasy wherein a young man leaves home to travel through the Japanese Shinto inspired (spiritual world) wilderness to find his mother.
immediately, you're immersed in a beautifully written world, which is as poetic and vivid as it is horrific and dangerous. admittedly, the prose at times was almost too purple, but it was definitely one of the highlights of reading this.
the characters are nuanced and complicated, especially the main character, who very easily could've fallen into the chosen one trope but had a very interesting and conflicted internal dialogue. I wasn't as keen on the romance, which felt a little bit forced - I almost think the main character had more chemistry with Nu, his best friend and voice of reason, than with the aloof and skillful Furen.
sadly, the plot is what let me down. it was quite ambitious and could at times get a little vague as a result, leaving me wanting to know more about certain subplots, characters, or the world that it glossed over. it was also a little repetitive, with pitfall after pitfall and almost no respite, making it sometimes too depressing for me to want to read.
perhaps my biggest mistake was stumbling across a Reddit post by the author saying that their inspirations were Princess Mononoke and Demon Slayer. I think this knowledge, which I have now cruelly passed to you, skewed my experience of reading this, as I struggled to separate the inspirations from the similarities whilst waiting for this to spread its wings and evolve away from it's inspirations.
I really like how this ended, but would be reluctant to return to this world and to this story if indeed this book was a setup for future novels. I'd recommend this if you are a fan of C. G. Drews' 'Don't Let The Forest In' or, of course, Princess Mononoke or Demon Slayer.
finally, thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and G. J. Terral for this eArc in exchange for my honest review.
immediately, you're immersed in a beautifully written world, which is as poetic and vivid as it is horrific and dangerous. admittedly, the prose at times was almost too purple, but it was definitely one of the highlights of reading this.
the characters are nuanced and complicated, especially the main character, who very easily could've fallen into the chosen one trope but had a very interesting and conflicted internal dialogue. I wasn't as keen on the romance, which felt a little bit forced - I almost think the main character had more chemistry with Nu, his best friend and voice of reason, than with the aloof and skillful Furen.
sadly, the plot is what let me down. it was quite ambitious and could at times get a little vague as a result, leaving me wanting to know more about certain subplots, characters, or the world that it glossed over. it was also a little repetitive, with pitfall after pitfall and almost no respite, making it sometimes too depressing for me to want to read.
perhaps my biggest mistake was stumbling across a Reddit post by the author saying that their inspirations were Princess Mononoke and Demon Slayer. I think this knowledge, which I have now cruelly passed to you, skewed my experience of reading this, as I struggled to separate the inspirations from the similarities whilst waiting for this to spread its wings and evolve away from it's inspirations.
I really like how this ended, but would be reluctant to return to this world and to this story if indeed this book was a setup for future novels. I'd recommend this if you are a fan of C. G. Drews' 'Don't Let The Forest In' or, of course, Princess Mononoke or Demon Slayer.
finally, thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and G. J. Terral for this eArc in exchange for my honest review.
March 8, 2026
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op & NetGalley for the advance copy
TLDR: Terral introduces us to a intricately built world of magic and spirits, told through the eyes of a boy learning to process his grief.
Rating: 3/5 stars
Specific thoughts:
For me, the book's strongest attribute was its world-building. Terral's beautiful prose introduces the world and its character to us with language that painted its scenes across the backs of my eyelids. The MC's emotions bleed across into the atmosphere, and temper the haunting quietness of the atmosphere with his loneliness, arrogance, and anger in turn. I also loved the different spirits we meet throughout the book, and She Who Weeps is described in detail that makes my hands twitch for a drawing pad. The only thing I briefly hoped for was an appendix on the different spirits included in the book, perhaps with some extra details (although it likely would not fit the tone of the book itself).
The plot of the book was also well structured, and the main points flowed smoothly from one to another. The MC is originally driven towards a single goal that organically branches out and becomes more complex as he learns more about the world around him. However, the main weakness was the pacing of the book. It starts out a little slow and, at the beginning, many of the emotions felt flat as the MC spent his time alone and mainly monologued internally about his life, emotions, history, etc. It felt too much like he was philosophizing at us. The pacing picked up once new characters were introduced and the book gained depth once we began to learn about the world through interpersonal interactions. Some of the relationships felt a little forced (e.g., the romantic one) but the complexity of his other relationships within the Fourfold Village felt very realistic.
That being said, however, it is worthwhile to also note that I tend to find it more difficult to become immersed in a story written in first-person, especially if that person is a character I don't mesh well with. Still, although I did not particularly enjoy Ku's character, his flaws were an important part of the story, and crucial to his development.
Cover Thoughts: Beautiful cover, and I immediately knew which scene it referenced once I reached it.
TLDR: Terral introduces us to a intricately built world of magic and spirits, told through the eyes of a boy learning to process his grief.
Rating: 3/5 stars
Specific thoughts:
For me, the book's strongest attribute was its world-building. Terral's beautiful prose introduces the world and its character to us with language that painted its scenes across the backs of my eyelids. The MC's emotions bleed across into the atmosphere, and temper the haunting quietness of the atmosphere with his loneliness, arrogance, and anger in turn. I also loved the different spirits we meet throughout the book, and She Who Weeps is described in detail that makes my hands twitch for a drawing pad. The only thing I briefly hoped for was an appendix on the different spirits included in the book, perhaps with some extra details (although it likely would not fit the tone of the book itself).
The plot of the book was also well structured, and the main points flowed smoothly from one to another. The MC is originally driven towards a single goal that organically branches out and becomes more complex as he learns more about the world around him. However, the main weakness was the pacing of the book. It starts out a little slow and, at the beginning, many of the emotions felt flat as the MC spent his time alone and mainly monologued internally about his life, emotions, history, etc. It felt too much like he was philosophizing at us. The pacing picked up once new characters were introduced and the book gained depth once we began to learn about the world through interpersonal interactions. Some of the relationships felt a little forced (e.g., the romantic one) but the complexity of his other relationships within the Fourfold Village felt very realistic.
That being said, however, it is worthwhile to also note that I tend to find it more difficult to become immersed in a story written in first-person, especially if that person is a character I don't mesh well with. Still, although I did not particularly enjoy Ku's character, his flaws were an important part of the story, and crucial to his development.
Cover Thoughts: Beautiful cover, and I immediately knew which scene it referenced once I reached it.
x-not-for-me-or-not-right-now
February 15, 2026Beautiful prose and the world building was really interesting. It definitely reminds me of one of its inspirations, my favorite movie Princess Mononoke, so that’s something I really enjoyed. But I struggled to get into the story itself. I can’t really tell you why. Maybe it just isn’t the right time for me.
Review of advance copy received from Autorin bzw. Autor
This book has beautiful prose, very lyrical and poetic, but still easy to read. The pacing feels unique, it flows steady while tension builds. The books is heavily influenced by japanese culture, which isnexecuted with great care. The world is full of spirits, gods, danger and adventure.
We follow the main character trough grief and devestation after devestation.
The romance subplot felt forced. And the plot between pitfalls and setbacks felt a little repetitive. Some side characters past made the plot side track and were then not tied up completely at the end as well as the overall ending left some things open.
I recived an ARC copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
We follow the main character trough grief and devestation after devestation.
The romance subplot felt forced. And the plot between pitfalls and setbacks felt a little repetitive. Some side characters past made the plot side track and were then not tied up completely at the end as well as the overall ending left some things open.
I recived an ARC copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
He Who Ate the Wild follows Ku on his quest to find a meaningful death in the wake of losing both parents. Along the way, he loses his name and searches for belonging in the wild, Japanese-inspired mountain forest—filled to the brim with often-dangerous corporeal spirits—that he calls home. I believe this is an adult novel, but I see lots of opportunity for YA crossover appeal, especially for teen boys who would like to read a book that feels like a shounen manga in the vein of Naruto and Bleach. Be aware: this book appears to be setting up for a sequel, so you won’t have all your questions answered by the end.
For the rest of my review, keep in mind that the ebook is currently listed as $2.99 USD, which I think is a fair price for 6-8 hours of reading time.
I had a really tough time trudging my way through this book, and it started from the very first page. The prologue rushes through the “status quo” of Kazuki’s/Ku’s life—which I would have liked to see more of, especially since losing his parents is such an emotional weight on him for the remainder of the book—before being thrust into Ku wandering through the magical forest and eventually stumbling into the Fourfold Village. A lot of time passes in brief summary as the book sets up the rest of the cast. To me, the first 20-30% feels poorly-integrated into the story, like it was tacked on to justify the rest of the book.
The last 70-80% is…fine, but suffers for its meandering plot and overwritten prose. He Who Ate the Wild is told in first-person, past tense, which is a POV I like well enough. The narration is prone to describing, and describing, and describing, and describing the scenery; I noticed this a lot toward the end when the same two descriptors popped up together on what felt like every other page. There’s also a lot of fourth wall breaks, especially in the first few chapters, where it seems like Ku is telling his story directly to an undefined listener, but without a framing device to justify that style. The narration is full of awkward sentence construction that seems like it’s trying to emulate classic fantasy, which I know a lot of people like, but I found it incredibly distracting.
The story doesn’t feel like it’s driving purposefully forward. Don’t get me wrong: Ku has goals, but his plan for achieving them is to wander in a general direction until he finds the next plot hook. I would have liked to see the side characters more fully-developed in that downtime, but Ku spends most of his time either alone or so laser-focused on his despair that he ignores everyone around him. I think that this intense interiority ends up killing a lot of possibility for building tension by choking out opportunities for foreshadowing.
I left He Who Ate the Wild wishing it had spent more time cooking; I think this had the potential to be awesome if it was polished over the course of another draft or three. There were some very cool body-horror monster fights that would fit well inside a manga. If you have the patience for the idiosyncrasies of Terral’s writing, I think this will be a satisfying read that will hook you for a possible sequel.
He Who Ate the Wild follows Ku on his quest to find a meaningful death in the wake of losing both parents. Along the way, he loses his name and searches for belonging in the wild, Japanese-inspired mountain forest—filled to the brim with often-dangerous corporeal spirits—that he calls home. I believe this is an adult novel, but I see lots of opportunity for YA crossover appeal, especially for teen boys who would like to read a book that feels like a shounen manga in the vein of Naruto and Bleach. Be aware: this book appears to be setting up for a sequel, so you won’t have all your questions answered by the end.
For the rest of my review, keep in mind that the ebook is currently listed as $2.99 USD, which I think is a fair price for 6-8 hours of reading time.
I had a really tough time trudging my way through this book, and it started from the very first page. The prologue rushes through the “status quo” of Kazuki’s/Ku’s life—which I would have liked to see more of, especially since losing his parents is such an emotional weight on him for the remainder of the book—before being thrust into Ku wandering through the magical forest and eventually stumbling into the Fourfold Village. A lot of time passes in brief summary as the book sets up the rest of the cast. To me, the first 20-30% feels poorly-integrated into the story, like it was tacked on to justify the rest of the book.
The last 70-80% is…fine, but suffers for its meandering plot and overwritten prose. He Who Ate the Wild is told in first-person, past tense, which is a POV I like well enough. The narration is prone to describing, and describing, and describing, and describing the scenery; I noticed this a lot toward the end when the same two descriptors popped up together on what felt like every other page. There’s also a lot of fourth wall breaks, especially in the first few chapters, where it seems like Ku is telling his story directly to an undefined listener, but without a framing device to justify that style. The narration is full of awkward sentence construction that seems like it’s trying to emulate classic fantasy, which I know a lot of people like, but I found it incredibly distracting.
The story doesn’t feel like it’s driving purposefully forward. Don’t get me wrong: Ku has goals, but his plan for achieving them is to wander in a general direction until he finds the next plot hook. I would have liked to see the side characters more fully-developed in that downtime, but Ku spends most of his time either alone or so laser-focused on his despair that he ignores everyone around him. I think that this intense interiority ends up killing a lot of possibility for building tension by choking out opportunities for foreshadowing.
I left He Who Ate the Wild wishing it had spent more time cooking; I think this had the potential to be awesome if it was polished over the course of another draft or three. There were some very cool body-horror monster fights that would fit well inside a manga. If you have the patience for the idiosyncrasies of Terral’s writing, I think this will be a satisfying read that will hook you for a possible sequel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I finished the book... but the book finished me...
Here I sit, staring listlessly at the screen after finishing the book.
He who ate the wild is a character study in the darkness within and the darkness outside. Of the aches and ills of man and nature. Of what makes us do what we do and be who we are. It's a book that stares into your soul, and poses you questions. Vital questions.
This is a hopeful, yet dark book, because of how it is presented and how you're "forced" to approach it, it makes you stare down the barrel of hard questions. Of sadness and hurt. But it also gives you shining glimpses of light that will carry you through the story.
This is GJ's most accomplished work in terms of prose and lyricism. And it also captures Shinto spirit while never losing sight that this is a character story.
This book's deeply steeped in a philosophical spirit. It feels spiritual, but also greedily gritty in how it eats away and gnaws on the questions of self and identity.
This is not a book you devour. No, this is a book you savor. You breathe in, and you breathe out with it. By saying this I am not saying this is a slow book, or a preachy book. Au contraire, it is a book whose flow and pace invite you to keep reading, and growing and understanding it, and the main character, and ultimately yourself. Your own griefs and your own growths find purchase in the careful words Greg laid here for us.
It's a story that follows The Hero's Journey (as per Joseph Campbell's concept, look him up) in essence, but at the same time it allows you to partake in it at the same time, with the way it tugs at our heartstrings and own lives, while sharing experiences and emotions and feelings we all have in one way or another.
The hopeful melancholy of some chapters is great. They nestle right in the crook of your arm and make a spot to listen to your heart.
The way this book is shaped to be one long soliloquy with interspersed external actions and agents of change makes it a very unique proposition. One I enjoyed from start to finish.
Throughout the book there is an endless array of superb lines, truths, musings, understandings of the soul and life, like this one:
"I’ve learned, I am a man of fickle moods. Prone to brash action, but when the melancholy strikes, it latches onto bits of my soul and sinks its teeth in so deep that when it finally, mercifully, detaches, the impressions left by the fangs are still felt long after."
We are nothing but slaves to our natures. We, and the Gods, Spirits and Demons. He who ate the Wild is one long study about discovering that. Understanding one's nature.
This book easily qualifies to be in the running for my book of the year. Even in Beta Stage. Especially since it can only get better. And it's superb as it is.
4.9⭐️
Here I sit, staring listlessly at the screen after finishing the book.
He who ate the wild is a character study in the darkness within and the darkness outside. Of the aches and ills of man and nature. Of what makes us do what we do and be who we are. It's a book that stares into your soul, and poses you questions. Vital questions.
This is a hopeful, yet dark book, because of how it is presented and how you're "forced" to approach it, it makes you stare down the barrel of hard questions. Of sadness and hurt. But it also gives you shining glimpses of light that will carry you through the story.
This is GJ's most accomplished work in terms of prose and lyricism. And it also captures Shinto spirit while never losing sight that this is a character story.
This book's deeply steeped in a philosophical spirit. It feels spiritual, but also greedily gritty in how it eats away and gnaws on the questions of self and identity.
This is not a book you devour. No, this is a book you savor. You breathe in, and you breathe out with it. By saying this I am not saying this is a slow book, or a preachy book. Au contraire, it is a book whose flow and pace invite you to keep reading, and growing and understanding it, and the main character, and ultimately yourself. Your own griefs and your own growths find purchase in the careful words Greg laid here for us.
It's a story that follows The Hero's Journey (as per Joseph Campbell's concept, look him up) in essence, but at the same time it allows you to partake in it at the same time, with the way it tugs at our heartstrings and own lives, while sharing experiences and emotions and feelings we all have in one way or another.
The hopeful melancholy of some chapters is great. They nestle right in the crook of your arm and make a spot to listen to your heart.
The way this book is shaped to be one long soliloquy with interspersed external actions and agents of change makes it a very unique proposition. One I enjoyed from start to finish.
Throughout the book there is an endless array of superb lines, truths, musings, understandings of the soul and life, like this one:
"I’ve learned, I am a man of fickle moods. Prone to brash action, but when the melancholy strikes, it latches onto bits of my soul and sinks its teeth in so deep that when it finally, mercifully, detaches, the impressions left by the fangs are still felt long after."
We are nothing but slaves to our natures. We, and the Gods, Spirits and Demons. He who ate the Wild is one long study about discovering that. Understanding one's nature.
This book easily qualifies to be in the running for my book of the year. Even in Beta Stage. Especially since it can only get better. And it's superb as it is.
4.9⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
This is a beautifully written fantasy novel, with a lost main character searching for answers and trying to survive while wandering a world full of spirits and gods and monsters. For much of the novel, he has lost his own name, so he calls himself Ku, and along the way, trains and hones his skill with the blade in a village full of masked fighters, and gains companions in Nu, the nephew of the village chief, Furen, the cold and highly skilled fellow trainee, Susu, a helpful spirit in the shape of a sparrow, and Kara, the wicked guardian of the springs that Ku inadvertently contaminates. The setting of this novel is rich and lush, and as Ku wanders the world, trying to heal his own corruption while also seeking answers to what happened to his mother, you get to see a great array of spirits and gods. The spirits and gods are all mysterious and otherworldly, from Susu to She Who Weeps to What Once Walked, and they form much of the wonder of this novel, along with the fight scenes. All the Blooms in swordsmanship that were developed were especially fantastical, like
The pacing of this novel is a bit of a weak point, somewhat faltering, and although a lot happens in this novel, there are very few answers. I assume there will be more answers in book 2, but I was somewhat disappointed that we get no hint on why Ku was contaminated even before he slew the demonic bear, and that Furen seems to not be joining him for book 2.
Still, the writing and setting makes up for a lot, and you feel all of Ku's emotions almost as intensely as he does, from his hurt of being sidelined and rejected in the village to his rage at always having to run and his deep love for his friends. I look forward to reading book 2.
This is a beautifully written fantasy novel, with a lost main character searching for answers and trying to survive while wandering a world full of spirits and gods and monsters. For much of the novel, he has lost his own name, so he calls himself Ku, and along the way, trains and hones his skill with the blade in a village full of masked fighters, and gains companions in Nu, the nephew of the village chief, Furen, the cold and highly skilled fellow trainee, Susu, a helpful spirit in the shape of a sparrow, and Kara, the wicked guardian of the springs that Ku inadvertently contaminates. The setting of this novel is rich and lush, and as Ku wanders the world, trying to heal his own corruption while also seeking answers to what happened to his mother, you get to see a great array of spirits and gods. The spirits and gods are all mysterious and otherworldly, from Susu to She Who Weeps to What Once Walked, and they form much of the wonder of this novel, along with the fight scenes. All the Blooms in swordsmanship that were developed were especially fantastical, like
Her Bloom was a frozen flower, all the promise of life resting in its furled petals.
The pacing of this novel is a bit of a weak point, somewhat faltering, and although a lot happens in this novel, there are very few answers. I assume there will be more answers in book 2, but I was somewhat disappointed that we get no hint on why Ku was contaminated even before he slew the demonic bear, and that Furen seems to not be joining him for book 2.
Still, the writing and setting makes up for a lot, and you feel all of Ku's emotions almost as intensely as he does, from his hurt of being sidelined and rejected in the village to his rage at always having to run and his deep love for his friends. I look forward to reading book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This review is available on Grimoire Ink Reviews
I was kindly given this book as an ARC, in return for an honest review.
Wow…just wow, wow, wow!! Did I mention wow?!
This is such a gorgeous book, that centres on being who we are, at our core, be that darkness or light, and being true to that self.
It is a story of found family, love, hope along with hopelessness, bravery, self discovery and determination.
The young MC Ku, is such a sad broken child, becoming a man, who is lonely and desperate to fit in, whilst also looking for vengeance for the loss of his parents, and searching for his name, which he has “lost”.
Along the way he meets spirits and gods, both good and inherently bad, in their nature.
I loved the feel of this, the lore, mythology, everything just worked so damn well, and I had so much emotional turmoil while reading. It has left me desperate for more, but also kind of satisfied if we don’t gwt another book….please G J, give us MORE!
I MUST MENTION SUSU!! Oh lord, I want a Susu in my life! Just bloody read it, and see if you don’t end up wanting him in yours too!
Furen, Nu, Kara. All of these are his travelling companions, and all are so well written, along with Ku, and the world we travel through is both haunting and beautiful. Ju and Furen definitely need another book, because we need to see more of her, him and THEM….
Ok, I’m gonna stop vomiting words now, as I could gush all day about this wonderful book, and quickly bore the pants off you…so just take my advice, and get your copy, find a cosy chair, grab a hot chocolate and a warm blanket, and lose yourself within this world, like I did 🥰🥰🥰
I was kindly given this book as an ARC, in return for an honest review.
Wow…just wow, wow, wow!! Did I mention wow?!
This is such a gorgeous book, that centres on being who we are, at our core, be that darkness or light, and being true to that self.
It is a story of found family, love, hope along with hopelessness, bravery, self discovery and determination.
The young MC Ku, is such a sad broken child, becoming a man, who is lonely and desperate to fit in, whilst also looking for vengeance for the loss of his parents, and searching for his name, which he has “lost”.
Along the way he meets spirits and gods, both good and inherently bad, in their nature.
I loved the feel of this, the lore, mythology, everything just worked so damn well, and I had so much emotional turmoil while reading. It has left me desperate for more, but also kind of satisfied if we don’t gwt another book….please G J, give us MORE!
I MUST MENTION SUSU!! Oh lord, I want a Susu in my life! Just bloody read it, and see if you don’t end up wanting him in yours too!
Furen, Nu, Kara. All of these are his travelling companions, and all are so well written, along with Ku, and the world we travel through is both haunting and beautiful. Ju and Furen definitely need another book, because we need to see more of her, him and THEM….
Ok, I’m gonna stop vomiting words now, as I could gush all day about this wonderful book, and quickly bore the pants off you…so just take my advice, and get your copy, find a cosy chair, grab a hot chocolate and a warm blanket, and lose yourself within this world, like I did 🥰🥰🥰
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
this book had me from the premise alone. shinto inspired folklore, spirits and gods woven into the land, and a protagonist hollowed out by grief and hunger. count me IN. it promises an emotional journey first, and for the most part, it delivers on that 🤍
the opening leans a little too close to familiar territory. there were moments early on where the influence of princess mononoke in particular felt almost too present. forest spirits, corruption, the tension between humanity and the wild. recognisable enough to briefly pull me out of the story. thankfully, it doesn’t stay there.
once it finds its footing, this becomes something quieter and more introspective. a story about loss, identity, and the slow, painful work of becoming someone new when the old version of you can’t survive what’s happened. kazuki’s journey is as much internal as it is physical, and the first person perspective does a lot of heavy lifting when it comes to conveying that ache.
the worldbuilding is rich and clearly well researched, with spirits and gods that feel eerie rather than whimsical. the prose is lyrical but controlled, and there are moments of real beauty in how grief and hunger are framed.
i appreciate the restraint and mystery, but i was left wanting more resolution than we’re given here.
💭 overall, a dark, atmospheric fantasy that grows into itself.
🌳 emotionally resonant once it steps out of the shadow of its influences.
🤍 perfect for fans of cozy ghibli, with heart and a determined mc.
i’ll be curious to see how it expands and sharpens in future works.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
the opening leans a little too close to familiar territory. there were moments early on where the influence of princess mononoke in particular felt almost too present. forest spirits, corruption, the tension between humanity and the wild. recognisable enough to briefly pull me out of the story. thankfully, it doesn’t stay there.
once it finds its footing, this becomes something quieter and more introspective. a story about loss, identity, and the slow, painful work of becoming someone new when the old version of you can’t survive what’s happened. kazuki’s journey is as much internal as it is physical, and the first person perspective does a lot of heavy lifting when it comes to conveying that ache.
the worldbuilding is rich and clearly well researched, with spirits and gods that feel eerie rather than whimsical. the prose is lyrical but controlled, and there are moments of real beauty in how grief and hunger are framed.
i appreciate the restraint and mystery, but i was left wanting more resolution than we’re given here.
💭 overall, a dark, atmospheric fantasy that grows into itself.
🌳 emotionally resonant once it steps out of the shadow of its influences.
🤍 perfect for fans of cozy ghibli, with heart and a determined mc.
i’ll be curious to see how it expands and sharpens in future works.
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A unique story of a young man coming of age in a world of spirits and old gods. After experiencing more loss and tragedy at a young age than many do in a lifetime, he sets out on a quest to re-discover his lost name, and ends up finding his inner strength.
The dark atmospheric setting invokes a sense of doom while the presence of small sprit guides and the occasional wisdom they impart keeps things from becoming too hopeless. But even with the dark lyrical storytelling, it keeps readers guessing at what will happen next. For the right person, this book would likely be an absolute top tier read.
Unfortunately, I am not the right person. I struggled to finish the book, as it seemed to vacillate between moments of inner reflection and extremely important key plot points so quickly I often had to re-read passages multiple times to catch what had actually happened. For those who love pouring over atmospheric books and reading very slowly to make sure they absorb every aspect of the environment, this would be amazing, but for me, it caused me to lose focus. (100% a me problem, so I did not detract from my rating due to that preference.)
I am giving it 4 stars because there were definitely passages where the switch between actions/plot and pensive/reflective inner dialog were just too muddled together to make for "good" storytelling. However, I do think the story was unique and strong enough to deserve a read even with that challenge.
*I received an advance review copy of this book and am reviewing it prior to official publication. My review is 100% my opinion and was optional.*
The dark atmospheric setting invokes a sense of doom while the presence of small sprit guides and the occasional wisdom they impart keeps things from becoming too hopeless. But even with the dark lyrical storytelling, it keeps readers guessing at what will happen next. For the right person, this book would likely be an absolute top tier read.
Unfortunately, I am not the right person. I struggled to finish the book, as it seemed to vacillate between moments of inner reflection and extremely important key plot points so quickly I often had to re-read passages multiple times to catch what had actually happened. For those who love pouring over atmospheric books and reading very slowly to make sure they absorb every aspect of the environment, this would be amazing, but for me, it caused me to lose focus. (100% a me problem, so I did not detract from my rating due to that preference.)
I am giving it 4 stars because there were definitely passages where the switch between actions/plot and pensive/reflective inner dialog were just too muddled together to make for "good" storytelling. However, I do think the story was unique and strong enough to deserve a read even with that challenge.
*I received an advance review copy of this book and am reviewing it prior to official publication. My review is 100% my opinion and was optional.*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks to G.J. for a copy for an honest review. Below are my thoughts. No major spoilers.
"Prone to brash action, but when the melancholy strikes, it latches onto bits of my soul and sinks its teeth in so deep that when it finally, mercifully, detaches, the impressions left by the fangs are still felt long after."
HWATW is a love story to grief, to depression, and melancholy. Not as what it feels like as an adult, but what it feels like as a child/young adult and looking *back* as an adult. Heavily. The prose takes a huge leap as Ku describes his pain into borderline poetic territory. I marked so many of these in my read. It being an ARC, I won't label them here; however, I often paused and reflected on my own childhood. And I don't say that to say this book is YA. Just younger characters with adult themes.
G.J. wears his inspirations proudly, and, I think, twists them into something his own here. It feels very inspired by shonen manga/anime. It lives up to that marketing well. If you enjoyed Demon Slayer or Bleach, I'd say to give this a shot. Just know that Ku is not a ray of sunshine. He is not Tanjiro, nor is he Ichigo. He is his own character here, melancholy personified and wanting to isolate himself at every turn. If you have not lived through it you might find it a little melodramatic? Maybe? But if you've lived it or know people that have, you know how all-consuming it really is.
The end is a little chaotic, but man... Impressed with how it came together. That being said, I don't see this as a standalone personally. I respectfully demand book 2...
4.4/5.0, rounded up to 5 because this being rated a 4.0 is criminal.
"Prone to brash action, but when the melancholy strikes, it latches onto bits of my soul and sinks its teeth in so deep that when it finally, mercifully, detaches, the impressions left by the fangs are still felt long after."
HWATW is a love story to grief, to depression, and melancholy. Not as what it feels like as an adult, but what it feels like as a child/young adult and looking *back* as an adult. Heavily. The prose takes a huge leap as Ku describes his pain into borderline poetic territory. I marked so many of these in my read. It being an ARC, I won't label them here; however, I often paused and reflected on my own childhood. And I don't say that to say this book is YA. Just younger characters with adult themes.
G.J. wears his inspirations proudly, and, I think, twists them into something his own here. It feels very inspired by shonen manga/anime. It lives up to that marketing well. If you enjoyed Demon Slayer or Bleach, I'd say to give this a shot. Just know that Ku is not a ray of sunshine. He is not Tanjiro, nor is he Ichigo. He is his own character here, melancholy personified and wanting to isolate himself at every turn. If you have not lived through it you might find it a little melodramatic? Maybe? But if you've lived it or know people that have, you know how all-consuming it really is.
The end is a little chaotic, but man... Impressed with how it came together. That being said, I don't see this as a standalone personally. I respectfully demand book 2...
4.4/5.0, rounded up to 5 because this being rated a 4.0 is criminal.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.4 Stars: Definite Recomend.
Here’s the pitch:
In a world reminiscent of Demon Slayer and story that screams Studio Ghibli, a boy leaves home after his father is eaten by an evil spirit. On his own he ventures into a forest teeming with with spirits, malicious and benign, gods and more, joined by bird companions Susu (I mean does it get more Ghibli sounding than a journey with a spirit bird named Susu?)and Kara in search for his mother and his own name.
A coming of age story and a story of self discovery and cool monsters.
“We all bear stains. And most struggle to be cleansed. But none mark us forever. None defines us, even if they are part of our nature.”
This is a beautifully written story. If there’s anything that GJ Terral has shown here is that he can write his pants off. I cannot recall highlighting a book as much as I did here.
“The unknown isn’t the dark plunges of an ocean unexplored. It isn’t the sky above and the infinite reach of the stars or the insect and rot that rests under stones undisturbed. The unknown resides in all of us and hides at the edges of thought, not wishing to have light shone upon it.”
“Sometimes in life, change can come too fast. Sometimes, it can take far too long. Hardly ever does it happen just as intended, and this mountain and the writhing forest of pale trees below were no exception.”
Are just some examples of what he can do.
Also, this story really perfectly achieves the dark Studio Ghibli vibe that it’s going for. Even the plot of a boy going into nature with a bird named Susu in search of his own name just nails it. Beyond that there are definitely cool creatures, and wild fights- with cool magic as well.
Ok but I didn’t give this a 5?!
I wish the book did more with the side characters -especially early on - as I do feel they did improve as the book went on. That said around 1/3 into the book where you really needed to feel that the MC and the side characters connection was more than it was at that time.
I also wish more was done to develop the light romance that shows up.
I do think that GJ made improvements to the character development of the side players by the end- especially Nu.
My final critique- I’m still not sure what was going on with the bolded text that shows from time to time.
The final line is this: I recommend this. I REALLY recommend it if you like Studio Ghibli, Manga and Anime. If you’ve been wanting a darker version of a studio Ghibli movie run. Also if you’re a sucker for pretty writing.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Rated 5 because I cannot give partials. And this book deserves tge benefit of that score.
Here’s the pitch:
In a world reminiscent of Demon Slayer and story that screams Studio Ghibli, a boy leaves home after his father is eaten by an evil spirit. On his own he ventures into a forest teeming with with spirits, malicious and benign, gods and more, joined by bird companions Susu (I mean does it get more Ghibli sounding than a journey with a spirit bird named Susu?)and Kara in search for his mother and his own name.
A coming of age story and a story of self discovery and cool monsters.
“We all bear stains. And most struggle to be cleansed. But none mark us forever. None defines us, even if they are part of our nature.”
This is a beautifully written story. If there’s anything that GJ Terral has shown here is that he can write his pants off. I cannot recall highlighting a book as much as I did here.
“The unknown isn’t the dark plunges of an ocean unexplored. It isn’t the sky above and the infinite reach of the stars or the insect and rot that rests under stones undisturbed. The unknown resides in all of us and hides at the edges of thought, not wishing to have light shone upon it.”
“Sometimes in life, change can come too fast. Sometimes, it can take far too long. Hardly ever does it happen just as intended, and this mountain and the writhing forest of pale trees below were no exception.”
Are just some examples of what he can do.
Also, this story really perfectly achieves the dark Studio Ghibli vibe that it’s going for. Even the plot of a boy going into nature with a bird named Susu in search of his own name just nails it. Beyond that there are definitely cool creatures, and wild fights- with cool magic as well.
Ok but I didn’t give this a 5?!
I wish the book did more with the side characters -especially early on - as I do feel they did improve as the book went on. That said around 1/3 into the book where you really needed to feel that the MC and the side characters connection was more than it was at that time.
I also wish more was done to develop the light romance that shows up.
I do think that GJ made improvements to the character development of the side players by the end- especially Nu.
My final critique- I’m still not sure what was going on with the bolded text that shows from time to time.
The final line is this: I recommend this. I REALLY recommend it if you like Studio Ghibli, Manga and Anime. If you’ve been wanting a darker version of a studio Ghibli movie run. Also if you’re a sucker for pretty writing.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Rated 5 because I cannot give partials. And this book deserves tge benefit of that score.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is going to go down as one of the most underrated books of the year, and it should really be hyped by ALL.
It's funny, this was pitched to me with the disclaimer I may not enjoy it, because I don't particularly love anime and other things the book took influences from, but that ended up not being the case at all! Which really means it might be time for me to branch out, since I'm apparently missing out on lots of amazing stuff.
First off....the prose. Good lord. This was one of the most thoroughly beautiful and enjoyable books I've read. The words flowing off the page and into my mind were spellbinding, and enhanced my enjoyment tenfold. I thought that this was without a doubt the biggest asset to the story, where it truly felt like I was living the journey along with the characters and it made me feel fully engrossed into the challenges they face and the obstacles they have to overcome.
The story itself was also very enjoyable. I've read quite a few Asian-influenced fantasy stories recently, and to their credit all of them have been great in their own ways, and that is the case here as well. Terral takes lots of influences from the cultures he no doubt cares about a lot, and it translates very well to a story that feels unique and authentic, which made it a lot of fun. This is a sub-genre I'm not as familiar with, so I enjoyed reading something that was fully fresh to me.
Overall, this is a fantastic book. Amazing cover, amazing words, amazing author. Be sure to go out and get this one it's released; you will not be let down.
It's funny, this was pitched to me with the disclaimer I may not enjoy it, because I don't particularly love anime and other things the book took influences from, but that ended up not being the case at all! Which really means it might be time for me to branch out, since I'm apparently missing out on lots of amazing stuff.
First off....the prose. Good lord. This was one of the most thoroughly beautiful and enjoyable books I've read. The words flowing off the page and into my mind were spellbinding, and enhanced my enjoyment tenfold. I thought that this was without a doubt the biggest asset to the story, where it truly felt like I was living the journey along with the characters and it made me feel fully engrossed into the challenges they face and the obstacles they have to overcome.
The story itself was also very enjoyable. I've read quite a few Asian-influenced fantasy stories recently, and to their credit all of them have been great in their own ways, and that is the case here as well. Terral takes lots of influences from the cultures he no doubt cares about a lot, and it translates very well to a story that feels unique and authentic, which made it a lot of fun. This is a sub-genre I'm not as familiar with, so I enjoyed reading something that was fully fresh to me.
Overall, this is a fantastic book. Amazing cover, amazing words, amazing author. Be sure to go out and get this one it's released; you will not be let down.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Book Review: He Who Ate the Wild by GJ Terral
He Who Ate the Wild is dark, atmospheric, and unflinching. The novel follows Kazuki, a young man venturing alone into the wilderness after his mother disappears and his father is killed by a malevolent spirit. Along the way he confronts corrupted beasts, spirits, and gods, navigating danger, loss, and the blurred line between survival and morality.
Terral’s prose is immersive and controlled, letting tension build naturally. The story examines how fear, grief, and the harshness of the wild shape identity and choice. Kazuki is driven by instinct and determination, and the novel emphasizes the cost of survival and the consequences of human and supernatural forces alike.
The ending reinforces the novel’s central themes. There is no tidy resolution. The journey leaves Kazuki marked, physically and spiritually, showing that the wild is not only external, but also lives inside, shaping how we endure, remember, and act.
This is a grim, compelling, and haunting read. Readers who enjoy literary horror, folklore inspired fiction, or morally complex journeys will appreciate the mood, the moral sharp edges, and the refusal to hand out easy answers. He Who Ate the Wild lingers long after the final page.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. This is my unbiased and honest review.
Publication information
Publication or outlet: Victory Editing NetGalley Co op
Run date: June 26, 2026
He Who Ate the Wild is dark, atmospheric, and unflinching. The novel follows Kazuki, a young man venturing alone into the wilderness after his mother disappears and his father is killed by a malevolent spirit. Along the way he confronts corrupted beasts, spirits, and gods, navigating danger, loss, and the blurred line between survival and morality.
Terral’s prose is immersive and controlled, letting tension build naturally. The story examines how fear, grief, and the harshness of the wild shape identity and choice. Kazuki is driven by instinct and determination, and the novel emphasizes the cost of survival and the consequences of human and supernatural forces alike.
The ending reinforces the novel’s central themes. There is no tidy resolution. The journey leaves Kazuki marked, physically and spiritually, showing that the wild is not only external, but also lives inside, shaping how we endure, remember, and act.
This is a grim, compelling, and haunting read. Readers who enjoy literary horror, folklore inspired fiction, or morally complex journeys will appreciate the mood, the moral sharp edges, and the refusal to hand out easy answers. He Who Ate the Wild lingers long after the final page.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. This is my unbiased and honest review.
Publication information
Publication or outlet: Victory Editing NetGalley Co op
Run date: June 26, 2026
March 2, 2026
ARC review
This story follows Ku, who grew up in the forest full of spirits with his mother and father. One day his mother is summoned to go serve some lord, and never returns. Then his father is devoured by a malicious spirit in front of Ku. After existing for some time in his misery and heartbreak, he eventually leaves his now empty home to go and search for his mother. What follows next is just tragedy after tragedy, mix in some spirit companions, some friendly some not, a desperate and semi-failed attempt at a chosen family, and then some
more tragedy.
I wanted so badly to love this book, I really did. While it has many aspects to love including a very rich and lyrical style of writing, so much of it missed the mark completely for me. The first half was messy; clunky pacing, undeveloped plot, awkward wording. Truly it is in desperate need for severe editing. The second half felt slightly more fleshed out but at the same time so much of the plot felt very unexplained, from the magic system, to the vague romance subplot happening, to just general nuances where the story was going. It could have used about another 100 pages or so to really dive into some parts of the story that felt rushed through.
While the story bares painful, uncanny at times, resemblance to a certain Miyazaki film, I believe it has potential for a certain audience.
Thank you NetGalley, and Victory Editing for this eArc in exchange for my honest review.
This story follows Ku, who grew up in the forest full of spirits with his mother and father. One day his mother is summoned to go serve some lord, and never returns. Then his father is devoured by a malicious spirit in front of Ku. After existing for some time in his misery and heartbreak, he eventually leaves his now empty home to go and search for his mother. What follows next is just tragedy after tragedy, mix in some spirit companions, some friendly some not, a desperate and semi-failed attempt at a chosen family, and then some
more tragedy.
I wanted so badly to love this book, I really did. While it has many aspects to love including a very rich and lyrical style of writing, so much of it missed the mark completely for me. The first half was messy; clunky pacing, undeveloped plot, awkward wording. Truly it is in desperate need for severe editing. The second half felt slightly more fleshed out but at the same time so much of the plot felt very unexplained, from the magic system, to the vague romance subplot happening, to just general nuances where the story was going. It could have used about another 100 pages or so to really dive into some parts of the story that felt rushed through.
While the story bares painful, uncanny at times, resemblance to a certain Miyazaki film, I believe it has potential for a certain audience.
Thank you NetGalley, and Victory Editing for this eArc in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ohhh, the way my heart hurts for Ku!
This is a coming of age story about a boy who lost his father to a malicious spirit and whose mother disappeared to the west.
The author's writing is beautiful and he has such an effective way of writing emotion; I felt everything Ku felt. It’s a clever story that makes you question your true nature: who you are and what it is you’re hungry for. There are also so many great one-liners and moments of wisdom scattered throughout the book.
One thing I really loved was the way the story is told. It feels like an older Ku is recounting something that happened earlier in his life, almost like he’s sitting next to you telling the story himself. It’s such a unique narrative style!
There were a couple of weaker spots for me. The pacing felt a little uneven at times, especially in the middle where things slowed down a bit. I also felt like some things weren’t fully explained or resolved, but I’m hoping that means this might turn into a series and we’ll get a book two. The romance subplot also felt a bit weak, but I ended up rooting for the two of them at the end.
It reminded me of Demon Slayer (I recently came across something that mentioned Demon Slayer was one of his inspirations so this tracks).
Overall I had a great time with the book! The ending broke my heart. I hope this isn’t the end for Ku!
This is a coming of age story about a boy who lost his father to a malicious spirit and whose mother disappeared to the west.
The author's writing is beautiful and he has such an effective way of writing emotion; I felt everything Ku felt. It’s a clever story that makes you question your true nature: who you are and what it is you’re hungry for. There are also so many great one-liners and moments of wisdom scattered throughout the book.
One thing I really loved was the way the story is told. It feels like an older Ku is recounting something that happened earlier in his life, almost like he’s sitting next to you telling the story himself. It’s such a unique narrative style!
There were a couple of weaker spots for me. The pacing felt a little uneven at times, especially in the middle where things slowed down a bit. I also felt like some things weren’t fully explained or resolved, but I’m hoping that means this might turn into a series and we’ll get a book two. The romance subplot also felt a bit weak, but I ended up rooting for the two of them at the end.
It reminded me of Demon Slayer (I recently came across something that mentioned Demon Slayer was one of his inspirations so this tracks).
Overall I had a great time with the book! The ending broke my heart. I hope this isn’t the end for Ku!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
He Who Ate The Wild is a disquieting and morbidly beautiful coming of age story about Kazuki who must navigate his new reality after the loss of his parents. The world is filled with cunning spirits, humans, and gods alike. Leaving his family home in search for his mother quickly evolves into a harrowing journey of identity and self discovery.
My favorite things about HWATW was the magic system and fight scenes! I felt physically enchanted by them as if I was watching anime.
The mythology and folklore. This was definitely a homage to Shinto culture through and through and as someone who is interested in that culture Terral definitely hit home with this one.
My favorite scenes have to be with Kazuki and his companions. They add a comforting stillness to the story and the journey. Can't express the slight comedic relief I felt in some of their interactions. This is definitely a book I'll have to reread and listen to when it finally comes out.
Oh my stars!!! That ending had me kicking my feet but also left my heart heavy. Even though this is a standalone I wouldn't mind a sequel to peek in on what adventures await.
Perfect for readers who love Princess Mononoke, Demon Slayer, Mushi-Shi, or xxxHolic. Definitely read this book if you're an anime lover. A big thank you to G.J. Terral for allowing me to read his compelling and inspiring story.
My favorite things about HWATW was the magic system and fight scenes! I felt physically enchanted by them as if I was watching anime.
The mythology and folklore. This was definitely a homage to Shinto culture through and through and as someone who is interested in that culture Terral definitely hit home with this one.
My favorite scenes have to be with Kazuki and his companions. They add a comforting stillness to the story and the journey. Can't express the slight comedic relief I felt in some of their interactions. This is definitely a book I'll have to reread and listen to when it finally comes out.
Oh my stars!!! That ending had me kicking my feet but also left my heart heavy. Even though this is a standalone I wouldn't mind a sequel to peek in on what adventures await.
Perfect for readers who love Princess Mononoke, Demon Slayer, Mushi-Shi, or xxxHolic. Definitely read this book if you're an anime lover. A big thank you to G.J. Terral for allowing me to read his compelling and inspiring story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Introspective and atmospheric, He Who Ate The Wild is a masterpiece. Paying homage to the Shinto religion of Japan where spirits inhabit nature, this story feels like watching a Miyazaki film.
We follow Ku (at least that's what he's known as for the majority of the story), who is a very troubled young man, trying to find his place in the world after his mother leaves and his father is killed.
The most salient theme is probably the most universal: otherness. Ku struggles from start to finish with feeling that he doesn't fit in. While there are times that this is true, there are places where I felt that it was all in his head. And that back and forth makes Ku feel real and human.
There's a romance subplot in the story that was handled remarkably well. A rivals to lovers type situation, that blossoms as the plot chugs forward. I usually don't get emotional while reading but I caught myself thinking, “Kiss already you idiots!” which means I was firmly invested without realizing it.
The sword fights were epic. The prose, beautiful. There are even haikus dotting the chapters. And the pivotal scenes were ominous and picturesque. I could go on and on, so let me just summarize: Read He Who Ate The Wild. It's amazing.
We follow Ku (at least that's what he's known as for the majority of the story), who is a very troubled young man, trying to find his place in the world after his mother leaves and his father is killed.
The most salient theme is probably the most universal: otherness. Ku struggles from start to finish with feeling that he doesn't fit in. While there are times that this is true, there are places where I felt that it was all in his head. And that back and forth makes Ku feel real and human.
There's a romance subplot in the story that was handled remarkably well. A rivals to lovers type situation, that blossoms as the plot chugs forward. I usually don't get emotional while reading but I caught myself thinking, “Kiss already you idiots!” which means I was firmly invested without realizing it.
The sword fights were epic. The prose, beautiful. There are even haikus dotting the chapters. And the pivotal scenes were ominous and picturesque. I could go on and on, so let me just summarize: Read He Who Ate The Wild. It's amazing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
He Who Ate the Wild is a journey of discovery amid a backdrop of spirits, demons, gods, and the unknown.
From the main character's point of view (in first person), we find ourselves in the presence of spirits, demons, and gods with strict rules for survival when encountering these beings. Our protagonist struggles with living while at the same time sounding resigned to his fate.
The characters are enigmatic and complex, rich with character development and both strengths and faults. Just as our MC experiences it, we as the readers also experience a world where trust is difficult to keep but desirous to be willingly given. What some speak into words cannot be taken at face value, leaving many things rife with additional hidden meaning to tease out.
A calm, smooth read filled with thought-provoking subtext amid a myriad of mythical and magical beings in a richly complex world.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher Victory Editing NetGalley co-op for allowing me an ARC to read and review.
From the main character's point of view (in first person), we find ourselves in the presence of spirits, demons, and gods with strict rules for survival when encountering these beings. Our protagonist struggles with living while at the same time sounding resigned to his fate.
The characters are enigmatic and complex, rich with character development and both strengths and faults. Just as our MC experiences it, we as the readers also experience a world where trust is difficult to keep but desirous to be willingly given. What some speak into words cannot be taken at face value, leaving many things rife with additional hidden meaning to tease out.
A calm, smooth read filled with thought-provoking subtext amid a myriad of mythical and magical beings in a richly complex world.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher Victory Editing NetGalley co-op for allowing me an ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
This one didn't really work for me. I think it's because I felt like I was thrown into a world without any information, and there wasn't much worldbuilding happening throughout the story, either, so while I was able to follow Ku and his adventures, I constantly felt like I was missing important context and I felt a bit disoriented. They're killing monsters, but why? Where did these monsters come from? Why are they running around going to kill monsters? What exactly is their task? What's up with the Hungering Mountain? There's magic?? I need more information please 😭
I can't even say if I liked the concept, because I still don't feel like I know what the concept was supposed to be. Apparently it's based on Princess Mononoke and Japanese Shinto religion, but I definitely did not get that feeling at all. I feel like maybe the author expected the reader to know this, be familiar with those settings, and thus not require additional worldbuilding here, but... yeah, didn't work for me.
This one didn't really work for me. I think it's because I felt like I was thrown into a world without any information, and there wasn't much worldbuilding happening throughout the story, either, so while I was able to follow Ku and his adventures, I constantly felt like I was missing important context and I felt a bit disoriented. They're killing monsters, but why? Where did these monsters come from? Why are they running around going to kill monsters? What exactly is their task? What's up with the Hungering Mountain? There's magic?? I need more information please 😭
I can't even say if I liked the concept, because I still don't feel like I know what the concept was supposed to be. Apparently it's based on Princess Mononoke and Japanese Shinto religion, but I definitely did not get that feeling at all. I feel like maybe the author expected the reader to know this, be familiar with those settings, and thus not require additional worldbuilding here, but... yeah, didn't work for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have never read a GJ Terral novel (that's my fault!) but if the writing is as beautifully sympathetic and poetic as this then I can see that I've been missing out.
I will say firstly that the pacing of the novel was where it faltered. A lot happens and seeds have been planted but I do wish that there were times were it didn't linger as long and moved on.
That being said, this was truly immersive and I believe we have only seen a fraction of what Terral has to offer with this. There was a real sense of tension throughout and I enjoyed how Terral handed grief, something that can be hit or miss throughout novels. Our main character, nameless, is searching for so many answers and that real journey of loss resonates in a lot of ways.
This is a novel that isn't just steeped in fantasy, it is the source of determination, strife and the things we need in life. I'll be here for any future instalments.
I will say firstly that the pacing of the novel was where it faltered. A lot happens and seeds have been planted but I do wish that there were times were it didn't linger as long and moved on.
That being said, this was truly immersive and I believe we have only seen a fraction of what Terral has to offer with this. There was a real sense of tension throughout and I enjoyed how Terral handed grief, something that can be hit or miss throughout novels. Our main character, nameless, is searching for so many answers and that real journey of loss resonates in a lot of ways.
This is a novel that isn't just steeped in fantasy, it is the source of determination, strife and the things we need in life. I'll be here for any future instalments.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a beautifully written coming-of-age story with Japanese fantasy elements. The character development and emotional journey of Ku are handled quite well. The focus is very much on identity and growth, which makes the novel a character-driven bildungsroman than a traditional fantasy.
The thing is that the book’s description led me to expect a darker, more action-driven fantasy. While the fantasy elements are present, they serve more as a framework for the emotional arc and worldbuilding rather than being the central part of the plot.
Unfortunately, some parts also felt repetitive. Although this reinforces the emotional themes, it occasionally slowed the momentum.
Overall, He Who Ate the Wild is a thoughtful and well-crafted novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy introspective, character-focused storytelling. It is unfortunate that it is not my cup of tea.
This is a beautifully written coming-of-age story with Japanese fantasy elements. The character development and emotional journey of Ku are handled quite well. The focus is very much on identity and growth, which makes the novel a character-driven bildungsroman than a traditional fantasy.
The thing is that the book’s description led me to expect a darker, more action-driven fantasy. While the fantasy elements are present, they serve more as a framework for the emotional arc and worldbuilding rather than being the central part of the plot.
Unfortunately, some parts also felt repetitive. Although this reinforces the emotional themes, it occasionally slowed the momentum.
Overall, He Who Ate the Wild is a thoughtful and well-crafted novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy introspective, character-focused storytelling. It is unfortunate that it is not my cup of tea.
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