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Underwood District #1
Cry Wolf
Peter is a kitsune. Chaos follows him wherever he goes. Good intentions, bad intentions—it doesn’t matter. Even mimicking the howl of a friend he hasn’t seen in over a decade turns out to have disastrous consequences.
The wolf doesn’t have a name. For now, he goes by Luca. He has no past, and as an escaped slave, if he can’t stay hidden in the shadows, he’ll have no future. When someone steals his howl, he’s drawn to investigate, and ends up saddled with a mouthy fox who insists they used to be friends once upon a time.
Petty problems and a dubious reunion are pushed aside the longer they're stranded together. The Underwood is a dangerous place.
They have two choices: work together or die.
Join Greta Stone in a dark paranormal MM romance retelling of Aesop’s fable, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, and David P. Mannix's classic novel, The Fox and the Hound.
The wolf doesn’t have a name. For now, he goes by Luca. He has no past, and as an escaped slave, if he can’t stay hidden in the shadows, he’ll have no future. When someone steals his howl, he’s drawn to investigate, and ends up saddled with a mouthy fox who insists they used to be friends once upon a time.
Petty problems and a dubious reunion are pushed aside the longer they're stranded together. The Underwood is a dangerous place.
They have two choices: work together or die.
Join Greta Stone in a dark paranormal MM romance retelling of Aesop’s fable, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, and David P. Mannix's classic novel, The Fox and the Hound.
409 pages, ebook
First published April 9, 2017
22 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Greta Stone
5 books66 followersGreta is the unruly offspring of a tiger and a dragon. She spends most of her time reading, stalking her favorite musicians, and harassing other authors with introspection.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 1, 2020
4.5 Stars
Not a bad way to start off the new year! I felt like I was reading a gory Grimm's Fairy Tale, with a little bit of the magic in Peter Pan in the psychedelic setting of Alice in Wonderland. But these were only a few of the inspirations for the story (among the MANY mentioned in the afterword) and blended in such a way that it felt so original, so inventive.
But yeah, I also felt like I was tripping balls the whole time, basically. But I just couldn't put it down. Man, what a ride!
Not a bad way to start off the new year! I felt like I was reading a gory Grimm's Fairy Tale, with a little bit of the magic in Peter Pan in the psychedelic setting of Alice in Wonderland. But these were only a few of the inspirations for the story (among the MANY mentioned in the afterword) and blended in such a way that it felt so original, so inventive.
But yeah, I also felt like I was tripping balls the whole time, basically. But I just couldn't put it down. Man, what a ride!
April 17, 2017
3.5 stars
This story combines a lot of the old tales that I remember hearing from my childhood (The boy who cried wolf, the old lady that lived in the shoe, etc), but in re-imagined ways. This story is filled with different fairy tale & mythical creatures. I feel like it took me a little while to get into this one because there was so much going on in the beginning, but once I got invested I had a hard time putting this one down. I needed to know what was going to happen. We learn a lot about the main characters, but we don't get to really get to know them until later in the story when they start opening up more. There are some darker aspects to this one, so if you are squeamish, this may not be the story for you.
Because the main characters had been separated for so long, it took them a really long time to start trusting each other again and build back up a friendship. They didn't jump all over each other the second they met up again, which is the case with a lot of shifter romances. There was definitely attraction on both sides, but things developed slowly.
* I received an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
This story combines a lot of the old tales that I remember hearing from my childhood (The boy who cried wolf, the old lady that lived in the shoe, etc), but in re-imagined ways. This story is filled with different fairy tale & mythical creatures. I feel like it took me a little while to get into this one because there was so much going on in the beginning, but once I got invested I had a hard time putting this one down. I needed to know what was going to happen. We learn a lot about the main characters, but we don't get to really get to know them until later in the story when they start opening up more. There are some darker aspects to this one, so if you are squeamish, this may not be the story for you.
Because the main characters had been separated for so long, it took them a really long time to start trusting each other again and build back up a friendship. They didn't jump all over each other the second they met up again, which is the case with a lot of shifter romances. There was definitely attraction on both sides, but things developed slowly.
* I received an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
May 9, 2017
Peter is a kitsune. Chaos follows him wherever he goes. Good intentions, bad intentions—it doesn’t matter. Even mimicking the howl of a friend he hasn’t seen in over a decade turns out to have disastrous consequences.
The wolf doesn’t have a name. For now, he goes by Luca. He has no past, and as an escaped slave, if he can’t stay hidden in the shadows, he’ll have no future. When someone steals his howl, he’s drawn to investigate, and ends up saddled with a mouthy fox who insists they used to be friends once upon a time.
Petty problems and a dubious reunion are pushed aside the longer they're stranded together. The Underwood is a dangerous place.
They have two choices: work together or die.
Join Greta Stone in a dark paranormal MM romance retelling of Aesop’s fable, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, and David P. Mannix's classic novel, The Fox and the Hound.
Rating: 3.75/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: intriguing, entertaining takes on some well-known classics; vibrantly written, well-rounded characters; some awkward writing and grammatical mistakes; adorable, stubborn romance; whimsical, but a bit meandering plot-wise
Huge thanks to Greta Stone, Skeleton Key Publishing, and Xpresso Book Tours for sending me a free digital galley of this title in exchange for an honest review! This in no way altered my read of or opinions on this book.
Outside the cave, the world was an enchanted snow globe filled with purple trees. Thin birches and sturdy oaks, mystical ironwoods and fanning willows--every tree a different vibrant mixture of electric wolfsbane, violent pinks, and the exact color of a woman's rage. Thick white and yellow speckles of pollen and glittering specks of silver dust wafted through the air, the entire forest flaring a burning hot fuchsia beneath the setting sun's warm, rusty rays.
So, okay. This was definitely an entertaining, intriguing read! The characters are vibrantly written and complex, each with their own defined struggles and inner demons. I really enjoyed being pulled along for this journey with Luca and Peter; their individual arcs and growths are only intensified when woven together, and I adored watching the transformation take place!
There's a lot of the "oral narrative" vibe happening in this read, which I also really love. This being said, though, it felt as if the plot was a bit more meandering than anything. While there IS a story happening here, it seems to take place more in the background; we are, instead, at the whims of the characters, following blindly where they lead--which is in a lot of different directions at times. While this type of story-telling works for some journeys, I don't feel it really did THIS journey much justice.
Luca pulled up into a seated position, and a fish smacked his cheek. It flailed for a second, and dropped to his lap. "Did you throw this fish at my face?"
"Yeah, what are you going to do about it?"
"You've never been a more endangered species than right now."
The romance was slow-building but so super steamy, I was impatient for them to get past the walls entrapping them and just kiss already! And penguins, the fireworks when the walls finally got torn down?! I thought my kindle might go up in flames in my hands! It was a believable, endearing romance, and I loved watching them interact with and react to each other--and the world around them. There were, throughout, some awkward grammatical moments and missing words...but I was so caught up in the romance, I didn't even care. Honestly, I was ALL ABOUT the love between these two.
This was a fascinating, whimsical read, and I adored every minute of the journey! The characters were vibrantly portrayed, the romance was believable and easy to root for, and the whole read had an air of the oral narrative to it. I definitely recommend this to lovers of the fantastical, to seekers of complex character arcs, and to those who adore whimsy. In this forest, the trees are purple and love abounds; step outside, won't you?
April 17, 2017
Some books I have to slow down my reading, as they take longer to digest and I have to concentrate more on the words—usually due to more detailed descriptions, unfamiliar world building and characters that are complicated and more unusual than I’m used to encountering. For me, Cry Wolf is one of those books. There’s a lot to be explained, and multiple fables that have their pieces woven into this tale, so I had to block out the everyday distractions so I could really delve into this story and understand everything going on.
The world building for New Gotham, particularly what goes on in the Underwood, is intricate and complex. There’s a wide range of characters, pulling from ancient tales and fantasy—all with distinctly individual personalities and nuances. I was particularly intrigued by Luca, and my heart went out to him with all he has gone through in his life—though he doesn’t remember a big chunk of it. Peter’s character takes complexity to a new level with his fascinating abilities. Though the two knew each other when they were younger, this is not a second chance romance; it is more of a second chance friendship, with the intimacy growing out of Peter and Luca’s relationship this time around as the two grow together training and learning.
The suspense and action are constantly present, and fair warning to those with weak stomachs—this story does get a bit bloody and gory at times. But it is just a part of the character’s natures to be this way, and the more you learn about them and the world they live in, the easier it is to accept the rawness of their internal makeup. The ongoing drama makes for some exciting scenes, plenty to keep your heart pounding as you read.
There’s so much more that can come from this story and in this world, and as far as Peter and Luca go, their tale feels like it’s not finished yet—there’s plenty that you’ll find left open-ended once you’re done reading. My curiosity has been aroused for this series, and I’m looking forward to seeing where the author takes this world and these characters. 4 solid stars for Cry Wolf, and I would recommend this story to M/M Gothic paranormal romance/urban fantasy fans. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language, M/M sexual content, and several stomach-roiling descriptions.
The world building for New Gotham, particularly what goes on in the Underwood, is intricate and complex. There’s a wide range of characters, pulling from ancient tales and fantasy—all with distinctly individual personalities and nuances. I was particularly intrigued by Luca, and my heart went out to him with all he has gone through in his life—though he doesn’t remember a big chunk of it. Peter’s character takes complexity to a new level with his fascinating abilities. Though the two knew each other when they were younger, this is not a second chance romance; it is more of a second chance friendship, with the intimacy growing out of Peter and Luca’s relationship this time around as the two grow together training and learning.
The suspense and action are constantly present, and fair warning to those with weak stomachs—this story does get a bit bloody and gory at times. But it is just a part of the character’s natures to be this way, and the more you learn about them and the world they live in, the easier it is to accept the rawness of their internal makeup. The ongoing drama makes for some exciting scenes, plenty to keep your heart pounding as you read.
There’s so much more that can come from this story and in this world, and as far as Peter and Luca go, their tale feels like it’s not finished yet—there’s plenty that you’ll find left open-ended once you’re done reading. My curiosity has been aroused for this series, and I’m looking forward to seeing where the author takes this world and these characters. 4 solid stars for Cry Wolf, and I would recommend this story to M/M Gothic paranormal romance/urban fantasy fans. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language, M/M sexual content, and several stomach-roiling descriptions.
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April 22, 2017Don't think I can finish this. There seems to be a decent story and interesting characters somewhere in there that I'd like to read, but the action is really hard to follow due to unnecessary and confusing language, including but not limited to copious amounts of awkward similes and metaphors. For all the descriptive adjectives, I rarely had a good sense of what was going on, wondering if a character was doing the killing in wolf or person form, for example, or having to read a passage twice to try to interpret what the author meant to say.
This is the paragraph where I decided I couldn't handle it anymore:
Bang,bang, bang. Two were shot in the forehead; the third one caught the steel point in the chest. Their stunned bodies dropped one right after the other The bodies were stunned? As in, paralysed? Or the hunters were stunned that they'd been killed? But they are already dead, how could they be stunned?
The rest of the boots changed direction, like they were calling a retreat. Ok first, this is a weird visual, it's not the boots changing direction, it's the people wearing them taking the action, I mean, can boots call a retreat?? - and I have no sense of how many people there are, because nowhere does the author give any idea of how many people there are attacking the wolf and the fox in the forest.
Peter posted the gun on the floor like a sword and dragged air into his lungs >/b> Ok, this may just be me, but I had to read that sentence twice to know what he did with the gun, because I'm not familiar with swords getting posted on the floor. When I think swords, I think swinging. Not sticking it in the ground? Which is I think what Peter did with the gun? Also, sometimes it's ok to just say "took a deep breath." Or "huffed," or whatever but the first part of the sentence is already so strangely descriptive that it really isn't necessary to dramatize being out of breath.
The sounds of Luca's struggle with the others disappeared, and for a split second there was nothing in the world but the sound of his breath and the rain striking the wrinkled leaf lying near his knee. Who's breath? Luca's or Peter's? Whose knee? And a wrinkled leaf? There's only one? They are in a forest...
He didn't know how long he stared at nothing, but eventually the loud present came rushing back. Again, this may just be me, but I had to read that twice. The loud present came rushing?
In any case, not rating this. The text needs a serious editor, it feels a lot like a first draft and it reads in part like someone is describing story boards for a film. It was exhausting and chaotic to read... just one more example, a couple paragraphs later: The final arrival came in the form of a voice that was deep, rasping. What? What kind of form does a voice have? Arrrrgh...
"Prose is architecture, not interior decoration." Thanks, Hemingway
This is the paragraph where I decided I couldn't handle it anymore:
Bang,bang, bang. Two were shot in the forehead; the third one caught the steel point in the chest. Their stunned bodies dropped one right after the other The bodies were stunned? As in, paralysed? Or the hunters were stunned that they'd been killed? But they are already dead, how could they be stunned?
The rest of the boots changed direction, like they were calling a retreat. Ok first, this is a weird visual, it's not the boots changing direction, it's the people wearing them taking the action, I mean, can boots call a retreat?? - and I have no sense of how many people there are, because nowhere does the author give any idea of how many people there are attacking the wolf and the fox in the forest.
Peter posted the gun on the floor like a sword and dragged air into his lungs >/b> Ok, this may just be me, but I had to read that sentence twice to know what he did with the gun, because I'm not familiar with swords getting posted on the floor. When I think swords, I think swinging. Not sticking it in the ground? Which is I think what Peter did with the gun? Also, sometimes it's ok to just say "took a deep breath." Or "huffed," or whatever but the first part of the sentence is already so strangely descriptive that it really isn't necessary to dramatize being out of breath.
The sounds of Luca's struggle with the others disappeared, and for a split second there was nothing in the world but the sound of his breath and the rain striking the wrinkled leaf lying near his knee. Who's breath? Luca's or Peter's? Whose knee? And a wrinkled leaf? There's only one? They are in a forest...
He didn't know how long he stared at nothing, but eventually the loud present came rushing back. Again, this may just be me, but I had to read that twice. The loud present came rushing?
In any case, not rating this. The text needs a serious editor, it feels a lot like a first draft and it reads in part like someone is describing story boards for a film. It was exhausting and chaotic to read... just one more example, a couple paragraphs later: The final arrival came in the form of a voice that was deep, rasping. What? What kind of form does a voice have? Arrrrgh...
"Prose is architecture, not interior decoration." Thanks, Hemingway
May 7, 2017
I have to be honest when I say that this book was not really one of my favorites. I had a hard time just getting half way through it.
This is a book that is based mainly on fairytales that I remember growing up on. The one that really sucks out the most in this read is the mother that lives in a shoe and has so many children she did not know what to do. This is one of the main parts of this book. The fairytales is not what turned me off on this read though. I am an avid reader when it comes to fiction, fantasy, fairytale reads. I love them and normally am so engrossed in them that I cannot put it down.
The thing that pulls me in on these types of reads is that no matter what is going on in the reader am life, reading these types of books is like an escape to a different reality. It enables the reader to be able to forget whatever is happening in their life for a little while and live in a fantasy world. I do honestly think this is that type of book and will be that type of book that most readers who love this genre will love. For me though, what turned me off and made me not to be able to find that escape is the fact that there is so many different characters and so many different points of views that I personally felt like I was trying to play keep up with who was talking instead of actually being able to escape.
For that reason and that reason only, I was not able to give more give a then a three. I do honestly believe his will not be the case for other readers and I do believe I would have really enjoyed his book if it was not for that. This will not keep me from trying other books by Greta Stone in future. I wish I would have been able to give a better rating then this for this book but I have to be honest in my opinion of this read.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
This is a book that is based mainly on fairytales that I remember growing up on. The one that really sucks out the most in this read is the mother that lives in a shoe and has so many children she did not know what to do. This is one of the main parts of this book. The fairytales is not what turned me off on this read though. I am an avid reader when it comes to fiction, fantasy, fairytale reads. I love them and normally am so engrossed in them that I cannot put it down.
The thing that pulls me in on these types of reads is that no matter what is going on in the reader am life, reading these types of books is like an escape to a different reality. It enables the reader to be able to forget whatever is happening in their life for a little while and live in a fantasy world. I do honestly think this is that type of book and will be that type of book that most readers who love this genre will love. For me though, what turned me off and made me not to be able to find that escape is the fact that there is so many different characters and so many different points of views that I personally felt like I was trying to play keep up with who was talking instead of actually being able to escape.
For that reason and that reason only, I was not able to give more give a then a three. I do honestly believe his will not be the case for other readers and I do believe I would have really enjoyed his book if it was not for that. This will not keep me from trying other books by Greta Stone in future. I wish I would have been able to give a better rating then this for this book but I have to be honest in my opinion of this read.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
April 15, 2017
I wasn't sure how I felt about this book at first, because it took me a while to get invested in it. There was a lot going on in the beginning and it just seemed like the intro took longer than I was expecting. However - once you got into the meat of the story it had me hooked.
This story follows Peter 'the fox' and Luca 'the wolf' - two old friends who haven't seen each other in a very long time. Together they have to work to survive the chaotic situations that they often find themselves in.
My favorite thing about this book though is the entwining the author did of all the fables & stories from my childhood. The story focuses on the Boy Who Cried Wolf but there are other well known fables interspersed in the book; this book is full of mythical & fairy tale creatures - it was so enjoyable and had me feeling nostalgic while I read. The author put just enough of a back story in that we felt we knew them, but leaving the possibility to learn with the characters as the book progressed. The pacing of the book was pretty steady, but I was so engrossed in the story that it seemed to fly by for me. There is a strong connection between the two main characters, with some heavy sexual moments - so if you're not a fan of M/M romances, then you probably won't like parts of this. It isn't the main focus of the story though so I still recommend you try it - it was such a fun read.
This story follows Peter 'the fox' and Luca 'the wolf' - two old friends who haven't seen each other in a very long time. Together they have to work to survive the chaotic situations that they often find themselves in.
My favorite thing about this book though is the entwining the author did of all the fables & stories from my childhood. The story focuses on the Boy Who Cried Wolf but there are other well known fables interspersed in the book; this book is full of mythical & fairy tale creatures - it was so enjoyable and had me feeling nostalgic while I read. The author put just enough of a back story in that we felt we knew them, but leaving the possibility to learn with the characters as the book progressed. The pacing of the book was pretty steady, but I was so engrossed in the story that it seemed to fly by for me. There is a strong connection between the two main characters, with some heavy sexual moments - so if you're not a fan of M/M romances, then you probably won't like parts of this. It isn't the main focus of the story though so I still recommend you try it - it was such a fun read.
April 13, 2017
There is such a wide variety of old tales I grew up on as a child woven throughout this story and I absolutely loved that. Yes the novel is named after the Boy Who Cried Wolf and that one is present, but there are so many more surprising comparisons you get to make while reading.
There is a lot that goes into this novel as you are in a new world the author has created and it does take a bit of time to catch up and understand it all.
The relationships and characters really stole the show for me. I felt like the connections and the overall flow of the novel in that aspect was very well done. I enjoyed the romance and it was a great M/M connection with some Erotic moments.
There is a lot that goes into this novel as you are in a new world the author has created and it does take a bit of time to catch up and understand it all.
The relationships and characters really stole the show for me. I felt like the connections and the overall flow of the novel in that aspect was very well done. I enjoyed the romance and it was a great M/M connection with some Erotic moments.
April 16, 2017
If you are in the mood for a great Darker Paranormal Read and a new world to dive into, this is for you. Greta Stone has a great imagination and puts a spin on so many classic tales you will remember from your child hood while bringing us a very adult story.
I loved the Romance and how the relationship between them grew gradually and believably. I hate it when its the BAM and their in love type of thing. And the two main characters themselves were very well developed and had me interested in them and what happened to them from the beginning.
The Paranormal element was there but not overbearing. This was just an all-around quick and easy M/M Paranormal read.
I loved the Romance and how the relationship between them grew gradually and believably. I hate it when its the BAM and their in love type of thing. And the two main characters themselves were very well developed and had me interested in them and what happened to them from the beginning.
The Paranormal element was there but not overbearing. This was just an all-around quick and easy M/M Paranormal read.
April 20, 2017
This novel had a bit of a slow build to it. It is unique yet familiar in the way it depicts some old tales you may have heard as a child.
There are ups and downs throughout the novel. Moments that are kind of slow and other parts that are fast paced and quick moving.
There are some great moments of chemistry and heat between these two characters.
Ultimately a solid M/M read.
There are ups and downs throughout the novel. Moments that are kind of slow and other parts that are fast paced and quick moving.
There are some great moments of chemistry and heat between these two characters.
Ultimately a solid M/M read.
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October 6, 2017I'm going to have read this again. I really want to love it but feel like I received a Beta Proof instead of a finished book. I could practically see the red pencil marks with the little arrow suggesting different words or tense.
May 24, 2017
A mishmash of childhood fairy tales.
May 21, 2017
**I received a copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not influenced by my source.**
Those who are readily familiar with the adult paranormal and urban fantasy genres will gobble this up with no issue. You have lots of action, a slow burn romance and a suspenseful rebuilding the past story that will no doubt seize your attention.
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: http://wp.me/p7hLUw-25R
Actual Rating: 3/5
Those who are readily familiar with the adult paranormal and urban fantasy genres will gobble this up with no issue. You have lots of action, a slow burn romance and a suspenseful rebuilding the past story that will no doubt seize your attention.
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: http://wp.me/p7hLUw-25R
Actual Rating: 3/5
July 5, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
2 stars
Dear reader, a word of caution: my synopsis of this book is far and away more coherent than anything in this whole entire book. It took me forever to slog through it because I dreaded turning every page, fearing I’d be slapped in the face with another set of unexplained circumstances that lead to another mini-adventure that does not play into a whole overarching theme.
I found myself struggling to keep up with this overly involved plot. Chapter one is an endless barrage of character after character. The author painstakingly describes each character in purple prose (this is habitual throughout the story), makes a point of naming them and hammers home exactly which fairy tale trope each character represents, ensures they interact personally with Peter, and goes so far as to build up these characters’ backstories—all of which is to be utterly and entirely ignored until the last couple of pages of the book. Why bother setting such a grandiose stage if it’s only going to be ignored? There are no less than SEVEN named, described characters connected to Peter in the first couple of chapters…none of them relevant to the main action of the story, none of them any real connection to Luca except—and only in the most generous of ways—Granny.
It was frustrating to muddle through this cacophony of character noise only to realize all those names and personalities and conflict would be rendered utterly and entirely moot over the next 250 pages.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
2 stars
Dear reader, a word of caution: my synopsis of this book is far and away more coherent than anything in this whole entire book. It took me forever to slog through it because I dreaded turning every page, fearing I’d be slapped in the face with another set of unexplained circumstances that lead to another mini-adventure that does not play into a whole overarching theme.
I found myself struggling to keep up with this overly involved plot. Chapter one is an endless barrage of character after character. The author painstakingly describes each character in purple prose (this is habitual throughout the story), makes a point of naming them and hammers home exactly which fairy tale trope each character represents, ensures they interact personally with Peter, and goes so far as to build up these characters’ backstories—all of which is to be utterly and entirely ignored until the last couple of pages of the book. Why bother setting such a grandiose stage if it’s only going to be ignored? There are no less than SEVEN named, described characters connected to Peter in the first couple of chapters…none of them relevant to the main action of the story, none of them any real connection to Luca except—and only in the most generous of ways—Granny.
It was frustrating to muddle through this cacophony of character noise only to realize all those names and personalities and conflict would be rendered utterly and entirely moot over the next 250 pages.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
May 12, 2017
This is a fascinating and intriguing take on the big bad wolf, the fox and the hound and the boy who cried wolf. Not only fascinating but a great twist to the tales.
The story comes from both Luca and Peter’s POV. I like Luca’s more only because they are more introspective. Peter is the more inquisitive one but also he is more insecure. He doesn’t really feel comfortable with who he is. He hates the idea of being a soul eater but he also does really understand the idea of freedom. It isn’t until Luca comes back into his world that his views are changed as is his world and himself.
luca is the boy that was lost. He had a rough life and he is confused as to what he is going through. He can’t control his transformations and doesn’t remember his past. he only wants to be left alone to be free and live. Helping Peter wasn’t on his agenda and it wasn’t on Peter’s to help him. Luca is very quiet and introverted. When he does speak it has meaning and is with purpose. He accepts his life as it is and doesn’t feel knowing the past can do anything for him unlike Peter who feels it can help them both.
The attraction between them is insane. Luca is more comfortable with his sexuality than Peter is at first. He is at first like Peter Pan and doesn’t want to grow up. As he spends more time with Luca though he learns more about himself and what he wants. He stops being the trickster and starts to see life as it is. He learns who he is and also about Luca. He and Luca explore their feelings for each other and Luca helps Peter become more comfortable with who he is. their romance is sweet and has some sensual moments. They take turns saving each other and their time in the forest is incredible and amazing.
Luca and Peter made a great team as they help each other survive and figure out where they belong and who they are. They sacrifice alot for each other and protect one another. The end scene was insane and so action packed but how Peter becomes resolved with who he is and who he loves and shows some caring for others in an outwardly manner is awesome. He also accepts Luca’s feelings about things but doesn’t give up hope. He is reborn so to speak and so is Luca in a way. He almost loses all he holds dear and just wants to be with the ones he loves while he can.
Their story is filled with action, danger, love, discovery of self and their feelings, exploration of who they are and acceptance of their past, present and future. The story has friendship,sacrifice and hope. The characters will allure. The twists and turns in the different times they are both heroes and show themselves how they feel and grow is wonderful and the story is alluring. We get curses, witchcraft, sacrifice, love, family, self discovery and growth all rolled in a wonderfully entertaining book of two boys who were once friends trying to find their way and fall in love with one another and give each other hope.
The story comes from both Luca and Peter’s POV. I like Luca’s more only because they are more introspective. Peter is the more inquisitive one but also he is more insecure. He doesn’t really feel comfortable with who he is. He hates the idea of being a soul eater but he also does really understand the idea of freedom. It isn’t until Luca comes back into his world that his views are changed as is his world and himself.
luca is the boy that was lost. He had a rough life and he is confused as to what he is going through. He can’t control his transformations and doesn’t remember his past. he only wants to be left alone to be free and live. Helping Peter wasn’t on his agenda and it wasn’t on Peter’s to help him. Luca is very quiet and introverted. When he does speak it has meaning and is with purpose. He accepts his life as it is and doesn’t feel knowing the past can do anything for him unlike Peter who feels it can help them both.
The attraction between them is insane. Luca is more comfortable with his sexuality than Peter is at first. He is at first like Peter Pan and doesn’t want to grow up. As he spends more time with Luca though he learns more about himself and what he wants. He stops being the trickster and starts to see life as it is. He learns who he is and also about Luca. He and Luca explore their feelings for each other and Luca helps Peter become more comfortable with who he is. their romance is sweet and has some sensual moments. They take turns saving each other and their time in the forest is incredible and amazing.
Luca and Peter made a great team as they help each other survive and figure out where they belong and who they are. They sacrifice alot for each other and protect one another. The end scene was insane and so action packed but how Peter becomes resolved with who he is and who he loves and shows some caring for others in an outwardly manner is awesome. He also accepts Luca’s feelings about things but doesn’t give up hope. He is reborn so to speak and so is Luca in a way. He almost loses all he holds dear and just wants to be with the ones he loves while he can.
Their story is filled with action, danger, love, discovery of self and their feelings, exploration of who they are and acceptance of their past, present and future. The story has friendship,sacrifice and hope. The characters will allure. The twists and turns in the different times they are both heroes and show themselves how they feel and grow is wonderful and the story is alluring. We get curses, witchcraft, sacrifice, love, family, self discovery and growth all rolled in a wonderfully entertaining book of two boys who were once friends trying to find their way and fall in love with one another and give each other hope.
May 16, 2017
Cry Wolf is about two young men/teenagers, Peter is a fox-shifter and a Kistune with a demon living inside of him and Luca is a werewolf who was orphans and lived with the old lady in the shoe who is known as Granny Sole. Peter is well known as the boy who cried and Luca is known as the punisher.
Luca disappeared when they were just kids, Peter and the rest of the kids looked for Luca for months with no luck they finally assumed that he was dead. Then one day Peter is out in the woods and sees a group of people who are after a runaway slave. Peter decides to help this runaway slave and soon learns that it is his long lost friend whom he assumed was dead.
Peter is injured so with Luca’s help they escape to the Underwood where Luca takes care of Peter. Luca tells Peter that he must stay in Underwood until he heals and Luca trains him to fight. Peter is very happy to have his old friend back again but he learns that Luca has no memory of his life before he was taken as a slave.
Peter and Luca were great friends as boys but as boys they did fight a lot and with each other. Granny Sole tried everything to help the boys sometimes she would separate them and tie them up and let them yell and scream at each until they either made up or fell asleep from exhaustion. Other times she would lock them in the barn and I assume let them go at it until they made up or pasted out. But they back to being best friends when the sun came up the next day.
While Peter and Luca are in Underwood living in a cave and Luca is training to Peter to fight they spend a lot of time together alone and renew their friendship which soon turns into more than just mere friendship. They find they are attracted to each other which kind of blows Peter mind at first but as the days go by Peter attraction for Luca intensifies. Both boys have a hard time of trusting so therefore have a hard time of giving themselves to someone. I like the fact that Peter and Luca didn’t just fall into each other arms the very first minuet they find themselves alone. They took the time to get to know each other again and didn’t rush right into having relations.
Cry Wolf was a very slow to start books but once I got into the thick of it I didn’t want to put it down I wanted to keep reading and reading to find out what happens to Peter, Luca, Pippa, Hermes the flea, Granny Sole and all the other characters. Even now I am stilling thinking about Peter and Luca.
If you liked the old fairy tells from your youth or just reading the old fairy tells in general then I think you will truly enjoy reading Peter and Luca’s story, the boy who cried and the punisher. Why was Peter called the boy who cried? Why is Luca known as the punisher?
Luca disappeared when they were just kids, Peter and the rest of the kids looked for Luca for months with no luck they finally assumed that he was dead. Then one day Peter is out in the woods and sees a group of people who are after a runaway slave. Peter decides to help this runaway slave and soon learns that it is his long lost friend whom he assumed was dead.
Peter is injured so with Luca’s help they escape to the Underwood where Luca takes care of Peter. Luca tells Peter that he must stay in Underwood until he heals and Luca trains him to fight. Peter is very happy to have his old friend back again but he learns that Luca has no memory of his life before he was taken as a slave.
Peter and Luca were great friends as boys but as boys they did fight a lot and with each other. Granny Sole tried everything to help the boys sometimes she would separate them and tie them up and let them yell and scream at each until they either made up or fell asleep from exhaustion. Other times she would lock them in the barn and I assume let them go at it until they made up or pasted out. But they back to being best friends when the sun came up the next day.
While Peter and Luca are in Underwood living in a cave and Luca is training to Peter to fight they spend a lot of time together alone and renew their friendship which soon turns into more than just mere friendship. They find they are attracted to each other which kind of blows Peter mind at first but as the days go by Peter attraction for Luca intensifies. Both boys have a hard time of trusting so therefore have a hard time of giving themselves to someone. I like the fact that Peter and Luca didn’t just fall into each other arms the very first minuet they find themselves alone. They took the time to get to know each other again and didn’t rush right into having relations.
Cry Wolf was a very slow to start books but once I got into the thick of it I didn’t want to put it down I wanted to keep reading and reading to find out what happens to Peter, Luca, Pippa, Hermes the flea, Granny Sole and all the other characters. Even now I am stilling thinking about Peter and Luca.
If you liked the old fairy tells from your youth or just reading the old fairy tells in general then I think you will truly enjoy reading Peter and Luca’s story, the boy who cried and the punisher. Why was Peter called the boy who cried? Why is Luca known as the punisher?
May 6, 2017
Greta Stone builds a rich, vivid paranormal universe in Cry Wolf where all of our childhood fairy tales come to life - with a dark twist.
Cry Wolf is a mash-up of The Boy Who Cried Wolf and The Fox and the Hound. Peter is a kitsune, a fox shifter whose body is a vessel for a demon. He's living in Granny's orphanage (There was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe) along with dozens of other paranormal children. One day, he stops an attack by humans who are searching for a runaway werewolf, who just happens to be Luca, a were who was taken from the orphanage and lived as a slave until escaping - with no memory of Peter or his time at the Shoe.
This story is dense. The first 30-35% is spent building the world and setting up the relationships between Peter and Luca as well as Peter and his family at the Shoe, and Luca and his master, fellow slaves, and others. It was a bit difficult to get through at times because of the sheer amount of information we're taking in - the world Peter and Luca inhabit is so vastly different from our own, and incorporating the fairy tales we're all familiar with made it both easier and more difficult to understand at first. However, once we reach the 35% or so mark, the majority of the world and story is established, and the rest is smooth sailing.
This is a different approach to my favorite romance novel trope, friends to lovers. Peter and Luca were friends once, but Luca has lost all memory of Peter. When they are thrown back together, they must get to know each other again and re-build the trust and friendship necessary to become more. I really loved the way the author accomplished this and was surprised at the deep connection she forged between the two. Neither the paranormal story nor the romance suffered for the other; this was an enthralling read on all fronts.
An advanced copy of this book was received for an honest review on OMGReads.com.
Cry Wolf is a mash-up of The Boy Who Cried Wolf and The Fox and the Hound. Peter is a kitsune, a fox shifter whose body is a vessel for a demon. He's living in Granny's orphanage (There was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe) along with dozens of other paranormal children. One day, he stops an attack by humans who are searching for a runaway werewolf, who just happens to be Luca, a were who was taken from the orphanage and lived as a slave until escaping - with no memory of Peter or his time at the Shoe.
This story is dense. The first 30-35% is spent building the world and setting up the relationships between Peter and Luca as well as Peter and his family at the Shoe, and Luca and his master, fellow slaves, and others. It was a bit difficult to get through at times because of the sheer amount of information we're taking in - the world Peter and Luca inhabit is so vastly different from our own, and incorporating the fairy tales we're all familiar with made it both easier and more difficult to understand at first. However, once we reach the 35% or so mark, the majority of the world and story is established, and the rest is smooth sailing.
This is a different approach to my favorite romance novel trope, friends to lovers. Peter and Luca were friends once, but Luca has lost all memory of Peter. When they are thrown back together, they must get to know each other again and re-build the trust and friendship necessary to become more. I really loved the way the author accomplished this and was surprised at the deep connection she forged between the two. Neither the paranormal story nor the romance suffered for the other; this was an enthralling read on all fronts.
An advanced copy of this book was received for an honest review on OMGReads.com.
July 9, 2017
This book is a bit of a grab bag of different styles and genres, loosely following the old tale of Peter and the Wolf. The opening is from a lighthearted children’s fantasy, with a group of orphans living in a giant shoe preparing to do battle with stereotypical redneck invaders. (Most of these characters are not seen again until the final pages.) Then for 10% it’s an orgy of violence, as darker powers take over. Then the story literally moves to another world with a new backstory and another plotline for a three-month detour, including a further sidestep where the main character incurs a serious debt that is completely forgotten for the rest of the tale. Once Quetzalcoatl shows up, I’m completely lost. Then suddenly we’re into homoerotic pornography in incredible anatomical detail. The climax is a fine example of a modern paranormal magical battle.
The book is like several different stories cut and pasted together, all somehow connected, but we never find out why.
Despite this, the novel has a lot to recommend it. The writing is forceful, with marvelous descriptive power and emotional clout. Because of the canine nature of the shapeshifter main characters, odours become far more important than usual, and form an important part of the setting.
Unfortunately the manuscript contains may minor editing flaws. A tick that is suddenly a flea is no big deal, but it does rather distract the reader from the story. Sentences with extra or missing words have the same effect. What seems to be an important character with a developing plotline walks off with no explanation and is never seen again.
This is powerful writing, but uncontrolled like the creatures in the story. Emotions surge and wane for no apparent reason. Magical powers appear when needed.
Recommended for adult modern paranormal readers. Recommended also: a good editor. This novel could be so much more than it is now.
The book is like several different stories cut and pasted together, all somehow connected, but we never find out why.
Despite this, the novel has a lot to recommend it. The writing is forceful, with marvelous descriptive power and emotional clout. Because of the canine nature of the shapeshifter main characters, odours become far more important than usual, and form an important part of the setting.
Unfortunately the manuscript contains may minor editing flaws. A tick that is suddenly a flea is no big deal, but it does rather distract the reader from the story. Sentences with extra or missing words have the same effect. What seems to be an important character with a developing plotline walks off with no explanation and is never seen again.
This is powerful writing, but uncontrolled like the creatures in the story. Emotions surge and wane for no apparent reason. Magical powers appear when needed.
Recommended for adult modern paranormal readers. Recommended also: a good editor. This novel could be so much more than it is now.
May 23, 2017
I have to start by saying that there is nothing wrong with this book but it just wasn't my kind of thing and for that reason, I'm finding this review difficult to write. I have read many books with make-believe creatures in and loved them but I think this one was just too much for me.
Based on many of our favourite childhood fables, this story is kind of a mish-mash of many of those but twisted around and retold, with the tale of Peter And The Wolf being at the forefront. This is of course still a M/M romance with a slow burn and two very sweet MC's.
Although there is a good story here, at times there were so many characters with so many views and opinions that I just felt lost and couldn't get my head around what was going on. I like things a little less complicated. I shouldn't have to work so hard to keep up. For me, there were also times where the story would get exciting and then that too would suddenly vanish leaving me hanging, waiting for it to pick up and grab me again.
This is the first book in the series and the ending is therefore left open to continue again in the second installment which means that 1. these books have to be read in order (not standalones) and 2. there wasn't exactly a cliffhanger but the ending didn't feel complete either.
So, to sum this up, I liked the odd creatures and the story itself but it took too much effort to keep up with.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cheryl from Alpha Book Club
Alpha Book Club
All Alpha Males Accepted
alphabookclub.org
Based on many of our favourite childhood fables, this story is kind of a mish-mash of many of those but twisted around and retold, with the tale of Peter And The Wolf being at the forefront. This is of course still a M/M romance with a slow burn and two very sweet MC's.
Although there is a good story here, at times there were so many characters with so many views and opinions that I just felt lost and couldn't get my head around what was going on. I like things a little less complicated. I shouldn't have to work so hard to keep up. For me, there were also times where the story would get exciting and then that too would suddenly vanish leaving me hanging, waiting for it to pick up and grab me again.
This is the first book in the series and the ending is therefore left open to continue again in the second installment which means that 1. these books have to be read in order (not standalones) and 2. there wasn't exactly a cliffhanger but the ending didn't feel complete either.
So, to sum this up, I liked the odd creatures and the story itself but it took too much effort to keep up with.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cheryl from Alpha Book Club
Alpha Book Club
All Alpha Males Accepted
alphabookclub.org
May 13, 2017
Cry Wolf by Greta Stone is a paranormal MM romance between two men who met and became friends as children. It had a good blend of paranormal with fantasy, and the love story was sweet and moved at a steady progression. However, there were times when it moved slowly or was confusing. I will also say that the ending didn't feel like it completely ended. I wouldn't call it a cliffhanger, but it wasn't all wrapped up in a nice little package. And I'm okay with that. It is set up for the next book in the series.
I liked Luca and wished I had more of his story, but Peter I think could have been developed more. He remained stagnant for much of the story, and I'm hoping the author will show more growth in the next installment.
Overall, this story was enjoyable and I really liked how the author as able to blend her own imagination with the stories we all know and love. The stories and premises were put together and worked seamlessly. I recommend this book. 3.5 stars.
I liked Luca and wished I had more of his story, but Peter I think could have been developed more. He remained stagnant for much of the story, and I'm hoping the author will show more growth in the next installment.
Overall, this story was enjoyable and I really liked how the author as able to blend her own imagination with the stories we all know and love. The stories and premises were put together and worked seamlessly. I recommend this book. 3.5 stars.
August 7, 2017
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/reviews/...
In Cry Wolf, Peter is a kitsune, a fox shifter, who has chaos following him wherever he goes. Luca is a wolf who has no past and likely no future either, if he can’t stay hidden in the shadows. When someone steals his howl, he’s forced to investigate, and that leads him to Peter, a fox who insists he and Luca used to be friends, once upon a time.
Reminiscent of the story of The Fox and the Hound, and set in The Underwood, a dangerous yet fabulous place with fabulous world-building, this is an excellent story for people who enjoy dark paranormal romance, fables, and MM romance.
The suspense was there from the first page, and the pacing was high from the start, and never slowed down. This is an excellent book and I can’t recommend it enough.
In Cry Wolf, Peter is a kitsune, a fox shifter, who has chaos following him wherever he goes. Luca is a wolf who has no past and likely no future either, if he can’t stay hidden in the shadows. When someone steals his howl, he’s forced to investigate, and that leads him to Peter, a fox who insists he and Luca used to be friends, once upon a time.
Reminiscent of the story of The Fox and the Hound, and set in The Underwood, a dangerous yet fabulous place with fabulous world-building, this is an excellent story for people who enjoy dark paranormal romance, fables, and MM romance.
The suspense was there from the first page, and the pacing was high from the start, and never slowed down. This is an excellent book and I can’t recommend it enough.
May 11, 2017
Re-imagine the tales you heard as a child. Then think of them in the perspective of LBGTQ+ communities. This will allow for you to see the world of fairytales and old folk tales in a different light. Take a look deeper past the tales and see the heart of it all. What you will find will be a beautiful love story that has no bounds or ends. You will need to take in the scenery on multiple levels and let go of the preconceptions you have about the fables you once heard. Open your mind and you will find a beautiful read that shows a just a beautiful relationship. I enjoyed my read and took my time to really get immersed within the walls of the reading. This was no quick read. Take your time and enjoy the journey.
May 4, 2017
Familiar yet unique. The author really showed quite a bit of imagination with this novel.
I liked that this novel challenged me to keep up. It is a new world and you have a lot to take in, but ultimately everything comes together rather nicely at the end.
The connection and relationship between these characters was fun to read about. Will they, wont they? Do they like each other? Do they hate each other? What connects them? Can they put aside their differences and work together? There were just so many unknowns throughout the novel that kept me flipping pages.
Folklore and Fables, Paranormal and Romance, LGBT and M/M… so many different genres coming together cohesively.
I liked that this novel challenged me to keep up. It is a new world and you have a lot to take in, but ultimately everything comes together rather nicely at the end.
The connection and relationship between these characters was fun to read about. Will they, wont they? Do they like each other? Do they hate each other? What connects them? Can they put aside their differences and work together? There were just so many unknowns throughout the novel that kept me flipping pages.
Folklore and Fables, Paranormal and Romance, LGBT and M/M… so many different genres coming together cohesively.
May 16, 2017
A little too much going in the beginning with all the characters and different versions of the fairytales. Once I was able to settle my brain though, I really got into the story! We first meet the main characters at the beginning, but we don't get to really know the major players until later on in the story when snippets are told throughout. I liked that there wasn't an instasex connection. They both felt immediately attracted, but took a long time to build up to that attraction. I enjoyed the story overall and the characters, I do think the beginning was a little confusing and almost threw me off this one.
I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
May 16, 2017
A little too much going in the beginning with all the characters and different versions of the fairytales. Once I was able to settle my brain though, I really got into the story! We first meet the main characters at the beginning, but we don't get to really know the major players until later on in the story when snippets are told throughout. I liked that there wasn't an instasex connection. They both felt immediately attracted, but took a long time to build up to that attraction. I enjoyed the story overall and the characters, I do think the beginning was a little confusing and almost threw me off this one.
I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
-Ashley :)
I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily reviewing.
-Ashley :)
May 4, 2017
I think my main takeaway from this novel is that you get a lot more than you are expecting. Greta Stone really does a superb job of weaving together a story that is very versatile. Everything from characterization to the storyline was anything but one note.
I loved the wit and humor that were laced throughout this novel to help cut through the tension at times.
The relationship took me a bit to become invested in. I wasn't wholly sold on it and it took me a bit to warm up, but then again, isn't that the way some relationships happen?
Dark and Gloomy but Exciting and Fresh.
I loved the wit and humor that were laced throughout this novel to help cut through the tension at times.
The relationship took me a bit to become invested in. I wasn't wholly sold on it and it took me a bit to warm up, but then again, isn't that the way some relationships happen?
Dark and Gloomy but Exciting and Fresh.
May 26, 2017
Great re-invention of a classic story. Peter and Luca are complicated, charming and easy to follow in love with.
The storytelling, however, needs some editing. The occasional typo/misspelling and grammatical are errors are bad enough but there are some really odd and clunky sentence constructions that will toss the reader out of immersion while trying to weaving in and out of meanings. I still loved the story and look forward to reading more by the author but be forewarned that you'll struggle through some less than elegant writing.
The storytelling, however, needs some editing. The occasional typo/misspelling and grammatical are errors are bad enough but there are some really odd and clunky sentence constructions that will toss the reader out of immersion while trying to weaving in and out of meanings. I still loved the story and look forward to reading more by the author but be forewarned that you'll struggle through some less than elegant writing.
May 18, 2017
This story was very entertaining, I was laughing at parts that have story book. They way the author put them in with this big paranormal twist was done so well I would not have thought possible. I liked Peters character and how he changes over the story. Luca's character was also quiet well written and to see him trying to put peaces together made for a good book.
May 22, 2017
Excellent
Cry wolf is an excellent read from beginning to the end. Luca and peter deserve more stories written about them.
Cry wolf is an excellent read from beginning to the end. Luca and peter deserve more stories written about them.
August 1, 2017
Good, but could be better
This is quite the interesting take on all the old fairy tales I grew up with. I have always enjoyed books and media that portray the fairy tale world in a little bit of a different light. Stone does a fabulous job of creating a new fairy tale, with a mixture of human and monster like qualities. She allows the reader to see under the skin of the characters, creating new emotions and back stories. As much as I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the story she wove, I feel that the plot is somewhat lacking, and I really wasn't as involved as I hoped to be. It was more of a 'looking in on' feeling than a 'being pulled in' gripper.
This is quite the interesting take on all the old fairy tales I grew up with. I have always enjoyed books and media that portray the fairy tale world in a little bit of a different light. Stone does a fabulous job of creating a new fairy tale, with a mixture of human and monster like qualities. She allows the reader to see under the skin of the characters, creating new emotions and back stories. As much as I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the story she wove, I feel that the plot is somewhat lacking, and I really wasn't as involved as I hoped to be. It was more of a 'looking in on' feeling than a 'being pulled in' gripper.
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