The Wolf King

The Wolf King #1

by Lauren Palphreyman

Prinzessin Aurora sehnt sich nach Freiheit fern der Palastmauern, doch stattdessen erwartet sie eine arrangierte Ehe mit einem grausamen Lord. Am Abend vor ihrer Hochzeit rettet sie bei einem brutalen Werwolf-Kampf das Leben eines jungen Wolfs – und gerät dadurch ins Visier von dessen Gegner, dem gefährlichen Alpha Callum. Noch in derselben Nacht gelingt Callum die Flucht, und er entscheidet sich, Aurora zu entführen und in das wilde Land jenseits der Grenze zu bringen, wo sich die Werwolf-Clans gegen die Menschen vereinen. Denn er glaubt, dass sie der Schlüssel zum Sieg der Wölfe ist.

Je mehr Zeit der Alpha und die Prinzessin miteinander verbringen, desto größer wird die verbotene Anziehung zwischen ihnen. Während Aurora erkennt, dass nicht alle Wölfe grausam sind, wird Callum klar, dass nicht alle Clans dieselben Ziele verfolgen. Und so gerät das ungleiche Paar schon bald zwischen alle Fronten.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Audiobook, Fantasy Romance, Paranormal, Enemies To Lovers

480 pages, Hardcover

First published September 12, 2023

About the author

Lauren Palphreyman is an author based in London. She writes books full of magic and romance. Cupid's Match, and Devils Inc. are out now.

Her next book, A Circus of Ink comes out spring 2021.

Reviews

[SK · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG I'VE FOUND MY NEW OBSESSION. This is everything I wanted in a book and more. Ahh I didn't want to stop reading and didn't want the book to end 😩 The perfect sort of book to get one out of a slump and give the cozy, warm paranormal vibes- just more intense.

It's got a good world building. The pacing is fast and straight to the point, there's not much filler in it and I absolutely loved it. Cause not all books need to be 500+ pages thick. This was just under and got everything done beautifully. The political intrigue between the wolves and humans was so interesting to me. And omg the drama 🤭🤭

The characters are pretty likable and complex. I loved Aurora as the fmc, she's got fire in her and strong with her opinions and yet there was an innocence about her which I appreciated. Callum is so easy to like. He's the kind of guy or rather wolf you cuddle, who's warm and straightforward. He's simplistic in his ideals and I loved that about him. His possessiveness and protective side was endearing. Blake, on the other hand, is more cunning, subtle. I loved his manipulative and dark self. Basically, he's like Rhysand from ACOTAR- not acomaf- just to be clear. Iykyk 👀🤭

The chemistry is so good between them. The dynamics just work perfectly. The romance between Callum and Aurora is sweet, hot and swoon worthy. They had me blushing, giggling and kicking my feet. But I want to see some Blake in the mix, cause I just know that man is going to shake my world if I do get his scenes in a more romantic or spicy fashion.

The ending had me shook. I couldn't put the book down at all. Some of the things were a bit predictable, I won't lie. But at the same time, I ate it all up. The action and twists were so good. I can't wait to read the next book.

Basically, go read it if you're in the mood for sone werewolves. It won't disappoint 👀🤭



~•~•~
I need more werewolves and a new series to obsess over 😤

[Bailee · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want a giggly, fun, “Bella-where-the-hell-have-you-been-loca” (and by that I mean werewolves) time, read this

[aly ☆彡 · Rating 1 out of 5]

Maybe it’s the aftermath of my overdosing Wattpad werewolf teen phase (no regrets—those days were a blast!), but now, I'm yearning for something with a touch more elegance. To my surprise, this book was written by the same author of Cupid's Match, which ultimately is one of my favorites Wattpad story back then. Unfortunately, this one didn’t quite capture the same magic I was hoping for, and nostalgia just wasn’t enough to save it.

I definitely appreciate the short chapters from the book, which should make for a breezy read, but instead, they stretch the story thin, spinning in place without progression. Multiple chapters pass, yet the plot remains static, looping the same uneventful moment without momentum. The narration meanders and my interest waned with every digression.

Now that I am looking back, I’ve noticed Palphreyman has a habit of shoehorning love triangles into her work—a trope I have outgrown as maturity has shown me how rarely it’s done well. Most of the time, it’s just hollow drama for drama’s sake and sadly, this book is no exception. Neither of the love interest stands out to me: Callum is blandly chivalrous, while Blake’s constant smirking and faux mystery make him more grating than intriguing. Their dynamic isn’t a conflict but rather a filler to stretch a flimsy plot across future installments.

And so, it’s genuinely disappointing how this novel squander its promising beginning. The moment Aurora enters the wolf kingdom; the story loses all pace. We’re subjected to endless cycles of the same internal monologues, with key motivations rehashed in nearly identical wording chapter after chapter. The dialogue serves only as exposition, and the chapters lack satisfying arcs, often ending abruptly.

A teenage me, who once gobbled up anything on the orange app, might’ve devoured this. Now? The author's writing feels frozen in time—unchallenged, unrefined, and painfully surface-level. There’s no richness to the world, no complexity to the characters, just a void shell of a story that leaves me wondering why I bothered. A disappointing execution of what could have been a compelling premise.

[babygyalreadit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Obsessed is an understatement. This can’t be real. I need book 2 NOW WTF OMG

[Amelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Acotar/Outlander vibes but with wolves. Kind of a slay

[Esta · Rating 5 out of 5]

He's a 10 but he's a werewolf and he kidnapped you to use as a pawn in a war against humans.

[hollie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I feel like I can’t ever unread this book now.
it started off promising but ended like a btec acotar with so many cliches and not enough originality.
also there is seriously nobody more irritating and self righteous than the main character. if she was a bug I’d squish her.

[Matea ☽ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I NEED TO BE A DETECTIVE FIRST.



If there’s one thing these romantasy books have taught me, it’s this: I NEVER root for the blond man. Never. (Okay, maybe there are exceptions, but let’s be serious… not this time.)



And listen — I might be shooting in the dark here, but I really don’t think so considering I figured out the “plot twist” by chapter two.

So naturally, I gathered evidence.

⚠️If you want to play detective yourself, SKIP THIS PART NOW.⚠️

EXHIBIT A:

“His name is Blake. He’s the most dangerous male in the Kingdom of Wolves, and he has the power to help us… or destroy us.”

EXCUSE ME, MISS???
Why are you NOT already climbing that man like a tree???


EXHIBIT B:

“…he’s dressed in dark breeches rather than a kilt, and wears a black shirt perfectly fitted to his hard chest and torso. His hair is dark…”

IF BAD, WHY HOT???

EXHIBIT C:

“A slow smile spreads across Blake's face and dimples puncture his cheeks.”

DIMPLES??????
OH SO WE’RE JUST HANDING OUT WEAPONS NOW???
You thought I WOULDN’T notice the dimples? Amateur behavior.

EXHIBIT D:

“He surprises me by crouching on one knee before me. He picks up the collar, then looks up.”

Do I even NEED to continue?
Because personally, I did enjoy the sight of you kneeling.


EXHIBIT E:

“He smells like night, like the most dangerous part of the forest, like dark forbidden places.”

Ma’am.
MA’AM.
That is not a red flag. That is a marriage proposal.

EXHIBIT F:

“The shadows seem to curl around me. They protect me.”

MMMMMMMMHMMMMMM GIRL.
TAKE THE HINT.

And no, I will NOT apologize for entering full detective mode because this book was NOT subtle. Like at all. Which is honestly why this is a 4-star read instead of a 5-star read…
BUT DON’T GET IT TWISTED.
Even though I figured out the plot twist within the first 15 minutes, I STILL ate this up. Licked the plate clean. No crumbs left. I was INVESTED.



This book felt like watching Love Island with wolves. The vibes? VIBING. The possessiveness? Delicious. The jealousy outbursts? Spectacular. The emotionally constipated wolf-man behavior simmering beneath the surface? Inject it directly into my bloodstream.

Callum, sweetheart… you are cute. You are lovely. You are emotionally available.
Which is unfortunately exactly why you were never going to win.
I mean, don’t get me wrong — I would’ve folded for him too. IMMEDIATELY. But this is romantasy. Nice men finish second.



And Aurora??? My girl went from shy little miss “oh no” to whispering stuff like “take your pleasure from me” and I was LOSING MY MIND 😭😭😭
Her discovering her sexuality was genuinely the funniest and most entertaining thing ever. I was cackling. I was cheering. I was deeply unwell.

Anyway.
Jumping into book two immediately.

________________________
pre-read

Another case of FOMO, soo it is...

[Nainika Gupta · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very wattpad-y, but still good, nonetheless!!!

[vanessa ⋆.☕︎ May and half June ia ✦ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 stars.
“I want you to smell like me. When another wolf is close, I want it to be my scent they smell on your skin. I want to mark you as mine.”
Is it ACOTAR with werewolves? Absolutely.
Did I devour every single page of it? Without a doubt.

There’s just something irresistibly addictive about a story where a girl is torn from her world and thrust into another, one filled with danger, magic, and impossible choices. Aurora’s journey from a sheltered princess to a woman caught in the middle of a supernatural war had that perfect blend of tension, romance, and discovery that I can never get enough of.

And then there are the men, two powerful, magnetic forces pulling her in different directions. The brooding alpha with his secrets and scars, the kind of man who makes you question everything you thought you knew about monsters… and the human world she left behind, full of its own brand of cruelty. That love triangle, that emotional tug-of-war, it just works. Every. Single. Time.

The story balances action and emotion so well: brutal battles, simmering attraction, moral conflicts, and moments of vulnerability that sneak up on you. It’s dark and thrilling, but also deeply romantic in that “I shouldn’t want you, but I do” way that makes your heart ache.
So yes, if ACOTAR met a werewolf war and had a slow-burn, forbidden romance baby, this would be it, and I ate up every delicious, dramatic, dangerous page.


➺ The Characters:
Aurora:
“I’ll learn to fight. I’ll make my own stories, rather than be the side character in the stories of kings.”
The characters in The Wolf King are what make this story come alive, each one feels real, layered, and full of emotion, and they give the story a heartbeat that keeps you completely hooked. Aurora, especially, stole my heart. She’s fierce, passionate, and unafraid to stand up for herself, but there’s also this tender, vulnerable side to her that makes her so relatable. She’s not your typical damsel in distress, she’s figuring herself out in a world that constantly tries to control her, and you can feel every struggle, every moment of doubt, every spark of courage.

The chemistry between all of them? Chef’s kiss. The romance between Aurora and Callum had me absolutely kicking my feet, it’s sweet, hot, and brimming with emotion. Their connection feels organic and sincere, full of those tender, blush-inducing moments that make you squeal and reread lines twice.

Callem:
“I thought of you every hour I was away,” he says. “All I could think of was getting back to you. I shouldn’t have left you. I won’t do it again.”
And then there’s Callum, oh my heart, where do I even begin? He’s the kind of person who feels like a safe harbor in the middle of a storm, like when you see him, every chaos will be forgotten (he is going to be on my boyfriends list as well, hehe). There’s a loyalty and protectiveness about him that’s impossible not to fall for, the kind that makes you want to lean into him and never let go. His possessiveness doesn’t feel controlling at all, it’s instinctive, fierce, and full of care, the kind that makes your chest ache in the best way. He’s simple in his values, but that simplicity is comforting, like a quiet promise that even in a harsh, unpredictable world, love can still feel steady and real.
“I love him,” I say, softly. “I cannot marry you, because I love Callum.”
The one thing that really frustrated me about him was how every single time he went off to make some deal or handle his “king” duties, he left Aurora behind, and of course, every time he left, something would happen to her! Like, whyyyy?! It made me so anxious and honestly a little mad at him, because you just want him to stay and protect the person he clearly cares about. It was one of those moments that made me shout at the book like, “Stay with her, man! it’s getting annoying.”

Blake:
Ohhh, Blake… where do I even start?! My heart was literally racing every time he appeared on the page. He’s dark, dangerous, and just… magnetic in a way that makes you gasp and go, “Wait, why am I feeling this?!” His cunning, his subtle manipulations, that glint of danger in his eyes, it all makes your pulse spike like crazy. You know he’s bad for Aurora (and honestly, for you too if we’re being real), but somehow you can’t look away.

He’s got that irresistible Rhysand energy, mysterious, commanding, with a bite that makes your stomach twist in the best way. Every scene he’s in, I was sitting there clutching the book, heart pounding, whispering “oh no… oh yes…!” I swear, I lived for every single moment with him.


“I’ve wanted you since the moment I first set eyes on you. I told myself I took you from the Borderlands because I needed you for the Heart of the Moon, but I think even then, I knew the truth. I couldn’t bear the thought of leaving you there. And I wanted you. Goddess, I wanted you. I’ve been like a lovesick pup since that moment. I think about you all the time. I want to make you smile, and make you happy, and to impress you.”
Uhh… big, hot Scottish wolf-men? Yes please.
Sure, the story has its flaws, a few moments that made me pause or roll my eyes just a little, but honestly? I didn’t care. I was far too busy falling for Callum (and, if I’m completely honest, for Blake too). There’s something about their strength, their loyalty, that wild edge barely kept in check, it’s impossible not to get swept up in it.
“I thought you said there was always a choice. And what? You chose him?” His voice is dark, and his breathing shallow. “Did he touch you?”
This book gave me everything I wanted: danger, tension, heat, and that hint of tenderness buried under all the growling and chaos. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun, it’s addictive, and it makes you dream just a little about having your own brooding wolf-man waiting in the shadows. Just read it, let go of logic for a while, and enjoy the ride.

“I won’t, Rory. I promise I will not ask you to do anything that will cause you harm, nor compromise your morals or integrity. And in return, while you will be mine, I will be yours, too. I will be your alpha. And I promise to take care of you. For as long as you’re here, with me.”


➺ World Building:
The werewolf lore in The Wolf King really strikes that perfect balance between the familiar and the unexpected. I especially loved how the story explored politics on two paces, the regal, courtly kind tied to Aurora’s world, and the primal, instinct-driven power plays among the wolves. It made the stakes feel so much bigger than just romance (though the romance definitely burns). The moral grayness throughout, no clear “good” or “bad” side, gave it an emotional weight that really pulled me in.
If anything, I just wanted more of it. More detail about how the territories interact, how the clans formed, what their customs mean. There’s so much potential in this world that I hope the next book dives even deeper into. Still, as a first installment, it did exactly what it needed to: built a vivid foundation, set up political intrigue, and left me hungry for the next chapter.


The ending completely shook me, I was on the edge of my seat until the very last page and honestly could not put the book down. Every twist, every reveal kept me glued to the story, my heart racing with each turn. Sure, there were moments that frustrated me, like some of Rory’s decisions that made me want to scream at the pages, but even those moments added to the intensity of the story and made it feel more real, I guess.

The action was relentless and thrilling, with danger around every corner, and the emotional stakes were just as high. I loved how the author balanced high-octane tension with the slow-burn romance and character development. By the time I reached the final chapters, I was completely invested in the characters and their fates, desperate to see how everything would play out.

Now, all I can do jump immediately into the next book. I’m beyond excited to dive back into this world, explore more of the pack dynamics, and finally see how the relationships and conflicts evolve. The Wolf King left me both breathless and hungry for more, and I can’t wait to get back into the chaos, passion, and drama of this gripping series.


── .✦

༉‧₊🕯️🖤❀༉ Omg, like… I’ve been watching people LOSING THEIR MINDS over this book, sobbing, gasping, feral giggling, the whole dramatic package, and I’m officially done playing it cool. I NEED to know what’s going on in those pages. This is officially my first dark romantasy (send prayers pls), and I’m equal parts scared and absolutely pumped. I want the morally gray chaos, the intense yearning, the emotional damage, WHATEVER it is that’s turning everyone else into unhinged book gremlins.
So yeah… if this book ruins my life in the best way possible, just know I walked in willingly. Let’s do this.

[Briar Boleyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a romantasy masterpiece.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stop! Listen!

Cut it out with all the ACOTAR comparisons, and that is coming from someone who loves Sarah J M!

If you try any more than 3 romantasty series, you will notice there’s always a trend with war and someone being captured, or having to go to another land/realm.

This is not a copycat book!

The characters are so good, your emotions are pulled in every direction, and it’s surprising and unpredictable.
(There’s no self-pity main to drag you down.)

This book gives you all of the feels.

When finding new fantasy books, it can be difficult because many adult authors take smut too far — but not in The Wolf King!

I really appreciate the authors pace and level of discovery, action, and romance, and the lovable and respectable characters!

I have high, high hopes for book 2!

[❀ Tia ❀ · Rating 5 out of 5]

OKAY OKAY, I AM OBSESSED!! This book must be laced with some sort of illegal substance because it had me ADDICTED to flipping the pages even faster than I'd flip over for a certain alpha.

The world building? Superb! The descriptions of the environment and surroundings provided a welcomed sense of immersive cosiness within an otherwise intense and angsty paranormal romance.

The tension? DELICIOUS! And is that a love triangle I smell? I am hooked!

I'll be honest, during the first half of the book, Aurora kind of irritated me. I totally get that as a princess she has been sheltered her entire life and schooled on what is "proper", but her naivety and immaturity towards certain things, although very true to character, was kind of frustrating. HOWEVER, I loved her character development. The way she became a total badass and wasn't afraid to stand up for herself by biting back at people pushing her around or treating her undesirably was so refreshing!

I love a possessive MMC, so I really liked Callum and his soft yet protective personality. The tension between him and Aurora was palpable and I totally ate it up! However, Blake has my FULL ATTENTION! 👀 Every appearance he made had me kicking my feet and giggling. As much as I liked Callum, I think his vibe was slightly too golden retriever-esque for me. Blake on the other hand, shared the same "alpha male, touch her and die" vibes, but also had an air of aloofness, which, quite frankly I found rather hot. If you've read any of my other romance reviews, you will know that I LOVE a dark, morally grey mmc, and Blake fitted that to a T!

I've read a few reviews where people have pointed out similarities to the vibes in the ACOTAR series, especially drawing on resemblances between Blake and Rhysand.. and honestly, I have to agree! But lemme say right now, if the Callum/Blake sitch turns into a Tamlin/Rhysand sitch, I fear I may lose my mind (not that I'll be complaining, I am HERE for the drama!). Is this gonna be a "fight for the girl" vibe? Is it gonna be more of a "why choose" moment? I don't know, but I NEED TO FIND OUT!

Now let's talk about that ending. Yes, I guessed part of the plot twist from early on and found elements a little predictable, but that CLIFFHANGER had me launching my book across the room, screaming into my pillow, chewing on my hand, booking the next flight to Scotland and changing my name to "Lauren Palphreyman's #1 enemy" because what do you MEAN you're going to end the book on such a diabolical cliffhanger!? I am FERAL, I tell you!! I cannot wait to dive into The Night Prince and find out what happens next!

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˚₊‧꒰ა Pre-Read ໒꒱ ‧₊˚
I've seen how many of you have loved this book so I have major FOMO and will be starting it immediately! As someone who hasn't read any werewolf books, I have no idea what I'm letting myself in for but it better be good!

[Momma Eureka · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

Callum ……
Blake ……

What a hard choice…….

I would say “Why Choose” ? lol

I was practically forced by daughter to read this book, but as other books she forced me to read it, I end it up loving. I regret nothing!
I am very conflicted here because I LOVE throuples and if I had a say in how the trilogy was written I would DEFINITELY make her have both of them. Callum is hot, loyal, strong and loving. Blake is dark and mysterious, sexy, strong and manipulative. So the way I see she would truly have the best of both worlds here if she could keep them both 😂😂😂😂😂😂
But idk the direction of this trilogy and this is my very first time reading this type of romance and also a new to me author, so I truly have no idea. I can just say for a fact that I loved this book So much and I can’t wait to start the second which I will do IMMEDIATELY! 🖤

[Jalen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Was kinda fun at first, then we hit the middle mark and the plot line as well as the romance between Aurora and Callum was boring as hell. The most uninteresting couple. Callum was sweet and everything but there was just nothing there for me,,, chemistry was not chemistrying.

The chapter structure was also weird as hell it would end on one sentence then just pick up on the next but as a new chapter???? The book was basically one long chapter.

It’s funny because I saw the reviews saying Aurora was irritating and didn’t understand because although she was a snooze fest that doesn’t make one annoying. Then I hit the 70% mark and Aurora became annoying as hell like I now get it. Her decisions and thought processes were just so stupid. Her acting all big and bad with Blake was just… she didn’t have this energy with any of her other adversaries. It was genuinely confusing me why she was going so hard especially if she just took a moment to remember he has helped her in the past.

Blake was the most interesting character here and even then if he said something about playing his game one more time i was ready to jump off the cliff.

[Kristina Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
Can I just say this has hot werewolf shifters with SCOTTISH ACCENTS! I COULD NOT PUT THIS DOWN!!!

Gosh, I loved this. I genuinely could have read it in one sitting.

This is one of those books where there is absolutely not a single slow moment. From the very first scene, I was completely hooked. The world felt rich and immersive without ever slowing the pacing, and every scene just kept raising the stakes higher and higher.

And the romance??? I don’t know if it was because I was ovulating or what, but this made me absolutely feral. CALLUM??? The perfect blend of dangerous, commanding, and devastatingly magnetic. The way he treated Aurora had me falling right along with her. Every interaction between them was laced with intensity, and the chemistry was completely off the charts. The slow build, the power dynamics, the emotional payoff—it was all executed flawlessly. I really hope he never gets his heart broken. However, if I learned anything from ACOTAR it is that you never freaking know LOL!

This book truly had everything: Scottish, overprotective, insanely hot werewolf shifters, tension, YEARNING, witty banter, and an absolutely lovable cast of characters. I also really appreciated how well-balanced it was—there was a perfect mix of romance, action, and character development.

And listen—I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I’m not really a “just romance and spice” kind of reader. I need plot, and this delivered a very juicy one.

That ending had me on the edge of my seat, and I am so happy I already have the next book because there is no way I could wait after that. Also… Blake??? He definitely has my attention, and I am very excited to see more of him in book two.

Absolutely obsessed. 100% recommend✨

[Laura Greenhalgh · Rating 4 out of 5]

i would highly recommend doing the audio for this one! it’s duet narration and it really gave the story an extra layer, i loved it! our FMC Aurora is a princess kidnapped by Callum the alpha of a wolf shifter clan and is held “captive”. this was super fast paced and a really fun time, the tension between these two was chefs kiss and i really enjoyed the political lore between the wolves and humans so i can’t wait to pick up the next book and find out more! 👏🏼

[✨Julie✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

✩ 4.5 stars ✩

What to Expect:
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ Political Intrigue
➼ Wolf Shifters
➼ Captured Princess
➼ Potential Love Triangle
➼ Reluctant Allies-to-Lovers
➼ One Horse
➼ Multiple Alphas
➼ Scottish Highland Setting/Characters
➼ Duet Narration by Zara Hampton-Brown & Shane East
➼ First Person Dual POV

This is exactly what I’m looking for in a Romantasy! 👏🏻

This is being described as ACOTAR meets Outlander with werewolves and that felt very accurate! The entry point into the story allowed the author to share a very clear picture of the FMC’s life prior to meeting the MMC and gave the reader a lot of insight into how the wolves (and women) were treated in their society. She is about to enter into an arranged marriage with a very bad man and it is clear that her future in the castle will not be a happy one if she stays. Callum is also aware of this fact and after she shows compassion to one of his wolves, he knows he can’t leave her behind. He also believes that she would be a very valuable chess piece to use to negotiate for the thing his people want most. This makes their relationship even more complex since he is both her captor AND her savior. He was really kind of a cinnamon roll while still being a possessive alpha male which was a great combo. He was definitely a little too loyal and trusting at times, but as MMC’s go, he was pretty perfect!

Basically, I loved every second of this, and now… I’m scared. 😂 (Potential Spoilers ahead) I’ve heard only good things about book two, but I HATED Blake and it’s very much looking like we’re heading into love triangle territory with him. The similarities between him and Rhysand are definitely there, which should be amazing news since he’s my all time favorite MMC, but Callum has just been too good up to this point for me to be on board with any type of shift.

I read a lot of fantasy though and it’s never a good sign when the MC’s are this happy in book one, so I’m at a point where I actually don’t think Callum will be end game at all… I’ve taken some time to sit with that possibility and now I think I might be ready to dive into The Night Prince. I swear, so many of my favorite books feature love triangles, but I still HATE to see them coming. I feel like I’ll probably end up loving it, but I’m not sure I’m ready! A throuple would be worse. Please no throuple. 🙅🏼‍♀️ If you know something about the next book, please don’t even hint at it in the comments. Some of you guys aren’t nearly as subtle as you think you are. 😅 No spoilers!

✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼　 ҉ 　✼

Pre-read: My sister recently started getting into reading and this is my first rec from her. 🥰 So fun!

≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫

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[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️s

Werewolves with Scottish accents and kilts? Yes, please!

I haven’t read a romantasy in quite a while, and this one ended up being the perfect palate cleanser. I’m all for a smutty read, but in this genre, I much prefer stories with an actual plot rather than ones that rely solely on the spice, which this one balanced really well.

I started with the audiobook, and while I loved listening to Shane East’s swoon worthy narration of Callum, Zara Hampton-Brown’s narration of Aurora felt overly dramatic to me. She rarely sounded natural and always seemed breathy or anxious, which became tiresome pretty quickly, so I eventually switched over to my Kindle.

I feel a love triangle brewing, which I’m not quite sure how I feel about, but I’m definitely curious to see how the dynamics shift in the next installment. It sure would be nice if Libby would hand over book two today as a little Mother’s Day gift to me.

[mikayla ✿ · Rating 3 out of 5]

⋆˙⟡ 3.5 ⭐️ get comfy, besties - i have a lot of thoughts to unpack.

firstly, i’m pretty sure this is my first true shifter romance, which honestly feels like a milestone in itself. that being said, i’ve read enough books incorporating shifters that i had a decent idea of what to expect. in any case, the world-building was simple, but effective enough. it didn’t paint some rich tapestry of a foreign mystical land, but it absolutely delivered on the scottish / outlander vibes - and i, for one, will never complain about that (swoons aggressively for jamie fraser, iykyk).

the princess of the southlands - otherwise known as aurora. i shall call her princess, though, because honestly, how many times did she repeat, “i am the princess of the southlands”? the limit does not exist. if i had a dollar for every time she reminded us, i could probably fund the entire kingdom myself and buy her a new personality while i’m at it. the southlands princess better be a work in progress. because right now? we are working with very little. i swear this girl actually became progressively dumber as the book went on. nevertheless, i’ll give her another chance because apparently i enjoy naive fools.

callum might be the most patient man - or, as aurora would say, “male” - to exist within this world. old mate put up with aurora every damn day and somehow managed to do it with a smile. callum is the ultimate golden retriever in human form: loyal, sweet, and BORING. like, aggressively beige. i swear he started off interesting, or maybe that was just his narrator’s dreamy scottish accent, but somewhere between the endless princess declarations and the slow middle, callum quickly lost my interest.

nothing substantial really happened through the middle of the book. the main focus was the budding romance between aurora and callum *yawn*. i could have done with more of - you guessed it - BLAAAAKE. i seriously cannot keep track of the number of times people have collectively lost their minds over this man. the hype? astronomical. the expectations? through the roof. now i’ve finally met the man, the myth, the legend, and i’m standing here like… okay, i see the vision, but i need more.

i won’t lie, i’m intrigued, but blake hasn’t sold me just yet. maybe it was the absolute character assassination of having the female narrator voice his part in the audiobook, or maybe it was one too many lines about “playing games with the little rabbit.” either way, i’m told blake is narrated by sean masters in book two, so future me won’t even pretend to be unaffected.

i definitely have my gripes but, it was a fun time, and i’m excited to see where book two takes me. mostly because i need answers, a personality transplant for at least one character, and, most importantly, more blake.

⋆˙⟡ pre read → on my way to meet blakeee 💃🐺🐶

[Mairi Swan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm pissed about two things. First it is part of series that is nowhere mentioned or when the second book is coming out, the only positive thing is that it hfn and doesn't end in cliffhanger.
Second I'm really not sure if I'm rooting for Callum-Aurora or Blake-Aurora. I mean Blake was somewhat unpredictable and I'm not really sure if he's just morally grey (which I'm fine with that) or just evil that every action he takes is purely for his interest. Don't drop me this unfair dilemma author, especially when I don't know when the second book is coming!

[sonia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars . ⊹ ･ﾟ𖥔 ₊ ˑ
⤷ LONG LIVE THE KING 🫡🐺

Werewolves are my current fixation and let me tell you, this fking delivered!!!!!

The Wolf King is such a fun read. It is fast paced with high stakes and has an easy to understand world of humans against werewolves. I found it a touch predictable but wasn't really bothered by that. I was a bit icked too as soon as I realised there was going to be a love triangle but I feel like it's been executed really well in this.

Honestly, I have like two demands when it comes to werewolf books and that is a territorial af alpha male and a mating bond (the ending of this was close enough) so this feels like a pretty successful read for me. Loved the ending, and loved the set up for book 2. Will be picking it up right now!

Pre read
Desperately trying to stay on the werewolf train after reading Mate don’t judge pls and ty

[BookLover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rory is a princess.

Her dad doesn’t give a single fuck about her and sends her off to marry this disgusting oaf of a man, lord, prince. Whatever he is. He’s ugly and he sucks.

But before she can get married she gets kidnapped by an alpha wolf and taken to the wolf kingdom. Said alpha wolf is really a golden retriever in disguise. He’s safe and sweet and gives her warm soup and forehead kisses 🥺🥺🥺

Meanwhileeeeee there’s a hot as fuck wolf that has a bad attitude and acts like he doesn’t care if she lives or dies.(that’s the one we really want, you toxic bitches). He called her a good girl tho so obv that makes up for all the horrible things he did to her.

Anyways the rest of the book is just Rory being used in a political scheme with a bunch of alpha men because patriarchy, duh.

No knotting, sadly.
3.5 stars






Pre read:
Ok but is there knotting in this book?
That’s the REAL question

Update:
Ok look. I know kilts are historically significant BUT let’s not pretend they were the sexiest war garment. Hard to take a man seriously in a skirt. Like damn I’m tryna fear you not wonder if your nuts are gunna fall out.

Update:
“he chased her into the woods” in real life = jail. 🚔
“he chased her into the woods” in a darkromance = daddy 🥵

Update: also the LOGISTICS of kilts? You’re trying to tell me you rode a horse, fought four men, and sprinted through a forest all while going commando under a skirt? I don’t believe it.

[Herica Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was so good omg. starting the next one immediately !!!!

[Books_and_Crafts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do NOT let this book hit your TBR. Drop your current read right now and read this!

[Isabelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

🐺“Do you truly think me so easily manipulated?” He smirks. “Oh, darling, I know exactly how to manipulate you.🐺

Why am I incapable of not immediately folding for the dark and broody ones? 🤡

Listen, I’ve rewatched the Vampire Diaries probably 8 times. I KNOW a Damon Salvatore in werewolf form when I see one. As sweet as Callum is, he just isn’t who I’m here for. BLAKE BABY, YOU CAN DO NO WRONG 😮‍💨

The audio was fantastic, and I can’t wait to get the second book to see how this all plays out! 🖤



Pre Read:
Succumbing to the FOMO 🙂‍↕️🤭

[Charity (Booktrovert Reader) · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Wolf King is a perfect reminder that hype doesn’t always equal compatibility. I went in excited for a werewolf fantasy romance, but the execution didn’t work for me. The FMC’s repetitive inner conflict and the inconsistent dynamic between the main characters made it hard to stay emotionally invested.


Read My Honest Book Review on My Blog:
The Wolf King

The romance felt more like emotional whiplash than a slow burn, and one possessive trope moment ultimately sealed my DNF. I wanted stronger character growth, clearer tension, and a relationship that felt more intentional.

This will work for readers who love possessive wolf shifter romantasy, and if you enjoyed Dire Bound, you might still want to give it a shot.

👉 I go into much more detail on my blog if you want the full, honest breakdown.
Connect With Me:

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[chantalsbookstuff · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new favorite obsession on the horizon! These characters are so rich and very likeable, I mean come on..Scottish wolves, wearing kilts! I am definitely not a smut girlie, but I did appreciate this book. The smut was mild, but my focus was on the fantastic world building and getting to know each character anyway. Nice little turn at the end to make me wonder, which team I'm on, at this stage I feel like Blake's character is more dark and twisty, and love his witty nature. Callum is just too goody two shoes for my liking. So I guess team Blake for the win! I've savored all 488 pages of this book over the week. Very eager to jump into the next book!

[lilly ♡ (busy) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐

: ̗̀➛ started on feb 26th 2026
: ̗̀➛ finished on feb 28th 2026

ok guys, i have a lot of thoughts on this one 😅

i've never read shifter romance and i went into this book completely blind, and had absolutely zero idea what it was about but damn did i eat it up. the set up was so good and the world building was kinda confusing to understand for me at first but it's super easy to read. if i knew it was a shifter romance maybe the fmc referring to everyone as dogs as first wouldn't have frightened me 😭

one of the several problems i had with this book was that it was very predictable. it was still fun to read and i enjoyed it but i wish there was more surprising things happening, coming from someone who can almost never guess a plot twist.

maybe i'm dumb but reading this whole book i still had no idea there was supposed to be a love triangle. i thought that blake maybe had a crush on rory but i didn't know it was that deep 😭

one of the biggest problems i had with the first half is that rory would not shut tf up about how big callum's body was like girl, WE GET IT. there was barely a time that she would reference his hands or something without using the word big or huge.

another thing that bothered me was that the romance felt sudden. yeah sure maybe they would both lust after each other but after they got physical i didn't even care for them because there was no build up or anything.

now what i did love about this book was the plot and writing. it is very bingeable, and the writing i loved!! the world building was very good imo which can make a book for me. the book definitely keeps you on edge which i loved even if i did predict what would happen next.

overall, i would recommend this for sureee. i'm so excited to dive into the next book and see where this story goes 🤭

thank you to the lovely erin for recommending this to me 🫶🏻🫶🏻

--


since this is apart of my 12 month friends rec challenge i need to read this before the end of the month so, wish me luck 😭🙏🏻

[Mora ౨ৎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊˚‧┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈₊୨ᰔ୧₊┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈‧˚₊⊹
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤʀᴇᴀᴅ: 3 ᴀᴘʀɪʟ/5 ᴀᴘʀɪʟ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤꜰᴏʀᴍᴀᴛ: ᴀᴜᴅɪᴏʙᴏᴏᴋ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤᴛʀᴏᴘᴇꜱ: ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴛᴀꜱʏ, ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ, ᴡᴇʀᴇᴡᴏʟᴠᴇꜱ,
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤꜱᴄᴏᴛᴛɪꜱʜ ᴀᴄᴄᴇɴᴛꜱ (!!!), ꜰᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴘʀᴏxɪᴍɪᴛʏ, ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴛʀɪᴀɴɢʟᴇ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊˚‧┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈₊୨ᰔ୧₊┈┈┈┈┈✧┈┈┈┈‧˚₊⊹
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊱ ۫ ׅ✧ My rating: 6/5 𔓘

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊ ˚･:*🌼࿔ 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 ࿔*:･˚ ₊⊹
You know what's funny? I always avoided romantasy cause I thought they'd be too hard to get into and too unrealistic. WHAT WAS I THINKING? I am now wondering how I'll go back to contemporary because what??
I loved absolutely everything about this book and I am sooo confused by reviews of people saying it feels wattpad-y or cringy? I do have to say I listened to the audiobook and in many instances it can make a book better so that could be part of it but seriously I don't remember ever quoting so much of a book before, I lived for this book.
The pacing of this book was amazing, I went from Hmm interesting to Oooh I like this to I WOULD DIE FOR THESE CHARACTERS. The worldbuilding is perfect for me, interesting but not frying my (poor) brain.
The audiobook is just....I am unwell. Scottish wolves, do I need to say more? Ok wait one more: SHANE EAST!
Then we have the character development... I ATE IT UP! I never disliked Aurora but I totally get why some people do, but she grows into a badass over the course of the book. The way she has to marry a literal monster of a man, while looking at werewolves and seeing more of a man in them.

“I think I would prefer someone who looked like a monster to one who was adept at hiding it.”

“I’m being kidnapped by the enemy… and I don’t even care. I’m a prisoner, yet I’m free.”

And Callum? Callum, Callum, Callum, my man. We will get to him in the romance part of my review.
I'm afraid I won't be able to shut up about this for a long time.

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⊹₊ ˚‧ꨄ٠࣪⭑💐 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 ٠࣪⭑ꨄ‧ ˚ ₊⊹
Ahhhhh the dynamic is eveerything. We have Callum who is an alpha wolf, but he is a gentle, consent, golden retriever KING! Literally from the first moment I loved him. He protects Aurora, always calls her princess (this time it's NOT a cringe nickname, excuse me), gives her choices and uieshfysg9tg I'm just obsessed. Aurora keeps wanting to provoke him once she is horny af for this man and it was just delicious to read. Oh and the way he SEES her, not just a princess, a pawn, he sees her I had to wipe away some tears.

“Perhaps because, in a room crowded with people, he was the only one who noticed me. I cannot remember a time when anyone else has ever really looked.”

“If all you want is to sleep in my arms, I will still be the luckiest wolf in the Northlands.”

“Speak to me like that again and I shall bend you over my knee.”

Now we have Blake. Tbh this whole book I found his morally grey part interesting but I was obsessing over my man Callum right. Until the end (and until I secretly started a sample of book 2 and heard BLAKE HIS VOICE FOR THE FIRST TIME AND BOYYYY I'm afraid I might get feral but that'll be a me-book 2-problem) where he does something that will make all of this veeeery interesting. I can't wait to continue this book and finally get more of Blake.

“You look exquisite, by the way. You should never pretend to be less than what you are.”

“Long live the king.”

The smut in this book was perfectly done. Basically 2 scenes and they are soo worth it.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ꒰
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ “𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴, 𝘐 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘪𝘵’𝘴
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘰. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘳, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘮 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵. 𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘥,
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦. 𝘐 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘳, 𝘈𝘶𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘢. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘮.
ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘦.”

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ꒱

✦🦢˚ ᴘʀᴇ ʀᴇᴀᴅ

So my last book was a fail, hope I'll love this. I don't think I've ever read a love triangle before and I wouldn't like it unlesss in a romantasy so I'm curious!