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The Legend of All Wolves #1
The Last Wolf
For three days out of thirty, when the moon is full and her law is iron, the Great North Pack must be wild.
If she returns to her Pack, the stranger will die.
But if she stays...
Silver Nilsdottir is at the bottom of her Pack's social order, with little chance for a decent mate and a better life. Until the day a stranger stumbles into their territory, wounded and beaten, and Silver decides to risk everything on Tiberius Leveraux. But Tiberius isn't all he seems, and in the fragile balance of the Pack and wild, he may tip the destiny of all wolves...
If she returns to her Pack, the stranger will die.
But if she stays...
Silver Nilsdottir is at the bottom of her Pack's social order, with little chance for a decent mate and a better life. Until the day a stranger stumbles into their territory, wounded and beaten, and Silver decides to risk everything on Tiberius Leveraux. But Tiberius isn't all he seems, and in the fragile balance of the Pack and wild, he may tip the destiny of all wolves...
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2018
828 people are currently reading
6144 people want to read
About the author
Maria Vale
15 books913 followersMaria Vale is a journalist who has worked for Publishers Weekly, Glamour, Redbook and the Philadelphia Inquirer. She's a double-Rita finalist whose books have been listed by Amazon, Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, ALA Booklist & Kirkus among their Best Books of the Year. Trained as a medievalist, she persists in trying to shoehorn the language of Beowulf into things that don't really need it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 560 reviews
April 29, 2022
Leonora says humans fear men but not women. Which I don’t understand at all. How is it possible that they alone of all animals don’t know that there is nothing more ferocious, more deadly, more willing to die than a female protecting her own.
There were a few things I didn’t like it the book but that’s my taste. I love these characters and the different and coolest take on wolves and shifters that I’ve ever read!
Family is everything, even if it’s harsh. And I absolutely love Silver and Ti!
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
May 8, 2022
Round up to 3.5. I really really liked 95% of this book.
The other 5% really really frustrated me.
Biggest frustration?
Virginity myths galore!
Can we please, please stop promoting the idea that a cisgender man can tell if a cisgender woman has had sexual intercourse just by touching her between her legs? It doesn't work like that and never has. Gynecologists with mirrors and speculums can't tell; yes, they can notice physical changes, but there's no way of seeing how those happened.
It's just outdated and wrong-headed to write any book set in the 21st century and portray sex as happening like this. I mean, there are still plenty of people who believe in the physical evidence of virginity, but it's just not true, and there are plenty of ways to do that "experienced man beds inexperienced woman" trope without relying on anatomical inaccuracy.
Yes, I have strong feelings about this.
Otherwise: The story had lots of really cool twists I didn't see coming. Silver, our narrator, is delightful. The world building is really terrific. There were a few writing decisions that didn't quite work for me, but otherwise, reading this book was a nice way to relax on a quiet weekend.
Note: Cisgender man and cisgender woman refer to men and women whose gender identity aligns with the gender they were assigned at birth.
I’m using gender terms rather than the relevant anatomical words here because I don’t know if this platform will allow me to use anatomical words.
The other 5% really really frustrated me.
Biggest frustration?
Virginity myths galore!
Can we please, please stop promoting the idea that a cisgender man can tell if a cisgender woman has had sexual intercourse just by touching her between her legs? It doesn't work like that and never has. Gynecologists with mirrors and speculums can't tell; yes, they can notice physical changes, but there's no way of seeing how those happened.
It's just outdated and wrong-headed to write any book set in the 21st century and portray sex as happening like this. I mean, there are still plenty of people who believe in the physical evidence of virginity, but it's just not true, and there are plenty of ways to do that "experienced man beds inexperienced woman" trope without relying on anatomical inaccuracy.
Yes, I have strong feelings about this.
Otherwise: The story had lots of really cool twists I didn't see coming. Silver, our narrator, is delightful. The world building is really terrific. There were a few writing decisions that didn't quite work for me, but otherwise, reading this book was a nice way to relax on a quiet weekend.
Note: Cisgender man and cisgender woman refer to men and women whose gender identity aligns with the gender they were assigned at birth.
I’m using gender terms rather than the relevant anatomical words here because I don’t know if this platform will allow me to use anatomical words.
June 10, 2019
I love this book more than I can possibly express and think everyone should read this hidden gem that deserves the many accolades it's already received. I read the novel early for a quote request and was blown away by the story and the writing and by the way it turns paranormal romance on its head to deliver something fresh, unique, and different. This is what I said: A masterful reinventing of the established lore. The Last Wolf pits devotion against duty and survival with complexity and emotion and delivers a story that is raw, wild, and intense—captivating to the final page.
Book two is just as good and I'm reading book 3 in the series now.
Everyone go read this!
Book two is just as good and I'm reading book 3 in the series now.
Everyone go read this!
July 20, 2023
This was an interesting an unique take on the werewolf mythology. Instead of being humans that can shift into wolves, they're wolves who shift into humans. I know, it doesn't sound like much of a difference, but it is! They view and see the world differently and have to change into wolves during the full moon. I really liked the world building and characters - Tiberius and Silver were complex and interesting. The plot logic, though fell apart for me at the end.
August 28, 2020
I liked this story, but it did not wow me. If you are looking for romance, then this is not a book for you. The main characters became a couple, but the focus was more on pack politics and survival.
The Last Wolf, the first book in The Legend of All Wolves, tells the story of Silver Nilsdottir and Tiberius Leveraux. Silver is a member of the Great North Park, an ancient breed and the first of their kind to relocate to North America.
Because of a birth defect, Silver is at the lower echelon of the pack, destined to be a slave. At the moment she was to face her destiny, a wounded shifter seeking refuge entered their midst. To save him from death at the hands of her pack members, she offered to become his protector, which released her from becoming a slave. This would prove a risk as they both faced the possibility of being exiled if the Pack did not consider the stranger worthy to become a part of them. In addition, he is keeping a secret, which has the potential to destroy the pack.
The prologue provided a history of how the pack ended up living in North America. We also see how the enmity between shifters and werewolves originated. The events which occurred were interesting, which had me looking forward to the rest of the story. However, it did not go as expected. I found the pacing to be slow, and it took me some time to get into the story. In addition, I found parts of the story difficult to follow. I had to reread several paragraphs in my aim to grasp the Pack’s rules and behaviours among other things. The story yielded a few laughs and some awkward moments. Narrated from the POV of the heroine, the story treats readers to her perspective, but I feel it would have more of an impact if Tiberius’s POV was introduced.
Silver and Tiberius had a lot in common. They were both damaged physically and emotionally. Tiberius refused to embrace his wolf as result. Silver is determined, resilient, loyal, smart and somewhat impulsive, while Tiberius was strong and protective. I enjoyed getting to know them as individuals, but I found it difficult to connect with them as a couple.
I found the world building unique. Pack members and shifters were sworn enemies and would kill each other when the opportunity arises. The pack members were wolves who changed to humans. Some were not comfortable being humans but did so as a means of survival. Shifters were humans who changed to wolves and preferred to embrace their human sides. The laws and customs of the pack were strange and gruesome. For example, whatever they killed, had to be eaten, which led to a few stomach-turning moments.
Narration
I received an ARC through Netgalley, but never got around to reading. I purchased a copy earlier this year and just as I was about to read it I discovered it was in Audible Escape, so I listened to the audio. It was my first time listening to Rachel Dulude. I enjoyed her portrayal of Silver. She brought the story to life, which made it easy to listen.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Overall, I found The Last Wolf to be an interesting start to the series.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
The Last Wolf, the first book in The Legend of All Wolves, tells the story of Silver Nilsdottir and Tiberius Leveraux. Silver is a member of the Great North Park, an ancient breed and the first of their kind to relocate to North America.
Because of a birth defect, Silver is at the lower echelon of the pack, destined to be a slave. At the moment she was to face her destiny, a wounded shifter seeking refuge entered their midst. To save him from death at the hands of her pack members, she offered to become his protector, which released her from becoming a slave. This would prove a risk as they both faced the possibility of being exiled if the Pack did not consider the stranger worthy to become a part of them. In addition, he is keeping a secret, which has the potential to destroy the pack.
The prologue provided a history of how the pack ended up living in North America. We also see how the enmity between shifters and werewolves originated. The events which occurred were interesting, which had me looking forward to the rest of the story. However, it did not go as expected. I found the pacing to be slow, and it took me some time to get into the story. In addition, I found parts of the story difficult to follow. I had to reread several paragraphs in my aim to grasp the Pack’s rules and behaviours among other things. The story yielded a few laughs and some awkward moments. Narrated from the POV of the heroine, the story treats readers to her perspective, but I feel it would have more of an impact if Tiberius’s POV was introduced.
Silver and Tiberius had a lot in common. They were both damaged physically and emotionally. Tiberius refused to embrace his wolf as result. Silver is determined, resilient, loyal, smart and somewhat impulsive, while Tiberius was strong and protective. I enjoyed getting to know them as individuals, but I found it difficult to connect with them as a couple.
I found the world building unique. Pack members and shifters were sworn enemies and would kill each other when the opportunity arises. The pack members were wolves who changed to humans. Some were not comfortable being humans but did so as a means of survival. Shifters were humans who changed to wolves and preferred to embrace their human sides. The laws and customs of the pack were strange and gruesome. For example, whatever they killed, had to be eaten, which led to a few stomach-turning moments.
Narration
I received an ARC through Netgalley, but never got around to reading. I purchased a copy earlier this year and just as I was about to read it I discovered it was in Audible Escape, so I listened to the audio. It was my first time listening to Rachel Dulude. I enjoyed her portrayal of Silver. She brought the story to life, which made it easy to listen.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Overall, I found The Last Wolf to be an interesting start to the series.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
April 9, 2019
This book is simply extraordinary. Hauntingly written, compelling, mesmerizing. I couldn't put it down. The take on wolves is fantastic in every sense. I loved the gritty realism and sensuality of the wolves lives. This isn't a lighthearted tale - it's like a fist to the heart. I loved everything about it and immediately went on to read the second book, which I also love. This debut author has won me over. This is paragon of what fantasy/paranormal/romance crossover can do.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
March 3, 2018
I was forced to DNF this story, I found myself lost in the worldbuilding and I don't think this type of shifter romance is my forte. Just felt bored with it and by 40% I had to let go of it. There were some aspects that I found interesting but not enough for me to keep going especially when I have been trying for almost two months to get into this book and haven't been able to!! Time to let go, maybe someday later I will pick it up again.
February 7, 2018
The Last Wolf is the first book in a new series by Maria Vale. Maria is a debut author and I am definitely a fan. She has designed a fresh and intricate new world surrounding the lore of werewolves and shapeshifters. It’s a great spin on these ancient creatures that have been depicted in so many ways throughout history. The story starts off in the 1600s and comes into 2018 where we see how the modern world affects how mystical creatures have altered their survival tactics.
At the core of The Last Wolf, it’s an unlikely lovely story involving a werewolf named Silver and a shifter named Tiberius. However, there is a lot more to it than that. The book also focuses on tradition, trust, and betrayal as well as the concept of nature versus nurture. Silver grew up in the pack and fully accepts their traditions. She is not comfortable being in human form and has no clue how to maneuver in the human world. On the other hand, Tiberius is the exact opposite. He feels out of place when he comes to live with the pack for sanctuary and he is very much a human. It’s a simple case of how Tiberius was raised to shun the part of him that’s a werewolf because he is half-shifter/half-werewolf. Silver is the runt of her pack and is destined to always be at the bottom of the hierarchy although her lineage is that of werewolf royalty. Together, Silver and Tiberius embark on a journey of love and acceptance not only of each other but of all parts of their heritage. They truly complement each other.
There is nothing about The Last Wolf that’s predictable or cliche. I was pleasantly surprised by all of the new concepts that the author introduced in this often told tale of the supernatural. I can’t say enough about how impressed I was with the writing and imagination that went into this book. I can’t wait for the next book.
**Received a copy from the publisher and reviewed voluntarily.**
At the core of The Last Wolf, it’s an unlikely lovely story involving a werewolf named Silver and a shifter named Tiberius. However, there is a lot more to it than that. The book also focuses on tradition, trust, and betrayal as well as the concept of nature versus nurture. Silver grew up in the pack and fully accepts their traditions. She is not comfortable being in human form and has no clue how to maneuver in the human world. On the other hand, Tiberius is the exact opposite. He feels out of place when he comes to live with the pack for sanctuary and he is very much a human. It’s a simple case of how Tiberius was raised to shun the part of him that’s a werewolf because he is half-shifter/half-werewolf. Silver is the runt of her pack and is destined to always be at the bottom of the hierarchy although her lineage is that of werewolf royalty. Together, Silver and Tiberius embark on a journey of love and acceptance not only of each other but of all parts of their heritage. They truly complement each other.
There is nothing about The Last Wolf that’s predictable or cliche. I was pleasantly surprised by all of the new concepts that the author introduced in this often told tale of the supernatural. I can’t say enough about how impressed I was with the writing and imagination that went into this book. I can’t wait for the next book.
**Received a copy from the publisher and reviewed voluntarily.**
March 17, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Silver Nilsdottir is the runt of the pack, she's smaller than all the other wolves and has a bad leg, this puts her right at the bottom of the pecking order. It seems inevitable that she will end up as the indentured servant of the alpha pair. Until Tiberius Leveraux stumbles on to their land half dead and asking for sanctuary.
I love it when taking a chance pays off. I decided to read this mainly because I liked the cover and I wanted a new PNR to get my teeth into. I didn't really hold out much hope that I would love it. So, when I started reading and realised this wasn't quite what I expected and so much more I was thrilled. I loved it.
When I started reading I thought it would be a light fluffy PNR where the hero lets the heroine find her self worth even though she is perceived as weaker by those around her blah blah blah. However, Vale gave us a much grittier and complicated story than that. If you are a fan of Anne Bishop's The Others series, The Last Wolf has a similar feel. The wolves in this really are wolves, they just happen to be able to shift to a human shape and you really get the sense of otherness when you are reading it. At first, this made it a little hard to connect with Silver and some of the characters surrounding her, they just think so differently. But Silver's personality, her strange innocence and determination and love for her Pack come through really strongly and she quickly became a heroine I adored.
Then there's Tiberius, he's the "normal" one, the character that it is easier to identify with as he has been brought up in a human world. Watching him acclimatising to the ways of the Pack, with the help and guidance of Silver, especially as we view his "human" ways from Silver's POV had me glued to the page. The romance between them grew with the book and again it is viewed through the lens of the Pack, which was at times hilarious, which just made the whole things more interesting. However, the differing cultures did not take away from the chemistry between them.
This was a fantastic read and what I loved most about it was the world that Vale created. This is down as one of the best books I have read so far this year and I fully intend to recommend it to everyone and grab the next book in the series as soon as I can.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
February 9, 2018
This review was copied from my romance novel review blog: romanticallyinclinedreviews.blogspot.com
Werewolf fan? Stop what you’re doing. The Last Wolf by Maria Vale is the most authentic werewolf book I’ve ever read. You’ll find yourself stopping to think… Are werewolves actually real? That’s how intense and well-researched this novel is. Amazing. Thorough. And freaking hilarious to boot.
I’m not even a fan of werewolf books, to be honest. Shifters are more my thing. So imagine my surprise at how much I absolutely adored this novel, especially given that the shifters are the bad guys (cue gasping noise here). But I’ll shut up because I pride myself on spoiler-less reviews and I don’t want to back track on that now.
In The Last Wolf we are first transported back in time to 1668 when the original clans made the brave decision to uproot themselves and move to a new land, aka. America. All the shifter and werewolf stories I’ve ever read are modern day and it was intensely cool to be able to see how things started out. Eventually the story moves up to present day, but that doesn’t mean that the wolves are modern in the least. This is a whole new take on that tired old werewolf story you already know.
Silver Nilsdottir is at the bottom of her Pack’s social order, with little chance for a decent mate and a better life. Until one day a stranger stumbles into their territory, wounded and beaten, and Silver decides to risk everything on Tiberius Leveraux. But Tiberius isn’t all he seems, and in the fragile balance of Pack and wild, he may tip the destiny of all wolves…
At first glance you think it’s romantic that Silver chooses to stay with Tiberius but the reality of the situation is that she just doesn’t want to return to her pack the lowest of the low waiting for the day that she’s kicked out altogether. If she and Tiberius can get his wolf under control then they have a chance of entering the pack as a real pairing. The absolute best part of this book is Silver’s oddities. She hates her human form and would much prefer to live forever in her wolf form (might still), she has strange teeth that never fully look human, and she understands nothing about the human world. And just try to get her to wear clothes.
Watching her try and understand Tiberius’ human side and watching Tiberius try to understand life as a wolf was one laugh after another. And yet, it was still such a serious book. I don’t understand how Maria Vale managed to create a book like that, but somehow she did and I’m so happy about it. I would read any and every book that this woman ever creates from here on out. You can tell from her writing that she didn’t just pull a werewolf story out of nowhere. This is a well-researched novel from start to finish.
Werewolf fan? Stop what you’re doing. The Last Wolf by Maria Vale is the most authentic werewolf book I’ve ever read. You’ll find yourself stopping to think… Are werewolves actually real? That’s how intense and well-researched this novel is. Amazing. Thorough. And freaking hilarious to boot.
I’m not even a fan of werewolf books, to be honest. Shifters are more my thing. So imagine my surprise at how much I absolutely adored this novel, especially given that the shifters are the bad guys (cue gasping noise here). But I’ll shut up because I pride myself on spoiler-less reviews and I don’t want to back track on that now.
In The Last Wolf we are first transported back in time to 1668 when the original clans made the brave decision to uproot themselves and move to a new land, aka. America. All the shifter and werewolf stories I’ve ever read are modern day and it was intensely cool to be able to see how things started out. Eventually the story moves up to present day, but that doesn’t mean that the wolves are modern in the least. This is a whole new take on that tired old werewolf story you already know.
Silver Nilsdottir is at the bottom of her Pack’s social order, with little chance for a decent mate and a better life. Until one day a stranger stumbles into their territory, wounded and beaten, and Silver decides to risk everything on Tiberius Leveraux. But Tiberius isn’t all he seems, and in the fragile balance of Pack and wild, he may tip the destiny of all wolves…
At first glance you think it’s romantic that Silver chooses to stay with Tiberius but the reality of the situation is that she just doesn’t want to return to her pack the lowest of the low waiting for the day that she’s kicked out altogether. If she and Tiberius can get his wolf under control then they have a chance of entering the pack as a real pairing. The absolute best part of this book is Silver’s oddities. She hates her human form and would much prefer to live forever in her wolf form (might still), she has strange teeth that never fully look human, and she understands nothing about the human world. And just try to get her to wear clothes.
Watching her try and understand Tiberius’ human side and watching Tiberius try to understand life as a wolf was one laugh after another. And yet, it was still such a serious book. I don’t understand how Maria Vale managed to create a book like that, but somehow she did and I’m so happy about it. I would read any and every book that this woman ever creates from here on out. You can tell from her writing that she didn’t just pull a werewolf story out of nowhere. This is a well-researched novel from start to finish.
July 21, 2020
**ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I really enjoyed reading The Last Wolf, and this book was a great mix of Paranormal Romance and Fantasy. Neither overpowered the other and the author did great job in balancing those two genres. Lately, I don't read a lot of PNR/UF books and it is really difficult for me to find a story that will keep me interested in this genre, so I was really happy that this story exceeded my expectations. The blurb gives a great short overview of what this story is about: "Silver is at the bottom of her Pack’s social order, with little chance for a decent mate and a better life. Until the day a stranger stumbles into their territory, wounded and beaten, and Silver decides to risk everything on Tiberius Leveraux." These two characters are complete opposites of each other. Silver was born crippled and a runt, and Ti is half shifter and half pack. Ti sees himself as human and hates his pack side, while Silver doesn't know anything else. These two would under normal circumstances never come across each other, or associate with one another.
Werewolves are my favorite paranormal creatures and I love learning about pack law and their traditions/customs. I have read a lot of paranormal romance, and especially with the werewolf/shifter type of stories the author usually doesn't focus that much on the ins and outs of a pack. I loved that they didn't try to live in the human world, they have their own home and they are happy with their lives. I loved how Silver and Ti met and how their relationship developed. The author didn't rush and she also focused on their individual growth. This is the first book in The Legend of All Wolves series and I am wondering if the next book will focus on the same couple or other pack members. I personally love Silver and Ti, and I would love to see how their story will continue.
I really enjoyed reading The Last Wolf, and this book was a great mix of Paranormal Romance and Fantasy. Neither overpowered the other and the author did great job in balancing those two genres. Lately, I don't read a lot of PNR/UF books and it is really difficult for me to find a story that will keep me interested in this genre, so I was really happy that this story exceeded my expectations. The blurb gives a great short overview of what this story is about: "Silver is at the bottom of her Pack’s social order, with little chance for a decent mate and a better life. Until the day a stranger stumbles into their territory, wounded and beaten, and Silver decides to risk everything on Tiberius Leveraux." These two characters are complete opposites of each other. Silver was born crippled and a runt, and Ti is half shifter and half pack. Ti sees himself as human and hates his pack side, while Silver doesn't know anything else. These two would under normal circumstances never come across each other, or associate with one another.
Werewolves are my favorite paranormal creatures and I love learning about pack law and their traditions/customs. I have read a lot of paranormal romance, and especially with the werewolf/shifter type of stories the author usually doesn't focus that much on the ins and outs of a pack. I loved that they didn't try to live in the human world, they have their own home and they are happy with their lives. I loved how Silver and Ti met and how their relationship developed. The author didn't rush and she also focused on their individual growth. This is the first book in The Legend of All Wolves series and I am wondering if the next book will focus on the same couple or other pack members. I personally love Silver and Ti, and I would love to see how their story will continue.
April 25, 2021
Such a brilliant concept and super gorgeous writing style, yet it's the world so depressing I don't want to have anything to do with it. Totally like when someone finished reading Shakespeare's Great Works and went
"meh"
and then walked away.
💦Why has this world been so depressing⁉️
💦Why has this world been so depressing⁉️
October 4, 2017
3 LONE WOLF STARS
The Last Wolf begins with a young girl named Silver. She is crippled, as well as a wolf. Most of her life she has been a servant to her pack alpha, leaving her without a mate.
Tiberius is a shifter, one with a huge secret. He begs the alpha for a place in the pack. But must prove his worth to stay or be cut loose and marked as a lone wolf.
The romance in this story was not the main focus of The Last Wolf. It's about survival, protecting the pack, making friends and enemies. Ms. Vale has built a world full of mythical creatures, that is raw and consuming. But, I will admit that I was confused quite a few times. There are a lot of characters, different creatures of the lore. It would have been a tad bit helpful if The Last Wolf had an index. That being said, I really enjoyed The Last Wolf. It's different from all the other stories out there. I look forward to reading future books from Ms. Vale.
The Last Wolf begins with a young girl named Silver. She is crippled, as well as a wolf. Most of her life she has been a servant to her pack alpha, leaving her without a mate.
Tiberius is a shifter, one with a huge secret. He begs the alpha for a place in the pack. But must prove his worth to stay or be cut loose and marked as a lone wolf.
The romance in this story was not the main focus of The Last Wolf. It's about survival, protecting the pack, making friends and enemies. Ms. Vale has built a world full of mythical creatures, that is raw and consuming. But, I will admit that I was confused quite a few times. There are a lot of characters, different creatures of the lore. It would have been a tad bit helpful if The Last Wolf had an index. That being said, I really enjoyed The Last Wolf. It's different from all the other stories out there. I look forward to reading future books from Ms. Vale.
November 20, 2017
This is an odd duck to categorize. It’s got all the hallmarks of a romance novel (HEA ending, traditional romance plot arc, etc) but it’s also quite dark and raw. I think if you go into this expecting a regular paranormal romance, you'll be disappointed. But, oh man, this book surprised me in such a good way. This is the gritty paranormal romance I never knew I wanted!
In most of the paranormal/urban fantasies I’ve read, the shifters consider themselves both animal and human and generally try to fit in with human society, mostly out of necessity. In this book, the wolves, like Sil, consider themselves wolves first and are “in skin” (human form) only when necessary. Many live separate from human society, though those that do need to interact with humans on a daily basis (like their lawyers, accountants, etc) return home for the three days of the Iron Moon, when the wolves are forced to be in wolf form and are unable to change back to human. Those who are able to change back and forth at will, regardless of the moon phase, are called Shifters, and they chose to emphasize their humanity. Though they’re the closest to the usual shifter portrayal in romance, they’re actually the bad guys in this book.
The world building was superb. Their society is strikingly different from human society, and I thought Ms. Vale did a wonderful job of slowly explaining bits of it as it came up. Everything in their society revolves around the safety of the pack, so things that seem unspeakably horrible to a human (without being too spoiler-y, how Sil’s disability is dealt with) are accepted as a practicality. Ms. Vale does a great job of showing why the wolves are the way they are, and I really felt like I understood Sil’s love for her pack and the wild, despite the hardships she’s faced. I loved Sil. I loved her strength and her strong moral compass, and while I didn’t agree with all the choices she made, I understood why she made them. I started out the book identifying more with Ti and his confusion, but as the pages went by and more about the wolves’ way of life and reasoning became clear, it was Sil I sympathized with, especially her frustration with Ti’s inability to conform to the wolves’ way of life.
If you’ve read grimdark fantasy before, you’ll be familiar with a certain kind of humor that usually serves as a counterpoint to all the grittiness. That’s also present here, and some of it was masterfully done. I’m thinking in particular of the teacher who seems to be applying lipstick every time she appears.
As for cons, this is a first book, and I think it shows in some of the pacing and plotting. I never really felt like I understood why the Shifters felt they way they did about the wolves. Also, there are some threads that aren’t wrapped up, but as this is the first in a planned series, that’s expected.
Overall, while this wasn’t at all what I was expecting, I enjoyed this book very much and simply could not put it down, to the point where I stayed up way too late during a family vacation reading and didn’t regret it at all the next day! Recommended for fans of paranormal romance looking for something fresh and new, and for fans of urban fantasy who don’t mind a little romance in their grimdark.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.
In most of the paranormal/urban fantasies I’ve read, the shifters consider themselves both animal and human and generally try to fit in with human society, mostly out of necessity. In this book, the wolves, like Sil, consider themselves wolves first and are “in skin” (human form) only when necessary. Many live separate from human society, though those that do need to interact with humans on a daily basis (like their lawyers, accountants, etc) return home for the three days of the Iron Moon, when the wolves are forced to be in wolf form and are unable to change back to human. Those who are able to change back and forth at will, regardless of the moon phase, are called Shifters, and they chose to emphasize their humanity. Though they’re the closest to the usual shifter portrayal in romance, they’re actually the bad guys in this book.
The world building was superb. Their society is strikingly different from human society, and I thought Ms. Vale did a wonderful job of slowly explaining bits of it as it came up. Everything in their society revolves around the safety of the pack, so things that seem unspeakably horrible to a human (without being too spoiler-y, how Sil’s disability is dealt with) are accepted as a practicality. Ms. Vale does a great job of showing why the wolves are the way they are, and I really felt like I understood Sil’s love for her pack and the wild, despite the hardships she’s faced. I loved Sil. I loved her strength and her strong moral compass, and while I didn’t agree with all the choices she made, I understood why she made them. I started out the book identifying more with Ti and his confusion, but as the pages went by and more about the wolves’ way of life and reasoning became clear, it was Sil I sympathized with, especially her frustration with Ti’s inability to conform to the wolves’ way of life.
If you’ve read grimdark fantasy before, you’ll be familiar with a certain kind of humor that usually serves as a counterpoint to all the grittiness. That’s also present here, and some of it was masterfully done. I’m thinking in particular of the teacher who seems to be applying lipstick every time she appears.
As for cons, this is a first book, and I think it shows in some of the pacing and plotting. I never really felt like I understood why the Shifters felt they way they did about the wolves. Also, there are some threads that aren’t wrapped up, but as this is the first in a planned series, that’s expected.
Overall, while this wasn’t at all what I was expecting, I enjoyed this book very much and simply could not put it down, to the point where I stayed up way too late during a family vacation reading and didn’t regret it at all the next day! Recommended for fans of paranormal romance looking for something fresh and new, and for fans of urban fantasy who don’t mind a little romance in their grimdark.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review.
November 6, 2019
Nice world building. Good solid shifter read. A different set up from other shifter/werewolf stories. I liked it.
February 8, 2019
AMAZING !!!!
What an awesome, amazing paranormal book! I loved Silver, and of course Tiberius, with his sweetness, vulnerability, his bravery and his love for Silver.
This is not erotic novel (although for me there is plenty romance development between Silver and Tiberius and even some sex scenes ).
With so many cliche books out there this was nice and refreshing. The protagonist stayed true to her character. Yes there was character growth but at the end of the day she was everything she presented herself to be, a true beast.
Maria Vale did a great job showing the hierarchy, the downtrodden. Fighting tooth and claw...
So why only 4 stars ....
For three days out of thirty, when the moon is full and her law is iron, the Great North Pack must be wild.
Silver Nilsdottir is at the bottom of her Pack’s social order, with little chance for a decent mate and a better life.
Until the day a stranger stumbles into their territory, wounded and beaten, and Silver decides to risk everything on Tiberius Leveraux.
But Tiberius isn’t all he seems, and in the fragile balance of the Pack and wild, he may tip the destiny of all wolves…
What an awesome, amazing paranormal book! I loved Silver, and of course Tiberius, with his sweetness, vulnerability, his bravery and his love for Silver.
This is not erotic novel (although for me there is plenty romance development between Silver and Tiberius and even some sex scenes ).
With so many cliche books out there this was nice and refreshing. The protagonist stayed true to her character. Yes there was character growth but at the end of the day she was everything she presented herself to be, a true beast.
Maria Vale did a great job showing the hierarchy, the downtrodden. Fighting tooth and claw...
So why only 4 stars ....
For three days out of thirty, when the moon is full and her law is iron, the Great North Pack must be wild.
Silver Nilsdottir is at the bottom of her Pack’s social order, with little chance for a decent mate and a better life.
Until the day a stranger stumbles into their territory, wounded and beaten, and Silver decides to risk everything on Tiberius Leveraux.
But Tiberius isn’t all he seems, and in the fragile balance of the Pack and wild, he may tip the destiny of all wolves…
August 4, 2019
DNF at 23%
This is a book that had come up a few times on my TL and I ended up v. intrigued by it.
The opening scene was so amazing that I was sure I was gonna devour this book and then the rest of the series. Sadly, the story became less about a romance and more about the werewolf and shifter cultures. I didn't feel any chemistry between the MCs to the point that, when Silver feels lust towards Ti, I actual!cringed because it was so discordant to the story.
After the umpteenth description of Pack life, I checked where I was (Chapter 8) vs. how many chapters there were left in the book (23 + an epilogue). The deep, internal sigh I released was a clear enough signifier that it was time to let go of this book. So I did.
TL;DR: Too much werewolf culture, not an ounce of romance. This book was not for me. I noticed that reviews for the rest of the series had similar criticisms, so at least I know I'm not the only who felt this way. I borrowed this from my local library and don't recommend it if you're looking for romance.
This is a book that had come up a few times on my TL and I ended up v. intrigued by it.
The opening scene was so amazing that I was sure I was gonna devour this book and then the rest of the series. Sadly, the story became less about a romance and more about the werewolf and shifter cultures. I didn't feel any chemistry between the MCs to the point that, when Silver feels lust towards Ti, I actual!cringed because it was so discordant to the story.
After the umpteenth description of Pack life, I checked where I was (Chapter 8) vs. how many chapters there were left in the book (23 + an epilogue). The deep, internal sigh I released was a clear enough signifier that it was time to let go of this book. So I did.
TL;DR: Too much werewolf culture, not an ounce of romance. This book was not for me. I noticed that reviews for the rest of the series had similar criticisms, so at least I know I'm not the only who felt this way. I borrowed this from my local library and don't recommend it if you're looking for romance.
August 11, 2019
This is the most fascinating shifter book I’ve ever read. The world-building is unparalleled! Instead of humans turning into wolves, we have wolves turning into humans and this nuance changes everything. Silver and Ti have so much to lose and they really are each other's only hope for survival. Nothing about this story was what I guessed or expected. I'm still reeling from some of the twists and turns. Maria Vale really and truly outdid herself.
CW: violence, stillbirth, off-page attempted rape, massacre in prologue
CW: violence, stillbirth, off-page attempted rape, massacre in prologue
August 17, 2019
This book is odd as hell, but it's also sweet as hell.
But, it's a little too...wolfy...for me. There's a lot of scent, blood, and pack dynamic.
And I just can't get myself there with stressful family politics in close proximity and all that jazz. I don't think I'll be continuing with the series, but if you have curiosity about a "crappy wolf" shifter and a more wild/less human version of that falling in love despite some slightly underdeveloped world building and plot, you may really enjoy this series. 2.5
But, it's a little too...wolfy...for me. There's a lot of scent, blood, and pack dynamic.
And I just can't get myself there with stressful family politics in close proximity and all that jazz. I don't think I'll be continuing with the series, but if you have curiosity about a "crappy wolf" shifter and a more wild/less human version of that falling in love despite some slightly underdeveloped world building and plot, you may really enjoy this series. 2.5
January 2, 2022
4.4 I really liked this version of werewolves and shifters. It was more pack law, pack responsibilities, and sacrifices than other books I've read. No it's wasn't overdone for my taste I found it riveting how it all worked. The characters we all so well written, I adored Ti and Silver as much as the rest. When
It was funny, hard, violent, sweet, viscous, romantic, realistic-ish, intriguing. I love forward to more.
True love means you'll eat someone for them :P
It was funny, hard, violent, sweet, viscous, romantic, realistic-ish, intriguing. I love forward to more.
True love means you'll eat someone for them :P
September 16, 2017
Maria Vale offers something unique and original in this book. I have been a long-time reader of fantasy and science fiction, and enjoyed this author's imaginative contribution. Recommended for the sci-fi looking for a well-developed novel that takes a different approach.
April 25, 2018
4.5 Stars
Silver Nilsdottir is the runt of the pack, she's smaller than all the other wolves and has a bad leg, this puts her right at the bottom of the pecking order. It seems inevitable that she will end up as the indentured servant of the alpha pair. Until Tiberius Leveraux stumbles on to their land half dead and asking for sanctuary.
I love it when taking a chance pays off. I decided to read this mainly because I liked the cover and I wanted a new PNR to get my teeth into. I didn't really hold out much hope that I would love it. So, when I started reading and realised this wasn't quite what I expected and so much more I was thrilled. I loved it.
When I started reading I thought it would be a light fluffy PNR where the hero lets the heroine find her self worth even though she is perceived as weaker by those around her blah blah blah. However, Vale gave us a much grittier and complicated story than that. If you are a fan of Anne Bishop's The Others series, The Last Wolf has a similar feel. The wolves in this really are wolves, they just happen to be able to shift to a human shape and you really get the sense of otherness when you are reading it. At first, this made it a little hard to connect with Silver and some of the characters surrounding her, they just think so differently. But Silver's personality, her strange innocence and determination and love for her Pack come through really strongly and she quickly became a heroine I adored.
Then there's Tiberius, he's the "normal" one, the character that it is easier to identify with as he has been brought up in a human world. Watching him acclimatising to the ways of the Pack, with the help and guidance of Silver, especially as we view his "human" ways from Silver's POV had me glued to the page. The romance between them grew with the book and again it is viewed through the lens of the Pack, which was at times hilarious, which just made the whole things more interesting. However, the differing cultures did not take away from the chemistry between them.
This was a fantastic read and what I loved most about it was the world that Vale created. This is down as one of the best books I have read so far this year and I fully intend to recommend it to everyone and grab the next book in the series as soon as I can.
Silver Nilsdottir is the runt of the pack, she's smaller than all the other wolves and has a bad leg, this puts her right at the bottom of the pecking order. It seems inevitable that she will end up as the indentured servant of the alpha pair. Until Tiberius Leveraux stumbles on to their land half dead and asking for sanctuary.
I love it when taking a chance pays off. I decided to read this mainly because I liked the cover and I wanted a new PNR to get my teeth into. I didn't really hold out much hope that I would love it. So, when I started reading and realised this wasn't quite what I expected and so much more I was thrilled. I loved it.
When I started reading I thought it would be a light fluffy PNR where the hero lets the heroine find her self worth even though she is perceived as weaker by those around her blah blah blah. However, Vale gave us a much grittier and complicated story than that. If you are a fan of Anne Bishop's The Others series, The Last Wolf has a similar feel. The wolves in this really are wolves, they just happen to be able to shift to a human shape and you really get the sense of otherness when you are reading it. At first, this made it a little hard to connect with Silver and some of the characters surrounding her, they just think so differently. But Silver's personality, her strange innocence and determination and love for her Pack come through really strongly and she quickly became a heroine I adored.
Then there's Tiberius, he's the "normal" one, the character that it is easier to identify with as he has been brought up in a human world. Watching him acclimatising to the ways of the Pack, with the help and guidance of Silver, especially as we view his "human" ways from Silver's POV had me glued to the page. The romance between them grew with the book and again it is viewed through the lens of the Pack, which was at times hilarious, which just made the whole things more interesting. However, the differing cultures did not take away from the chemistry between them.
This was a fantastic read and what I loved most about it was the world that Vale created. This is down as one of the best books I have read so far this year and I fully intend to recommend it to everyone and grab the next book in the series as soon as I can.
July 18, 2018
Maria Vale has written an engaging paranormal romance. The Last Wolf had me turning pages quicker than I had in some time. The world building in this novel is outstanding. We haven't seen werewolves and shifters like these ones before. There is a primal edge to the characters. You really believe these creatures are wild. They have history and motivations that are unlike any paranormal characters I know and that made for an exciting read. The romance is fresh, featuring characters who aren't perfect and who often behave just like the animals that inhabit them. This is gripping stuff. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Vale's work.
May 6, 2018
3 1/2
I see the reasons behind all those glittering reviews, and I did enjoy the the book. I'm not sure I buy the plot as it was crystal clear the way it would be unwinding.
The romance was a bit sad, if touching, a love story between two sad, abused people.
I can't decide if I want to keep reading this series.
I see the reasons behind all those glittering reviews, and I did enjoy the the book. I'm not sure I buy the plot as it was crystal clear the way it would be unwinding.
The romance was a bit sad, if touching, a love story between two sad, abused people.
I can't decide if I want to keep reading this series.
September 13, 2024
My first (and only) Maria Vale book was Molly Molloy and the Angel of Death, until this one. And, two books in, I'm convinced she has a virtuoso imagination.
I should note that I'm not a well-seasoned paranormal/shifter reader. I've read lots of Ilona Andrews, of course, including some Kate Daniels, but that's about it. But I still know, in my gut, that this is a truly refreshing take on the genre.
When Vale goes all in, she goes ALL IN. Her wolves are, even when they're in human form (in the parlance, "in skin"), true wolves. They sniff each other, they present themselves sexually in a wolf-like way, they eschew "carrion" (meat that hasn't been freshly killed), they adhere to wolf-like pack behavior; they behave like wolves, whatever form they're in. Vale's worldbuilding is excellent.
After a fantastic prologue set in 1668 that explores the origins of the North American wolf population, we meet our heroine, Silver, the crippled runt of her pack. She encounters a stranger, a half-shifter, half-wolf named Tiberius, and throws her lot in with him rather than become the pack's toady. So, according to pack rules, Silver and Ti have to literally fight to earn a place in the pack. If they lose, they'll be exiled. A tricky challenge for a crippled wolf and a shifter who hates shifting.
There's a lot more to the story, though. There's inter-pack tension, tension between Silver and Ti, tension between shifters and wolves, tension between Ti and his father, and tension between the wolves and the human world. (Just a note that there is an absolutely brilliant section where Silver goes shopping.)
The whole book is complex and interesting and funny and sexy and thrilling and violent and gory. The followup, A Wolf Apart, is now high up on my TBR.
I should note that I'm not a well-seasoned paranormal/shifter reader. I've read lots of Ilona Andrews, of course, including some Kate Daniels, but that's about it. But I still know, in my gut, that this is a truly refreshing take on the genre.
When Vale goes all in, she goes ALL IN. Her wolves are, even when they're in human form (in the parlance, "in skin"), true wolves. They sniff each other, they present themselves sexually in a wolf-like way, they eschew "carrion" (meat that hasn't been freshly killed), they adhere to wolf-like pack behavior; they behave like wolves, whatever form they're in. Vale's worldbuilding is excellent.
After a fantastic prologue set in 1668 that explores the origins of the North American wolf population, we meet our heroine, Silver, the crippled runt of her pack. She encounters a stranger, a half-shifter, half-wolf named Tiberius, and throws her lot in with him rather than become the pack's toady. So, according to pack rules, Silver and Ti have to literally fight to earn a place in the pack. If they lose, they'll be exiled. A tricky challenge for a crippled wolf and a shifter who hates shifting.
There's a lot more to the story, though. There's inter-pack tension, tension between Silver and Ti, tension between shifters and wolves, tension between Ti and his father, and tension between the wolves and the human world. (Just a note that there is an absolutely brilliant section where Silver goes shopping.)
The whole book is complex and interesting and funny and sexy and thrilling and violent and gory. The followup, A Wolf Apart, is now high up on my TBR.
February 6, 2018
The Last Wolf seems like it would be your standard paranormal romance fare, but ends up to be something quite different. The best way to describe it is as similar to Anne Bishop's Others series - if you were hoping for more in the romance department with Meg and Simon. I know I'm not alone in this!
The first three quarters of this book were really strong. The author introduced readers to her version of werewolf/shifter culture and the main characters, Silver and Ti. Since this is the first book in the series, there was a significant amount of time spent on setting the stage. While this kind of world building isn't for everyone, I personally felt that it was necessary as an introduction into the rules that the author establishes for her world. Where I felt the story lost some momentum was in the last third of the book. A big secret is revealed and I felt that it took the book in a direction that was unnecessary. The story was already strong without this additional conflict, that I ended feeling that this big secret was less genuine the stronger beginning of the book.
The Last Wolf is a paranormal romance that's heavy on plot, but balances that complexity well with a romance not without its challenges. I appreciated the fact that the author presents her werewolves as "other" instead of the more human-motivated characters that generally crop up in paranormal romance. For me, the uniqueness of Vale's world and characters will have me back for book two.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
The first three quarters of this book were really strong. The author introduced readers to her version of werewolf/shifter culture and the main characters, Silver and Ti. Since this is the first book in the series, there was a significant amount of time spent on setting the stage. While this kind of world building isn't for everyone, I personally felt that it was necessary as an introduction into the rules that the author establishes for her world. Where I felt the story lost some momentum was in the last third of the book. A big secret is revealed and I felt that it took the book in a direction that was unnecessary. The story was already strong without this additional conflict, that I ended feeling that this big secret was less genuine the stronger beginning of the book.
The Last Wolf is a paranormal romance that's heavy on plot, but balances that complexity well with a romance not without its challenges. I appreciated the fact that the author presents her werewolves as "other" instead of the more human-motivated characters that generally crop up in paranormal romance. For me, the uniqueness of Vale's world and characters will have me back for book two.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
July 13, 2020
I’m not well versed in the tropes and established grooves of paranormal romance, so I can’t really say to what extent this challenges them, but I at least found it fresh and vivid. Lovely detailed world building establishes a backdrop of werewolf packs in the modern day USA, on which plays a deliciously subtle, instinctive love story between a brutalised lone wolf and a fierce, independent ‘runt’. I loved every moment, and am going straight into book 2.
March 24, 2018
Oh wow. What a great read.
This was an imaginative and unique take on the world of wolves and shifters. I loved the story, loved the world-building, and loved the characters. Ti and Silver were real to me, and I felt along with them. Highly, highly recommended.
This was an imaginative and unique take on the world of wolves and shifters. I loved the story, loved the world-building, and loved the characters. Ti and Silver were real to me, and I felt along with them. Highly, highly recommended.
November 29, 2018
Couldn’t connect to the main characters. Interesting world building couldn’t save the lack of interest in the characters or plot.
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October 28, 201910/28/19 Currently FREE via most book retailers: https://books2read.com/The-last-wolf
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