The Wolf

by Ed

Forests. Magic. Werewolves. But who is the real monster and who is the real man here?

357 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 12, 2017

Reviews

[TeaAndBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 4/5
Originality: 5/5
Overall: 4.5/5

Firstly, a HUGE thank to the wonderful author of this book for giving me a free eBook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review- I really am grateful!

This book follows the story of seventeen-year-old Charlotte, who has recently moved to the city of Rowen with her mother and younger brother, Dimitri in order to escape persecution. However, as she is settling into her new life, a new problem arises. She and her two friends, Emma and Sarah are attacked and bitten by a wolf.

They have to try and cope with hiding their wounds from the Hunters and also struggle with the changes that happen after their bite. However, the wolf returns and more dangerous than ever. Charlotte, Emma and Sarah must stand united to save the people they love.

I was pleasantly surprised with this book and can honestly say that I loved it! I loved the plot and especially the style of writing- it encaptivated me and I know that I will be re-reading it very soon! This book was ORIGINAL and I truly think we need more books like this- unique and incredible!

The following quotation is a small sample of how outstanding the writing style is:
‘The trees beyond the fence were even larger than the ones surrounding her new home: towering evergreens with trunks wrapped in moss, branches that wove a thick canopy overhead, blocking out the sky; twisting rowans, their limbs sprinkled with berries like clustered drops of blood; spruces that turned silver-blue in the gleaming moonlight; oaks that shook and whispered gently in the faint breeze, telling stories of legends long lost.’

The characters were incredible- they were fierce and independent. My 4/5 is only because I would like more from the characters, but that’s probably just me being upset over the book ending!

‘Sarah linked her arms through Charlotte’s and Emma’s. “I think we’re strong enough now.”’

Charlotte is probably my favourite character as she is simply an inspiration- she is strong, beautiful and kind.

Sarah is strong and I love her so much!

Emma is hilarious and honestly has a great sense of humour.

‘Sarah let out an exasperated sigh and fixed Emma with a hard look. “What are you doing outside the village?”
“Sleepwalking.”’

The wolf was described perfectly and I felt fear at the though of the wolf. The author is a commendable writer and I NEED more of her work!

‘A wolf stood behind them, half-hidden in the deep black and blue shadows beneath the towering trees. The beast was large and covered in pale fur, its silvery coat shining in the moonlight. Bright ivory teeth flashed as it growled at her.’

The author was very good at creating tension. She shows exactly how dangerous the wolf is and I loved the feeling of anticipation it gave me.

‘“Get out of here, all three of you,” he said angrily. “And don’t come back. Silver won’t save you- not with wolves like these.”’

Here is yet another example of the author’s beautiful writing- if I was to give a few of my favourite examples, this review would be very long!

‘Lightning tore across the sky. Thunder crashed in the air. Blood pounded in her ears and for a moment the night went silent but for the heavy drumbeat of her heart as she leapt into the air.’

Overall, this was a great book and I highly recommend it if you want an action-packed story that will stay with you. I hope to read more from the author as she truly is an amazing writer. This is her debut novel and she has done a brilliant job!

[Emilie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Review to come

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been in a bit of a book slump, but Charlotte and the Wolf helped me to escape! This was such a fun and interesting read, full of friendship/girl power. I loved that I would form ideas about what was going to happen, and I was so wrong! This is a great read with adventure, danger, mystery, mystical elements, and so much more. I would definitely recommend this book! And, congratulations to Elli Daniels on a great debut novel!

[ana. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Review to come.

[VICTORIA VAN VLEAR · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I met Elli on Instagram, and bought her book to support her, not really knowing if it would be good. But I read it in two days, and it was totally worth the purchase. Her writing is excellent, as are her characters and world building. The only part that was harder for me was some of the plot progression—the characters came to realizations far after I did, so in that way it felt as if I was "smarter" than the main characters, which isn't as fun. But overall, I really enjoyed the read.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know when you find that book that isn’t full of clichés and you want to cry because you’re so happy? Well this is that book! This is a book with some serious girl power! After receiving an arc copy I was amazed with how different this book is from the way mainstream media portrays so many women. If you want a book where girls take control of their own lives and kick some butt as they go, then this is the book for you! The three main characters are a unique little bunch that are brave and resourceful. I was enthralled from the very beginning and I honestly was freaking out at the end because of how intense and suspenseful it was! This is one I plan on reading again and again!

[Samantha Eborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes you just need a solid adventure that's new and original. Charlotte and the Wolf was exactly that for me. After reading endlessly for school and other projects, this is a book that relaxed me whist still making me want to know more because of the wonderful way the plot was written. The mystery was enveloping and well crafted by Elli Daniels. Everything about this book seemed so organic and flowed brilliantly from one chapter to the next. Sometimes I read a book and find that certain plot points come up unexpectedly (and not in a good plot-twist kind of way) but this book was like a puzzle that fit together with its plot twists. The climax of this book was one of the best I have ever read. The imagery was so well it was just like I could see it like a movie in my head- but like I was actually there in the setting. The characters are lovable and they really hold their own throughout the book. Charlotte, Emma, and Sarah, are all uniquely crafted. I was really excited while reading this book, wishing that I could be in that world with the girls as they struggles with a new 'change'.

[Abigail Hobbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This debut novel is a solid YA read. It offers a refreshing take on "werewolf" legends and features plucky but realistic female leads. The dynamic of the three girls' friendship was very cute and real. I loved how they played off each other. Emma may have been my favorite bc she seemed so realistic. She definitely had faults but was very tough. I wanted to know more about the world; it felt a little grey to me at times. BUT the protagonists led very isolated lives so that may have been reflective of their experience. The girls had very relatable adolescent struggles... and then get thrown into a serious otherworldly situation with the wolf. All in all this book was a joy to read. I recommend it!

[Geneviève (thefreckledbookworm)]

I couldn't get into this book, even though I tried a few times. The sentences are VERY long, so it's hard to keep track of what is going on.

DNF.

[Darinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strong characters. Good world building. Enjoyable novel.