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The Sworn Saga #2
Silver Wolf
The long-awaited sequel to RED RIDER, a post-apocalyptic werewolf retelling of Red Riding Hood.
Meredith Rider, known as Red, has been captured once more by Sworn soldiers and taken to the capital of the werewolf empire. There, she is forced to train with a group of other captive girls in the arts and graces of the Chosen, the unlucky human girls whose DNA is compatible with that of werewolves.
In other words--breeders.
Red isn't about have babies for the enemy. She's going to escape or die trying.
And her conflicted feelings for the darkly handsome, cruelly cunning Vixor Rae, the Sworn champion of the Alpha who goes by the nickname Silver Wolf, are only going to get in her way.
Meredith Rider, known as Red, has been captured once more by Sworn soldiers and taken to the capital of the werewolf empire. There, she is forced to train with a group of other captive girls in the arts and graces of the Chosen, the unlucky human girls whose DNA is compatible with that of werewolves.
In other words--breeders.
Red isn't about have babies for the enemy. She's going to escape or die trying.
And her conflicted feelings for the darkly handsome, cruelly cunning Vixor Rae, the Sworn champion of the Alpha who goes by the nickname Silver Wolf, are only going to get in her way.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2019
677 people are currently reading
815 people want to read
About the author
Kate Avery Ellison
86 books896 followersI've been making up stories since I was five years old, and now I'm thrilled to be able to do it as a full-time job. I have an obsession with dark fantasy, dystopian futures, and Pride and Prejudice-style love stories full of witty banter and sizzling, unspoken feelings. When I'm not writing, I'm creating digital art, reading funny blogs, or watching my favorite shows (which include TVD and BSG). I live with my geeky husband and our two bad cats in Atlanta, GA.
Click here to read the first chapter of THE CURSE GIRL!
Click here to read the first chapter of FROST!
Attention Book Bloggers ~ If you are interested in interviewing me or reviewing one of my books, send me a message. I'd love to hear from you! (Please note: I am currently not able to fulfill most requests for print copies at this time, but you can always ask. However, I am ALWAYS able and happy to provide e-copies or PDFs of my books in exchange for an honest review.)
If you're wondering why I categorize books as "breathless," "cake," or "amnesia," check out this blog post!
Click here to read the first chapter of THE CURSE GIRL!
Click here to read the first chapter of FROST!
Attention Book Bloggers ~ If you are interested in interviewing me or reviewing one of my books, send me a message. I'd love to hear from you! (Please note: I am currently not able to fulfill most requests for print copies at this time, but you can always ask. However, I am ALWAYS able and happy to provide e-copies or PDFs of my books in exchange for an honest review.)
If you're wondering why I categorize books as "breathless," "cake," or "amnesia," check out this blog post!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
October 23, 2019
This book was kinda a bummer. Not in terms of the writing or the quality of the story. It’s just really depressing to basically watch someone go above and beyond to help the people she loves, and then have those people reject her...or stab her (although I guess that was book one).
Also, this book was more predictable than the first in the series. Like, I should’ve seen the twist coming that Vixor Rae (still a silly name) was Kassian, and I’m mad I didn’t. This time around, I accurately predicted the ending to this book pretty early on. It honestly would’ve been more interesting if she had joined the rebels and ended up fighting against her best friend/werewolf prince.
Anyone else annoyed at how that magic invisibility cloak has not really been a story element?
This book would probably be much more compelling with alternating POV chapters. Kassian - i refuse to call him that other name in my head - is the most complex and internally conflicted character in the books, and seeing things from his perspective would be really interesting. Also, sometimes he would just be somewhere doing something, and I just want to know what a self-loathing werewolf does in his free time.
Also, this book was more predictable than the first in the series. Like, I should’ve seen the twist coming that Vixor Rae (still a silly name) was Kassian, and I’m mad I didn’t. This time around, I accurately predicted the ending to this book pretty early on. It honestly would’ve been more interesting if she had joined the rebels and ended up fighting against her best friend/werewolf prince.
Anyone else annoyed at how that magic invisibility cloak has not really been a story element?
This book would probably be much more compelling with alternating POV chapters. Kassian - i refuse to call him that other name in my head - is the most complex and internally conflicted character in the books, and seeing things from his perspective would be really interesting. Also, sometimes he would just be somewhere doing something, and I just want to know what a self-loathing werewolf does in his free time.
July 16, 2021
The Sworn Saga by Kate Avery Ellison: Red Rider, Silver Wolf, Black Veil, White Mask and Crimson Heart.
This will be my review for all 5 of the books that have been published.
It has been a long time since I've read anything by Kate Avery Ellison. She was one of the first indie authors I ever read and for the most part, I liked her Frost series and her Secrets of Itlantis series. I had forgotten how easily I get sucked into her books, until I picked up Red Rider, and holy cow! I could hardly put it down. That isn't to say that I thought it was without flaws though. In fact, there was something really frustrating about the fact that I found this so compelling but also pretty flawed.
I'll start with the things I liked. I like the easy, compelling writing style the author has. When I saw that she had written a Red Riding Hood retelling I had to try it, because I love Red Riding Hood retellings. I enjoyed certain aspects of the story because of that, and I liked that this put a bit of a different spin on Red Riding Hood as well. I liked the main character a lot, and also absolutely loved Vixor Rae. Also, I liked that there was one twist later in the series that I didn't see coming at all, and I always appreciate when a book surprises me.
One of the things I didn't like so much was the constant back and forth between Red and Vixor. They go in circles with their relationship constantly throughout the series and it drove me crazy! I expected this to be resolved in the second book, certainly by the third, but no, it is still going on 5 books in! Overall, there is too much repetition in the series, and I don't think the series needed to be as many books as it is. I also thought that the Wolves didn't do enough as wolves in the series. They rarely change into werewolf form and they didn't feel as threatening or sinister as they should have. I felt like they were kind of upstaged by the tree crawlers, and I'm not really sure why the tree crawlers were included in the first place. There are also some things that I would like more of an explanation for. Why are there werewolves and tree crawlers? What happened to our world to make all this happen? Instead of focusing on answering these questions, the back and forth relationship was focused on too much.
So normally this stuff would be enough for me to abandon a series after a couple of books, but this one is so compelling that I am loving it despite myself and it's kind of infuriating! So, hats off the Kate Avery Ellison for writing such a compelling series. There is one final book to be released later this year and honestly, I can't wait to read it, flaws and all.
This will be my review for all 5 of the books that have been published.
It has been a long time since I've read anything by Kate Avery Ellison. She was one of the first indie authors I ever read and for the most part, I liked her Frost series and her Secrets of Itlantis series. I had forgotten how easily I get sucked into her books, until I picked up Red Rider, and holy cow! I could hardly put it down. That isn't to say that I thought it was without flaws though. In fact, there was something really frustrating about the fact that I found this so compelling but also pretty flawed.
I'll start with the things I liked. I like the easy, compelling writing style the author has. When I saw that she had written a Red Riding Hood retelling I had to try it, because I love Red Riding Hood retellings. I enjoyed certain aspects of the story because of that, and I liked that this put a bit of a different spin on Red Riding Hood as well. I liked the main character a lot, and also absolutely loved Vixor Rae. Also, I liked that there was one twist later in the series that I didn't see coming at all, and I always appreciate when a book surprises me.
One of the things I didn't like so much was the constant back and forth between Red and Vixor. They go in circles with their relationship constantly throughout the series and it drove me crazy! I expected this to be resolved in the second book, certainly by the third, but no, it is still going on 5 books in! Overall, there is too much repetition in the series, and I don't think the series needed to be as many books as it is. I also thought that the Wolves didn't do enough as wolves in the series. They rarely change into werewolf form and they didn't feel as threatening or sinister as they should have. I felt like they were kind of upstaged by the tree crawlers, and I'm not really sure why the tree crawlers were included in the first place. There are also some things that I would like more of an explanation for. Why are there werewolves and tree crawlers? What happened to our world to make all this happen? Instead of focusing on answering these questions, the back and forth relationship was focused on too much.
So normally this stuff would be enough for me to abandon a series after a couple of books, but this one is so compelling that I am loving it despite myself and it's kind of infuriating! So, hats off the Kate Avery Ellison for writing such a compelling series. There is one final book to be released later this year and honestly, I can't wait to read it, flaws and all.
October 16, 2019
Alright, I have never anticipated a Kindle Unlimited Release so much in my life! I adored Red Rider earlier this year and I cannot wait for the 3rd installment. Also, it is one of the most enjoyable New Adult Fantasies I have EVER read!
The cliffhanger was very intense and these last few months wait have been AGONY!
This next novel picks up right where we left off and right away we know Red is in for some trouble. Her name is stripped away and she is given a number and thrown into the Handmaid's Tale like situations we were warned of in the previous novel.
Red is determined to find out about her mother's whereabouts but she has no idea how she will make contact with the Crimson spies within the Capitol. Enduring torture, training, and the possibility of marriage to a Sworn, there is danger in every breath.
The Silver Wolf, Vixor Rae, who we now know is her long lost best friend, Kassian, is no where to be found, so she just might be on her own. Again.
I was very surprised where this novel went in the list 10%, I was starting to wonder where it could go after a certain event at about 200 pages in, and then, wow. I never expected it to go that way until right before hand. It has me so pumped.
I really enjoyed this read and I am so wish I could get my hands on a physical copy of these babies. I hope the author makes that possible in the near future. I want to own these and borrow them to people very soon.
My only critique, is that it did lean in a little TOO much to the Handmaid's Tale set up. There was literally an exact replica of an "Aunt Lydia". I just wish it had been a little more creative in that aspect, but novel had things to say, and I ended up loving it, just wanted to point out why this isn't a 5 star for me, and this is the main reason.
Also, in regards to the New Adult status that this novel has. It has no sex, yet, and is mostly rated this way for the age of Red and there is some pretty violent scenes, but nothing gratuitous.
I give this 4/5 stars and I hope you enjoy yourself as
The cliffhanger was very intense and these last few months wait have been AGONY!
This next novel picks up right where we left off and right away we know Red is in for some trouble. Her name is stripped away and she is given a number and thrown into the Handmaid's Tale like situations we were warned of in the previous novel.
Red is determined to find out about her mother's whereabouts but she has no idea how she will make contact with the Crimson spies within the Capitol. Enduring torture, training, and the possibility of marriage to a Sworn, there is danger in every breath.
The Silver Wolf, Vixor Rae, who we now know is her long lost best friend, Kassian, is no where to be found, so she just might be on her own. Again.
I was very surprised where this novel went in the list 10%, I was starting to wonder where it could go after a certain event at about 200 pages in, and then, wow. I never expected it to go that way until right before hand. It has me so pumped.
I really enjoyed this read and I am so wish I could get my hands on a physical copy of these babies. I hope the author makes that possible in the near future. I want to own these and borrow them to people very soon.
My only critique, is that it did lean in a little TOO much to the Handmaid's Tale set up. There was literally an exact replica of an "Aunt Lydia". I just wish it had been a little more creative in that aspect, but novel had things to say, and I ended up loving it, just wanted to point out why this isn't a 5 star for me, and this is the main reason.
Also, in regards to the New Adult status that this novel has. It has no sex, yet, and is mostly rated this way for the age of Red and there is some pretty violent scenes, but nothing gratuitous.
I give this 4/5 stars and I hope you enjoy yourself as
June 19, 2020
I gave the first book in this series 4 stars because I liked the story idea and hoped it would come together despite its frequent inconsistencies of descriptions and characters. However, this second book seems even worse and I could not even finish it after getting halfway through. The author is repetitive and the book is drawn out too much as if she tried to make it longer than it should be. The romantic element is poorly written and the interactions between Red and the Silver Wolf are too few and far between to keep me interested. I have heard some of the authors other books are more popular and well-liked so maybe I will try one of them instead. I sincerely hope she gets an editor for this series because it could be A LOT better.
October 26, 2023
the chemistry is sky high!
Absolutely fantastic.
The writing, world building, character development, plot, pacing… all five stars.
I loved how the author gave us lots of page time with Erie and Kassian together. Their chemistry is off the charts! I also really enjoy all the little tropes that are included that make a romance full of sexual tension and suspense.
I love the cliff hanger. I can’t wait to start book 3. The romance and storyline is progressing at the perfect pace.
Content- clean. Only kissing. Only light swearing and 1 b-word.
How I rated this YA fantasy series:
Red Rider - 5 stars
Silver Wolf - 5 stars
Black Veil - 5 stars
White Mask - 4 stars
Crimson Heart - 4 stars
Scarlet Daughter - 5 stars
Absolutely fantastic.
The writing, world building, character development, plot, pacing… all five stars.
I loved how the author gave us lots of page time with Erie and Kassian together. Their chemistry is off the charts! I also really enjoy all the little tropes that are included that make a romance full of sexual tension and suspense.
I love the cliff hanger. I can’t wait to start book 3. The romance and storyline is progressing at the perfect pace.
Content- clean. Only kissing. Only light swearing and 1 b-word.
How I rated this YA fantasy series:
Red Rider - 5 stars
Silver Wolf - 5 stars
Black Veil - 5 stars
White Mask - 4 stars
Crimson Heart - 4 stars
Scarlet Daughter - 5 stars
November 6, 2019
Mistakes
This book had so many mistakes in it :( like saying one thing and then a few pages later contradicting what you just said. I was really looking forward to reading this. The beginning was so boring. It definitely got better at about 55% through. But it was just lacking. I will continue with the series bc I think it is a good story and has potential but this book was not as good at the first. It felt like the author rushed writing it. I hope book 3 has a more umph to it. And less repeating!
This book had so many mistakes in it :( like saying one thing and then a few pages later contradicting what you just said. I was really looking forward to reading this. The beginning was so boring. It definitely got better at about 55% through. But it was just lacking. I will continue with the series bc I think it is a good story and has potential but this book was not as good at the first. It felt like the author rushed writing it. I hope book 3 has a more umph to it. And less repeating!
January 2, 2020
Has potential just not enough
So I read book one, I wasn’t real happy with the ending being a kind of a cliffhanger but the characters were likable the story a bit interesting, so why not read book 2. After reading book 2 , I quickly realized that the both of these books including any future books could really all combine into one book to make a complete story. While the story is interesting I feel like it’s been drawn out to the point where I’m not even looking forward to the next book because I feel like it will be more of the same.
So I read book one, I wasn’t real happy with the ending being a kind of a cliffhanger but the characters were likable the story a bit interesting, so why not read book 2. After reading book 2 , I quickly realized that the both of these books including any future books could really all combine into one book to make a complete story. While the story is interesting I feel like it’s been drawn out to the point where I’m not even looking forward to the next book because I feel like it will be more of the same.
June 8, 2020
Disappointed. That's all I can say. The 1st book was off to a great start, intriguing enough to get me into the series, even though some parts were quite easy to guess. However, the 2nd book couldn't be more predictable - starting with the tower or whatever it was that Red was imprisoned in, through the training, to the mating at the end. The characters were simply plain and I seriously don't know what's with this Vixor name. It's like the charcter was meant to be portrayed as strong and vicious, but Victor was too bland of a name for his royal highness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2019
Can book 3 come out tomorrow?!
This book was just as amazing as the first! I read in in one day and now I’m sad because there isn’t more! Also this slow burn romance🤦🏽♀️ why do I do this to myself!!!!
This book was just as amazing as the first! I read in in one day and now I’m sad because there isn’t more! Also this slow burn romance🤦🏽♀️ why do I do this to myself!!!!
February 16, 2022
I oddly liked the first book better. I have a feeling this series is way to long and it’s going to be put on “repeat mode”. I need something more solid from these characters. They’re too fluid for me.
May 26, 2020
Holy canoli, the need for the next book is real! This was even better than its predecessor. My rave's already begun and I haven't gotten to the pros and cons. Here we go:
Pros
-Separation from inspiration and source material
*The Goodreads blurb from Red Rider admits this is Red Riding Hood+The Handmaid's Tale, and while there are similar elements (stripping the girls-the Chosen-of their identities by giving them numbers and nondescript white gowns and masks, conglomerating them into one for a single purpose, Red's hunt for her red cloak), but unlike many dystopian works, the society is run by a female Alpha, and they're are instructed to fight (however weakly) during the pre-wedding ceremony, and are promised the chance to decline their mate and choose their own if defeat the Sworn soldier
-Notion of Red's village restricted library/book usage to scholars spilling over into Sworn Society: reading is dangerous in the hands of the lower classes because if they truly understood, they'd rebel
-Animal comparison
*Mother Shade's invasive examination into Red's nooks and crannies brings to mind a perspective horse rider searching out the purebred, as well as the tracking device implanted in each of the Chosen resembles a dog's microchip
-Red's plan to blend in with the other girls/hide her rebellious nature resembles how women feel they must act the "right" way in order to succeed in life/the workplace, as well as the system of rewarding those who exude beauty, submissiveness, and fertility is a scary metaphor for how we as a society determine who's good enough
-Hesitate to call this a pro... Violent imagery
*I'm not a fan of violence for shock value, but in dystopias, it has its place. Once Red is captured, she is whipped for her defiance, starved in solitary confinement, and one unlucky Chosen is forced to eat the pages of contraband book. Jesus, it was downright disturbing, but necessary to show just how dire their straits.
-The Alpha likening herself to "a big bad wolf"
-Bribing the Chosen with food/security for their families only after submitting to a mate explains why so many intentionally lose the fight
-Conflict
*Red knows Kassian (Vixon) is both gone and still around; and while Vixon is kind, feeds/shelters Red, he still serves a society that punishes her.
-Vixon's reason for wearing silver armor
*True to werewolf legend, silver stings the Sworn. But pain is the only thing that reminds Vixon of his vulnerability, his humanity. And for him, that sensation is worth feeling.
-Red wielding a knitting needle as a weapon
*One, that's a big middle finger to those who consider crafting to be women's work and promotes docile nature, and second, it took me back to The Marvelous Land of Oz.
-Streamlined story telling
* So much happens in less than 300 pages and there are many settings, but they all get their due
-The end
* Red wins the sword fight against a Sworn set on having her as a mate, and chooses Vixon as her own. Makes me happy she's decided to follow her heart in being with him, and not taking the easy way out, instead taking down the system from the inside.
Cons
-Repetition of certain internal lamentations: "my stomach was tied in knots" is said one too many times.
Would you look at that? One measly con. You know I'm carrying on!
Pros
-Separation from inspiration and source material
*The Goodreads blurb from Red Rider admits this is Red Riding Hood+The Handmaid's Tale, and while there are similar elements (stripping the girls-the Chosen-of their identities by giving them numbers and nondescript white gowns and masks, conglomerating them into one for a single purpose, Red's hunt for her red cloak), but unlike many dystopian works, the society is run by a female Alpha, and they're are instructed to fight (however weakly) during the pre-wedding ceremony, and are promised the chance to decline their mate and choose their own if defeat the Sworn soldier
-Notion of Red's village restricted library/book usage to scholars spilling over into Sworn Society: reading is dangerous in the hands of the lower classes because if they truly understood, they'd rebel
-Animal comparison
*Mother Shade's invasive examination into Red's nooks and crannies brings to mind a perspective horse rider searching out the purebred, as well as the tracking device implanted in each of the Chosen resembles a dog's microchip
-Red's plan to blend in with the other girls/hide her rebellious nature resembles how women feel they must act the "right" way in order to succeed in life/the workplace, as well as the system of rewarding those who exude beauty, submissiveness, and fertility is a scary metaphor for how we as a society determine who's good enough
-Hesitate to call this a pro... Violent imagery
*I'm not a fan of violence for shock value, but in dystopias, it has its place. Once Red is captured, she is whipped for her defiance, starved in solitary confinement, and one unlucky Chosen is forced to eat the pages of contraband book. Jesus, it was downright disturbing, but necessary to show just how dire their straits.
-The Alpha likening herself to "a big bad wolf"
-Bribing the Chosen with food/security for their families only after submitting to a mate explains why so many intentionally lose the fight
-Conflict
*Red knows Kassian (Vixon) is both gone and still around; and while Vixon is kind, feeds/shelters Red, he still serves a society that punishes her.
-Vixon's reason for wearing silver armor
*True to werewolf legend, silver stings the Sworn. But pain is the only thing that reminds Vixon of his vulnerability, his humanity. And for him, that sensation is worth feeling.
-Red wielding a knitting needle as a weapon
*One, that's a big middle finger to those who consider crafting to be women's work and promotes docile nature, and second, it took me back to The Marvelous Land of Oz.
-Streamlined story telling
* So much happens in less than 300 pages and there are many settings, but they all get their due
-The end
* Red wins the sword fight against a Sworn set on having her as a mate, and chooses Vixon as her own. Makes me happy she's decided to follow her heart in being with him, and not taking the easy way out, instead taking down the system from the inside.
Cons
-Repetition of certain internal lamentations: "my stomach was tied in knots" is said one too many times.
Would you look at that? One measly con. You know I'm carrying on!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2022
Dang! This kept me glued to the pages and I just flew through reading this one. This picks up right where the first book ends (so glad it was already out for me to read). Red has been taken to the capitol and is expected to be trained as on official Chosen. Her nightmares are confirmed when she begins her training and sees how the Chosen are truly treated. Which is pretty bad.
Red is on a mission to find her mother and will do anything, even go along with the horrid Chosen training to accomplish that goal. She wont let handsome and dangerous Vixor get in her way either.
Red was great in this book, I liked how she was always planning and being defiant in her own ways and how she tried to help the other girls around her. Good story development, I realize now this is a six part series so the romance, and the overall story is slowly unfolding. Vixor is a great tortured hero, never quite sure what he is thinking...he has been through so much and has become successful and his loyalty to the Alpha seems unwaivering, but Red is his weakness and I am dying to know what will happen next. Love me the tension between these two!
Content Rated PG13
Romance: Kissing
Language: Same as book one, mild
Violence: Moderate, abusive treatment, some fighting, death - nothing graphic
Red is on a mission to find her mother and will do anything, even go along with the horrid Chosen training to accomplish that goal. She wont let handsome and dangerous Vixor get in her way either.
Red was great in this book, I liked how she was always planning and being defiant in her own ways and how she tried to help the other girls around her. Good story development, I realize now this is a six part series so the romance, and the overall story is slowly unfolding. Vixor is a great tortured hero, never quite sure what he is thinking...he has been through so much and has become successful and his loyalty to the Alpha seems unwaivering, but Red is his weakness and I am dying to know what will happen next. Love me the tension between these two!
Content Rated PG13
Romance: Kissing
Language: Same as book one, mild
Violence: Moderate, abusive treatment, some fighting, death - nothing graphic
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2021
Again I really enjoyed this book! The middle slowed down a bit but the ending brought it home! I can not wait to continue.
Once again my biggest remarks are editing. There are things misspelled that could have easily been fixed. In this one there were also mentions of people or things that didn't necessarily make sense. Like it was a sentence but for no reason the person was never brought up again.
If you look past all this and think about the story as a whole though it is really good and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Once again my biggest remarks are editing. There are things misspelled that could have easily been fixed. In this one there were also mentions of people or things that didn't necessarily make sense. Like it was a sentence but for no reason the person was never brought up again.
If you look past all this and think about the story as a whole though it is really good and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
September 15, 2020
Cannot get enough of this series, I absolutely loved this as much as the first book!!! Starting the next book in the series right now!!!!!!!
August 24, 2022
Wow. ok now we're talking!
This book was much better than the first. I couldn't put it down. It has major Handmaid's Tale vibes but still with the red riding hood twist.
I was creeped out and also on the edge of my seat and Red is a total badass. I'm completely hooked now and I thought the writing in this one was much better and there wasn't the awkwardness the first one had. I've already made a huge dent in book 3 as I'm writing this. Highly recommend.
This book was much better than the first. I couldn't put it down. It has major Handmaid's Tale vibes but still with the red riding hood twist.
I was creeped out and also on the edge of my seat and Red is a total badass. I'm completely hooked now and I thought the writing in this one was much better and there wasn't the awkwardness the first one had. I've already made a huge dent in book 3 as I'm writing this. Highly recommend.
February 6, 2020
"I longed to reach out and touch him, to let him feel the wordless communication that said he was not alone."
Silver Wolf is the second book in The Sworn Saga series. It follows Meredith after she enters the Sworn city and is being groomed to be a future mate. In the midst of this she doesn't forget why she is really there, to find her mother. The Silver Wolf, aka Vixor Rae, has continued to confuse her since their departure from the woods. He may not be in her line of sight but she still feels the echo of his touch and the torture of his memory. She's not there to fall in love, she's there to rescue her mother.
So, this book wasn't that great. Mainly it was pretty boring, a filler book of sorts. Dragged out unnecessarily. Once Meredith, aka Red, aka Erie, enters the Sworn city she is put under the loving guidance of Mother Shade. Just kidding. Mother Shade is over her yes, but she is cruel and tortures these girls without good reason.
Not a lot happens during this time, as we wait for the girls to be ready to be presented to society and for a Sworn to declare his intentions as her mate. The ceremony/wedding for mates was really neat. They meet as faceless people (wearing masks and nondescript clothing) and the wolf draws first blood with a sword/dagger declaring them married. Now, if the girl fights back and wins she can deny his claim and choose her own mate. (See where this is going?)
To keep from spoiling too much, I will just say that I didn't care for the direction looking for her mother went and how it turned out. It felt almost like a waste unless something more will come of it in the future books. Also, I felt like she thought of the Silver Wolf way too much. It was almost constant.
Even though I didn't really care for this one I am interested in the future books. The world is intriguing, I really like the treecrawlers, and I want to know why the Silver Wolf tortures himself so.
It's safe to say I'm here until the end.
If you liked this book try one of these werewolf themes:
Cry Wolf
Descendant
Black Dog
*~~~~~~
Ages 16+
Language: Mild
Sexual Content:
September 22, 2021
Not a full book?!?
This book just didn't feel like it lived up to the exciting fun of first book. Though it is a full length book, it felt like most the book was filled with inner dialog of Red going on and on about how Kass left her, about how much he had changed, how she couldn't trust him. Blah, blah, blah. It was the same back and forth turbulent thoughts of a young woman who had just found out something shocking about a guy she liked - what does she do? She obsesses over the guy and the situation almost nonstop. That is what Red does with Kass.
The plot of the whole book is just Red looking for her mom in the Sworn capital city. In the mean time, she is being groomed to become a Sworn mate so we get to see how horrible they treat them. Though I get confused about this. If humans hurting a Chosen in book 1 get punished, how is it possible that a human in book 2 can get away with treating them that way?
Overall I felt like a lot of book 2 could have been left and combined with book 3 (and I haven't even read it yet), there is just that much filler and lack of plot to this story. Very little to character growth. Hopefully we will see more adventure and plot in book 3
This book just didn't feel like it lived up to the exciting fun of first book. Though it is a full length book, it felt like most the book was filled with inner dialog of Red going on and on about how Kass left her, about how much he had changed, how she couldn't trust him. Blah, blah, blah. It was the same back and forth turbulent thoughts of a young woman who had just found out something shocking about a guy she liked - what does she do? She obsesses over the guy and the situation almost nonstop. That is what Red does with Kass.
The plot of the whole book is just Red looking for her mom in the Sworn capital city. In the mean time, she is being groomed to become a Sworn mate so we get to see how horrible they treat them. Though I get confused about this. If humans hurting a Chosen in book 1 get punished, how is it possible that a human in book 2 can get away with treating them that way?
Overall I felt like a lot of book 2 could have been left and combined with book 3 (and I haven't even read it yet), there is just that much filler and lack of plot to this story. Very little to character growth. Hopefully we will see more adventure and plot in book 3
June 17, 2020
Two stars
Honestly, the low rating is due to all the typos and errors. Several inconsistencies in the book, even calling a character the wrong name. Mc saying she wishes she knew what the evil Mother had done to her cloak when Vix had already shown he had it. Also changing the childhood incident she and Kass had from her being 6 in the last book to 8 in this one.
Honestly, the low rating is due to all the typos and errors. Several inconsistencies in the book, even calling a character the wrong name. Mc saying she wishes she knew what the evil Mother had done to her cloak when Vix had already shown he had it. Also changing the childhood incident she and Kass had from her being 6 in the last book to 8 in this one.
January 17, 2020
Red’s return was just as exciting as the first book. Sometimes tedious with the descriptions of her environment but that also painted a very clear picture. The ending had yet another strong conclusion and made the reader want to jump immediately into the 3rd book!
January 29, 2020
I loved this. Can’t wait for the next book. Red is perfectly defiant. There are so many secrets yet to be revealed so it keeps you turning pages and I’m anxiously awaiting book 3. Got to find out more on Vixor.
February 22, 2025
Oooooh, I am really loving this series.
May 25, 2022
This one was tiring to read.
May 26, 2020
Actual rating: 3.5 stars (maybe 3.75?).
I had somewhat mixed feelings about Red Rider, and didn't feel very strongly about continuing, but thought I probably should. As much as I love Kate Avery Ellison, I think I do sometimes wish that her series just weren't quite so many books--I'm happy with a good trilogy or duology myself, and usually 4+ books is a recipe for my just stopping somewhere unless something is really, incredibly compelling. But usually, I find that without an immense amount of forethought, that many books usually mean there are some pretty huge lulls in between more exciting events and developments.
I was pleasantly surprised here, though. This book is more of what I was expecting Red Rider to be. As much as I cringed at the descriptions of how women were treated at Mother Shade's house--and I really, really did, and found some of the descriptions to be too much for me--this is probably more of the world-building and what you expect when you read the summary for a book like this, whereas the previous book felt more like a prequel. The plot still took some unexpected turns that I found interesting, and yet those turns did not feel as meandering or pointless as some in the first book. (Well--there is a stretch in this book where Red basically has no idea what to do anymore, and that sort of felt that way. But still, it jumped past that soon enough, which was good.)
The romance also starts to develop a bit more here, though it's still quite slow, and I liked that. Some of Red's reactions felt overblown or harsh, both in the first book and in this one, and yet I think overall it is realistic for the situation she's in.
Again, this book is new adult more in slightly stepped up content and age than in voice. A few violent descriptions here were hard for me (I am SUPER squeamish), there are some uses of the b and d words, and--hmm. I think that's basically it, besides the construction of the world, of course. I think this may also be the first Ellison book I've read that includes mentions of lesbian couples.
Much more excited to read on now than I was at the end of the first one.
I had somewhat mixed feelings about Red Rider, and didn't feel very strongly about continuing, but thought I probably should. As much as I love Kate Avery Ellison, I think I do sometimes wish that her series just weren't quite so many books--I'm happy with a good trilogy or duology myself, and usually 4+ books is a recipe for my just stopping somewhere unless something is really, incredibly compelling. But usually, I find that without an immense amount of forethought, that many books usually mean there are some pretty huge lulls in between more exciting events and developments.
I was pleasantly surprised here, though. This book is more of what I was expecting Red Rider to be. As much as I cringed at the descriptions of how women were treated at Mother Shade's house--and I really, really did, and found some of the descriptions to be too much for me--this is probably more of the world-building and what you expect when you read the summary for a book like this, whereas the previous book felt more like a prequel. The plot still took some unexpected turns that I found interesting, and yet those turns did not feel as meandering or pointless as some in the first book. (Well--there is a stretch in this book where Red basically has no idea what to do anymore, and that sort of felt that way. But still, it jumped past that soon enough, which was good.)
The romance also starts to develop a bit more here, though it's still quite slow, and I liked that. Some of Red's reactions felt overblown or harsh, both in the first book and in this one, and yet I think overall it is realistic for the situation she's in.
Again, this book is new adult more in slightly stepped up content and age than in voice. A few violent descriptions here were hard for me (I am SUPER squeamish), there are some uses of the b and d words, and--hmm. I think that's basically it, besides the construction of the world, of course. I think this may also be the first Ellison book I've read that includes mentions of lesbian couples.
Much more excited to read on now than I was at the end of the first one.
July 8, 2020
Silver Wolf is the stunning second book of the Sworn Saga with a roller coaster of events that left me reeling. In this dystopian Red Riding Hood retelling with a twist of A Handmaid's Tale, Red Rider finds herself an unwilling citizen of the capitol. Wanting to find her mother, she seeks out rebel Crimsons to help her in the search while being subjected to horrific conditions training as a Chosen. Red discovers the truth about her mother and truths about herself along the way while trying to rectify her childhood best friend with the obedient soldier he appears.
First, this book was fantastic. As a second book, it was full of unique plot twists and the story moved along at a great pace. It was hard to read some of the scenes within the Chosen's tower and the abuse they underwent, however. But it painted a vivid picture and created a catalyst for Red trying to not only get herself out, but all the other girls subjected to that life. This story definitely sets the stage for a revolution within the capitol.
I loved seeing the little interactions between Red and Vixor Rae. There were sweet moments and moments I wanted to punch both of them in the face. There is still so much uncertainty in where everyone's loyalties lie and it will be interesting to delve more into this world.
First, this book was fantastic. As a second book, it was full of unique plot twists and the story moved along at a great pace. It was hard to read some of the scenes within the Chosen's tower and the abuse they underwent, however. But it painted a vivid picture and created a catalyst for Red trying to not only get herself out, but all the other girls subjected to that life. This story definitely sets the stage for a revolution within the capitol.
I loved seeing the little interactions between Red and Vixor Rae. There were sweet moments and moments I wanted to punch both of them in the face. There is still so much uncertainty in where everyone's loyalties lie and it will be interesting to delve more into this world.
July 15, 2020
After reading Red Rider, I picked up Silver Wolf pretty much straight away and was rewarded with another fast-paced read. The second novel of this series is all about how Red copes with the restrictions and training of Mother Shade, whose job it is to turn out silent, respectful, attractive Sworn brides. A lot of the plot is focused on Red's attempts to escape, find her mother and her interactions with Kassian/Vixor.
Mother Shade and the whole concept of the institutionalised bride development put me in mind of 'A Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood. Ellison manages to evoke a similar feeling of hopelessness through the cruelty of Mother Shade and the various reactions of the girls to their inescapable 'fate'.
Red is required to face a Sworn suitor, after a circuitous escape route and ends up, simultaneously, in the best and most complicated of circumstances as a result.
I am keen to continue to learn about Kassian/Vixor in the coming book but suspect Black Veil will continue to focus largely on Red- and hopefully, their relationship as it develops. I am also intrigued to find out 'what next' for the couple as they battle their personal demons and the inevitable expectations of the Sworn Alpha.
Silver Wolf is a fast-paced, action-packed dystopian continuation full of banter, complicated characters and impossible situations.
Mother Shade and the whole concept of the institutionalised bride development put me in mind of 'A Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood. Ellison manages to evoke a similar feeling of hopelessness through the cruelty of Mother Shade and the various reactions of the girls to their inescapable 'fate'.
Red is required to face a Sworn suitor, after a circuitous escape route and ends up, simultaneously, in the best and most complicated of circumstances as a result.
I am keen to continue to learn about Kassian/Vixor in the coming book but suspect Black Veil will continue to focus largely on Red- and hopefully, their relationship as it develops. I am also intrigued to find out 'what next' for the couple as they battle their personal demons and the inevitable expectations of the Sworn Alpha.
Silver Wolf is a fast-paced, action-packed dystopian continuation full of banter, complicated characters and impossible situations.
June 9, 2020
After reading the first book a year or so ago I was happy that this came back onto my radar as I did enjoy the first one a lot.
The books picks up right whee we left off and we know a bit more about what Red was in for in terms of what her purpose was. Stripped of her name and given a number while she waits to be picked by one of the Sworn, Red tries to make a plan. Find her mother and get out but she has no idea how. Luckily she was given a contact with the Crimson Spy named Snow.
Much of the first part of the book is her defying the house mother and find her mother while also dealing with the fact that she is in love with the Silver Wolf. Not even that, but the Silver Wolf is her best Friend Kassian who she is sure is still there behind the silver.
Personally, I didn't like that so much focus was on finding her mother. It felt almost like a waste when it does happen. Maybe it will come up again in the future books but I felt like it could have been doen a different way if not.
The slow burn was done well, even if it was slightly predictable. I would have to say, I enjoyed the first book more and was able to predict a bit more this time around. Never the less, I found myself reading the 3rd book right away!
The books picks up right whee we left off and we know a bit more about what Red was in for in terms of what her purpose was. Stripped of her name and given a number while she waits to be picked by one of the Sworn, Red tries to make a plan. Find her mother and get out but she has no idea how. Luckily she was given a contact with the Crimson Spy named Snow.
Much of the first part of the book is her defying the house mother and find her mother while also dealing with the fact that she is in love with the Silver Wolf. Not even that, but the Silver Wolf is her best Friend Kassian who she is sure is still there behind the silver.
Personally, I didn't like that so much focus was on finding her mother. It felt almost like a waste when it does happen. Maybe it will come up again in the future books but I felt like it could have been doen a different way if not.
The slow burn was done well, even if it was slightly predictable. I would have to say, I enjoyed the first book more and was able to predict a bit more this time around. Never the less, I found myself reading the 3rd book right away!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2022
Silver ohh how stubborn he is. Anyways. The book was great. Not a favorite, but I’d personally read it again. I basically read it in a whole day and fought through a headache while still reading it. Parts of the book, particularly the end had my heart racing and my nerves rattled. I don’t know, this second book really did have action more unpredictable actions. The first book was more sympathetic and slightly romantic, they were still cautious of each other. Anyways, I am excited to read the next book. Especially ready for more secrets to unfold!
Spoilers and thoughts:
Spoilers and thoughts:
January 18, 2023
Great story
I am loving this story! I love how strong the FMC is, but that she also knows when to hold her tongue and she can control her actions. So many FMCs written lately can't do either.
The only reason this isn't 5 stars is because there are typos and mistakes. Within a few pages she says her moms name is Daisy, Melody, and Margaret. Which one is it? She wrote a message in blood, but then was surprised when Kassian saw the blood from her cut and acted shocked that he could. Even though she had sent a message in blood already? There are a couple more mistakes like that. Plus, small typos like where instead of were.
I am still loving the story and excited to move onto the next book!!
* I would give this a PG rating. There is some passionate kissing, violence, and discussion of adult topics. Nothing inappropriate for young teenagers, though or mature tweens.
I am loving this story! I love how strong the FMC is, but that she also knows when to hold her tongue and she can control her actions. So many FMCs written lately can't do either.
The only reason this isn't 5 stars is because there are typos and mistakes. Within a few pages she says her moms name is Daisy, Melody, and Margaret. Which one is it? She wrote a message in blood, but then was surprised when Kassian saw the blood from her cut and acted shocked that he could. Even though she had sent a message in blood already? There are a couple more mistakes like that. Plus, small typos like where instead of were.
I am still loving the story and excited to move onto the next book!!
* I would give this a PG rating. There is some passionate kissing, violence, and discussion of adult topics. Nothing inappropriate for young teenagers, though or mature tweens.
July 6, 2020
So disappointing! The first book set my expectations high. So when the entire book was her internal struggles and dialogue, I was so bored! I kept waiting for some kind of interaction, for it to start having traction and it never did. She spent the whole book fighting and schooling her thoughts and feelings. It got old fast. If this book were turned into a script, it would probably be about 3 pages long. Yes a lot happened, but it was a bunch of depressing stuff I didn't really care about and ended up being disappointing. I wanted so much more between red and Vixor and it didn't come. I'm really hoping that this was the long painful but necessary set-up for #3 to blow my mind.
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