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Wolf Winter #2
Stone the Crows
When the Winter arrives, the Wolves will come down over the walls and eat little boys in their beds.
Doctor Nicholas Blake might still be afraid of the dark, but the monsters his grandmother tormented him with as a child aren’t real.
Or so he thought…until the sea freezes, the country grinds to a halt under the snow, and he finds a half-dead man bleeding out while a dead woman watches. Now his nightmares impinge on his waking life, and the only one who knows what’s going on is his unexpected patient.
For Gregor it’s simple. The treacherous prophets mutilated him and stole his brother Jack, and he’s going to kill them for it. Without his wolf, it might be difficult, but he’ll be damned if anyone else gets to kill Jack—even if he has to enlist the help of his distractingly attractive, but very human, doctor.
Except maybe the prophets want something worse than death, and maybe Nick is less human than Gregor believes. As the dead gather and the old stories come true, the two men will need each other if they’re going to rescue Jack and stop the prophets’ plan to loose something more terrible than the wolf winter.
Doctor Nicholas Blake might still be afraid of the dark, but the monsters his grandmother tormented him with as a child aren’t real.
Or so he thought…until the sea freezes, the country grinds to a halt under the snow, and he finds a half-dead man bleeding out while a dead woman watches. Now his nightmares impinge on his waking life, and the only one who knows what’s going on is his unexpected patient.
For Gregor it’s simple. The treacherous prophets mutilated him and stole his brother Jack, and he’s going to kill them for it. Without his wolf, it might be difficult, but he’ll be damned if anyone else gets to kill Jack—even if he has to enlist the help of his distractingly attractive, but very human, doctor.
Except maybe the prophets want something worse than death, and maybe Nick is less human than Gregor believes. As the dead gather and the old stories come true, the two men will need each other if they’re going to rescue Jack and stop the prophets’ plan to loose something more terrible than the wolf winter.
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 29, 2018
13 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Moore
45 books391 followersTA Moore is a Northern Irish writer of romantic suspense, urban fantasy, and contemporary romance novels. A childhood in a rural, seaside town fostered in her a suspicious nature, a love of mystery, and a streak of black humour a mile wide. As her grandmother always said, ‘she’d laugh at a bad thing that one’, mind you, that was the pot calling the kettle black. TA Moore studied History, Irish mythology, English at University, mostly because she has always loved a good story. She has worked as a journalist, a finance manager, and in the arts sectors before she finally gave in to a lifelong desire to write.
Coffee, Doc Marten boots, and good friends are the essential things in life. Spiders, mayo, and heels are to be avoided.
Website: www.nevertobetold.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TA.Moores
Twitter: @tammy_moore
Coffee, Doc Marten boots, and good friends are the essential things in life. Spiders, mayo, and heels are to be avoided.
Website: www.nevertobetold.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TA.Moores
Twitter: @tammy_moore
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 3, 2018
I love TA Moore's writing. Brilliant and evocative, Stone the Crows is a fantastic speculative fiction M/M book with engaging characters and thought-provoking plotting. Her writing captures the bleak starkness of her damaged world and a well-crafted tension guaranteed to keep a reader engaged and entranched. If you are a lover of intelligent sci-fi / fantasy, Stone the Crows and its preceeding books, Dog Days, will be right up your alley.
June 16, 2018
Sequel to Dog Days. Stone the Crows picks up where Dog Days leaves off, and you do need to read book one first.
Blurb sums up the book quite accurately.
This review is based on the reader having read Dog Days. Book one had more of a romantic element between Jack and Danny, and that romantic element was missing between Nick and Gregor. Gregor shows up wounded, Nick feels an obligation to care for the patient he found, Gregor claims Nick as “his” and hauls Nick’s ass through the Wild. Nick never seems to question this, or if he does, there isn’t a lot of protesting. Gregor is strikingly handsome, Nick quickly realizes he’s something not quite human, instinctively realizes Gregor can protect him from the things that go bump in the night and basically, submits.
Where Dog Days was Danny’s and Jack’s story, Stone the Crows is Nick and Gregor’s. Just as Jack and Gregor are twins, there were a lot of similarities between book one and book two. Intentional perhaps?
What book two does have that book one doesn’t, is more background information on some of the mythological characters, a bit more who is who and how do they fit into the scheme of everything. Who are the gods, why are the Prophets doing what they are doing, and why the Wolf Winter has come.
Stone the Crows also has some rather well written plot twists that I honestly didn’t see coming and greatly enjoyed.
I also thought this book was darker, more dystopian, more gruesome in the killing, torture, murder and mayhem. If you’re squeamish, just a heads up, there are some ewww moments.
While this paranormal/shifter book is quite unlike 98% of the werewolf stories out there (refreshingly different), I couldn’t help but be reminded of aspects of another very popular series. Winter is coming (heck, it’s here). The dead are rising. The Wolves are coming over the Wall. Lots of pulling from mythology.
Ultimately, Stone the Crows is a strong transition book. The characters are now gathered together and prepped for the fight/battle that is going to happen in the next book (‘cause ya know there’s gonna be one…or two). I am greatly interested to see how this series is going to unfold - the big question being, will I/we have to wait one year or two for the next book?
Review is cross posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest opinion.
Blurb sums up the book quite accurately.
This review is based on the reader having read Dog Days. Book one had more of a romantic element between Jack and Danny, and that romantic element was missing between Nick and Gregor. Gregor shows up wounded, Nick feels an obligation to care for the patient he found, Gregor claims Nick as “his” and hauls Nick’s ass through the Wild. Nick never seems to question this, or if he does, there isn’t a lot of protesting. Gregor is strikingly handsome, Nick quickly realizes he’s something not quite human, instinctively realizes Gregor can protect him from the things that go bump in the night and basically, submits.
Where Dog Days was Danny’s and Jack’s story, Stone the Crows is Nick and Gregor’s. Just as Jack and Gregor are twins, there were a lot of similarities between book one and book two. Intentional perhaps?
What book two does have that book one doesn’t, is more background information on some of the mythological characters, a bit more who is who and how do they fit into the scheme of everything. Who are the gods, why are the Prophets doing what they are doing, and why the Wolf Winter has come.
Stone the Crows also has some rather well written plot twists that I honestly didn’t see coming and greatly enjoyed.
I also thought this book was darker, more dystopian, more gruesome in the killing, torture, murder and mayhem. If you’re squeamish, just a heads up, there are some ewww moments.
While this paranormal/shifter book is quite unlike 98% of the werewolf stories out there (refreshingly different), I couldn’t help but be reminded of aspects of another very popular series. Winter is coming (heck, it’s here). The dead are rising. The Wolves are coming over the Wall. Lots of pulling from mythology.
Ultimately, Stone the Crows is a strong transition book. The characters are now gathered together and prepped for the fight/battle that is going to happen in the next book (‘cause ya know there’s gonna be one…or two). I am greatly interested to see how this series is going to unfold - the big question being, will I/we have to wait one year or two for the next book?
Review is cross posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 27, 2018
DISCLAIMER # 1 – I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for promising to post my honest opinion.
DISCLAIMER # 2 – This book is # 2 in a series, and some things won’t make any sense if you haven’t yet read the first book “Dog Days”.
When I read “Dog Days” I was somewhat disappointed because while I liked the overall plot-line of the book the romance part just wasn’t very, well, romantic. It seemed too matter of fact, like the outcome was a foregone conclusion regardless of the circumstances. That part of it didn’t sit as well with me. Going into this 2nd book, I wasn’t expecting the hearts-and-flowers so much, and found that with different expectations my reaction to the book’s tone is also different. I won’t say I don’t miss the “mushy stuff”, because frankly I do, but since I knew it probably wasn’t going to be there the absence didn’t strike me as odd.
In this book we get to know a bit more about Gregor, who is Jack’s (MC # 2 from series book 1) identical twin. Gregor is BADLY injured in a fight (we learn more about that later in the book) and is barely alive. He winds up at an evacuation clinic where Nicholas (MC # 2 for this book) has been assigned as part of the ongoing relief efforts (remember, this is “The Wolf Winter” which hallmarks the end of the world as we know it).
Nicholas is a fully-qualified MD, but hasn’t worked with live patients in years. He’s a Pathologist, meaning his patient’s are already dead. Nicholas is the first person to realize that Gregor isn’t dead yet, and swings into action to try keep it that way. Nicholas has been told about wolf shifters, and what will happen when the wolves come back down over the wall (see book one for explanation; as I said, this stuff sometimes doesn’t make much sense if you haven’t read book 1), but he doesn’t really believe in it. Nicholas got those stories from his grandmother, who was always thought by most to be a bit off her rocker. He classified the stories as part of a crazy lady’s paranoia, trying to spook her grandson with scary tales.
The primary mission in this book is for Gregor (now with Nicholas at his side) to find his brother Jack (with Danny still at Jack’s side) so they can continue with the “end-of-the-world” war that is coming. This clearly seems to be just part 2 in what’s to be an apocalypse saga with romantic side-tones.
As I said, this series is not mushy. It’s set amidst a harsh Scottish Highlands winter, with“end of times” urgency. Sentimentality apparently doesn’t get you very far when you’re more concerned with staying alive.
Overall, I liked the book and I’m still intrigued by the series. The series is being narrated by Derrick McClain, and I enjoyed the Audible version of the Book 1 more than the read (unusual for me, but there it is). I’m looking forward to both more of the overall story arc and the audio version(s) thereof.
I’m giving this book 3 out of 5 stars. The overall feel of this series still isn’t really my cup of tea, but T.A. Moore is giving us a GREAT story.
DISCLAIMER # 2 – This book is # 2 in a series, and some things won’t make any sense if you haven’t yet read the first book “Dog Days”.
When I read “Dog Days” I was somewhat disappointed because while I liked the overall plot-line of the book the romance part just wasn’t very, well, romantic. It seemed too matter of fact, like the outcome was a foregone conclusion regardless of the circumstances. That part of it didn’t sit as well with me. Going into this 2nd book, I wasn’t expecting the hearts-and-flowers so much, and found that with different expectations my reaction to the book’s tone is also different. I won’t say I don’t miss the “mushy stuff”, because frankly I do, but since I knew it probably wasn’t going to be there the absence didn’t strike me as odd.
In this book we get to know a bit more about Gregor, who is Jack’s (MC # 2 from series book 1) identical twin. Gregor is BADLY injured in a fight (we learn more about that later in the book) and is barely alive. He winds up at an evacuation clinic where Nicholas (MC # 2 for this book) has been assigned as part of the ongoing relief efforts (remember, this is “The Wolf Winter” which hallmarks the end of the world as we know it).
Nicholas is a fully-qualified MD, but hasn’t worked with live patients in years. He’s a Pathologist, meaning his patient’s are already dead. Nicholas is the first person to realize that Gregor isn’t dead yet, and swings into action to try keep it that way. Nicholas has been told about wolf shifters, and what will happen when the wolves come back down over the wall (see book one for explanation; as I said, this stuff sometimes doesn’t make much sense if you haven’t read book 1), but he doesn’t really believe in it. Nicholas got those stories from his grandmother, who was always thought by most to be a bit off her rocker. He classified the stories as part of a crazy lady’s paranoia, trying to spook her grandson with scary tales.
The primary mission in this book is for Gregor (now with Nicholas at his side) to find his brother Jack (with Danny still at Jack’s side) so they can continue with the “end-of-the-world” war that is coming. This clearly seems to be just part 2 in what’s to be an apocalypse saga with romantic side-tones.
As I said, this series is not mushy. It’s set amidst a harsh Scottish Highlands winter, with“end of times” urgency. Sentimentality apparently doesn’t get you very far when you’re more concerned with staying alive.
Overall, I liked the book and I’m still intrigued by the series. The series is being narrated by Derrick McClain, and I enjoyed the Audible version of the Book 1 more than the read (unusual for me, but there it is). I’m looking forward to both more of the overall story arc and the audio version(s) thereof.
I’m giving this book 3 out of 5 stars. The overall feel of this series still isn’t really my cup of tea, but T.A. Moore is giving us a GREAT story.
May 30, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Stone the Crows is the second book in the Wolf Winter series and follows closely on the heels of Dog Days. Given the way the stories interconnect, this book is best read after the first.
One of the things I really enjoyed about Dog Days is the wonderful world building and tone to the story. It is a paranormal, with kind of a post-apocalyptic feel as the world is filled with unrelenting snow and ice. This is the end of days and by the time Stone the Crows picks up, things are pretty desperate all around. There is definitely a bleakness and intensity to the book, even more so than the first story. I think that is partly due to the fact that things are becoming even more serious, and also due to Gregor, who is a hard man for sure. He is the more savage brother, more wild and more intense, and that shows in his interactions. Moore does a nice job carrying that into the tone of the story and really expanding the world building nicely here. It isn’t pretty; the book has much gore and sweaty bodies and stinky breath, vicious attacks and rotting flesh. There is an edginess here that Moore manages to sustain nicely throughout the book and that fits with the plot quite well.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Stone the Crows is the second book in the Wolf Winter series and follows closely on the heels of Dog Days. Given the way the stories interconnect, this book is best read after the first.
One of the things I really enjoyed about Dog Days is the wonderful world building and tone to the story. It is a paranormal, with kind of a post-apocalyptic feel as the world is filled with unrelenting snow and ice. This is the end of days and by the time Stone the Crows picks up, things are pretty desperate all around. There is definitely a bleakness and intensity to the book, even more so than the first story. I think that is partly due to the fact that things are becoming even more serious, and also due to Gregor, who is a hard man for sure. He is the more savage brother, more wild and more intense, and that shows in his interactions. Moore does a nice job carrying that into the tone of the story and really expanding the world building nicely here. It isn’t pretty; the book has much gore and sweaty bodies and stinky breath, vicious attacks and rotting flesh. There is an edginess here that Moore manages to sustain nicely throughout the book and that fits with the plot quite well.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
June 15, 2018
This book isn’t a happily ever after. I found it incredibly bleak, the dark undertone pervasive and depressing. It’s not hopeful or a battle of good vs evil; unless your definition of good is just ‘not evil’. In short, not my cup of tea. So, what is the book and why a high star rating? Well, it’s a damn good book. It’s well written with strong characters, good pacing, compelling plot and realistic world building. In short it loses half a star simply because it’s not my cup of tea and the other half for the ending, which I’ll get to.
I’ll start out by saying this is part of a series, and I don’t believe it can be read as a standalone. I did and felt that I was missing out on a lot of information that, while the author doesn’t quite assume you know, perhaps didn’t elaborate on so as not to bore the returning reader, but will leave the new ones scratching their heads.
Since I can’t talk too much about how well written it is, barring the fact that it is expertly crafted wordsmithing, we’ll go straight to characters. The main protagonists are layered and deep and they reveal themselves over time. This is particularly impressive to me as Gregor, the Wolf, presents himself and views himself in a one-dimensional form. He is the Wolf, Numitor’s heir. So, to present that kind of person, who can’t see beyond their title or job or one particular skill, as deep as any other is incredibly impressive. The other main protagonist, Nick, is a deeper mystery and draws you into his own fears of insanity, a questioning that follows you through most of the book.
The plot is clear from the outset: find Gregor’s brother and his mate and kill the people who attacked him. And yet with a clear line in front of them, the author weaves some interesting twists and turns that almost had me not wanting to put the book down. Which might not seem like a compliment until I re-iterate how I dislike bleak books. I want a happily ever after, or hope that things can get better after this big obstacle. If I wasn’t reviewing it, I’d have put the book down as did-not-finish and not-my-taste. To have all that and still make it something of a page turner is a huge compliment.
The world building is strong, consistent, and layered over everything like the snow featured so strongly in the book. Even before we are introduced to the Wild of this world, it’s presence is felt and each step Nick takes into realising this world is real and not the insanity he thought, brings it closer to the surface. Its strength reached out to me and nearly had me on eBay to get an iron horseshoe for above my door and an iron nail for my handbag (because, let’s face it, keeping track of the nail is a lot easier in a handbag than when transferring it from the traditional pocket to pocket every day).
All of this, combined, makes for a fantastic story. I’m sure some of you have noticed the one element that I haven’t mentioned is romance, and while our protagonists get together, there isn’t a romance. There’s no courtship and neither can explain the attraction, nor do they seem to particularly want it. Despite that there is chemistry between them that makes the one erotic scene work, as well as the begrudging relationship that forms between them. In many ways, even, this fits with the tone of the book, as it’s a romantic relationship pared down into something sharp by the cold, harsh winter in the story.
Which leads it to the ending, something that right up until the last chapter and epilogue or so is going, if not quite as expected, certainly to the overall tone and theme of bleakness and darkness pervasive in the entire story. Somehow at the last chapter, and even more so, the epilogue, these elements do a 180 degree turn and all is good and well, and there’s that happily ever after that was never promised or mentioned or even hinted at. As a twist it certainly is shocking, but it doesn’t suit the overall tone the book had set up. I think the final chapter could have stood by itself, if the epilogue didn’t cap the story off in a sweetness that was out of place. As much as I want my books to have that happily ever after, this particular one didn’t fit with the story we had been told.
Reviewed by Jenn for The Novel Approach
I’ll start out by saying this is part of a series, and I don’t believe it can be read as a standalone. I did and felt that I was missing out on a lot of information that, while the author doesn’t quite assume you know, perhaps didn’t elaborate on so as not to bore the returning reader, but will leave the new ones scratching their heads.
Since I can’t talk too much about how well written it is, barring the fact that it is expertly crafted wordsmithing, we’ll go straight to characters. The main protagonists are layered and deep and they reveal themselves over time. This is particularly impressive to me as Gregor, the Wolf, presents himself and views himself in a one-dimensional form. He is the Wolf, Numitor’s heir. So, to present that kind of person, who can’t see beyond their title or job or one particular skill, as deep as any other is incredibly impressive. The other main protagonist, Nick, is a deeper mystery and draws you into his own fears of insanity, a questioning that follows you through most of the book.
The plot is clear from the outset: find Gregor’s brother and his mate and kill the people who attacked him. And yet with a clear line in front of them, the author weaves some interesting twists and turns that almost had me not wanting to put the book down. Which might not seem like a compliment until I re-iterate how I dislike bleak books. I want a happily ever after, or hope that things can get better after this big obstacle. If I wasn’t reviewing it, I’d have put the book down as did-not-finish and not-my-taste. To have all that and still make it something of a page turner is a huge compliment.
The world building is strong, consistent, and layered over everything like the snow featured so strongly in the book. Even before we are introduced to the Wild of this world, it’s presence is felt and each step Nick takes into realising this world is real and not the insanity he thought, brings it closer to the surface. Its strength reached out to me and nearly had me on eBay to get an iron horseshoe for above my door and an iron nail for my handbag (because, let’s face it, keeping track of the nail is a lot easier in a handbag than when transferring it from the traditional pocket to pocket every day).
All of this, combined, makes for a fantastic story. I’m sure some of you have noticed the one element that I haven’t mentioned is romance, and while our protagonists get together, there isn’t a romance. There’s no courtship and neither can explain the attraction, nor do they seem to particularly want it. Despite that there is chemistry between them that makes the one erotic scene work, as well as the begrudging relationship that forms between them. In many ways, even, this fits with the tone of the book, as it’s a romantic relationship pared down into something sharp by the cold, harsh winter in the story.
Which leads it to the ending, something that right up until the last chapter and epilogue or so is going, if not quite as expected, certainly to the overall tone and theme of bleakness and darkness pervasive in the entire story. Somehow at the last chapter, and even more so, the epilogue, these elements do a 180 degree turn and all is good and well, and there’s that happily ever after that was never promised or mentioned or even hinted at. As a twist it certainly is shocking, but it doesn’t suit the overall tone the book had set up. I think the final chapter could have stood by itself, if the epilogue didn’t cap the story off in a sweetness that was out of place. As much as I want my books to have that happily ever after, this particular one didn’t fit with the story we had been told.
Reviewed by Jenn for The Novel Approach
May 20, 2018
My initial response to this book has been a solid 0.o
I’m not even kidding. The first book with Jack and Danny moved at an even pace and built the mystery up until the reveal and climatic fights. Which I loved. This book is all about “well, that escalated quickly …” and I loved it even more.
I mean, Jack is vicious and his book is cold and hard as well. Gregor is even more so and his book reflected that. There’s no build up of weather like in book one as the weather has already gone nuts anyway. It’s more a rapid slide down into insanity and monsters, where nothing is right anymore and everything gives off the feeling that nothing will ever be right again.
This was especially portrayed through the main characters, Nick and Gregor. Gregor starts off nearly dead right off and with his wolf stolen from him. He’s still just as dangerous as before, but as we mostly saw him in wolf form in book one, we’re watching him manage in only his human form. Nick, however, spends enough time trying to deny what’s happening, even though the audience can plainly see that he’s mired hip deep in events beyond what he can handle almost from the start. Normally, characters who do this are frustrating but as Nick reacts appropriately when faced with the monsters now in the world so I found his early denial more realistic.
We get to see a little more of how the prophets work and what they’re willing to do to advance their cause. I mean, people died in the first book and monsters were made but it was kind of kept to a small count. Here, it’s like watching a horror/thriller where everyone is trapped with a soulless monster wrecking through what’s left of the population. I was entertained by the weather craziness in the first book and while that’s not here in this one, I didn’t even mind as everything else escalates into holy shit territory at a quick pace.
Dog Days was written in a stark manner, the world cold and rough and a little unstable. Stone the Crows seems to reflect Gregor’s mindset almost perfectly. It’s harsher and colder and unforgiving, taking no prisoners and showing no mercy. This is certainly a book that gave me a jolt of hansum (that bittersweet painful moment when the world betrays you down to your heart and soul). I think I loved this book more than the first. And Nick’s not-bedside manner.
I rate this a 5 out of 5 with a solid recommendation for the end of the world.
I was provided this book as an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review.
Cross posted on I Read What Now, my book review blog.
I’m not even kidding. The first book with Jack and Danny moved at an even pace and built the mystery up until the reveal and climatic fights. Which I loved. This book is all about “well, that escalated quickly …” and I loved it even more.
I mean, Jack is vicious and his book is cold and hard as well. Gregor is even more so and his book reflected that. There’s no build up of weather like in book one as the weather has already gone nuts anyway. It’s more a rapid slide down into insanity and monsters, where nothing is right anymore and everything gives off the feeling that nothing will ever be right again.
This was especially portrayed through the main characters, Nick and Gregor. Gregor starts off nearly dead right off and with his wolf stolen from him. He’s still just as dangerous as before, but as we mostly saw him in wolf form in book one, we’re watching him manage in only his human form. Nick, however, spends enough time trying to deny what’s happening, even though the audience can plainly see that he’s mired hip deep in events beyond what he can handle almost from the start. Normally, characters who do this are frustrating but as Nick reacts appropriately when faced with the monsters now in the world so I found his early denial more realistic.
We get to see a little more of how the prophets work and what they’re willing to do to advance their cause. I mean, people died in the first book and monsters were made but it was kind of kept to a small count. Here, it’s like watching a horror/thriller where everyone is trapped with a soulless monster wrecking through what’s left of the population. I was entertained by the weather craziness in the first book and while that’s not here in this one, I didn’t even mind as everything else escalates into holy shit territory at a quick pace.
Dog Days was written in a stark manner, the world cold and rough and a little unstable. Stone the Crows seems to reflect Gregor’s mindset almost perfectly. It’s harsher and colder and unforgiving, taking no prisoners and showing no mercy. This is certainly a book that gave me a jolt of hansum (that bittersweet painful moment when the world betrays you down to your heart and soul). I think I loved this book more than the first. And Nick’s not-bedside manner.
I rate this a 5 out of 5 with a solid recommendation for the end of the world.
I was provided this book as an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review.
Cross posted on I Read What Now, my book review blog.
August 7, 2018
Okay, this one was slightly better than the first one. Though it's still a bit confusing. We don't get a lot of info about the "mythology", their traditions.. I said that before but well...
BUT that was better than the first one! I really liked the characters, they seemed to have a connection. And again, don't expect a lot of romance, there is sexy scenes. This book though is not about that.
Both books had a lot of world building which I loved. It was easy to read than the first one, a lot are happening in both books and both couples.
Nick is a pathologist, while working one night, he finds Gregor who is injured. On the other hand, Gregor finds out he lost his wolf. The story has a lot of gore throughtout, people/monsters die, a lot of bad things happening. Gregor wants to find his brother who we learn how and why he was taken, because the first book didn't end with any kidnapping and it had a nice ending.
It got really interesting by the end. I believe that both books are building up to next book which could probably be the final fight! I really wanna see that!
BUT that was better than the first one! I really liked the characters, they seemed to have a connection. And again, don't expect a lot of romance, there is sexy scenes. This book though is not about that.
Both books had a lot of world building which I loved. It was easy to read than the first one, a lot are happening in both books and both couples.
Nick is a pathologist, while working one night, he finds Gregor who is injured. On the other hand, Gregor finds out he lost his wolf. The story has a lot of gore throughtout, people/monsters die, a lot of bad things happening. Gregor wants to find his brother who we learn how and why he was taken, because the first book didn't end with any kidnapping and it had a nice ending.
It got really interesting by the end. I believe that both books are building up to next book which could probably be the final fight! I really wanna see that!
January 25, 2024
It was with breathless anticipation that I began this follow-up to ‘Dog Days’, a book that overwhelmed me with its mythology, lore, prophets, the Wild, and a reckoning between two brothers born twelve minutes apart. The author captured the visceral horror of everything I could imagine that ever went bump in the night and had me stunned when I finished it. It came as no surprise that I leaped at the opportunity to read ‘Stone the Crows’. I wanted to see more of Jack and Danny, but I really wanted to get a much better understanding of Gregor, Jack’s brother, and get even more background about the prophets and their betrayal. I do strongly recommend these books be read in order as I honestly don’t believe they could be understood without all the background and history that layers upon itself.
“No one liked the prophets—to become a mouthpiece of the hated gods was a punishment handed out only to the worst among their packs—but it had never occurred to Gregor that they’d betray the Wolves. Until now.”
On their way north back to the Numitor and the pack, Jack, Danny, and Gregor run afoul of three prophets and a multitude of the creatures they have created from humans, magic, and perhaps even some of the Wild. Gregor is found almost dead by Nick, a pathologist drafted to help living patients to be evacuated and now left abandoned with a small contingent of colleagues. Even worse than waking up with humans as nursemaids is when Gregor realizes the prophets, with their knives, did something to his wolf – carved it out of his skin, his soul – and they still have his brother.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
“No one liked the prophets—to become a mouthpiece of the hated gods was a punishment handed out only to the worst among their packs—but it had never occurred to Gregor that they’d betray the Wolves. Until now.”
On their way north back to the Numitor and the pack, Jack, Danny, and Gregor run afoul of three prophets and a multitude of the creatures they have created from humans, magic, and perhaps even some of the Wild. Gregor is found almost dead by Nick, a pathologist drafted to help living patients to be evacuated and now left abandoned with a small contingent of colleagues. Even worse than waking up with humans as nursemaids is when Gregor realizes the prophets, with their knives, did something to his wolf – carved it out of his skin, his soul – and they still have his brother.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
May 30, 2018
Full review available at: https://optimumm.blog/2018/05/30/revi...
Stone the Crows is the second book in the Wolf Winter series by TA Moore. I liked this book much better than the first book in the series, Dog Days. It did start off slow, and it took me about thirty percent of the book to figure out what was going on and become invested in the book. I did have an easier time connecting with the characters in this book and the author even got me to cry a couple of times.
I loved Jimmy. He’s a supporting character, but he was one of my favorite supporting characters. He was one of the children that were rejected for transfer to the big city because he had leukemia and had a low survival rate. I also liked his dad who was the sheriff. He made questionable choices in the book, but he did them for the right reason, trying to save his son’s life. I was happy that Jimmy survived all that happened to him and I hope to see more of him in the next book. I also liked that I was able to connect with the main characters, Gregor and Doctor Nicholas Blake. I liked the interactions and chemistry between Nicholas and Gregor, and I became invested in their relationship. I liked that Gregor doesn’t treat Nicholas as a lesser being just because he happens to be human.
I like how Nicholas starts out seeming like a minor character with not a lot of important duties (he gets to record the dead so that they can be identified by family members later on). He’s used to working in the morgue and doesn’t have the best social skills when forced to interact with his fellow doctors. He grew up with a harsh grandma that filled his young head with stories about gods, prophecies, and monsters—of Wolves that will come down over the walls when winter arrives and eat little boys in their beds. How was he to know that the monsters his grandmother tormented him with as a child were real? But when he finds a half-dead man bleeding out while a dead woman watches, he starts to believe. Now his nightmares are encroaching on his waking life, and the only one who knows what’s going on is his unexpected patient.
I also liked Gregor. Between Gregor and his twin brother, Jack, he’s supposed to be the bad twin, but I actually like him more than Jack. But Gregor has lots of challenges in this book. The main one which will affect his getting his brother back is that the treacherous prophets mutilated him and stole his wolf half. He still has his faster healing ability and his connection to the Wild, but he no longer has the ability to change into his wolf. But he is determined to get his brother and his mate back from the prophets.
I’m still not sure how Gregor wasn’t captured with his brother and his mate. It was probably in the first part of the book when I was trying to figure out what was going on. I also wasn’t sure why the prophets were using skin grafts to make their monsters instead of just biting them like they had in the first book maybe it will be explained more in the next book. Maybe each prophet has their own way of making their monsters. I don’t know.
I do know that there are lots of twists and turns in this book and most of them I didn’t see coming. And now that I’m invested in Gregor and Nicholas, I can’t wait for the next book to come out so I can find out what happens on their journey to the Numitor and what happens to the prophet that got away.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
Stone the Crows is the second book in the Wolf Winter series by TA Moore. I liked this book much better than the first book in the series, Dog Days. It did start off slow, and it took me about thirty percent of the book to figure out what was going on and become invested in the book. I did have an easier time connecting with the characters in this book and the author even got me to cry a couple of times.
I loved Jimmy. He’s a supporting character, but he was one of my favorite supporting characters. He was one of the children that were rejected for transfer to the big city because he had leukemia and had a low survival rate. I also liked his dad who was the sheriff. He made questionable choices in the book, but he did them for the right reason, trying to save his son’s life. I was happy that Jimmy survived all that happened to him and I hope to see more of him in the next book. I also liked that I was able to connect with the main characters, Gregor and Doctor Nicholas Blake. I liked the interactions and chemistry between Nicholas and Gregor, and I became invested in their relationship. I liked that Gregor doesn’t treat Nicholas as a lesser being just because he happens to be human.
I like how Nicholas starts out seeming like a minor character with not a lot of important duties (he gets to record the dead so that they can be identified by family members later on). He’s used to working in the morgue and doesn’t have the best social skills when forced to interact with his fellow doctors. He grew up with a harsh grandma that filled his young head with stories about gods, prophecies, and monsters—of Wolves that will come down over the walls when winter arrives and eat little boys in their beds. How was he to know that the monsters his grandmother tormented him with as a child were real? But when he finds a half-dead man bleeding out while a dead woman watches, he starts to believe. Now his nightmares are encroaching on his waking life, and the only one who knows what’s going on is his unexpected patient.
I also liked Gregor. Between Gregor and his twin brother, Jack, he’s supposed to be the bad twin, but I actually like him more than Jack. But Gregor has lots of challenges in this book. The main one which will affect his getting his brother back is that the treacherous prophets mutilated him and stole his wolf half. He still has his faster healing ability and his connection to the Wild, but he no longer has the ability to change into his wolf. But he is determined to get his brother and his mate back from the prophets.
I’m still not sure how Gregor wasn’t captured with his brother and his mate. It was probably in the first part of the book when I was trying to figure out what was going on. I also wasn’t sure why the prophets were using skin grafts to make their monsters instead of just biting them like they had in the first book maybe it will be explained more in the next book. Maybe each prophet has their own way of making their monsters. I don’t know.
I do know that there are lots of twists and turns in this book and most of them I didn’t see coming. And now that I’m invested in Gregor and Nicholas, I can’t wait for the next book to come out so I can find out what happens on their journey to the Numitor and what happens to the prophet that got away.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
June 19, 2018
This is a fast-paced, tense read; but don’t expect it to be an easy one. The mythology is fundamental to the understanding of the plot, but it is not always clear what is going on or why. Whilst acceptable to limit detailed explanations as asides, to avoid distractions to the storyline, I would have valued an annexe the provided the mythos for reference. Similarly, the belief systems and histories of individual characters are only revealed and the plot demands. This can provide revelations that are not always effectively contextualised; this leaves the reader wrong-footed as to who the character really is. Consequently, affinity and empathy are quite difficult. Sadly, these gaps in understanding can sometimes be compounded where an historical memory of a character is revealed that is grounded in the mythology where neither is adequately explained. The reader either struggles on in the hope that clarity will be presented later or ultimately gives up. The story is fascinating and it does hold the attention through its mix of mythologies and modern features, so it is worth sticking with it.
The characters in this book are more approachable in their behaviours compared to the first book, although it is strange that this should be the case given that one of the lead characters is the more wolf-like of the twins. Certainly, when the brothers come together there is a clear snapping antagonism that is wolf-like, but the relationship with the human is more approachable than wolf to dog.
It is strange that the human gets away with more behaviour that differs from pack actions compared to the dog in the first book, given that humans are deemed more lowly. There is a clear that develops between the two lead characters and although the sex is few and far between, it is passionate when it occurs.
There is a fast pace to the story, if the reader can keep up. A whole raft of new characters are introduced and many are cast by the wayside as the story progresses. I did find it difficult to keep all of the names and relationships clear in my head, which made the understanding of certain scenes less clear than they might be. Because there is so much going on in a variety of locations, it is not easy to go back and make sense of what is going on.
The end of the story resolves some, but not all of the plot threads. Similarly, the mythology is still being explored, which requires further explanation. The plot of this story is wrapped up quite quickly and it felt as though the author needed to tie things up without dragging it out but leave clear markers for the next book. It felt a little abrupt. I do hope the author is able to provide a developed mythology as an annexe in the next book, assuming that to be the last. It would make re-reading that much more pleasurable.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
The characters in this book are more approachable in their behaviours compared to the first book, although it is strange that this should be the case given that one of the lead characters is the more wolf-like of the twins. Certainly, when the brothers come together there is a clear snapping antagonism that is wolf-like, but the relationship with the human is more approachable than wolf to dog.
It is strange that the human gets away with more behaviour that differs from pack actions compared to the dog in the first book, given that humans are deemed more lowly. There is a clear that develops between the two lead characters and although the sex is few and far between, it is passionate when it occurs.
There is a fast pace to the story, if the reader can keep up. A whole raft of new characters are introduced and many are cast by the wayside as the story progresses. I did find it difficult to keep all of the names and relationships clear in my head, which made the understanding of certain scenes less clear than they might be. Because there is so much going on in a variety of locations, it is not easy to go back and make sense of what is going on.
The end of the story resolves some, but not all of the plot threads. Similarly, the mythology is still being explored, which requires further explanation. The plot of this story is wrapped up quite quickly and it felt as though the author needed to tie things up without dragging it out but leave clear markers for the next book. It felt a little abrupt. I do hope the author is able to provide a developed mythology as an annexe in the next book, assuming that to be the last. It would make re-reading that much more pleasurable.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
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May 28, 2018I’m glad I read the two “Wolf Winter” books close together as I don’t think I’d remember the connection between the stories otherwise. This is more or less my thought on both books combined in one, though emphasize on “Stone the Crows.”
Compared between the two, I liked this sequel better than “Dog Days.” The wolves in both book were still obnoxiously arrogant A-hole (in my opinion) considering how they treated their mate, although - to be fair - Gregor didn’t know any better considering the condition he was in when he first met Nick. But “Stone the Crows” had a more intriguing opening. Then again, part of the reason was because I’ve read the first book so I had the general idea of the situation this AU Scotland facing; and it really really helped shaping up the world building (of the story) in my head.
That saying, and it pains me to say this, but as interesting as the premise of “Wolf Winter” series is, it’s really difficult for me to find likable aspects in the books. Yes, books - as in plural: #book1 and #book2. Other than how obnoxious both twins being, the flow of the story felt riddled with unexplored loop holes. There was that gap between where “Dog Days” ended and “Stone the Crows” started (somehow I felt it’d have more impact were the incident were shown on page instead of being told as an aside), not to mention - just like in previous book - our protagonist going blind facing their adversaries, or out of nowhere there’s mention of deceased child?. Nick and Gregor practically knew nothing and escaped from the ordeal and defeat the monsters out of ...luck? And it’s not even the end of the story. Apparently there’s more to come from this “Wolf Winter” series and I just felt helplessly clueless.
Given I enjoyed this author’s previous contemporary mystery book, it’s rather surprising how much struggle I had with this paranormal series. Perhaps it’s a case of me being too dense and unimaginative to understand alternative rendition of shifter folklores, I don’t know. I’m still curious on how the twins and their mates’ adventure would end. But for the moment, I think I’m more exciting on the author’s other contemporary series than this one. Perhaps I’d change my mind later, we’ll see.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Compared between the two, I liked this sequel better than “Dog Days.” The wolves in both book were still obnoxiously arrogant A-hole (in my opinion) considering how they treated their mate, although - to be fair - Gregor didn’t know any better considering the condition he was in when he first met Nick. But “Stone the Crows” had a more intriguing opening. Then again, part of the reason was because I’ve read the first book so I had the general idea of the situation this AU Scotland facing; and it really really helped shaping up the world building (of the story) in my head.
That saying, and it pains me to say this, but as interesting as the premise of “Wolf Winter” series is, it’s really difficult for me to find likable aspects in the books. Yes, books - as in plural: #book1 and #book2. Other than how obnoxious both twins being, the flow of the story felt riddled with unexplored loop holes. There was that gap between where “Dog Days” ended and “Stone the Crows” started (somehow I felt it’d have more impact were the incident were shown on page instead of being told as an aside), not to mention - just like in previous book - our protagonist going blind facing their adversaries, or out of nowhere there’s mention of deceased child?. Nick and Gregor practically knew nothing and escaped from the ordeal and defeat the monsters out of ...luck? And it’s not even the end of the story. Apparently there’s more to come from this “Wolf Winter” series and I just felt helplessly clueless.
Given I enjoyed this author’s previous contemporary mystery book, it’s rather surprising how much struggle I had with this paranormal series. Perhaps it’s a case of me being too dense and unimaginative to understand alternative rendition of shifter folklores, I don’t know. I’m still curious on how the twins and their mates’ adventure would end. But for the moment, I think I’m more exciting on the author’s other contemporary series than this one. Perhaps I’d change my mind later, we’ll see.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2018
4.5 stars
Doctor Nicholas Blake was taught as a kid that monsters are more real than what people think, but he thought it was all a lie weaved by his cruel grandmother to control him. So when he finds himself face to face with the monsters, Nick knows he must run… Instead, he finds himself trying to heal the monster he was supposed to hate, while navigating the confusing feelings he awakes in him…
All Gregor knows about is hate and ambition. He’s never paid attention to humans, because he considers them unworthy of his interest. But Nick shows him kindness, and for the first time Gregor feels the need to protect rather than destroy. If only the world wouldn’t be collapsing around them…
Wow. I’m still reeling from the shock of this story. First of all, I have to admit that I did not read the first book in this series (I’ve already purchased it so I can find out the previous events) so during the first chapters I found myself quite lost. But the powerful imagery of this world and the brutal and ruthless reality of it soon trapped me. There is a lot going on, but basically the world is facing a sort of apocalypse by cold. In this brutal climate, humans are condemned to die and wolves to soar. Nick finds Gregor dying in the snow, and he tries to save him, not knowing there is little humanity in Gregor. Both characters are difficult, specially Gregor. I wish I had read the previous book, but even without reading it I realise he is not a likeable character. He’s hard as nails, and violent. Nick is also difficult. At the beginning, he seems to be cold and a bit cynical, but we soon discover there is more to him than meets the eye. As the plot unravels, Nick and Gregor form an unexpected bond which becomes more real with every obstacle they have to sort. There are revelations and a surprising ending… Even some humour at the end (I love the sticks…) Anyway, this is not a story for the bleeding hearts or the lovers of vanilla romance. But if you are looking for a different kind of romance, and you like fantasy and apocalyptic stories, you should certainly give this series a chance (just… read the first book first, don’t make the same mistake I made)
Very recommendable.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Doctor Nicholas Blake was taught as a kid that monsters are more real than what people think, but he thought it was all a lie weaved by his cruel grandmother to control him. So when he finds himself face to face with the monsters, Nick knows he must run… Instead, he finds himself trying to heal the monster he was supposed to hate, while navigating the confusing feelings he awakes in him…
All Gregor knows about is hate and ambition. He’s never paid attention to humans, because he considers them unworthy of his interest. But Nick shows him kindness, and for the first time Gregor feels the need to protect rather than destroy. If only the world wouldn’t be collapsing around them…
Wow. I’m still reeling from the shock of this story. First of all, I have to admit that I did not read the first book in this series (I’ve already purchased it so I can find out the previous events) so during the first chapters I found myself quite lost. But the powerful imagery of this world and the brutal and ruthless reality of it soon trapped me. There is a lot going on, but basically the world is facing a sort of apocalypse by cold. In this brutal climate, humans are condemned to die and wolves to soar. Nick finds Gregor dying in the snow, and he tries to save him, not knowing there is little humanity in Gregor. Both characters are difficult, specially Gregor. I wish I had read the previous book, but even without reading it I realise he is not a likeable character. He’s hard as nails, and violent. Nick is also difficult. At the beginning, he seems to be cold and a bit cynical, but we soon discover there is more to him than meets the eye. As the plot unravels, Nick and Gregor form an unexpected bond which becomes more real with every obstacle they have to sort. There are revelations and a surprising ending… Even some humour at the end (I love the sticks…) Anyway, this is not a story for the bleeding hearts or the lovers of vanilla romance. But if you are looking for a different kind of romance, and you like fantasy and apocalyptic stories, you should certainly give this series a chance (just… read the first book first, don’t make the same mistake I made)
Very recommendable.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2018
I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book two in the Wolf Winter series, and you probably should read book one, Dog Days, before you read this one. I didn't much care for that book, though.
This one, however, is a whole different matter!
I said in my review for Dog Days that I was left with so many questions about the Wolves, and the Prophets and what was going on. I'm STILL left with questions about what's going on, but I'm feeling better about being left waiting, you know? Does that make sense?? I still have questions, but I'm not left hanging, right? Sorta, kinda!
Nothing is settled here. The Prophets are still doing despicable things to the people and indeed to Jack and Gregor. They took Gregor's Wolf and Jack's skin. The Prophets are still trying to get the upper hand on the Gods, but it's HOW they are doing it: preying on ordinary folk, in extraordinary situations, that gives this book the horror tag I've given it.
Nick is human, but Gregor takes a shine to Nick after he saves him. I wasn't sure about Gregor, not in the beginning. we heard such horrible things about him from jack in Dog Days, and I did NOT want to like him, but he grows on you! He has that "Mine" moment you get with werewolves, and I loved that, even though he refused to admit what was going on, even to himself, it was NICK he wanted to save first, not his brother Jack.
Who the Prophet turned out to be was a bit of a shocker, and what she did to Nick was no picnic, and she's STILL out there. So there is more to come. Or at least I HOPE there is! Because you know, I still have questions!
I found this a much better read than Dog Days, and I read it in two sittings, cos that darn dayjob got in the way.
Thank you to Ms Moore for my copy.
4 solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book two in the Wolf Winter series, and you probably should read book one, Dog Days, before you read this one. I didn't much care for that book, though.
This one, however, is a whole different matter!
I said in my review for Dog Days that I was left with so many questions about the Wolves, and the Prophets and what was going on. I'm STILL left with questions about what's going on, but I'm feeling better about being left waiting, you know? Does that make sense?? I still have questions, but I'm not left hanging, right? Sorta, kinda!
Nothing is settled here. The Prophets are still doing despicable things to the people and indeed to Jack and Gregor. They took Gregor's Wolf and Jack's skin. The Prophets are still trying to get the upper hand on the Gods, but it's HOW they are doing it: preying on ordinary folk, in extraordinary situations, that gives this book the horror tag I've given it.
Nick is human, but Gregor takes a shine to Nick after he saves him. I wasn't sure about Gregor, not in the beginning. we heard such horrible things about him from jack in Dog Days, and I did NOT want to like him, but he grows on you! He has that "Mine" moment you get with werewolves, and I loved that, even though he refused to admit what was going on, even to himself, it was NICK he wanted to save first, not his brother Jack.
Who the Prophet turned out to be was a bit of a shocker, and what she did to Nick was no picnic, and she's STILL out there. So there is more to come. Or at least I HOPE there is! Because you know, I still have questions!
I found this a much better read than Dog Days, and I read it in two sittings, cos that darn dayjob got in the way.
Thank you to Ms Moore for my copy.
4 solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
August 14, 2020
Title: Stone the Crows
Series: Wolf Winter, Book 2
Author: T.A. Moore
Genre: LGBT, Gay Shifter, Witches/Wizards Romance
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Release Date: May 29, 2018
Pages: 242
TA Moore has pulled no punches in Dog Winter, setting us up with many questions unanswered in the first book. As we enter the second book we are thrown again into the brutal cold and suffering of the humans. The Prophets have done despicable acts and tortured and taken Jack’s skin and now Gregor’s wolf . Danny has been kidnapped with Jack and Gregor is found in the snow, left to die.
Gregor is found by Doctor Nicholas Blake, a doctor that works with the dead, not the living. So he has to work hard bringing this frozen dying man back to health. Gregor was not particularly a favorite of mine in the first book, but now I rally with him to find his brother Jack and Jack’s dog Danny. Like with Danny we quickly see Nick is not what he seems , as he and Gregor make a deal in finding Jack and Danny.
This story has many more stories to it, and you have to pay attention to how the humans are manipulated, what you see might not be real except Gregor’s Wolfie “Mine” moment when it comes to his feelings for Nick. Never thought I’d see the spoiled wolf/ man fall for anyone but his spoiled self.
Nick’s remembrances of his childhood become memories that are brought to the forefront of this story, as they fight the enemy in brutal bloody fights, in brutal unforgiving weather. Perseverance is the word. The enemy was a surprise!
All in all this book gives us the set up for the upcoming finale in Book #3 coming possibly soon….
Series: Wolf Winter, Book 2
Author: T.A. Moore
Genre: LGBT, Gay Shifter, Witches/Wizards Romance
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Release Date: May 29, 2018
Pages: 242
TA Moore has pulled no punches in Dog Winter, setting us up with many questions unanswered in the first book. As we enter the second book we are thrown again into the brutal cold and suffering of the humans. The Prophets have done despicable acts and tortured and taken Jack’s skin and now Gregor’s wolf . Danny has been kidnapped with Jack and Gregor is found in the snow, left to die.
Gregor is found by Doctor Nicholas Blake, a doctor that works with the dead, not the living. So he has to work hard bringing this frozen dying man back to health. Gregor was not particularly a favorite of mine in the first book, but now I rally with him to find his brother Jack and Jack’s dog Danny. Like with Danny we quickly see Nick is not what he seems , as he and Gregor make a deal in finding Jack and Danny.
This story has many more stories to it, and you have to pay attention to how the humans are manipulated, what you see might not be real except Gregor’s Wolfie “Mine” moment when it comes to his feelings for Nick. Never thought I’d see the spoiled wolf/ man fall for anyone but his spoiled self.
Nick’s remembrances of his childhood become memories that are brought to the forefront of this story, as they fight the enemy in brutal bloody fights, in brutal unforgiving weather. Perseverance is the word. The enemy was a surprise!
All in all this book gives us the set up for the upcoming finale in Book #3 coming possibly soon….
May 29, 2018
I requested and was given an advance copy of this novel for a honest review.
Raw. Brutal. A glimmer of romance. A dash of hope. Perseverance. That about sums up this sequel to Dog Days. In this book, we get to see the other twin (Jack with his chosen Danny in book one) Gregor, and his savior and now partner, Nick. TA Moore's writing make the reader work for every ounce of the story; and it is well worth it. Set against the apocalyptic Wolf's Winter, I shivered and struggled along with the characters as they made their way through the maze and hazards of the new reality. At times, I jumped and read with one eye open and tried to skip pages—just as I would fast forward a movie that scared the living daylights out of me—to no avail. I had to read every page with both eyes open so I could make my way to the end of this part of the saga, along with Gregor and Nick.
This is much better if you have read Dog Days, Winter Wolf #1, before you read this novel. The ending is appropriate for a series book, without a cliffhanger, to want you to come back for the next book in the series. Also, expectations—if you are looking for hearts, flowers, and sweetness—look elsewhere. This is not a nice and neat romance and the book, thus the series is better for it.
Music that comes to mind when I read this story: Sound of Silence cover by Disturbed (hauntingly beautiful in a stark landscape), Bad Wolves Cover of Zombie, The Thunder Rolls by All That Remains, and Kill My Pain by Eminem and Evanescence.
Raw. Brutal. A glimmer of romance. A dash of hope. Perseverance. That about sums up this sequel to Dog Days. In this book, we get to see the other twin (Jack with his chosen Danny in book one) Gregor, and his savior and now partner, Nick. TA Moore's writing make the reader work for every ounce of the story; and it is well worth it. Set against the apocalyptic Wolf's Winter, I shivered and struggled along with the characters as they made their way through the maze and hazards of the new reality. At times, I jumped and read with one eye open and tried to skip pages—just as I would fast forward a movie that scared the living daylights out of me—to no avail. I had to read every page with both eyes open so I could make my way to the end of this part of the saga, along with Gregor and Nick.
This is much better if you have read Dog Days, Winter Wolf #1, before you read this novel. The ending is appropriate for a series book, without a cliffhanger, to want you to come back for the next book in the series. Also, expectations—if you are looking for hearts, flowers, and sweetness—look elsewhere. This is not a nice and neat romance and the book, thus the series is better for it.
Music that comes to mind when I read this story: Sound of Silence cover by Disturbed (hauntingly beautiful in a stark landscape), Bad Wolves Cover of Zombie, The Thunder Rolls by All That Remains, and Kill My Pain by Eminem and Evanescence.
May 30, 2018
Advance copy courtesy of the author etc etc
This is the direct sequel to the previous book, Dog Days - this literally continues where the other left off. Things are even worse than before, the Wolf Winter is truly on its way and the 'regular' people are either dead, dying or getting turned into monsters. Nick is a pathologist, he spends his time cataloguing the dead until one night he almost literally stumbles on a dying man - Gregor. Gregor is horrendously injured from the fight with Job and the monsters at the end of the last book, his Wolf has been taken from him and Jack is missing too. Nick isn't used to treating living patients and Gregor is not used to being taken care of but something pulls at them towards one another.
This is quality urban fantasy, very much my sort of a book. It's not an easy book, the violence is explicit and visceral and there are some upsetting themes of conditioning and abuse but the story is just so good it takes you with it. This is not certainly not a traditional romance, there is not a lot of mushy stuff between Nick and Gregor but they definitely have feelings for each other - just not very good at talking about it.
Very much looking forward to more in the series!
This is the direct sequel to the previous book, Dog Days - this literally continues where the other left off. Things are even worse than before, the Wolf Winter is truly on its way and the 'regular' people are either dead, dying or getting turned into monsters. Nick is a pathologist, he spends his time cataloguing the dead until one night he almost literally stumbles on a dying man - Gregor. Gregor is horrendously injured from the fight with Job and the monsters at the end of the last book, his Wolf has been taken from him and Jack is missing too. Nick isn't used to treating living patients and Gregor is not used to being taken care of but something pulls at them towards one another.
This is quality urban fantasy, very much my sort of a book. It's not an easy book, the violence is explicit and visceral and there are some upsetting themes of conditioning and abuse but the story is just so good it takes you with it. This is not certainly not a traditional romance, there is not a lot of mushy stuff between Nick and Gregor but they definitely have feelings for each other - just not very good at talking about it.
Very much looking forward to more in the series!
May 24, 2018
I have now found my barometer for scary. I’m a wuss, so I probably have a low bar (The ‘Burbs movie scares me), but this is where I would say, any scarier, and I won’t read. But I did enjoy reading this, which did include a secondary read of a much lighter book at the same time, I mean, I need to sleep at night. Definitely a day time read for me!
I love the descriptions TA Moore has in the book, they really are quite real. I hadn’t read the first book, so I might have missed some fine points (like how come and how much the twin brothers hate each other). I watched Silence of the Lambs on my porch through the curtain, and so I am proud to say I read this without any barrier. Phew.
There was definitely a romance, but it was couched between a lot of gore, I mean literally. If you are a horror movie/book reader, then this is for you.
Thank you, Ms. Moore for changing my scariest story from Sleep Away Camp 3 movie to Stone the Crows book, I have had no nightmares and I have several people I will be recommending this book to. And although they aren’t called zombies, I can say I finally enjoyed a book with zombies.
I love the descriptions TA Moore has in the book, they really are quite real. I hadn’t read the first book, so I might have missed some fine points (like how come and how much the twin brothers hate each other). I watched Silence of the Lambs on my porch through the curtain, and so I am proud to say I read this without any barrier. Phew.
There was definitely a romance, but it was couched between a lot of gore, I mean literally. If you are a horror movie/book reader, then this is for you.
Thank you, Ms. Moore for changing my scariest story from Sleep Away Camp 3 movie to Stone the Crows book, I have had no nightmares and I have several people I will be recommending this book to. And although they aren’t called zombies, I can say I finally enjoyed a book with zombies.
May 29, 2018
This is the second installment of TA's Wolf Winter series. During the "wolf winter," shifters will cross Hadrian's wall to claim the land and lay waste to humanity. This installment is truly a continuation of the first book, Dog Days. In the first book, we are introduced to twin shifters, Jack and Gregor. Stone the Crows picks up Gregor's story where Dog Days ends.
The romance is harsh and driven by desperation. It's complicated and raw. Gregor and his mate, Nicholas, do get together in a HFN. Their courtship is not in the typical hearts and flowers kind. Theirs is a bond forged by death and fear and courage- like warriors, like true Highlanders.
TA's story-telling is masterful. I imagined sitting around a campfire or huddling beneath blankets in front of a cozy fire, listening to the flow of words as she describes shifters and the otherworld layering over one another. While not a typical romance, this is a compelling tale and worth the effort to read. Its not a downer- more like a zombie apocalypse tale. The world is really fascinating and complicated and best enjoyed if you read the books in order.
*Advanced copy provided for an honest review.
The romance is harsh and driven by desperation. It's complicated and raw. Gregor and his mate, Nicholas, do get together in a HFN. Their courtship is not in the typical hearts and flowers kind. Theirs is a bond forged by death and fear and courage- like warriors, like true Highlanders.
TA's story-telling is masterful. I imagined sitting around a campfire or huddling beneath blankets in front of a cozy fire, listening to the flow of words as she describes shifters and the otherworld layering over one another. While not a typical romance, this is a compelling tale and worth the effort to read. Its not a downer- more like a zombie apocalypse tale. The world is really fascinating and complicated and best enjoyed if you read the books in order.
*Advanced copy provided for an honest review.
May 31, 2018
Despite the fact that I don't really consider this book a romance, I loved reading it. The horrors that surrounded Nick and Gregor were written so well I could feel the tension, nausea, fear, and disgust along with the characters. Nick, who was raised by a horrible and superstitious grandmother, might not have seemed to be the perfect match for Gregor, but the two quickly formed a bond and couldn't manage to stay apart.
I haven't read book one, but this one quickly pulled me in. Scotland during the Wolf Winter was a place of nightmares. The monsters were real, and they were joined by humans, who were somehow worse in their desperation. Gregor, whose wolf had been viciously cut out of him, took Nick with him to search for Gregor's twin Jack. Their road together was hard and frightening. There was no room for romance, but Nick and Gregor's feeling changed and grew throughout the book.
I plan on going back to read book one, and I am anxious to read book three when it comes out. I feel like so much is yet to be learned about Nick, and I hope to see more of Gregor and Jack working together instead of against each other. This is some great storytelling!
I haven't read book one, but this one quickly pulled me in. Scotland during the Wolf Winter was a place of nightmares. The monsters were real, and they were joined by humans, who were somehow worse in their desperation. Gregor, whose wolf had been viciously cut out of him, took Nick with him to search for Gregor's twin Jack. Their road together was hard and frightening. There was no room for romance, but Nick and Gregor's feeling changed and grew throughout the book.
I plan on going back to read book one, and I am anxious to read book three when it comes out. I feel like so much is yet to be learned about Nick, and I hope to see more of Gregor and Jack working together instead of against each other. This is some great storytelling!
July 19, 2019
I liked the first book but was on the fence about continuing. I didn't buy the second one for a few months, when I saw a little discount on DSP. I loved, loved, loved the second book!!!!!!!
It helped that I went in with a much clearer expectation of the genre (horror), and knowing I had to be patient with the world-building, because I knew it wouldn't be spoon-fed to me. Those were two things I struggled with in book 1.
IMHO the romance was more romantic, including an epilogue with a few "I love you"'s from Gregor/Nick. I just adored Gregor, the twin who hates being a twin and who always has known that his father prefers Jack. There is also a heartbreaking bit of backstory with Gregor and .
I also love where the brotherly relationship between Jack and Gregor lands by the end of the book.
For an apocalyptic setting, and a plot featuring a lot of dead innocent townspeople and children smiling with blood in their teeth, this book also had a surprisingly large amount of warm fuzzies.
I'm now 100% on board with this series. Onto book 3!
It helped that I went in with a much clearer expectation of the genre (horror), and knowing I had to be patient with the world-building, because I knew it wouldn't be spoon-fed to me. Those were two things I struggled with in book 1.
IMHO the romance was more romantic, including an epilogue with a few "I love you"'s from Gregor/Nick. I just adored Gregor, the twin who hates being a twin and who always has known that his father prefers Jack. There is also a heartbreaking bit of backstory with Gregor and .
I also love where the brotherly relationship between Jack and Gregor lands by the end of the book.
For an apocalyptic setting, and a plot featuring a lot of dead innocent townspeople and children smiling with blood in their teeth, this book also had a surprisingly large amount of warm fuzzies.
I'm now 100% on board with this series. Onto book 3!
May 30, 2018
ByKendra Pattersonon May 30, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
ARC received for an honest review.
Recommend starting with book 1 in the series Dog Days.
Since I didn't read book 1 I was lost & confused about a lot of things. It slowed down the book for me & I had to re-read quite a bit at the beginning & still not sure what all's going on. That being said I don't want to take anything away from the author since this is a continuing series.
There is some really good world building. Ms. Moore is a skilled writer. This is not a lovey dovey romance, more a gritting, slow acceptance to love wrapped up in some mystery/horror/action ending in a HFN.
Gregor is the "bad twin" who's been tortured & experimented on. Jack is a Dr who grew up with horror stories of shifters. Jack finds Gregor & saves his life. I really liked the world building & supporting cast. I'm intrigued enough to buy book 1 so I can figure out what I'm missing & then re-read this book.
If you like sci fy/mystery/shifter type books I think you'll enjoy this one. I definitely recommend giving this series a chance.
Format: Kindle Edition
ARC received for an honest review.
Recommend starting with book 1 in the series Dog Days.
Since I didn't read book 1 I was lost & confused about a lot of things. It slowed down the book for me & I had to re-read quite a bit at the beginning & still not sure what all's going on. That being said I don't want to take anything away from the author since this is a continuing series.
There is some really good world building. Ms. Moore is a skilled writer. This is not a lovey dovey romance, more a gritting, slow acceptance to love wrapped up in some mystery/horror/action ending in a HFN.
Gregor is the "bad twin" who's been tortured & experimented on. Jack is a Dr who grew up with horror stories of shifters. Jack finds Gregor & saves his life. I really liked the world building & supporting cast. I'm intrigued enough to buy book 1 so I can figure out what I'm missing & then re-read this book.
If you like sci fy/mystery/shifter type books I think you'll enjoy this one. I definitely recommend giving this series a chance.
May 31, 2018
This book isn’t for the faint hearted it’s dystopian to say the least. Descriptors like sour, bloody, cold, greasy, raw and wet are scattered throughout out the story, leaving us readers with a strong sense of what an unpleasant reality the occupants of the story inhabit.
It is the second book in the Wolf Winter series and although it could be read as a standalone as TA brings in enough information about previous events, by reading the first book in the series you’ll get all the back story so you’ll be able to immerse yourself in this story immediately rather than having to catch up.
This was a gripping tale that had me following along with the twists and turns in the story. I liked both the MC’s and their uniqueness made me them a good match for each other, their personalities fit well together. One of the secondary characters, Jimmy a little boy with leukaemia, really tugged at my heart. I hope things turned out okay for him in the end. TA Moore’s books usually have a fantastic plot as well as the emerging relationship between the MC’s and she does it again with this book.
It is the second book in the Wolf Winter series and although it could be read as a standalone as TA brings in enough information about previous events, by reading the first book in the series you’ll get all the back story so you’ll be able to immerse yourself in this story immediately rather than having to catch up.
This was a gripping tale that had me following along with the twists and turns in the story. I liked both the MC’s and their uniqueness made me them a good match for each other, their personalities fit well together. One of the secondary characters, Jimmy a little boy with leukaemia, really tugged at my heart. I hope things turned out okay for him in the end. TA Moore’s books usually have a fantastic plot as well as the emerging relationship between the MC’s and she does it again with this book.
May 15, 2018
This is simply amazing and definitely not your average shifter love story. Expanding on the first book, even though this takes place in a very geographically isolated and small area, this second book feels both expansive and apocalyptic. The Wolf Winter setting calls up images from the "Day After Tomorrow" movie yet this world is even harsher. Instead of the weather as an opponent, this book has cruel villains, monsters even.
I do recommend reading the first book first because it will make the story more accessible. In the first book I think I preferred Danny over Jack, but in this one, I love Gregor and Nick equally.
For some reason, while reading this, I had the impression that the author still has so much more backstory, so much more world building that is simmering just below the surface of the book, dying to be let out. Highly recommended!
I do recommend reading the first book first because it will make the story more accessible. In the first book I think I preferred Danny over Jack, but in this one, I love Gregor and Nick equally.
For some reason, while reading this, I had the impression that the author still has so much more backstory, so much more world building that is simmering just below the surface of the book, dying to be let out. Highly recommended!
May 30, 2018
This book is the sequel to Dog Days and I would suggest reading it out of order, there are a lot of plot points from the first story that continue into this one. This is also an apocalyptic type romance and while the romance is a significant part of the story, it isn't your typical sweet mushy romance either. This book rapidly descended into the drama and chaos of the upcoming “apocalypse” and keeps you on the edge of your seat for most of it. There’s definitely ominous feel to it and i honestly think i’m too much of a wuss for it, it's not a bedtime story that's for sure. If you are into books on the scarier side paired with the romance element it's perfect for you. The story line was unique and capturing and the writing was great. T. A. Moore does a wonderful creating the world that this story is set in too.
May 30, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit https://wp.me/p220KL-dLD
From that review: "Imagine being dumped into a landscape where all your childhood nightmares are real, where the bedtime stories of monsters with claws to rend your flesh and teeth to eat you told by your gran were not just nasty tales but of horrible tattered together creatures waiting for you to arrive? This is but the beginning of an incredible story and the second book in an amazing series by T.A. Moore.
Stone the Crows is the second novel in the Wolf Winter series by T.A. Moore and its a stunner at every level and element. Horror, urban fantasy, and romance. There is nothing this author and book doesn't excel at."
For all our reviews, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit https://wp.me/p220KL-dLD
From that review: "Imagine being dumped into a landscape where all your childhood nightmares are real, where the bedtime stories of monsters with claws to rend your flesh and teeth to eat you told by your gran were not just nasty tales but of horrible tattered together creatures waiting for you to arrive? This is but the beginning of an incredible story and the second book in an amazing series by T.A. Moore.
Stone the Crows is the second novel in the Wolf Winter series by T.A. Moore and its a stunner at every level and element. Horror, urban fantasy, and romance. There is nothing this author and book doesn't excel at."
For all our reviews, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
January 19, 2021
Much more gruesome than Dog Days, and I would not recommend reading this as a standalone, it would be v confusing. I also found I had to read in solid chunks of time - no dipping in and out - as the plot is more twisty with people than book one. Also a lot more grizzly.
Gregor is not a soft and cuddly character at all, and we do have to make leaps of assumption at times.
Nick is a strange one, though that comes to why later but his choice of pathologist as a career - picking over the dead - does make sense later.
We finally get all four reunited and with a mission.
I will be reading Wolf at the Door very soon as I feel these need to be read close together, but with a rest in between!
Not your average shifter story.
Gregor is not a soft and cuddly character at all, and we do have to make leaps of assumption at times.
Nick is a strange one, though that comes to why later but his choice of pathologist as a career - picking over the dead - does make sense later.
We finally get all four reunited and with a mission.
I will be reading Wolf at the Door very soon as I feel these need to be read close together, but with a rest in between!
Not your average shifter story.
May 29, 2018
“The wolf winter, when the world would freeze, and the wolves would come down over the Wall from Scotland to eat all the little boys in their beds.”
This is not a stand-alone, and you will definitely better understand the story arc if you first read the previous book, “Dog Days.” This epic revolves around twins, Jack and Gregor, who happen to be wolf shifters. Add to that the weather (return of the Ice Age), the Prophets (a truly loathsome characters, one in particular), and, did I mention the weather?
The story is gritty and scary, but in the end the two MCs (Gregor and Nicholas) get their HFN.
This is not a stand-alone, and you will definitely better understand the story arc if you first read the previous book, “Dog Days.” This epic revolves around twins, Jack and Gregor, who happen to be wolf shifters. Add to that the weather (return of the Ice Age), the Prophets (a truly loathsome characters, one in particular), and, did I mention the weather?
The story is gritty and scary, but in the end the two MCs (Gregor and Nicholas) get their HFN.
December 20, 2018
Okay, loved the first wolf winter book, not quite so sure about this one despite giving a 4* (3.5* really). It’s just so depressing. I don’t mind a bit of dark and apocalyptic but this takes it that one step further - certainly compared to TA Moore’s earlier novels. As a result I had a bit of a hiatus before finishing this one. The writing is great and the plot is hugely imaginative - I’m not sure if it is based on ancient Celtic/Viking legends ?? I really liked Nick and the opportunity to explore Gregor’s character a bit more, after he came across as so unlikeable in Dog Days. The scene does look set for a third book in the series and I’ll probably do my best to get my hands on it.
May 29, 2018
I received this book as an ARC and offer my honest opinion.
If I had had to wait for 2 years between book 1 & 2 I might not have read this, but moving straight into this from book 1, the theme and characters are fresh in my mind.
This book was, very like the first a slow progress read. It involves the twin brother and nemesis of Jack from book 1. It carries straight on in time line although moves into the wild of Scotland from Durham. The weather is worse, the “zombies” have evolved some. Again although Gregor and Nick are likely to be “Mates” there is not a hint of real romance in this book. The writing continues to be fast paced, having said that I struggled a bit to get to 49% Then did an all nighter to finish as the second half of the book just lit on fire!
This book includes a twist in the storyline and the introduction of a different type of shifter. It is also obviously NOT the end, but happily does not leave a gaping cliffhanger ( my big No No) I do hope it’s not another 2 years for the next book. I would definitely recommend this book.
If I had had to wait for 2 years between book 1 & 2 I might not have read this, but moving straight into this from book 1, the theme and characters are fresh in my mind.
This book was, very like the first a slow progress read. It involves the twin brother and nemesis of Jack from book 1. It carries straight on in time line although moves into the wild of Scotland from Durham. The weather is worse, the “zombies” have evolved some. Again although Gregor and Nick are likely to be “Mates” there is not a hint of real romance in this book. The writing continues to be fast paced, having said that I struggled a bit to get to 49% Then did an all nighter to finish as the second half of the book just lit on fire!
This book includes a twist in the storyline and the introduction of a different type of shifter. It is also obviously NOT the end, but happily does not leave a gaping cliffhanger ( my big No No) I do hope it’s not another 2 years for the next book. I would definitely recommend this book.
October 23, 2020
Sometimes it’s hard to rate a book that is good but not what you expected. This book is dark, gruesome and gory, without any real sweetness. Gregor and Nick seem bound by circumstance more than compatibility. However, the narrative was captivating if hard to read at times. It was bleak and more horror than romance. I do look forward to the completion of the story and to see how things work out in the end.
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