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It’s amazing to be a dominant wolf… if you’re male.

When you’re a nineteen year-old girl who can beat the crap out of every wolf in your pack, suddenly it’s not so great. Love isn’t everything, I know; but even the most powerful she-wolf submits to her mate. If you can’t be dominated, you can’t be mated.

And an unmated wolf has no place in the pack.

My one hope is the clan gathering in the Blackwood Forest. Every wolf in the continental Americas attends, and a few seriously sexy wolves catch my eye. I’m bound to find at least one who can match me, right?

Then there’s my other problem: My alpha is a grade-A jerk. After treating me like a genetic freak my whole life, he suddenly decides to stake a claim.

But I can’t refuse the challenge, and my wolf won’t back down. Either I submit to the alpha and become mated to his skeezy pelt, or I win the challenge and my freedom… by taking his place as alpha.

Only no one has ever heard of a female alpha, and if I become one, I’ll never find a mate.

Wolf Shunned is the first book in The Alpha Queen Legacy, featuring a badass heroine, a dark fantasy world, and loads of sexy wolf shifters. Be warned: This is a slow burn, why choose romance. Once you pick this story up, you won’t be able to stop devouring it until the very last page.

248 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 21, 2021

2545 people are currently reading
4808 people want to read

About the author

Laurel Night

22 books1,141 followers
Hi! I'm Laurel, I love all things fantasy, magic, and sci-fi, so you may find that my books have surprising twists that you didn't see coming.

I'm an avid traveller and adventurer, and I find my travels inspire stories I want to write! I have an amazing daughter and we currently live in the shadows of the Smoky Mountains. I love a good craft cocktail, sunny beaches and snowy slopes, and a cozy chair with a nearby fireplace for the perfect read.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 530 reviews
Profile Image for Helen 2.0.
472 reviews1,658 followers
November 3, 2023
DNF 60%

There were so many issues, I was so irritated that I didn't even know where to start with the review 😭

In this world only "dominant" men can mate with more "submissive" women and only if the man can make the woman submit. Which is just stupid, and heteronormative AF to bat. How would this work in gay relationships? Do gay people even exist in this world? What about trans people? Non-binary people?

But even if you're fine with that premise, the plot was terrible too. Nothing happened in the book. It was so boring. The heroine was a perfect cardboard box, no flaws (ie, nothing remotely interesting about her. That's what happens when you refuse to give your characters genuine flaws).

Her only trait was the fact that she's "dominant". What the fuck does that even mean? That's not a proper basis for a character. It barely even counts as a personality trait. If someone in real life described their personality as "dominant" I would laugh, then choke, then maybe take their lunch money just to prove a point 🤣

The love interests were even blander. There were chapters from the heroes' POV, but their only apparent purpose was to have them go on and on and ON about how beautiful and perfect the heroine is. None of them had a single thought in their head besides that.

Oh, and let's not forget, how not like the other girls she is.

Because that would be awful, right? I hate women! Can't think of a fate worse than being like other women!!! Fuck 'em!

So, no thanks. Reading this book legit felt like listening to the Joe Rogan podcast. Bye 👋
Profile Image for Katie.
1,979 reviews16 followers
December 27, 2020
Wow!!! Just finished reading this story and just wow. Story had me hooked right in the beginning. Love Kaliya. Finally a strong female main character. I’m hooked on this story. Like I need to know what is going to happen next. This is a slow burn story so just a heads up. But the storyline itself is freaking phenomenal. So I’ll take the slow burn. Seriously read this one. You will absolutely love this story. Oh and love Stig and Emory. Cannot wait for next book!!
Profile Image for Carli Liles.
75 reviews1 follower
January 4, 2021
Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Editing/Proofreading: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
World-building: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Creativity/Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Character Growth: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (See below)
Heat Level: 🔥🔥 (medium burn)

This is the first book in a reverse harem (#whychoose) paranormal romance series. 💗🐺As the FIRST book in the series, I don't look for a lot of character growth. That's not what book 1 is about. The first book is meant to introduce... everything, the characters, world, problem/conflict, antagonists, etc. And this book does a beautiful job with that. There isn't a ton of character growth, but I don't want there to be at this point. It wouldn't fit the timeline and would inevitably feel rushed.

This is one of the first books by this author I've read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Main Female Character (MFC) Kaliya is a kick-butt, take no mess woman! But she's also unafraid of the more delicate elements (and people) of life. She has a strong sense of her own morals.

When introduced to a new "world", I'm pretty picky about how the history of that world is introduced. Laurel Night welcomes you into this new world so effortlessly. She does a great job of organically working the history of the world as we walk through the present-day story. Rarely does the character have to "wax poetic" about how things were before in order for you to understand how things came to be. It's just a quick paragraph here and there to answer the questions the reader will have about how things became the way they are. It's wonderfully done and not too flowery.

This book does have multiple points-of-view (POVs). I tend to prefer that in reverse harem stories. There is often an abundance of characters, and it makes it much easier to get to know them with multiple POVs. The voices of the different main male characters (MMCs) are similar but distinguishable. The southern MMC uses words and phrases that would make him identifiable without the chapter heading denoting so. The eastern MMC is somewhat direct and focused in his language. Their chapters do a good job of enforcing their different personality traits.

I really liked that the MFC has a softer, more submissive guy friend that she loves, and she points out his strengths that lie outside of his dominance. It's nice to read about, and the accompanying shame/guilt from that character is understandable without being overwhelming or seeming whiny at any point.

Definitely would recommend and I'm already waiting on the second book :)
Profile Image for Missy Brown.
1,749 reviews30 followers
January 7, 2021
Okay so if you like strong female leads that kick a@@, I found the book for you.

So much was good about this book, not only was this a strong first book. Like it literally catches your attention from the start and does not let go. Second it has such a strong female lead, and the wolf packs were so damn interesting. This is like a call for all the women out there that are tough and know it.

This is one book I would highly recommend and I cannot wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Carol Rupprecht.
782 reviews17 followers
January 8, 2021
Oh my goodness. I don't know what to say about this book. It was well worth the wait and everything I ever hoped it would be! Although I'm not always a huge fan of slow burn books--and this definitely is a slow burn--this one was so unbelievably good. It drags everything out in the most tempting of ways. There is definitely more action than anything else at the current moment in the story, but I doubt you'll get bored with the storyline. There also wasn't that constant feeling of being on the edge of your seat demanding a sex scene (because the storyline itself is enough!), so when the time comes for one to eventually happen, it will be even better than imagined. I'm quietly rooting for Emory to be Kaliya's first, but I'm not sure if the other alphas will allow that to happen as he is less dominant than they are. However, with their past, she is already so open and comfortable with him, so I'll keep my fingers crossed. Kaliya's character has been one of my favorites to read about. I love how dominant she is and capable of taking care of herself. But she still has her vulnerabilities as well--lonliness over the years and being acknowledged but never a part of any group because of how different she was and the threat of being kicked out of her pack if she couldn't find a mate can really wear down on a person over time. The group of alphas are an interesting bunch that I'm excited to get to know a bit better as the series continues. Stoic, flirty, warmhearted, calm. You get a little bit of everything from them, but they all have similar reasons for needing a mate, even if they aren't all on the same page with the expectations of what having one will entail. Seeing how they come together as one cohesive group later on will certainly be interesting! Definitely take a chance and read this book. You won't regret it!
Profile Image for Katheyer.
1,557 reviews25 followers
January 3, 2021
“Wolf Shunned” marks the start in “The Alpha Queen Legacy” a new slow-burn paranormal why choose romance series by Laurel Night.

Kaliya (MC) is a nineteen-year-old girl living in a world dominated by males, the ways of the wolf-pack are clear, males dominate, females submit. Kaliya is a force of nature, who can beat the crap out of any and every wolf in the pack, which makes her unsuited to be mated in a world were unmated wolfs get banned from the security of the pack. Fortunately for her, there is a clan gathering coming at Blackwood Forest, where every wolf in the country is expected to attend, a chance to find a mate at least. But as her own Alpha suddenly, totally out of the blue, decides to claim her, and it the pack-world, what the Alpha wants, the Alpha gets, unless he loses the fight for the Alpha position, which lets Kaliya with two options, submit (not really in her nature, and he’s a real A(ss)lpha, with a capital A) or fight him for the Alpha position, win, become Alpha and say good-bye to find a mate for good, because female Alpha in a ‘male-driven’ world….

“Wolf Shunned” is a very interesting story, which playfully delves into male/female relationships and prejudices seen through a paranormal wolf-shifter lens. Kaliya is a strong female, sassy and witty to the point of disregarding self-preservation, diplomacy is surely not her strongest trait, much to the readers’ overall enjoyment. A fast-paced, action-rich plot, that follows the story twist and turns until just a step before falling off the cliff, because there is a cliff ahead, or were you expected something else 😉

Laurel Night manages to give a brand-new overall look and feeling to this series, while still being true to her unique writing style, which those familiar with her “Mortal Heat” and “Key Collector” series already love. A wonderful start into the inner workings of the pack.
Profile Image for Beth.
492 reviews23 followers
January 21, 2021
I really loved this first book in Laurel Night's new world. It kind of reminds me of a zombie apocalypse, but with wolf shifters and blood drinkers. So maybe a vampire apocalypse? The world building was spot on. Night does an excellent job of slowly building this new world for you as you move further into the story. It isn't all thrown in your face in the first 3 chapters, it's a slow unveiling of the depth and complexity that makes up this new world. Kaliya, Emory, Taika, Mateo, Rowan, and Stig (in no particular order of favorite character, bc no favorites here) are all likeable, engaging and amazing characters. I can't wait to get to know more about the other men's back stories and see what has turned them into the Alpha's they are. There is more Emory in this story than the others, but that is to be expected as he is with Kaliya from the beginning as her best and only friend.

I am beyond excited for book 2, which is hopefully out sometime in Feb/March. Fingers crossed that I am not just making that up. Book 1 ends on a fairly good note, there are a lot of questions and future adventure that is set up for book 2, but it's not a cliffhanger that makes you want to scream and/or jump off that cliff with them.

*I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review* I also purchased this book because I plan on rereading it and want it on all my devices.
Profile Image for Megan.
28 reviews3 followers
December 24, 2020
This story, along with the detail put into telling it, had me hooked from the very start. The story pulled me and had me wondering what was going to happen next. You find yourself rooting for Kaliya the entire time, as she is is kickass heroine. I love a story that has a strong female lead, and she is definitely that. Each of the men that she encounters feels unique in their own way, which leaves you eager to know more about them and their own stories. The world building is great as well, not feeling rushed or too slow, but set at the right pace. It leaves you eager to know what is to come in the next installment of the series, which I can't wait to get my hands on. If you are looking for a story with a strong female lead, men who are definitely swoon-worthy and unique enough to be set apart from each other, along with a interesting storyline, this is definitely the book you are looking for. I encourage those that are looking for a great story to take the plunge into this world and immerse yourself into Kaliya's journey, which is guaranteed to be more exciting as this series continues!
103 reviews1 follower
January 12, 2021
Oh, the suspense!

I am a sucker for strong female lead, and love some alpha, dominant males in the harem, but I am huuugggeee fan of having a submissive male in the mix! I am so excited to see this harem form and grow and kick some serious wraith butt! Kaliya is a contender for the most dominant wolf ever..which is a problem when she finds that no male can get her to submit in the late challenge. Normally, this wouldn’t be a big deal, right? Girl power and all that. Except!! If you don’t mate before your 20th birthday, you get kicked out of the clan, cut off from your family and support system. Oh, and let’s not forget being out in the wraith infested world with no protection.
Night did a great job world building and I was honestly on the edge of my seat, holding my breath in suspense with the crowds surrounding the challenge rings. I kid you not, I was there (right beside Emory because he’s totally my boy *swoon*). I’m ready to get into the real meat of this journey and get to know all the characters better and see them come together as a unit, because I think they’re going to be such a even mix. Sometimes you get harems that are very single flavored and Night has a wide variety of personalities that is refreshing and enticing!
Very excited for the next book!!
Profile Image for Al *the semi serial series skipper*.
1,659 reviews850 followers
February 3, 2021
I don't know why authors write books that go nowhere. I know writing a serial is hard and you want to make some money , just don't bore the people that you want to buy the subsequent books.

This book went nowhere. The heroine is a alpha female and needs a mate because in this werewolf kingdom they are all for mating and breeding. If a man/woman cannot find a mate and breed they are cast out of the pack. The woman has to submit to the man strong enough to dominate her.

Unfortunately our heroine is so strong, no one has come close. Luckily for her there is an annual gathering of the alphas and betas, she hopes she finds someone strong enough to dominate her so she still gets to keep her pack.

When she gets there, she sees several contenders. They all decide that they want her, since this is unusual they are sent to meet the Oracle who has a prophesy to impact.

The End.

Nothing else happens besides them wanting her and her fighting in the ring to while away time.
Profile Image for Rayne.
485 reviews147 followers
November 12, 2022
I didn’t realize this was a why-choose or book one of a series when I picked it up which was so dumb of me. As a reader I can’t read very well because it’s clearly stated in the summary.

Anyways, I’m glad there’s more to come because barely anything happened in this book. It was very much just a book to introduce the characters and have some world building. I’m intrigued in the world and am curious to see where this series goes though!

I just finished a why-choose series then jumped into an OV so I’m going to read a plain MF book before continuing this series just for a break but I do want to read the next book!
Profile Image for Amelie.
71 reviews2 followers
October 19, 2021
This. This book is everything I've wanted in a RH since I got into the genre. No insta love, no clumsy women who are somehow capable of fighting when needed, no shallow, 2D men, and a plot that actually makes sense! Kaliya is someone I needed when I was younger, as an unconfident, unsure of myself teen. She's fierce, determined, opinionated and yet so loving and caring to those close to her.

I'm such a huge fan of slow burn books (looking at you Annette Marie 😍😍) and this is no exception. Laurel brings the authenticity of attraction and lust into the mix, while understanding her FMCs mentality and personality. It just works so flipping well!!

It was such a beautiful read that I have reread this three times since it was released, and I plan to read it many, many more times in the future. Eagerly awaiting book 2, because I just know it will be ever evolving and I'll be thrown into a world I truly don't want to come out of any time soon. I'll be on tenterhooks until further notice!
8 reviews
January 1, 2021
So this book was a couple of firsts for me and I have to tip my imaginary hat to the author for that! There will be a few mild spoilers in my review below but I’m going to be as vague as possible! So if you’re still reading at this point I’d like to say that I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I’ll start by saying that I’ve read ‘a lot’ of books and can confirm that Wolf Shunned isn’t as predictable as you think! Laurel Knight does a fantastic job of developing this unique concept and while some of the world building was slightly murky for me to begin with you can really start to see her weaving threads in the second half of book one. For instance I had a tougher time grasping what kind of time period this book took place in. The FMC lives in a village in the trees for protection against the primary antagonists. (I thought this was a pretty unique idea as is since I can only recall a scant handful of books that featured homes like these and typically the characters themselves were some sort of fae in origin) However, there are references to technology that suggests a more modern time such as the FMCs wicked weapons. So imagine my surprise when Laurel later reveals some insight to the beginnings of the wolves themselves and the creatures they hunt/are hunted by! I believe this book could actually be classified as Post-Apocalyptic/ Dystopian! You are in for a treat with a badass FMC, a super sweet bestie that always has her back, a small pack of Alphas that are hot for her in an evolving world ripe with mystery and danger. Buckle in and ride the wave of anticipation with the rest of us as we eagerly wait for book two!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kylie.
117 reviews
January 12, 2021
I had high hopes for Wolf Sunned and let me tell you, I was not disappointed! It blew my expectations and I absolutely loved every sentence. If you love slow burn RH with Shifters, this is a book for you!

Kaliya is a warrior from the Central Pack who is more dominant then all the males that surround her daily. The Pack think she is a freak of nature, they resent and loathe her. The only person she has in her life is Emory her best friend. They both only have a couple of months to mate, if they can’t find a mate that their wolf likes in time they will be banished from the Pack. Their only hope to find a match is at the Clan Gathering, Kaliya is hoping there will be a male there that can dominant her wolf into submission.

The world building and detail in the characters was spot on and the FMC Kaliya is a badass warrior that I fell in love with from the start. Emory is also a top favourite with his sweet nature and smart brain. I am looking forward to get to know the other main men in the next book of the series Pack Claimed which is due out in early April.
Profile Image for Chrissy.
1,389 reviews62 followers
February 1, 2021
A Strong Alpha Female

I’d probably give this book 4.5 ⭐️ if I could.

Kaliya is a warrior. She’s faced down more wraiths than she can count. She is a captain for her Alpha and is more dominant than all the females and probably all of the males in her clan. Clan rules dictate that all wolves must be mated by age 20 or they are thrown out of the clan. Their species is endangered by the constant threat of the wraiths and shifters don’t live long healthy lives unless they are very lucky, which is why they are forced to find a mate so young. Kaliya only has a few months left to find a mate or find herself without the resources and support of the clan.

Kaliya has only one friend, Emory, a very submissive male, who is nonetheless intelligent and creative, a very strategic thinker and valued for his knowledge of the ancients. He adores Kaliya and she feels the same, but he isn’t dominant enough to make her wolf submit so they can’t mate.

Going to the Clan meeting, that happens every 5 years, is Kaliya’s last chance to find a male who is dominant enough to force her wolf to submit and allow the mating. She hopes she can tolerate the man who makes her wolf submit, but she has little choice if she wants to stay in the clan.

This is a multiple POV novel. I liked the way it was written allowing us to see into the minds of all the main people involved. Kaliya doesn’t really know anything about the alphas from the other clans but we get to find out how they see her and little about their clans from their POV.

I really enjoyed the world-building in this book. The author has very carefully built a world in which everything hangs together well. The history, culture and society of the shifters are constructed in an interesting and believable way.

What I especially enjoyed was that Kaliya is a very dominant female, who fights her own battles. She is competent, fierce and self-contained. She takes her responsibilities very seriously but still has a loving and tender side. I like that she’s not angry and in your face, snarky or volatile, which is often the case with these sorts of characters. I like how practical she is, whilst at the same time hoping she can find something to care about in the mate that she will be forced to accept if her wolf tells her to.

This book is a great set up for the rest of the series and I can’t wait to see what the author does with it next.
Profile Image for JaneAnneDoe.
9 reviews5 followers
December 30, 2020
***Disclaimer: This is an ARC Giveaway, however, this opinion is entirely my own and is in no way influenced by the author.***

Writing - 5 stars

I like Night's writing style in this series. She uses her words to create a certain atmosphere that fits with the world-building in a way that wasn't annoying or overdone. Her writing built up the tension well, and she used certain language to demonstrate and differentiate her characters' personalities. I did find a few info-dumps, but they weren't too bad compared to some of the others I've read.

Characters - 4 stars

Night was able to establish her characters really well, and we got a good feel for the FMC and who her love interests are. Kaliya or Kali, our female protagonist, is a warrior neglected by her pack for being too dominant as a female. I love the level of dignity that Kali carried herself with. She didn't let her self-worth be dependant on the discriminatory laws of her world. She knew they were wrong, and she knew that she was worth more than what she had been given.

Now the love interests, we have five of them: we have the ride-or-die, bestie nerd for life, Emory, the laid-back, playful Mateo, the cuddly beast of a teddy bear, Stig, and the sinfully oh-so-sexy Taika! I loved the introduction we got to the characters and enjoyed exploring the established personalities and the developing relationships. I especially fell in love with the FMC and her childhood bff - soon to be bf ;). Their romance arc was very well done, so beautiful. I could feel the love, longing, and angst between the two.

Sadly, I didn't feel like we got the same depth as the others, but I'm not gonna take that too much to heart because this is still the first book, and most of them were still meeting and getting to know each other. I hope to see more of their dynamics, both as a group and their one-on-one interactions.

Overall, I'm in love with the groundwork Night has laid as she has given us a group of characters that are sure to give us a fascinating dynamic.

Plot - 4

I found the plot line Night had set up to be very interesting and unique, and I'm excited to see where she takes us with this. She's able to build an intricate world that incorporates some of my favourite tropes but still creates her own unique twist on it. I found the plot build up very well thought out, and it didn't feel rushed or impulsive or cliche.

Sadly, I didn't find there to be a lot of plot development in the long term sense, the pacing dragging out a bit overall. The entire book centers around the events of getting to the Clan meeting and what happens at the meeting. We don't get much over-arching plot development against the wraiths, other than some speculation on how much of a threat they actually were. The story was more centred on who Kali was potentially going to mate with and the alphas' motivations for mating her. I wish we would've gotten more hints about the mystery behind Kali's dominance and the importance of it to the plot, other than the ending cliffhanger.

I don't think I'll have to wait long, though, because I have high expectations for the next book! I am excited and hoping to see more about how the relationship dynamic will be affected by the plot development we will get.

Overall Rating - 4 stars

I'd just like to finish off with how much I enjoyed this book! I enjoyed the world Night has built for us, and the premise behind it, and all the potential this book brings to the series. In terms of being the first book in a series, I think it did an outstanding job solidly establishing itself. I am so thankful to be a part of the ARC team for this book, and I can't wait to continue on this journey with Night and her characters!
Profile Image for Nikki Wesley.
606 reviews14 followers
December 28, 2020
Laurel Night is a new to me author, but as soon as I saw the cover and blurb for this new series, I knew I needed to be a part of it. So the stalking commenced and here we are!

This book is just so good. I’ve been on an enemies to lovers full of pure smut kick for a while now, so this was a nice change of pace. Kaliya is the FMC living in a world dominated by males.. only her Wolf is stronger than most males and refuses to be dominated by any one.

This book is the perfect start to a new series. It’s a world builder that will lead nicely into book 2 and I cannot wait to see where it takes us. You get multiple POV’s between Kaliya and the potential love interests, you get a strong FMC, and you get a world set in the future with traditions and rules that have been around for so long that no one is willing to see past them. It’s a world of Wolves and Wraiths. The question now is, who will be the victor in that battle? And how will Kaliya get the men she wants instead of being held back by traditions?
Profile Image for Sassafrack.
528 reviews13 followers
December 31, 2020
4.5 It’s been a while since I read anything remotely epic fantasy, and this definitely leant that way. The world building was fantastic and rich, and I felt myself fall into the details. A friend of mine once said that she found it tiring to remember everything in fantasy books, but I love how it lets my imagination stretch. It definitely made me forget my usual hesitation for a slowburn romance, there was just too much going on, I wasn’t waiting for anything.

Wolf Shunned has everything. A strong but vulnerable FMC, loads of action, intriguing characters and relationships, nightmare monsters, and exciting plot. Add a bit of forbidden love and potential for epic friendships, and I’m sold. The monsters are more than they seem, but they aren’t the main plot for this book. Kaliya is tough, brave, capable, and kind hearted. Pack law means she could be banished to fend for herself. The sadistic new alpha is looking for petty revenge, and his plans lead her to seek out connections to save herself. This book really only scratched the surface, there is so much more to come, and I can’t wait to see Kali kick some more a..

3 reviews
March 31, 2021
A book for women who hate women

Do you want to read a futuristic supernatural book where women are AGAIN at the bottom of the totem pole? Do you want the romantic interests to refer to women as b*tches, and talk about “laying them flat on their backs“ all the time? Or refer to all women besides the protagonist as bland? If you hate women, or maybe just have a strong degradation/breeder k*nk, this is the book for you!
This book essentially has ONE strong woman, and the only other two women mentioned are inconsequential characters (an absent mother, mentioned maybe three times, and a clan elder, who makes announcements). Besides that, we just hear how none of the others are half the wolf of the FMC, and how some of the men can’t even get hard because of how disappointing women are! The sole purpose of women in this society is to start popping out babies before 20, and once two are produced, they can stop contributing to society.
In a society where survival and keeping up the population is paramount, they exile any unmated wolf at 20 years old, regardless of the reason, even if that wolf is their strongest warrior or their leader, and contributes more to the society by PROTECTING THE POPULATION more than anyone else! If you’re a misogynist, and want to read a poorly written book full of misogyny and things that make no sense, this is the book for you
19 reviews1 follower
December 25, 2020
It's not very often I go through a book without having at least tiny nit picks at the plot. This however kept me ensnared from the very first page. The whole book takes place over the course of mainly about a month or so, but instead of feeling like it dragged on with unnecessary details, I felt like Laurel made a great balance of action, background/ story development, and basic character development of Kali.

All throughout the book you get to see a kickass female warrior wade her way through protecting her Clan and also trying to find a suitable mate who can keep up with her. Her relationships built with all her potential suitors is unique and had me unable to put the kindle down.

All in all, I loved this twist of a dystopian future/ werewolf novel. Even the history of the wolves as explained was a refreshing take. I can't wait until the next installment comes out and I can devour another amazing piece of this story.
30 reviews
December 29, 2020
Laurel Night has created a story that reels you in from the second you start.
A fierce emotionally charged female MC who keeps that emotion well controlled beneath the surface but not in a shallow or heartless way.. She Pines for a connection the only friendship she has ever known and a forbidden love she can't have, yet fights for a future with possible mates in which love has no hand in.. survival of her kind is all that matters..

In a harsh world run by bloodsucking wraiths choices for survival are thrust upon the survivors. Choices the ancients made led to a new kind of human race one where human and wolf are one..
For the Survivor's a chain of command is put in place for each clan.. alpha beta and commander's.. dominant males take a strong mates, well as strong as they can handle so they can create a strong bloodline for the future.. but being an overly strong fierce female that can kick the ass of any man that tries to mate her ...well that complicates things... alot...if no male can tame your wolf before you age out what's a girl to do...?
Profile Image for nat _lovestoread.
945 reviews11 followers
January 5, 2021
⭐ Phenomenal ⭐
I just recently found Laurel, this is the first book of hers I have read; as soon as I saw the cover and read the blurb, I knew this book was for me and oh boy what an amazing surprise!!! 🤩
This is an original take on the source of the wolf shifters race, with a mysterious and captivating plot and hot, awesome MC, that will keep you glued to your sit, reading non-stop, wanting to know more, but afraid to get to the last page!!! #ineedmore 😍
Kaliya's awesomeness is so damn fantastic, love this kind of fierce, bad***, strong FMC, who can put a man in his place without effort!!! 😌💅 💪👊
Emory (awwww)... OK I usually like the moody, cranky, ahole male, like Rowan (who is my fav by the way 😁)... But, tbh, we all need an Emory in our lives, you can not no love him!!! 🤗🥰
And the hot alpha males... Damn!!!... (drooling) 🤤🔥 🔥 🔥
This is a fantastic start of a MUST read series!!! 🐺❤️
Profile Image for Cheryl Sedman.
1,159 reviews11 followers
January 3, 2021
Wow what a read!!! I finished this book within a few hours as I was unable to put it down. The character Kaliya is so strong and her friendship with Emory is so sweet that you just want them together. But with her being so dominant In the eyes of pack laws they are unable to be together.
So once they arrive at the fortress for the events we see so much happen. When she meets four hot handsome men two of which she finds out are Alphas. She gets to know them all in hopes they will challenge for her so her Alpha couldn't. What will happen with them all you will only find out if you pick up a copy and join the ride. It's a great one to be on and after that ending leaving you wanting to know more and what will happen, its best to just jump on board.
Profile Image for Paula.
446 reviews110 followers
January 7, 2021
I skipped a lot because I didn't care for the fights. And there were a lot of fights. I won't be reading the next.
39 reviews
December 29, 2020
Where to start? Kaliya is the fmc I have been wanting for some time. She is strong but caring and nice to others, an outcast but needed by her clan. The boys are so different from a giant teddy bear to a suave southerner, a gruff alpha to a calm warrior. I love all of them and full heartedly cannot wait for more.

Kaliya is loveable and relatable. She may be strong willed and a seasoned warrior but in the grand scheme of social situations? Absolutely unaware of what is happening. Throw in some hot alphas and the love she could never have plus some sticky situations? Bloody chaos.

I can only imagine what book two will hold for us with their journey. Will they mesh together and make it through? Or will jealousy, hidden truths, and misunderstandings lead to failure?

The world Laurel Night built for us is exceptional and unlike any other shifter setting I have seen. Who wants an overly dominant female alpha? We all do. Give her a try, you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Becky Snaith.
69 reviews1 follower
March 23, 2021
I need more!!!
Wolf Shunned is an awesome start to a new series, featuring one bada$$ female wolf. Being way more dominate than everyone in her pack has been rough on our h. She has to be mated by the time she is 20 or face being kicked out of her pack. Since her wolf is not going to go for anyone below her dominance it's making it pretty tough. In this first book all of the wolf clans are getting together for their 5 year reunion of sorts to establish hierarchy changes and choose mates. Drama ensues! I really enjoyed this novel! It will eventually be a rh and I believe we have met all of her future mates. I am looking forward to seeing where their adventures take them and how everything plays out! I ❤ Emory! You will too!
5 Stars!
Profile Image for Val Cohen.
105 reviews28 followers
January 11, 2021
A great way to get to know the characters

At times it was unfortunate that the biggest focus of the book was mating. BUT... it allowed us to get to know each of the Alphas, Betas, Emory, and Kariya better.

This story does not end in a cliffhanger, but it does end with the promise of the adventure to come.It leaves you pondering how the dynamic between all the wolves will change.

While the story isn't about Warren, I wish we got to see a little more of him. He wasn't as close to Kaliya as Emory but he also didn't run from her dominance as the others did.

Stig - There seems to be so much more hiding under his size. the small interactions with him shows us how much he cares about his pack. And just how much he can grow to care for Kali.

Mateo - His flirtatious ways may catch our girls eye. But the way he comes to the challenge when need be shows he's not just a flirt.

Taika - She opened up to him the most in some ways (besides Emory who has known her). We can see that just like her he has an armor that he places over his emotions to present a calm demeanor.

Rowan - He is so disinterested in women. But they must mate. It is fun gauging his reactions to Kali throughout the book.

Emory - and his amazing braiding skills. The best friend ❤ everyone deserves. He is resigned to make sure Kali finds the right Mate for herself and doesn't get kicked out of the pack. His shinning moment at the end was PRICELESS!

Dante oh Dante... You have to read to find out.

Mikal - I have no words except good at hiding his scent.

Kaliya - I can't wait until she is comfortable in her Dominance. *Alpha grumble of approval*

I hate their rules of mating... but that's what made it all cringeworthy interesting. All of these individuals on the search for a Dominant or Submissive mate.

I look forward to the rest of their journey. And to learn more about the wraith. So far feels like at least a trilogy, but let's see what else the Ancients throw our way.
32 reviews2 followers
December 31, 2020
This book is everything I’ve been looking for in a wolf shifter series.

I loved that Kailya wasn’t just a female alpha but is THE alpha. It was incredibly refreshing to see a female beat the males for once. Not only does she know who she is but she never loses faith in herself. She doesn’t back and doesn’t let any man dominant her.

The men were equally refreshing. Not only are they ok with her being too dog (pun intended 😜) but they’re turned on by being less dominant then her.

Everything about this book pulled me in instantly. The storyline isn’t one I’ve encountered before and I love that I can’t predict what’s going to happen: In my opinion this was a 5 star book and I cannot wait for the story to continue.
Profile Image for Sweet and Salty Reviews by DD.
612 reviews239 followers
February 18, 2021
Geez! I have been processing my feelings about this read sense yesterday afternoon. This is one I am very torn about. I want to give it a 4 but it doesn't quite meat the requirements most of my 4s do, yet a 3 seems to low. I'll just get on with my thoughts....

Kali is definitely top 10 toughest FMCs I have read to date. I love a smart strong FMC for some reason I just can not get into the helpless princess storylines. Kali by FAR is not helpless. This is a wolf who has not met her match. There is not even an alpha to this point that can best her. In this world Night built you HAVE to be mated by 20. If you are not you are kicked out of the pack. This is Kali's last opportunity to find her mate and shockingly she has found 4 contenders.

Mateo, Taika, Stig and Rowan are all unmated alphas. Night makes certain we are aware of their personality differences and their strengths and weakness. Night also creates a difference in their scents and how they effect Kali, for me to the the point of being redundant. As I have said before tell me once, twice, maybe three times but exceed that and you are getting on my nerves lol. It just comes off as unnecessary filler for me.

Here is the BIG kicker for me which caused me such a strong dislike. Emory is too weak for me. That's right ladies and gentleman there is a fifth contender. A very weak not even Beta worthy material. He is so physically weak we read when Kali jumps into his arms his body shakes and he nearly drops her due to having ZERO physical strength. I have never read that in a novel before and I have found out I don't like it. Mentally he is the Albert Einstein but if you can not even hold the FMC no no no too weak no likey!!

This story ends on a cliff hanger where Kali has made no decisions. All five men are still in the running and they are all headed on a mission. Now, clearly this is headed for a RH. If Emory is in this mated love puddle in the end I may have to break a few dishes. LOL!

On to book 2!

Happy reading,
DD
Profile Image for Nicole Hale.
965 reviews28 followers
January 4, 2021
I am a newbie by this author and I have been waiting for this release since I first saw the blurb and pre order! And it’s finally here.

❗️Wolf shifters❗️BAD A** FMC❗️Hot as sin alpha males❗️Slow Burn Reverse Harem❗️Multiple POV’S❗️

I was absolutely hooked from page 1. I was sucked right into this storyline and I didn’t stop till the last page. I have been having a hard time finding books that have not just romance but also has an amazing storyline that grabs your attention and you never want it to end. This one had it all. Action, LOL moments, in depth character development and dystopian vibe and the twist at the end ugh! I loved it all! I can’t wait for book 2.
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