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Wild Spirit #1

Wild Spirit: The Curse of Win Adler

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Win Adler is sixteen and has been struck down with a mystery illness, shattering the life she knew in Boston. When doctors can’t find a cure, her father’s last hope of recovery is to take her home to Hickory House, her mother’s ancestral home in the woods in the old colonial town of Cedar Wood.

Living with her Grandpa and older sister in a quaint town should be ideal, but Win soon discovers she lives at the heart of an old town ghost story, a tale of witchcraft and tragedy. And Win learns that her family is unusual, someone is watching the house, someone who knows her family’s dark secrets. Win is starting to change, in more ways than one, she is getting stronger and faster as she learns more about her family’s strange curse. A falcon follows Win around, watching her every move, protecting her, and warding off danger.

She must unearth the secrets of her past to survive the fight of her life before she runs out of time.

340 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2020

23 people are currently reading
125 people want to read

About the author

Victoria Wren

12 books41 followers
Victoria lives in the UK, in rural Essex, with her husband, two daughters, and one very mischievous Bengal called Bella.
She is the author of the YA book series Wild Spirit and writes mystery, fantasy, and gothic books for adults and teens.
When she isn't writing and making up tales to scare her kids, you'll find her walking, reading, re-watching Buffy the Vampire slayer and running her children around like a taxi service.

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5 stars
46 (58%)
4 stars
21 (26%)
3 stars
9 (11%)
2 stars
2 (2%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Bethany Votaw.
Author 8 books27 followers
December 1, 2020
Oh my goodness! I have fallen in love with the characters and this cozy little corner of the world. This was so atmospheric and seriously gave me all the nostalgia of what YA should be! Follow WIn as she navigates a family curse, a new town, and broken relationships.
Profile Image for Day Shepard.
3 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2021
I bought this book as a way to support a new author. And I will not lie when I say that I was shocked to find how well the story was. I kid you not! I was at the edge of my seat, hand gripping the book as I squealed like a fangirl waiting to read what was going to happen next! I loved the descriptions and how well detailed it was. It honestly felt like I was right there with the characters, idly standing by watching the intense scenes play out before me. It was so easy to visually grasps at what was happening BECAUSE it was so well detailed. I did however found a couple grammar errors in the book, but it wasn't a big deal at all.
So overall, the storyline, great! The characters, well rounded! The suspense, definitely there! And it's simply an underrated book right now. Well deserved of so more attention! Bravo Victoria Wren on writing such an amazing YA book! I'll be waiting for Book number 2!
Profile Image for Hannah Palmer.
Author 3 books24 followers
December 29, 2020
I absolutely adored this debut by Victoria Wren! It harkened back to the books I loved as a child and I thoroughly enjoyed the nostalgia factor. Can't wait for book 2!
Profile Image for B.L. Callaghan.
Author 9 books108 followers
December 20, 2020
Wren created a fascinating world here, one that I would love to revisit again and again. This book reads like a cross between a mystery and a preternatural shapeshifter novel - both of which I enjoy and find myself searching for a lot.
I liked the mystery of it all, how from one page to the next, you didn't know what would happen. I enjoyed the trials and tribulations the characters had to go through to reach the end, and the slow release of backstory and truth at the core of the plot.
Profile Image for Chris Kenny.
Author 9 books6 followers
September 6, 2022
I adore this world! I could go on and on about what an amazing character Win Adler is, and how each of the supporting cast feels important, and fleshed out. Instead, I'll simply say if you like YA Fantasy, this is a MUST. One of the most impressive debut novels I've ever read.
Profile Image for Don White.
3 reviews
April 13, 2021
What a great read! I had so much fun reading this. Ms. Wren certainly showed what she could do as a writer. I can't wait to read more of her work and the next installment of this series!
Profile Image for Alicia.
253 reviews9 followers
October 21, 2021
DISCLAIMER:
I had the privilege of beta reading this book in fall 2020 and read the published version in spring 2021. This review is based on my notes from the beta version as well as the published version.

REVIEW:
After some troubling events and persistent illness, Win Adler’s father finally forces her to move towns. Specifically, to a small, east-coast town where her deceased mother grew up. Quickly, Win learns the truth behind her illness, as well as many other secrets the town and her family have to offer. For generations, her family has been cursed to be Therian, humans who can shapeshift into a given type of animal. But there are many costs to this curse that put Win and her family in constant danger. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, cozy book with shapeshifting and family curses, Wild Spirit: The Curse of Win Adler by Victoria Wren is waiting for you.

One of the things that makes this book stand out is the characters. For starters, Win is a great YA protagonist. She has her struggles but has a powerful internal drive that makes you invested in her story. She is independent, yet she trusts her friends and family. There are others she shouldn’t trust, but it is understandable why she does. Every character is significant to the plot, and every character feels like a real person. All of their actions make sense, even if they are making bad choices or being a bad person.

One of my favorites was Rowan Adler, as she is a character that you will want to keep your eye on as the series goes on. She is a great older sister and is going through a lot of personal stuff. Spencer and Luke Fraser also have a lot going on, and it is fun to watch Luke and Win interact. The more you learn about the Fraser brothers, the more you love/hate them. The friendships Win develops with Ella and Luke are very solid, and I am looking forward to watching them grow together. Others in her family also have their own fascinating stories and help propel the plot.

The plot is fast-paced, and the plot twists are unexpected. Wren gives you enough information to keep you out of confusion. But you know she is withholding information, forcing you to read on. Pretty much all the questions proposed in the book are answered, but there is still plenty to unfold in the next book. The party scene towards the end of the book is incredible and gives Win a chance to show how far she has come.

The premise of the book is intriguing. Not only does the family curse impact the plot, but the family feud also creates conflict. And once those two plots come together…you are in for a ride. At first, it was hard for me to distinguish between the curses and families, but by the end it is clear. The setting of the book is also very easy to escape in and fits the plot very nicely. The description is great, and also helps you escape into this town.

RECOMMENDATION:
This book is suited for YA and Adult audiences. Middle Grade readers could probably enjoy it as well. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to escape into a cozy, east coast town with mysteries, family feuds, and plot twists. It is a short and satisfying read!

TAGS:
Family feud/family drama, family curse, forbidden love, action, suspense, loss of innocence, YA, secrets, cozy woodsy old east coast town with rich history

Also, one last important note. The cover, the art in the book, and the formatting are AMAZING.
Profile Image for Christine Hutton.
179 reviews32 followers
December 4, 2021
Wild Spirit: The Curse of Win Adler is the debut novel for Victoria Wren. I am exceptionally happy with her writing, creativity, character development, and overall storyline.

Victoria has done a fantastic job weaving a unique story about shifters. Unlike most shifter stories the Adler line is met with unforeseen circumstances. They are connected to their land in a more intense way than shifters in general are.

The main character Win is "sick" throughout most of the book. Yes, Win is physically sick, but it is due to her family history. Win moves in with her grandpa and sister after her father decides he doesn't know what to do with her (he has already done this to her sister Rowan). After Win spends time with her family she starts to become a bit healthier while mysteries surround her. Her family must help her learn about who she is, what their land means to them, and the secrets drifting throughout the town.

The town itself is a bit spooky, full of gossip, and holds grudges against Win and her family. There are old stories surrounding them and most of the townspeople are too ignorant or afraid to get over them.

Win is able to make a true friend named Ella while she navigates the murky waters of high school. Due to being sick Win spends more time outside of school than in it. Luckily, Ella has a car and is able to drive Win and help take care of her. Honestly, I am happy she does not spend most of her time in high school; I did not enjoy high school as a teenager and I don't want to relive it in books.

I enjoyed the whole atmosphere and plot of the book. There is an air of suspense like you are being watched the whole book; I often found myself with goosebumps on my arms. Win feels eyes or something possibly sinister on her as her instincts kick in. As a classic teenager Win gets into all sorts of mischief because she does not listen to her family.

However, there were a couple of aspects I did not enjoy. The book started off slow and that is the only reason I gave it four stars instead of five.

This YA read was a fun shifter story. I recommend it to those who like reading about mysteries, fantasy, suspense, shifters, and small-town drama. As I said, Victoria is a new author and I cannot wait to see how she improves and continues on with books 2 and 3. Victoria has a ton of potential and I think she found her niche with paranormal novels.
2 reviews
November 29, 2020
When Win Alder is moved from Boston to a small town in Massachusetts, she discovers that she isn’t a normal teenager and never has been nor does she have a normal family.
As the secrets and ghosts of the past unfold in a little town of Cedar Wood Win becomes stronger and less fragile connecting with her new found world.
Her teenage years are going to get a lot more complicated with some disturbing discoveries and heartfelt memories coming to light .
I don’t want to give the plot away but loved reading this fantasy teen page turner.
Would highly recommend and can’t wait for Victoria Wren’s second book 💕
Profile Image for Dan Hook.
Author 2 books10 followers
January 13, 2021
Wild Spirit keeps you engaged from start to finish, with the slow unravel of events continuing throughout. The book gave me a Twlight-esque vibe with teen fantasy - but with a more grounded (less-fantasy) approach in how the author has setup the premise of the book. It gives a darker and more brutal sense to the world, as the protagonist adjusts to the new location. Really enjoyed it and I can't wait to see what happens in the second book! Amazing cover and what is done with the first page of each chapter is a lovely touch!
Profile Image for Eva Alton.
Author 38 books221 followers
November 29, 2020
Win is not an ordinary high school girl. She has been suffering from a strange, debilitating illness no doctor can diagnose. Finally, her father decides to move back to their ancestors' home, where she learns her problem is not an illness, but a centuries old family curse.
This is a well written book with characters who feel real. The story moves more slowly in the beginning and the tension builds up for an ending with lots of action.
It read to me like a mixture between a ghost story and a shifter novel. I loved this young adult book and I can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for Natalia.
62 reviews2 followers
June 12, 2021
So... A few months ago i came across this Beautiful cover and after reading the blurb i knew i needed to read this and so happy i did! This story was beautiful and heartbroken at the same time. I'm completely obsessed with the curse and how it works and with the hickory family tree! Luckily i dont have to wait a lot to know what Is coming next because after that epilogue i dont know if i could resist the waiting!
Profile Image for louise sumner.
134 reviews2 followers
August 16, 2021
Compulsive page turner

I really liked this book. It was compelling and unpredictable. There were a few grammatical errors but this did not deflect from the story which was such a great read.
Profile Image for Alex Wolf.
Author 7 books55 followers
September 7, 2021
‘A cosy mysterious adventure'
This was quite different to my standard reading genre. I usually read more high fantasy / romance stuff. Yet it was an incredibly refreshing YA tale. Engaging and excited to read - I really enjoyed the mystery aspect.
I absolutely loved the ending! - enough resolution yet makes me want to read the next one asap!
Would recommend to animal lovers who love YA fantasy.
Profile Image for Kim Campbell.
Author 2 books23 followers
June 27, 2021
Great fantasy read

Win Adler is no ordinary girl. Her family has been hiding a secret for a very long time. Win's sickness is merely the beginning of changes that will alter her life forever.

This was such a fun read. It keeps you guessing a little bit. The back stories of the characters are rich and well thought out. The bond between sisters is heartwarming.

Though the story is set in Massachusetts, USA, you can tell the writer is not American, or hasn't spent time in the US for some time. So, if you don't know the differences between British English and American English you could become confused at times.

Overall, I definitely recommend this book for any fantasy reader
Profile Image for whataimeereads_.
110 reviews9 followers
March 31, 2022
Book Review! 📚
Victoria Wren- Wild Spirit

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Struck down with a mystery illness, Win Adler’s life in Boston is shattered. Once a high achieving student, her illness forces her to become withdrawn losing friends, and doctors can’t find a cure. The last hope is to take her back home to Hickory House, her deceased mothers ancestral home in Cedar Wood. Win discovers she lives in an old town ghost story, with a tale of witchcraft and tragedy. Win must unravel the secrets of the past to survive the fight of her life before she runs out of time.

TW* Animal Cruelty and Death.

The next book in my new Indie Booklist!

If you’re into fantasy, paranormal, and all things curses and secrets, with a jumble of romance thrown in, this is the book for you. Like Twilight but want something more out there? Something more structured and better character development? READ THIS NOW.

It’s not often I find a novel that creative, and intriguing I feel as though I’m part of that world myself, Victoria managed to weave a unique story and her character development was incredible. This read was addictive, Win and her Grandpa was my favourite characters as the mystery that surrounds the family got me completely captivated from the start.

Not one single part of this novel was rushed, it was plotted perfectly, and the writing style was easy to read, and incredibly creative. I adored the way Victoria created a whole new world of “Therians”. Thank you for writing something which isn’t predictable and that kept me at the edge of my seat at all times!

Fully incredible novel, and I can’t wait to read the next ones!
Profile Image for Angela Jones-Cuéllar.
1,059 reviews115 followers
March 24, 2024
2.5 stars
I love the twist of a shifter curse/lore/world-building/etc., but the writing... It's so annoying because the concept has me utterly intrigued, keeping me going, but the writing is just so, well, it's sorta terrible. It's inconsistent, the tone and age is all over the place, the word choices are odd, even the characters are blocky and stupid, and it's simply overall rather terrible and cringy to endure. The plot/story concept however is fascinating and addicting. I'm in a conundrum because I want to know the answers to my questions and find out what happens next, but do I have the strength to endure more of the writing? Not sure yet.

Oh, and Win Adler is an utter and complete nitwit from start to finish.
2 reviews
April 8, 2021
I loved everything about this book. The characters leaped from the page, and the pacing kept me turning pages at warp speed. You seldom see a shifter drama with so much depth to the worldbuilding. Victoria Wren layers mystery on the mystery as we dig through the Hickory family's strange past in the small town of Ceder mills. Win Adler is the youngest of the Hickory clan and the newest to be let in on the family secret. Win and her sister Rowan are amazing characters and the shifter element nicely parallels coming of age issues for young women. The book is what Twilight should have been. I would recommend this book to any fan of YA, and any fan of a good story!
Profile Image for Hayley Anderton.
Author 35 books145 followers
April 19, 2023
THIS is how YA fantasy should be! With every page I turned, it took me back to being a teenager falling in love with reading all over again. The tropes were spot on, the characters were great and the world-building was so atmospheric. I really felt like I was there in the town, feeling Win's emotions as she navigated such a scary but exciting new world.
One of my favorite things about this book was the family dynamics! I loved seeing Win reconnect with her sister and figure out how to feel about her complex family history. It was so well done and I look forward to seeing more of these characters in the books that follow!
148 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2022
Excellent story line

This story is amazing. To have shifters as the main characters in the book, the author has an awesome imagination. The characters are well written.
I did have some issues with the wording in the book. Using less words than usual to tell the story, the author seemed in a bit of a hurry to get the story published or didn't spend much time on proof reading.
I loved the intention behind the book. I feel that it would be better with more polish & time taken for spell checking along with grammar checking.
Profile Image for Sherri Turquoise.
4 reviews
Read
August 10, 2021
This book is a good read I do recommend reading this one. Overall the story does have a slow start however that slow start suits the story pacing. This story has good tension build up. The only thing I thought was lacking was tension in the climax. I felt like the climax hits sooner and the climax spot felt like a start of the resolution. Like the character development and the plot. Love the plot twist in the story. Will be continuing reading the series as they come out.
Profile Image for 📚 Mrs Harford 📚.
22 reviews9 followers
September 30, 2023
I absolutely LOVED this book so much that I couldn’t put it down. From family secrets to warm romances, this book captured me from the very beginning. Every page transporting me into cedar wood eager to figure out the answers to my questions as the plot twists and turns then finally thickens at the end. Thankfully I bought the second book in the series that I shall be started asap. Thankyou to Victoria Wren for this fabulous read.
Profile Image for Richard Holliday.
Author 8 books31 followers
February 21, 2021
I really enjoyed Wild Spirit - sure, there's some tonal similarities to Twilight in setting and characters but these are superficial because these are skin-deep at best - this is far more accomplished and skilfully crafted than Twilight ever was!

I really enjoyed getting to know Win and her family - there's a duopoly at play here; Win's introduction to the town of Cedar Wood and the adolescent social life incumbent with that - a lot of struggling both with being the outsider and with some longstanding history based on her heritage. We also have Win dealing at the same time with a family secret that she almost can't believe, and tries to fight against, not wanting to be the next in a long line! There's almost the dichotomy between tradition and contemporary life - will Win's strength of character let her break out of the cycle, or will she have to succumb to the way things are?

There's a real build up as these two threads converge right at the end of the book - and I'm left wanting to know what happens next! I was really engaged by the bright and inviting writing style!
Profile Image for Aviar Savijon.
1,220 reviews20 followers
February 22, 2023
Wild Spirit

This book is brilliant, complex and twisting and turning at and on every page. I loved it!!!! Read it today.
717 reviews7 followers
July 17, 2023
Starting out as a high school misfit romance, this story quickly morphs into a puzzle with too many secrets. Not always wise to try to protect one's children from their destiny.
Profile Image for Nikki Wildon.
107 reviews2 followers
March 26, 2024
3.75 🌟 I actually devoured this! An easy read with a good plot and a twist I didn’t see coming! Great debut. I will definitely be picking up the rest in the series when they are released!
Profile Image for Holli.
786 reviews9 followers
August 12, 2022
Unique and original. The ending is great and definitely want to pick up the second right away.
It gets right to the story without spending time on world building for those of you who enjoy a quick paced plot.
I highly recommend Blackwell's UK store as I found this title there. (Shipping included in price for American shoppers.) Also, Kindle has these for a low price. Minimum risk.
I love the artwork on the cover.
Husband is really enjoying it as well. Great for a read-a-thon.
Profile Image for C.A. Farran.
Author 5 books125 followers
March 17, 2024
Coming back to review when I calm down because OH MY WORD!!!!❤❤❤😍


Okay, I've settled down.

This book is amazing. Complex characters, beautiful prose, gorgeous setting, rich vibes, compelling story, an overarching mystery threaded through the plot that I absolutely LOVED!!! I don't like to spoil books in my reviews, so I'll talk about my experience reading it.

This book transported me to a time when I'd feverishly read beneath the covers until the wee hours of the morning and the threat of being late to my first class of the day was imminent. I can't say anything specific about the characters without giving things away, and walking into this book knowing nothing made for such an incredible experience.


This book and this author deserve ALL THE HYPE! I have the next two books already downloaded to my kindle and I'm so excited to continue this series!
Profile Image for Bethreads.
269 reviews9 followers
December 31, 2025
This is what a ya fantasy should be like, this was an easy 5 star read for me, this was a page turner, this was a fun, easy read, this was about a girl called win which you follow her and her family curse as she navigate her way round the town her parents lived and also broke relationships,

I loved all the art in the book, the characters, animals literally everything I'm jumping onto book 2 straight away.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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