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Sons of Rome #1
White Wolf
NYPD homicide detective Trina Baskin is having nightmares. Vivid ones. Full of blood, and snow, dead wolves…and a young man with pale hair who howls like an animal. She chalks them up to stress and an overactive imagination, too many Old Country stories from her Russian father who, when he’s had too much vodka, starts to rave about dark forces and things that look like men…but aren’t.
But then a case hits her desk that can’t be explained. A young man found outside a club with a nasty bite mark on his neck – and not a drop of blood left in his body. With no leads, no theories that bear exploring, too little sleep, and a partner who seems to be willfully throwing his career down the toilet, the last thing Trina needs is a full-on out of body experience…in which her family’s past is revealed to her, and everything starts making a whole lot of terrifying sense.
In 1942, Trina’s great-grandfather, Nikita, is a captain of the Cheka, the Soviet political police – or so it seems. He and his men are sent to Siberia to retrieve a “volunteer,” the boy who’s going to win the war against the Nazis – and potentially unleash hell on earth.
The world’s immortal population has been living quietly, secretly, hiding from the wars of men, hoping the past can stay buried. But what happens on the Eastern Front in the winter of 1942 will change everything.
In 2017, Trina is about to come face-to-face with her own past in a way she never thought possible. It turns out monsters are real – and they might be the only hope for survival.
But then a case hits her desk that can’t be explained. A young man found outside a club with a nasty bite mark on his neck – and not a drop of blood left in his body. With no leads, no theories that bear exploring, too little sleep, and a partner who seems to be willfully throwing his career down the toilet, the last thing Trina needs is a full-on out of body experience…in which her family’s past is revealed to her, and everything starts making a whole lot of terrifying sense.
In 1942, Trina’s great-grandfather, Nikita, is a captain of the Cheka, the Soviet political police – or so it seems. He and his men are sent to Siberia to retrieve a “volunteer,” the boy who’s going to win the war against the Nazis – and potentially unleash hell on earth.
The world’s immortal population has been living quietly, secretly, hiding from the wars of men, hoping the past can stay buried. But what happens on the Eastern Front in the winter of 1942 will change everything.
In 2017, Trina is about to come face-to-face with her own past in a way she never thought possible. It turns out monsters are real – and they might be the only hope for survival.
558 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2017
94 people are currently reading
829 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
December 6, 2017
OK. Wow. OK. Wait. OK. (I feel like the intro to RadioLab)
Who recommended this to me? I think it was Lynn. But someone else too. A bunch of people actually. Anyway, all of you were right, I really liked it a lot. I *LOVE* Russian history and all things Romanov. And if you'd told me a year ago I'd have a new thing for paranormal/shifter books, I'd have told you you were crazy. Yet here I am, hot for werewolves.
So, I'll be honest, I wasn't hooked from the beginning. The prelude confused me. Or rather, it was engaging, but it ended so abruptly with no apparent connection to the next section, I honestly thought it was an excerpt from another book that mistakenly was put at the front instead of the back of this one. Then it went into modern-day and I got invested in Trina's story until suddenly we were back in 1942, where we stayed for a long, long time.
(Full disclosure: I'm a linear girl. My natural preference in reading (and writing) is to start at the beginning and just tell the story. Jumping around in time makes me fretful. This is just personal taste.)
The 1942 section was superb. Holy shit, yes. That's when I was hooked. Loved the premise, loved the story, loved the writing, loved the characters. So much so that when we returned to modern-day, I was thrown off. Wait, what? Who are these people? I was so engrossed in the wartime narrative, I completely forgot about Trina. Completely. You can say I came back to reality kicking and screaming because I didn't want to be there, I wanted to be back with Sasha and Nik and that amazing band-pack of brothers. But I imagine Sasha and Nik did, too. Well-played, Ms. Gilley. Well-played.
So it's hard to articulate this review because again, I loved the premise and the writing and the historical detail, but I'm giving 4 stars because I didn't really love how it was arranged. When we came back to modern day, I kind of sulked through the last 10%. But by the end I was like "OK, I get it, I see the big picture."
Personal nitpicks aside, I'm still in, and I'm looking forward to the next book, now that I truly know what's going on.
Who recommended this to me? I think it was Lynn. But someone else too. A bunch of people actually. Anyway, all of you were right, I really liked it a lot. I *LOVE* Russian history and all things Romanov. And if you'd told me a year ago I'd have a new thing for paranormal/shifter books, I'd have told you you were crazy. Yet here I am, hot for werewolves.
So, I'll be honest, I wasn't hooked from the beginning. The prelude confused me. Or rather, it was engaging, but it ended so abruptly with no apparent connection to the next section, I honestly thought it was an excerpt from another book that mistakenly was put at the front instead of the back of this one. Then it went into modern-day and I got invested in Trina's story until suddenly we were back in 1942, where we stayed for a long, long time.
(Full disclosure: I'm a linear girl. My natural preference in reading (and writing) is to start at the beginning and just tell the story. Jumping around in time makes me fretful. This is just personal taste.)
The 1942 section was superb. Holy shit, yes. That's when I was hooked. Loved the premise, loved the story, loved the writing, loved the characters. So much so that when we returned to modern-day, I was thrown off. Wait, what? Who are these people? I was so engrossed in the wartime narrative, I completely forgot about Trina. Completely. You can say I came back to reality kicking and screaming because I didn't want to be there, I wanted to be back with Sasha and Nik and that amazing band-pack of brothers. But I imagine Sasha and Nik did, too. Well-played, Ms. Gilley. Well-played.
So it's hard to articulate this review because again, I loved the premise and the writing and the historical detail, but I'm giving 4 stars because I didn't really love how it was arranged. When we came back to modern day, I kind of sulked through the last 10%. But by the end I was like "OK, I get it, I see the big picture."
Personal nitpicks aside, I'm still in, and I'm looking forward to the next book, now that I truly know what's going on.
August 1, 2020
So, as usual I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I started WHITE WOLF. I knew it featured a detective but I figured she would be solving mysteries that would be paranormal in nature and.. I mean, it's not not that, but it’s so much more.
Nikita caught one last glance of Sasha's falsely brave smile and thought this is why men cave to tyrants. To make brave smiles worthwhile.
As you might have noticed by the page count, this is not a short book. I believe this is an epic series and boy does it feel that way. That being said, I did not expect to be transported to World War II era Russia after only, like, two chapters. But more than that, I didn't expect to spend 85% of the book in that time period once we got there. And I certainly didn't expect to love it so much. I actually resented transitioning back to the contemporary timeline because I was so invested in the characters I had come to love (like, seriously, Nikita and Sasha? I adore. but in general I'm such a sucker for an ensemble).
"He was a good man! A holy man. He–"
"Was probably fucking your mother.
Time will tell if I come to appreciate these modern characters as much as the others but there are spoilery things I can't mention that have me very satisfied with the shift back to 2017 now that we're likely to stay there. Though who knows where book two (and beyond) will take us.
"For wolves — werewolves — it's unnatural to take a true mate.
"Please. Everybody fucks. That's the most atural thing in the world."
"For mortal humans, yes, of course. But Familiars aren't entirely human, and the laws of nature don't apply the same way."
"You're telling me superpowered people who live forever don't fuck? What's the point of living forever if you can't get laid?"
If you like the paranormal but also like historical fiction, or very detailed mythology twisted up with real historical figures, you should definitely look into starting this series. I'm loathe to recommend it too hard as I'm only just getting started but this definitely surprised me — and in a good way. There is definitely a bit of something here for everyone; romantic elements (though this is not a romance so don't expect too much page time or focus), comedic elements (unless I'm just warped but I did laugh out loud quite a few times), and darker elements (hello vampires and werewolves and also war time events). I know this won't be for everyone, some readers may not want so much history, so much time spent on backstory, but this worked for me. It took a few days to get through but each time I picked it up I couldn't tear myself away.
I'm so keen to dive into book two.
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
Nikita caught one last glance of Sasha's falsely brave smile and thought this is why men cave to tyrants. To make brave smiles worthwhile.
As you might have noticed by the page count, this is not a short book. I believe this is an epic series and boy does it feel that way. That being said, I did not expect to be transported to World War II era Russia after only, like, two chapters. But more than that, I didn't expect to spend 85% of the book in that time period once we got there. And I certainly didn't expect to love it so much. I actually resented transitioning back to the contemporary timeline because I was so invested in the characters I had come to love (like, seriously, Nikita and Sasha? I adore. but in general I'm such a sucker for an ensemble).
"He was a good man! A holy man. He–"
"Was probably fucking your mother.
Time will tell if I come to appreciate these modern characters as much as the others but there are spoilery things I can't mention that have me very satisfied with the shift back to 2017 now that we're likely to stay there. Though who knows where book two (and beyond) will take us.
"For wolves — werewolves — it's unnatural to take a true mate.
"Please. Everybody fucks. That's the most atural thing in the world."
"For mortal humans, yes, of course. But Familiars aren't entirely human, and the laws of nature don't apply the same way."
"You're telling me superpowered people who live forever don't fuck? What's the point of living forever if you can't get laid?"
If you like the paranormal but also like historical fiction, or very detailed mythology twisted up with real historical figures, you should definitely look into starting this series. I'm loathe to recommend it too hard as I'm only just getting started but this definitely surprised me — and in a good way. There is definitely a bit of something here for everyone; romantic elements (though this is not a romance so don't expect too much page time or focus), comedic elements (unless I'm just warped but I did laugh out loud quite a few times), and darker elements (hello vampires and werewolves and also war time events). I know this won't be for everyone, some readers may not want so much history, so much time spent on backstory, but this worked for me. It took a few days to get through but each time I picked it up I couldn't tear myself away.
I'm so keen to dive into book two.
---
This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
November 3, 2017
Just to be clear, I'm having an extremely hard time being objective here. Because at this point, I think Lauren Gilley could write the terms and conditions for FB and I would find it fascinating. I've read almost everything she's published to date and this... This is something completely different. And yet so very familiar.
As the die-hard Dartmoor fan that I am; the writing, the depth of the characters and the complex relationships that bind them together, it's all what I've come to expect from Gilley. With this new series she's decided to expand into another genre, adding some paranormal...stuff and things exploded. And I. Want. More.
So now the wait begins. Give me the next book. Now, please.
July 18, 2021
This is my first Gilley rodeo, and I have to say the beginning of her Sons of Rome series was pretty damn impressive. Her writing is beautiful, just stunning, and flows so smoothly, taking you on a ride that’s hard to forget. The wonderfully drawn, flesh-and-blood characters; the bonds between them (and those poor, loyal wolves); the complex, multi-layered plot, expertly combining known historical facts with first-class fantasy/paranormal, nail-biting action and slow-burning romance… ahhh I’m so glad I had some free time on my hands and could focus completely on this story because I just couldn’t put my Kindle down.
I’m grabbing the next book ASAP, because I’ve already become attached to these characters and can’t wait to see what happens next! I have my suspicions/hopes when it comes to Nikita and Sasha, my spidey senses are tingling… (please don’t let me down, Ms Gilley! 🙏 ) and I want to know MORE about Prince Valerian, he’s completely fascinating.
[On a side note, I saw that some people complained about the length of these books, and that’s just stupid. Did you expect her to somehow condense such an intricate, epic story into 300 pages or less? Go read a novella, or better yet, a booklet, and stop lowering book ratings. Also, some people wrote it’s full of typos? What?? Believe me, I’m freaking allergic to typos, I hate them with passion, and there were like, five of them here!! In a 550-page book! Again, stop 1-starring amazing books because something small like this offends your sensibilities.]
I highly recommend this to all fantasy/paranormal readers.
I’m grabbing the next book ASAP, because I’ve already become attached to these characters and can’t wait to see what happens next! I have my suspicions/hopes when it comes to Nikita and Sasha, my spidey senses are tingling… (please don’t let me down, Ms Gilley! 🙏 ) and I want to know MORE about Prince Valerian, he’s completely fascinating.
[On a side note, I saw that some people complained about the length of these books, and that’s just stupid. Did you expect her to somehow condense such an intricate, epic story into 300 pages or less? Go read a novella, or better yet, a booklet, and stop lowering book ratings. Also, some people wrote it’s full of typos? What?? Believe me, I’m freaking allergic to typos, I hate them with passion, and there were like, five of them here!! In a 550-page book! Again, stop 1-starring amazing books because something small like this offends your sensibilities.]
I highly recommend this to all fantasy/paranormal readers.
April 26, 2020
I have absolutely no idea why I waited so long to read this. I’ve read the Dartmoor series several times. And I’m a huge fan of almost anything with wolves and vampires. So this was a no brainer right?
Yes and no.
This wasn’t the overwhelming 5* read I’d assumed it would be.
The truth is I struggled initially getting into this book. It seemed a little all over the place.
It started with Anna and Fulk.
Moved to Siberia 1931 and Sasha.
Then to an undisclosed location USSR.
New York 2017 and detectives Trina and Lanny.
Then Moscow 1942. And this is when the book really got going. Before this I couldn’t settle but this turned it around. The problem was I got so involved with these characters. I wasn’t happy when we switched back to 2017.
Now the main characters have been introduced and the scene has been set. I’m all set for the next book
June 18, 2021
DNF 32%
Dear Author - please, for the love of all that's good in this world you've built, hire an editor. There is real promise, here, but the story is moving soooooo slow, I just can't anymore. It's excruciating. I'd rather pay $5 for a book that has been edited, than $1 for book that hasn't been.
I really love this author's writing, normally, but this book is killing me. I was intrigued at first and really wanted to know what happens and how the story goes on, but the thought of wading through another 350 pages, just for THIS super meandering, never-ending book, much less the almost 2000 pages of the other 3, makes me want to claw my eyes out. Time to put a pin in it.
Dear Author - please, for the love of all that's good in this world you've built, hire an editor. There is real promise, here, but the story is moving soooooo slow, I just can't anymore. It's excruciating. I'd rather pay $5 for a book that has been edited, than $1 for book that hasn't been.
I really love this author's writing, normally, but this book is killing me. I was intrigued at first and really wanted to know what happens and how the story goes on, but the thought of wading through another 350 pages, just for THIS super meandering, never-ending book, much less the almost 2000 pages of the other 3, makes me want to claw my eyes out. Time to put a pin in it.
June 29, 2022
So, maybe Lauren Gilley wins first place at my Favorite Author Discovery of the year🎉
This is amazing. A very difficult book to label. It’s a Paranormal Historical Fantasy that kind of prepares the plot for a Contemporary Urban Fiction, sprinkled with some romance and actual real history events and characters.
More than half of the book takes place in 1942 Russia, and the way that time period and social unrest (to put it lightly) is pictured is incredible.
The cast of characters is rich and captivating, something that seems to be one of Gilley’s main talents. How many characters can you love in a story?!
Sasha, the sweet innocent boy that finds himself drawn into this world of war, fantasy and revolutions, is obviously my favorite character. But the special place in my heart must be for Nik.
Nikita is the perfect tortured hero. His situation is far from simple. He is captain of a group of men under the orders of Stalin himself at the time of WWII. I mean, reading him was a rollercoaster and I can’t wait and see his development through the complete series.
Although there are some love stories here, I don’t see this book as a romance.
But! As it seems to be the case with my previous LG reading (Drake Chronicles), there will be multiple romances to look forward to. Some MF, some MM... and according to the author some MMM too. I could find many clues about the main couple (and completely my absolute favorite) to come, but it’s clear they have still a long way to go. Aaaaand I love that, I’m a sucker for slow burns AND for stories being told through many books, so this is clearly custom made for me. I’m shipping those two SO hard.
Oh! And I didn’t say anything about Valerian! Think Lestat with Alucard’s wardrobe and a mind for intrigue as Laurent’s. And the beauty of those three in one. So yes, he is great ❤️
Lean esta belleza, esta autora sabe como escribir magia 💜
This is amazing. A very difficult book to label. It’s a Paranormal Historical Fantasy that kind of prepares the plot for a Contemporary Urban Fiction, sprinkled with some romance and actual real history events and characters.
More than half of the book takes place in 1942 Russia, and the way that time period and social unrest (to put it lightly) is pictured is incredible.
The cast of characters is rich and captivating, something that seems to be one of Gilley’s main talents. How many characters can you love in a story?!
Sasha, the sweet innocent boy that finds himself drawn into this world of war, fantasy and revolutions, is obviously my favorite character. But the special place in my heart must be for Nik.
Nikita is the perfect tortured hero. His situation is far from simple. He is captain of a group of men under the orders of Stalin himself at the time of WWII. I mean, reading him was a rollercoaster and I can’t wait and see his development through the complete series.
Although there are some love stories here, I don’t see this book as a romance.
But! As it seems to be the case with my previous LG reading (Drake Chronicles), there will be multiple romances to look forward to. Some MF, some MM... and according to the author some MMM too. I could find many clues about the main couple (and completely my absolute favorite) to come, but it’s clear they have still a long way to go. Aaaaand I love that, I’m a sucker for slow burns AND for stories being told through many books, so this is clearly custom made for me. I’m shipping those two SO hard.
Oh! And I didn’t say anything about Valerian! Think Lestat with Alucard’s wardrobe and a mind for intrigue as Laurent’s. And the beauty of those three in one. So yes, he is great ❤️
Lean esta belleza, esta autora sabe como escribir magia 💜
November 5, 2017
I discovered Lauren Gilley about a month ago when I stumbled upon her Dartmoor series. I ended up loving her writing and quickly devoured that series and the spinoff series, Lean Dogs. While exploring social media, I discovered that she had a new book called White Wolf coming out that was the start of a new series. I didn't know anything about about White Wolf. I hadn't even read the blurb when I one-clicked it when it went live on Amazon.
From page one of White Wolf, I was intrigued. It wasn't like anything I had read before or expected and I found that I could not put it down. I have to say, it's one of my favorite books of 2017. It's superb and I cannot wait to find out what will happen next!
From page one of White Wolf, I was intrigued. It wasn't like anything I had read before or expected and I found that I could not put it down. I have to say, it's one of my favorite books of 2017. It's superb and I cannot wait to find out what will happen next!
November 16, 2017
Holy crap this was AWESOME!!! I didn’t know what to expect, the blurb is vague, the reviews are vague as well, but that’s exactly how it should be. Go into this knowing NOTHING and you will be so pleasantly surprised. The character building is nothing short of spectacular and you will love Sasha, Nikita and their band of men. The chemistry between Sasha and Nik was off the charts and I reveled in every scene they were in. This is quite the journey and so much happens along the way that will have you shocked and sad and raging. I was enjoying the ride and then around 75% it all went BOOM and I couldn’t believe what was happening. The last quarter of the book was phenomenal (so was the first part) but damn I didn’t want it to end. I want more of everyone! I cannot wait to see where this series goes. When I finished this, I just wanted to hug my kindle to my chest and pet it. So good. But then again, would you expect anything less from Lauren Gilley?
November 5, 2017
3 1/2 Stars
I had such a hard time with this book. It dragged like no ones business! I just wanted it to get to the point. I know we need character development and back story, but it just became too much. The writing was superb as always, but it just didn’t seem to flow. Too many details, too much description, the the parts I wanted answers to blew by without explanation. Arghhhh!
I really don’t know. It was just missing something I can’t put a finger on. I will read the next, but I hate that I can’t say I loved it :(
I had such a hard time with this book. It dragged like no ones business! I just wanted it to get to the point. I know we need character development and back story, but it just became too much. The writing was superb as always, but it just didn’t seem to flow. Too many details, too much description, the the parts I wanted answers to blew by without explanation. Arghhhh!
I really don’t know. It was just missing something I can’t put a finger on. I will read the next, but I hate that I can’t say I loved it :(
December 29, 2019
Some of White Wolf was exceptionally good. For me it's somewhere between 4 and 5 stars. It's what I call a 'real book.' Tons of meat on these bones. Interesting ideas interspersed with the history of the Russian (Soviet) revolution. Unfortunately, for me it dragged a bit in the middle. And it's not a 'romance' although there is a little romance included. Since I personally like a book with romance, that's a negative for me. However, I definitely recommend White Wolf if you know and like what you're getting into. And I will certainly read book 2.
November 5, 2017
« A deep, terrible sadness overcame her, crashed through her like a wave. Took her breath, squeezed her lungs. She sank slowly to her knees, one trembling hand going to the wolf’s ruff. »
White Wolf is book #1 in an epic new paranormal/supernatural/horror series from Lauren Gilley. It’s dark, gritty, and… gothic. The author’s writing is truly elegant and passionate and enthralling. This is exactly the kind of writing I cherish as a reader. If you already know Lauren Gilley’s work you won’t be disappointed. Not in the slightest, trust me.
White Wolf is full of action, intrigue, and difficult relationships of all kinds. There’s plenty of lovable, complicated characters. Among them vampires, wolves, mages, and obviously the humans who make immortality worthwhile.
« The sadness became grief. And then it became pain, lancing through her middle. She swayed, clutching at the wolf’s fur as unconsciousness threatened to overtake her. Above the rushing of the wind, she heard a long, mournful howl. A wolf’s howl. »
This is a war story. Like all war stories, it is a story about men… and monsters. Sometimes, the monsters come down on the side of the angels. Tread carefully, dear reader…
« This bloody war is the product of idiot mortal short-sightedness, and the evil of men like Hitler, and Stalin. The immortals of the world have been asleep; they’ve been hiding in the shadows, denying what they are. Men can’t end the war that they started, but we can. »
The Sons of Rome? Remus and Romulus, yes. Left abandoned on the bank of the Tiber River, they were suckled by a great she-wolf, and taken in by a shepherd and his wife. The founders of Rome. The immortal children of God Mars, both warriors and… vampires. Before his death Remus sired two purebred vampire sons, half-brothers: Vladimir — The Impaler — and Valerian. Both are still living. And ever since the she-wolf nursed the twins, there’s been a complementary relationship between wolves and vampires.
“Look into the eyes of a wolf, and all you think you know about the world pales in comparison.”
Lauren Gilley « rewriting » one of the best Roman mythology legends? I loved it. LoOoved. It. I can’t wait for book #2 to be released.
Happy reading!
Follow my favorite books on Instagram@readonthedarkside
White Wolf is book #1 in an epic new paranormal/supernatural/horror series from Lauren Gilley. It’s dark, gritty, and… gothic. The author’s writing is truly elegant and passionate and enthralling. This is exactly the kind of writing I cherish as a reader. If you already know Lauren Gilley’s work you won’t be disappointed. Not in the slightest, trust me.
White Wolf is full of action, intrigue, and difficult relationships of all kinds. There’s plenty of lovable, complicated characters. Among them vampires, wolves, mages, and obviously the humans who make immortality worthwhile.
« The sadness became grief. And then it became pain, lancing through her middle. She swayed, clutching at the wolf’s fur as unconsciousness threatened to overtake her. Above the rushing of the wind, she heard a long, mournful howl. A wolf’s howl. »
This is a war story. Like all war stories, it is a story about men… and monsters. Sometimes, the monsters come down on the side of the angels. Tread carefully, dear reader…
« This bloody war is the product of idiot mortal short-sightedness, and the evil of men like Hitler, and Stalin. The immortals of the world have been asleep; they’ve been hiding in the shadows, denying what they are. Men can’t end the war that they started, but we can. »
The Sons of Rome? Remus and Romulus, yes. Left abandoned on the bank of the Tiber River, they were suckled by a great she-wolf, and taken in by a shepherd and his wife. The founders of Rome. The immortal children of God Mars, both warriors and… vampires. Before his death Remus sired two purebred vampire sons, half-brothers: Vladimir — The Impaler — and Valerian. Both are still living. And ever since the she-wolf nursed the twins, there’s been a complementary relationship between wolves and vampires.
“Look into the eyes of a wolf, and all you think you know about the world pales in comparison.”
Lauren Gilley « rewriting » one of the best Roman mythology legends? I loved it. LoOoved. It. I can’t wait for book #2 to be released.
Happy reading!
Follow my favorite books on Instagram@readonthedarkside
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August 5, 2019
I want to tell you how I planned this read. When I first tried this book, it just didn't grab me, which is so unusual for my relationship with this author. I put it down, thinking I'd try it again sometime.
People I follow and trust, and who also love this author had a similar experience. So, I kept delaying trying it again. But, I really wanted to read others in this series, which build on this first book. I had a long road trip coming up, around 3500 miles, so here I go again.
This was a seriously tough read. I stuck with it and passing though Kansas, at about 3000th mile, I finished it. Did I enjoy it? Can't say I did. It was pretty boring. So much detail that I just am not convince was/is valuable. I felt like I should win an award ...
I'm reading the next in the series and already like it so much more. I hope this continues for me. I really want to love these because I know they mean so much to the author.
I'm afraid my rating here is 2.5 Stars.
Happy Reading ... even if it is just in the completion !!
People I follow and trust, and who also love this author had a similar experience. So, I kept delaying trying it again. But, I really wanted to read others in this series, which build on this first book. I had a long road trip coming up, around 3500 miles, so here I go again.
This was a seriously tough read. I stuck with it and passing though Kansas, at about 3000th mile, I finished it. Did I enjoy it? Can't say I did. It was pretty boring. So much detail that I just am not convince was/is valuable. I felt like I should win an award ...
I'm reading the next in the series and already like it so much more. I hope this continues for me. I really want to love these because I know they mean so much to the author.
I'm afraid my rating here is 2.5 Stars.
Happy Reading ... even if it is just in the completion !!
May 26, 2019
The White Wolf is an interesting read with several layers to the storyline. Each layer you peel back you get to see more of the picture. The book was a good read but was missing something for me. I definitely recommend it for anyone that has never ventured into a Lauren Gilley novel. Read it and decide yourself if you are ready to follow the path to the next installment.
April 8, 2025
3.76⭐
December 13, 2017
3.5 stars. Not sure how I feel about this one...... Parts of it were epic, awesome and gripping. But, my two main issues: First, I prefer a stronger romance element in the books I read. And second, and this is a personal thing, I don't like reading about vampires. I'm squeamish, and too much mention of blood? Ugh. But I know many readers love vampire books, so this won't be a problem for that huge fan base.
I was really looking forward to this book. I'm a big fan of Lauren Gilley's Dartmoor/Lean Dogs series. I like some pnr too, so I was hoping this would be a match made in heaven. But although I eventually finished the book, I had a few reservations.
There are kind of 3 segments to this story. There is the intriguing Fulk, Baron Strange and his wife, a pair of mated werewolves. They are introduced in a neat little prequel story, The Stalker: A Sons of Rome Prelude, which I recommend reading before starting this book. This little teaser really captures your interest and sets up the story for some of the events that are to follow.
In the book itself we are introduced to two cops in modern NYC, Trina, of Russian descent, who's been having some weird nightmares lately, and the hot and gorgeous Lannie. They really like each other, but there is no romantic relationship between them (yet). And now they are investigating some weird and very bloody murders.
Then we go back in time to WWII Russia and Siberia, back to Trina's great-grandparents Nik and Katya. This long section forms the 'meat' of this quite long book. The long cold winters, the hangover effects of the Russian Revolution and the murder of the Russian royal family, the craziness of war, all are depicted quite vividly. And the paranormal elements enter the story. It seems Russian history (in fact, world history!) is bound up with vampires and werewolves. The playing with real characters from history is an intriguing element of the story, and it works quite well. However overall this section started to drag a bit for me. It was an epic and (in some ways) interesting adventure, but it went on too long for me and I kept thinking, yes, ok, but when are we going back to Trina and Lannie in NYC? And the romance between Nik and Katya was lovely, but very slow burn and took second place to the rest of the events. Whereas I prefer my romance more front and centre.
Eventually we do return to the present day, and we see what Trina and Lannie are up to. The vampire elements come much more to the foreground, and I had to force myself to read some of the (to me) repulsive recounting of some very bloody sections. Again there is a romance element, with Trina and Lannie's relationship starting to take off, but also again, it's not the main focus of the story. More like an interesting side element.
The ending of the book is effective and it sets things up well for the planned sequel entitled 'Red Rooster' (terrible name btw - it's the name of a prominent fast-food chain in Australia. Yecchhh.) But the plot developments sound interesting and yes, I will read the sequel.
But, I couldn't give the book more stars, because honestly, I got bored at times, and as I said, I was looking for a much stronger romance element. This is almost UF rather than PNR. Plus my dislike of vampires. But as always, Gilley is a terrific writer with lots of great ideas, and well-developed, interesting characters.
But personally, I'd rather read a new Lean Dogs book before Red Rooster. What about Charlie's story? I'd LOVE to read that!
I was really looking forward to this book. I'm a big fan of Lauren Gilley's Dartmoor/Lean Dogs series. I like some pnr too, so I was hoping this would be a match made in heaven. But although I eventually finished the book, I had a few reservations.
There are kind of 3 segments to this story. There is the intriguing Fulk, Baron Strange and his wife, a pair of mated werewolves. They are introduced in a neat little prequel story, The Stalker: A Sons of Rome Prelude, which I recommend reading before starting this book. This little teaser really captures your interest and sets up the story for some of the events that are to follow.
In the book itself we are introduced to two cops in modern NYC, Trina, of Russian descent, who's been having some weird nightmares lately, and the hot and gorgeous Lannie. They really like each other, but there is no romantic relationship between them (yet). And now they are investigating some weird and very bloody murders.
Then we go back in time to WWII Russia and Siberia, back to Trina's great-grandparents Nik and Katya. This long section forms the 'meat' of this quite long book. The long cold winters, the hangover effects of the Russian Revolution and the murder of the Russian royal family, the craziness of war, all are depicted quite vividly. And the paranormal elements enter the story. It seems Russian history (in fact, world history!) is bound up with vampires and werewolves. The playing with real characters from history is an intriguing element of the story, and it works quite well. However overall this section started to drag a bit for me. It was an epic and (in some ways) interesting adventure, but it went on too long for me and I kept thinking, yes, ok, but when are we going back to Trina and Lannie in NYC? And the romance between Nik and Katya was lovely, but very slow burn and took second place to the rest of the events. Whereas I prefer my romance more front and centre.
Eventually we do return to the present day, and we see what Trina and Lannie are up to. The vampire elements come much more to the foreground, and I had to force myself to read some of the (to me) repulsive recounting of some very bloody sections. Again there is a romance element, with Trina and Lannie's relationship starting to take off, but also again, it's not the main focus of the story. More like an interesting side element.
The ending of the book is effective and it sets things up well for the planned sequel entitled 'Red Rooster' (terrible name btw - it's the name of a prominent fast-food chain in Australia. Yecchhh.) But the plot developments sound interesting and yes, I will read the sequel.
But, I couldn't give the book more stars, because honestly, I got bored at times, and as I said, I was looking for a much stronger romance element. This is almost UF rather than PNR. Plus my dislike of vampires. But as always, Gilley is a terrific writer with lots of great ideas, and well-developed, interesting characters.
But personally, I'd rather read a new Lean Dogs book before Red Rooster. What about Charlie's story? I'd LOVE to read that!
November 7, 2017
3.5-4 stars
I have mixed feelings about this book.
The book begins in modern day but quickly flashes back to the end of the Romanov dynasty/early Soviet Revolution.
On one hand, I love this author particularly because she does a brilliant job of really developing characters so that the reader feels totally immersed in the book's world. She takes a well known (vampire) tale and puts a completely fresh spin on it, incorporating historical figures in unique ways. The Russian characters are thrown together but Gilley does a deft job of creating an instant and believable camaraderie among them.
However, it takes about until nearly halfway through the book to get to plot movement. The story often gets bogged down with weighty descriptive prose that I felt would be better served towards the plot than the smells of a location. Reader be forewarned that this is an information heavy first book in series. I am positive that Gilley will knock it out of the park eventually, but this might be a bit of a slower read for her regular readers.
I have mixed feelings about this book.
The book begins in modern day but quickly flashes back to the end of the Romanov dynasty/early Soviet Revolution.
On one hand, I love this author particularly because she does a brilliant job of really developing characters so that the reader feels totally immersed in the book's world. She takes a well known (vampire) tale and puts a completely fresh spin on it, incorporating historical figures in unique ways. The Russian characters are thrown together but Gilley does a deft job of creating an instant and believable camaraderie among them.
However, it takes about until nearly halfway through the book to get to plot movement. The story often gets bogged down with weighty descriptive prose that I felt would be better served towards the plot than the smells of a location. Reader be forewarned that this is an information heavy first book in series. I am positive that Gilley will knock it out of the park eventually, but this might be a bit of a slower read for her regular readers.
November 5, 2017
First off, this is Lauren Gilley so I was expecting nothing short of spectacular. What I got was the beginning of an epic tale that transcends time. It's about blood family and pack members or family by choice. It's about normal people just trying to survive and somehow become heroes for an age. It's history and science and oh yeah, a bit of a twist on paranormal and some black magic thrown in for fun.
If you are expecting a story all wrapped up neat and tidy--just don't bother reading. If you are wanting a story filled with intrigue, a bit of gore and a whole lot of love--grab this one. The synopsis gives enough of the story. You need to read this to experience the brilliance of this writer. Even if paranormal isn't your thing---you are going to like where this book takes you.
Loved!
If you are expecting a story all wrapped up neat and tidy--just don't bother reading. If you are wanting a story filled with intrigue, a bit of gore and a whole lot of love--grab this one. The synopsis gives enough of the story. You need to read this to experience the brilliance of this writer. Even if paranormal isn't your thing---you are going to like where this book takes you.
Loved!
November 13, 2017
I see a couple of friends have this marked to read - read it. I loved it. Lots of characters and complicated, due to a lot of backstory and first-in-a-series stuff, but this was very good. It's contemporary as well as historical. PNR, too. So imaginative.
January 19, 2022
Presumably this is the first in a sweeping multi volume paranormal epic. If it isn't, I shall be Very Annoyed.
Sometimes my view of the books in a series are affected by how the series resolves. So I expect I will be revisiting this review.
If you are looking for a simple plot that resolves everything at the end, this is not the book for you.
All in all, I enjoyed this book very much, and will be moving on to the second one shortly.
There are a few typos.
AFTER HAVING READ BOOK TWO
Didn’t enjoy the second book as much as this one.
If you are interested in this series, check the reviews/content warnings for book 3. Know what you are getting in to. I am not kidding.
All in all, if you are sucked into this book, love everything about it and love all the characters, you may well adore this series. It has many many many utterly devoted fans.
My happiest moments are when I find a multi book series I adore, with each book being 700 pages.
Below are comments/spoilers for the series as a whole, and why I'm wondering off after reading book 2.
I will look at her other series, as I like the Drake Chronicals.
Sometimes my view of the books in a series are affected by how the series resolves. So I expect I will be revisiting this review.
If you are looking for a simple plot that resolves everything at the end, this is not the book for you.
All in all, I enjoyed this book very much, and will be moving on to the second one shortly.
There are a few typos.
AFTER HAVING READ BOOK TWO
Didn’t enjoy the second book as much as this one.
If you are interested in this series, check the reviews/content warnings for book 3. Know what you are getting in to. I am not kidding.
All in all, if you are sucked into this book, love everything about it and love all the characters, you may well adore this series. It has many many many utterly devoted fans.
My happiest moments are when I find a multi book series I adore, with each book being 700 pages.
Below are comments/spoilers for the series as a whole, and why I'm wondering off after reading book 2.
I will look at her other series, as I like the Drake Chronicals.
November 9, 2017
Lauren Gilley is an author I've discovered this year from Amazon and Goodreads friends and have absolutely loved her Outlaw Biker Dartmoor series.
So when she moved into her part historical part paranormal series Sons of Rome two of my favourite genres I was anticipating big things. In White Wolf she has incorporated sweeping Russian history (think The Bronze Horseman) with paranormal icons (Vlad Tepes) and Roman legends (Romulus and Remus). An ambitious undertaking to be sure.
While I really enjoyed White Wolf it does suffer a little from first book syndrome. There are a lot of ideas and set up going on and a bit of switching between past and present situations. But once you settle into it Lauren's writing strengths soon come to the fore and it is in her characters that she excels. Big hearted, loyal Sasha, taciturn, honourable Nikita, mercurial Val and Trina and Roland her down to earth modern day New Yorkers thrust into a world of mysticism and magic.
Ending on a cliffhanger I hope it isn't too long before we get the next instalment of what promises to be an epic series.
So when she moved into her part historical part paranormal series Sons of Rome two of my favourite genres I was anticipating big things. In White Wolf she has incorporated sweeping Russian history (think The Bronze Horseman) with paranormal icons (Vlad Tepes) and Roman legends (Romulus and Remus). An ambitious undertaking to be sure.
While I really enjoyed White Wolf it does suffer a little from first book syndrome. There are a lot of ideas and set up going on and a bit of switching between past and present situations. But once you settle into it Lauren's writing strengths soon come to the fore and it is in her characters that she excels. Big hearted, loyal Sasha, taciturn, honourable Nikita, mercurial Val and Trina and Roland her down to earth modern day New Yorkers thrust into a world of mysticism and magic.
Ending on a cliffhanger I hope it isn't too long before we get the next instalment of what promises to be an epic series.
April 20, 2025
It was a long book. I guess all of the books in this series are long. Long and involved. Quite engrossing in a way, but tedious in another. I skipped/ skimmed/ speed-read through it.
Key people:
* Fulk Le Strange (werewolf, the oldest there is)
* His mate, which he turned, which is apparently not usually done
* Valerian, son of Remus, vampire
* Vlad (the Impaler), his twin brother
* Dear uncle Romulus, apparently a terror, the first vampire along with Remus
* Nikita, turned vampire (by Rasputin’s blood)
* Sasha, his best friend werewolf
* Trina, N’s great grand daughter
* Lanny, Trina’s partner detective and in love with her, turned by Alexei Romanov (vampire)
Like I said, LOTs to keep up with, but I think I’m doing a pretty good job despite the speed reading.
The romance, where it existed, is never the center of the story. Poor N never turned his human wife, Katya. He simply left when he became a vampire.
We’ll see what’s next (hope this series isn’t too long… only so many 500+ pages books I can handle!
Key people:
* Fulk Le Strange (werewolf, the oldest there is)
* His mate, which he turned, which is apparently not usually done
* Valerian, son of Remus, vampire
* Vlad (the Impaler), his twin brother
* Dear uncle Romulus, apparently a terror, the first vampire along with Remus
* Nikita, turned vampire (by Rasputin’s blood)
* Sasha, his best friend werewolf
* Trina, N’s great grand daughter
* Lanny, Trina’s partner detective and in love with her, turned by Alexei Romanov (vampire)
Like I said, LOTs to keep up with, but I think I’m doing a pretty good job despite the speed reading.
The romance, where it existed, is never the center of the story. Poor N never turned his human wife, Katya. He simply left when he became a vampire.
We’ll see what’s next (hope this series isn’t too long… only so many 500+ pages books I can handle!
December 22, 2017
Being the first book in Lauren Gilley’s new paranormal series, I was super excited when White Wolf finally published. Unfortunately, I couldn’t start it right away but when I was finally able to read it, it was well worth the wait. I was riveted to the pages, hating when I had to put it down, getting more and more immersed as the story unfolded. I’m going to be purposely vague about some things as I don’t want to give too much away.
After the prelude to the book titled The Stalker (which is included in the book), White Wolf starts in present time with homicide detective Trina and her partner Lanny. They were assigned a strange case, which kept getting more bizarre by the minute. It then jumps back to Russia during WWII. This was a dark and hopeless time during Russia’s history, and Ms. Gilley captures that feeling well as she introduces us to Captain Nikita Baskin and his men. Nikita was folding under the pressure of keeping his little family alive, and broken by guilt over the one he couldn’t save. He hated who he’d become but didn’t know how to change his path and keep his men alive. My heart bled for him, especially with how everything played out.
Nikita and his group were Chekists, Stalin’s secret police, who were feared far and wide. At first glance, not a group you would ever believe you could come to love, but I did. Not everything was as it seemed with these men and they won me over bit by bit, despite the brutality they were capable of. Their newest assignment was to help a freaky old man pick up Sasha, who was eventually going to be used as a secret weapon capable of winning the war.
Sasha was everything Nikita wasn’t. Taken from his home and family and whisked off to an unknown fate, he had an irrepressible sweetness and naivete to him that he never lost. He was the light amongst the pitch black darkness of this time. No matter how dire and heartbreaking things got, even when he had to do brutal and violent things, he never lost that.
Their story was slow at first, but as it went on, the mystery and suspense completely pulled me under its spell. Ms. Gilley picked well when she chose Russia as her setting for much of this story. I’ve always been fascinated by the Russian Revolution, the Royal family, and Rasputin, especially when it came to his horribly brutal, seemingly impossible demise. For me, I always felt this time period had a mystical feeling to it, so it was easy to get into Lauren Gilley’s paranormal spin on things.
In fact, I got so into it, when it switched back to the current time I felt like I’d been sitting in a dark room and suddenly someone turned on bright lights. It was so disorienting, it took me a bit to even remember who these people were and what was going on. I do wish this had been told in two parts, with Nikita and Sasha’s part first, then going into current time.
This is not a romance book (although there is a romance aspect to it). There is no HEA, and it ends on a cliffhanger which I tend to avoid like the plague. The story captured me and wouldn’t let me go so I just didn’t care it was missing all the things I crave in a story. It did suffer a bit from being the first book in a complicated series since there was just so much detail that needed to be imparted, but that was easily forgiven. I do feel like I missed out on some huge things but I’m hoping they will be picked up in future installments.
This heartbreaking story is unforgiving in its darkness and at one point left me feeling completely gutted. Never fear though, as Sasha is the beam of light making it all worthwhile. Plus, I know Ms. Gilley has some goodness in store for us in the coming books as it all comes together.
Rating: 4.5 Waiting for the Next One Stars
After the prelude to the book titled The Stalker (which is included in the book), White Wolf starts in present time with homicide detective Trina and her partner Lanny. They were assigned a strange case, which kept getting more bizarre by the minute. It then jumps back to Russia during WWII. This was a dark and hopeless time during Russia’s history, and Ms. Gilley captures that feeling well as she introduces us to Captain Nikita Baskin and his men. Nikita was folding under the pressure of keeping his little family alive, and broken by guilt over the one he couldn’t save. He hated who he’d become but didn’t know how to change his path and keep his men alive. My heart bled for him, especially with how everything played out.
Nikita and his group were Chekists, Stalin’s secret police, who were feared far and wide. At first glance, not a group you would ever believe you could come to love, but I did. Not everything was as it seemed with these men and they won me over bit by bit, despite the brutality they were capable of. Their newest assignment was to help a freaky old man pick up Sasha, who was eventually going to be used as a secret weapon capable of winning the war.
Sasha was everything Nikita wasn’t. Taken from his home and family and whisked off to an unknown fate, he had an irrepressible sweetness and naivete to him that he never lost. He was the light amongst the pitch black darkness of this time. No matter how dire and heartbreaking things got, even when he had to do brutal and violent things, he never lost that.
Their story was slow at first, but as it went on, the mystery and suspense completely pulled me under its spell. Ms. Gilley picked well when she chose Russia as her setting for much of this story. I’ve always been fascinated by the Russian Revolution, the Royal family, and Rasputin, especially when it came to his horribly brutal, seemingly impossible demise. For me, I always felt this time period had a mystical feeling to it, so it was easy to get into Lauren Gilley’s paranormal spin on things.
In fact, I got so into it, when it switched back to the current time I felt like I’d been sitting in a dark room and suddenly someone turned on bright lights. It was so disorienting, it took me a bit to even remember who these people were and what was going on. I do wish this had been told in two parts, with Nikita and Sasha’s part first, then going into current time.
This is not a romance book (although there is a romance aspect to it). There is no HEA, and it ends on a cliffhanger which I tend to avoid like the plague. The story captured me and wouldn’t let me go so I just didn’t care it was missing all the things I crave in a story. It did suffer a bit from being the first book in a complicated series since there was just so much detail that needed to be imparted, but that was easily forgiven. I do feel like I missed out on some huge things but I’m hoping they will be picked up in future installments.
This heartbreaking story is unforgiving in its darkness and at one point left me feeling completely gutted. Never fear though, as Sasha is the beam of light making it all worthwhile. Plus, I know Ms. Gilley has some goodness in store for us in the coming books as it all comes together.
Rating: 4.5 Waiting for the Next One Stars
February 29, 2020
So I’m not gonna lie, it took me a while to get properly into the book because a) the three completely different povs (fulk’s in the stalker included) were quite confusing and b) it dragged somewhat at the start of the whole flashback BUT... but once it picked up its pace, once the plot started moving, and once we got to experience the relationship dynamics, I really, really started to like it.
My absolute favorite thing about this book is Sasha. I’m not against soft characters, per se, but I do tend to love the angry ones more AND YET Sasha quickly grew to be my favorite character — especially after his, uh, transformation. The other characters grew on me over time as well. Nikita. Katya. Trina. Lanny. Val! Really looking forward to read more about him in the next book.
What I really enjoyed as well was the way the relationships were depicted in the book, whether it was in makeshift family that wanted to save russia or the bond that Trina and Lanny share. I’m an easy girl, if someone says found family, I listen and that was, in fact, what made me open to book and what I’m excited to see even more of!
If you’re looking for a fast paced, simple plot, you’re not going to find it here immediately. It takes time for things to start happening, for the action to start, and even now that I finished the first book, I feel like I barely have any idea what the fuck the plot even is — except that there are werewolves and vampires and mages and lots of Russian historical figures! In fact, this first book could be viewed as one big prequel, in my opinion. But that’s not a bad thing at all! The author herself said that these books are first and foremost character-driven, so I didn’t start reading and expected to immediately understand everything and get all the answers. Plus, this whole russia subplot was interesting in its own way and very well written and researched, at that.
Speaking of, I’m Russian and sometimes when books take the whole Russian culture as their setting, it can get really cringey to read when authors barely waste any time on doing research and just slap Russian vocabulary into their stories— prime example is shadow & bone — and call it a day. Thankfully, white wolf didn’t do anything of this sort, it was super well done and actually fun to travel (back) to that setting.
Anywayyy, I’m excited to continue the series and can’t wait to see more of Sasha, Nikita, Trina and Val <3
My absolute favorite thing about this book is Sasha. I’m not against soft characters, per se, but I do tend to love the angry ones more AND YET Sasha quickly grew to be my favorite character — especially after his, uh, transformation. The other characters grew on me over time as well. Nikita. Katya. Trina. Lanny. Val! Really looking forward to read more about him in the next book.
What I really enjoyed as well was the way the relationships were depicted in the book, whether it was in makeshift family that wanted to save russia or the bond that Trina and Lanny share. I’m an easy girl, if someone says found family, I listen and that was, in fact, what made me open to book and what I’m excited to see even more of!
If you’re looking for a fast paced, simple plot, you’re not going to find it here immediately. It takes time for things to start happening, for the action to start, and even now that I finished the first book, I feel like I barely have any idea what the fuck the plot even is — except that there are werewolves and vampires and mages and lots of Russian historical figures! In fact, this first book could be viewed as one big prequel, in my opinion. But that’s not a bad thing at all! The author herself said that these books are first and foremost character-driven, so I didn’t start reading and expected to immediately understand everything and get all the answers. Plus, this whole russia subplot was interesting in its own way and very well written and researched, at that.
Speaking of, I’m Russian and sometimes when books take the whole Russian culture as their setting, it can get really cringey to read when authors barely waste any time on doing research and just slap Russian vocabulary into their stories— prime example is shadow & bone — and call it a day. Thankfully, white wolf didn’t do anything of this sort, it was super well done and actually fun to travel (back) to that setting.
Anywayyy, I’m excited to continue the series and can’t wait to see more of Sasha, Nikita, Trina and Val <3
February 9, 2022
Gilley writes characters with so much depth, and fills in their backstories, until you feel they are real. There were moments in this story that had so much heart, and I wanted more of that for the overall story. 3.5 stars rounded up because the writing is gorgeous.
Just a few things this book covers:
Russian revolution
Roman legend of the twins, Romulus and Remus
Purebred vampires, Vlad III and Valerian
Romanov & Rasputin
Werewolves
Magic
I would have much preferred the entire story taking place in current time NY, with flashbacks of the past. I wanted more story with Trina and her NYPD homicide partner, Lanny. I also needed so much more of Nikita and Sasha.
This is a war story. Like all war stories, it is a story about men...and monsters.I really wanted to like this book, but it was quite a slog to get through the entirety. The format was really awkward with a huge chunk of the book taking place in the 1940's and then flashing back to current time for the last 20%.
Just a few things this book covers:
Russian revolution
Roman legend of the twins, Romulus and Remus
Purebred vampires, Vlad III and Valerian
Romanov & Rasputin
Werewolves
Magic
I would have much preferred the entire story taking place in current time NY, with flashbacks of the past. I wanted more story with Trina and her NYPD homicide partner, Lanny. I also needed so much more of Nikita and Sasha.
July 28, 2021
4 stars
The beginning of this book left me discombobulated what with the time jumping and the umpteen prologues, and at one point I wasn't sure if I was going to keep reading. But dammit, I'm a sucker for vamps and werewolves so I decided to keep at it. I'm glad I did as once I settled into the story, I found myself getting drawn into 1940's Russia and a band of brothers on a unique and dangerous mission. The editing could be better as I think the story slows down too much in parts, and I would like to see female characters who aren't shaped by sexual assault (yes, it was war but holy fuck I really hate even off-page or past rape as a plot device), but I'm already on to book 2 so we'll see if my interest can be maintained through the next one.
The beginning of this book left me discombobulated what with the time jumping and the umpteen prologues, and at one point I wasn't sure if I was going to keep reading. But dammit, I'm a sucker for vamps and werewolves so I decided to keep at it. I'm glad I did as once I settled into the story, I found myself getting drawn into 1940's Russia and a band of brothers on a unique and dangerous mission. The editing could be better as I think the story slows down too much in parts, and I would like to see female characters who aren't shaped by sexual assault (yes, it was war but holy fuck I really hate even off-page or past rape as a plot device), but I'm already on to book 2 so we'll see if my interest can be maintained through the next one.
June 11, 2019
There is a quality to Lauren Gilley's writing and storytelling that I find mesmerizing.
For the first half of this book I had no clear idea what was happening, yet I was certain I didn't mind and that I was hooked. The second half convinced me that I was reading something truly extraordinary.
I have no idea where this story will take me, but I'm enjoying the journey
For the first half of this book I had no clear idea what was happening, yet I was certain I didn't mind and that I was hooked. The second half convinced me that I was reading something truly extraordinary.
I have no idea where this story will take me, but I'm enjoying the journey
November 15, 2017
Not a romance novel. Basically life under Soviet rule during WWII. A little bit of vampires and werewolves.
Then it jumps to present day New York and descendants of vampires. Mostly a prequel and set up for the next book.
Then it jumps to present day New York and descendants of vampires. Mostly a prequel and set up for the next book.
November 12, 2017
White Wolf (Sons of Rome #1) by Lauren Gilley
5 Stars
This was a remarkable beginning to what promises to be an EPIC series I’m sure. I was blown away by the writing and clear talent of Lauren Gilley . I have read two other books by this author so I knew she could write but WOW. The world building and the numerous captivating characters at first seems daunting but oh so worth it because once you hit that flow it’s SO DAMN GOOD. I felt like I was reading three books in one as the story goes from present to past and involves three different sets of characters that ultimately come together. This book was so FULL. It was about so much. There was conflict, friendship, love and loss. It was about belonging and loyalty. I mean I could go on and on but I won’t. I will just end this by saying if you stick with it there is no way you can walk away from this book and not be more than gratified knowing you got way more than you expected and then some. I am so excited for the next book!
5 Stars
This was a remarkable beginning to what promises to be an EPIC series I’m sure. I was blown away by the writing and clear talent of Lauren Gilley . I have read two other books by this author so I knew she could write but WOW. The world building and the numerous captivating characters at first seems daunting but oh so worth it because once you hit that flow it’s SO DAMN GOOD. I felt like I was reading three books in one as the story goes from present to past and involves three different sets of characters that ultimately come together. This book was so FULL. It was about so much. There was conflict, friendship, love and loss. It was about belonging and loyalty. I mean I could go on and on but I won’t. I will just end this by saying if you stick with it there is no way you can walk away from this book and not be more than gratified knowing you got way more than you expected and then some. I am so excited for the next book!
November 7, 2017
4.75 Stars! Can't wait for the next one!
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