Devereau Webb is riding high. He's a powerful werewolf with a killer combination of intelligence, wits and strength and he's learning more and more about his abilities every day. He isn't usually the type to take orders, however, and that has to change with his new role as a supernatural spy within the British security services.
Tasked with heading to Rome to infiltrate a mysterious gang with terrorist links, Devereau has to call on all his newfound skills to prevent disaster from happening. That might be prove to be the easy part. He's also determined to convince a certain sexy vampire that he's the man for her.
What could possibly go wrong?
Licence To Howl is the second book in the adventurous urban fantasy Wolfbrand series.
The thrilling Wolfbrand books are linked to the Firebrand novels and occur at the same time as the fourth book, Scorched Heart, and onwards. They do not need to be read together to be enjoyed.
This is the second in a spin-off series. I definitely recommend reading the entire thing in order to get the full impact of who Devereau is and what got him where he is.
I petered out in the middle of this one and it has been months and I've got to acknowledge that I'm just not interested in continuing. I'm not sure what happened, frankly. I just found I don't care about any of the events or developments. Rome is nice and all, but a battle royale in the actual coliseum just feels dumb. Which is a shame because it was all the awesome. But I couldn't shake that layer of dumb.
I love Devereau, so it makes me sad that I stopped caring. I can't explain it, so I'm just acknowledging it here. I have no idea what to rate this, so I'll leave it unrated.
I loved this book from start to finish, the writing was slick, the pacing was perfect and the characters leapt off the page. I thoroughly enjoyed it, best book I've read in a while.
I don't want to spoil anything but I found the plot gripping and so realistic. Go grab a copy!
This Saga continues to suprise me. After reading all off them I expect the same good stories and its on me that I read them all in a blip and maybe more separated I would have enjoyed the last ones much more but its ok. This one is still incredible. I really like Devereau, silly man with a big heart. Hope there are more to come from him.
Another great book in this series. I have a real soft spot for Devereau Webb and he was utterly brilliant in this book - adventurous, secretive, loyal to his cause, determined and totally in love!
As a werewolf without a pack, Devereau isn't sure where to go next, but as a new secret spy for MI5, he sent on a mission in Rome. He has to infiltrate a gang with the sole purpose of gaining information. However what and who he finds there in Rome sends him on a round European trip trying to save the world, even if the world doesn't want his help. Luckily for him he has friends, old and new, by his side who are willing to believe his theories and have his back when the governments won't.
I loved how determined Devereau was to see this mission through to the end, even though the end was nothing like the mission he started. He was adamant that he would catch the perpetrator even after being told it was all over. The plot was fast paced and there was never much downtime for our hero - you could feel the tension and stress he was going through, trying to get ahead of the villain!
My only wish for this series is the love interest - I hope that one day she will give in to him again and try to work at some sort of relationship with Devereau. I think he needs a good woman by his side, but one who won't take any of his nonsense and will tell him what he needs to hear rather than what he wants to hear!
Thank you Helen for my ARC copy of this book - this review is my own honest one though!
Licence to Howl by Helen Harper: NA Spy Thriller Fantasy. Investigation. Allies. Single third person POV. Terrorism. Friendships. Action. Extensive character interactions. Leadership. Rescue.
Licence to Howl is a fast paced and entertain spy thriller with great world building, satisfying mystery, and high stake investigations with a hint of romance. Devereau Webb was disappointed that being in MI5 is nothing like James Bond. They didn't even give him a cool car, or training for that matter and they don't trust him cause he's werewolf, but he's playing along. After tying up his first test, he's sent to Rome. Apparently, there's a potential terrorist cell making some noise and he needs to infiltrate the group and conduct surveillance. However, when he tracks them down, he quickly realises that things are more serious than they appear, and time is in short supply.
It's great reading from Webb's perspective again. It's refreshing. Devereau Webb is intelligent, empathetic and amazing at reading people and their behaviour. I've really enjoyed how Helen Harper has written how he reads people. It gives so much depth throughout the novel and his insights and thoughts really makes the secondary characters stand out and the novel, overall, emotive. It makes me care, not just about Webb, but all secondary and surrounding characters we meet.
On the topic of characters and world building I really enjoyed learning about the werewolves of Rome, their traditions and the alpha himself. It was really entertaining. Plus, no spoilers, you get to see how werewolves can beneficially effect society in a way we haven't seen yet. I wouldn't mind seeing the wolves of Rome more in future.
I'm not sure how to explain without spoiling the plot, but there's also a lot of chemistry, tension, and friendship, and I really enjoyed the convergence plot and the formation of new friendships and alliances. Highly recommend to people who like fast-paced investigations, incognito plots, chase/flee scenes, intelligent characters, and werewolf packs.
How much did I like this? 5 stars Ideas - World building: 4.5 Stars Ideas - Plots: 5 Stars Character Depth: 5 Stars Emotional Highs and Lows: Above Average Character Interaction: Extensive Animal Characterisation: N/A Warning/s: none Execution (proofreading): 4.8 Stars
License to Howl is the second book in Helen Harper's Wolfbrand series, I listened to the audio version and it was fantastic.
Devereau Webb is a spy for MI5 which totally goes against his personality. Not only is he an ex-criminal but the man doesn't like authority. However, Dev is complex. Besides the criminal undertaking, Dev is kind a respectful to everyone he meets even when they have misjudged him, are nasty, snarky, or just plain rude. He has a high tolerance for BS and knows how to handle people. Dev really is a good man, I enjoy his joyful personality and intelligence.
Scarlett, Lord Horvath's second in command and Devereau's crush somehow gets involved in Dev's first mission. I loved Scar's kickass attitude and intelligence, and she has the charisma to match Dev's. She can keep him on his toes, they certainly make a good pair. Too bad Scar has built a wall around her heart and blocks Devereau's at every turn, even when he pours his heart out she refuses to let him in. I like how easily the pair put plans into motion and played well off of each other. They make a good pair anyway you put it.
This book can only be called a spy novel but with a supernatural twist. The story starts off in London but from there spans to Italy where Dev is placed on a mission for MI5. There's a terrorist plot underway and foreign supes to deal with. There's a lot of action and adventure while Devereau uses his charm and smarts to discover as much as he can about the plans.
Licence To Howl was a fun and exciting read, Shaun Grindell did a fantastic job narrating. I very much liked Devereau's story it had plenty of mystery as well as twists and turns. I enjoyed following along and seeing if my theories pan out, waiting to see what happens next. I look forward to Devereau's next adventure.
There's so much in this book, I must limit this review or I could be writing pages about it!
Book two has Devareaux working internationally, checking out a small time terrorist group that turns out to be far more powerful than expected. And theirs is such a simple plan, too. With Devareaux working for M15, there is more than a passing nod to the James Bond series and movies. I admit fully enjoying the Bond link!
I am intrigued that both books highlight highly destructive realities in our real world. That's not at all my usual type of paranormal read. I see the news, but interacting with these events in a fiction setting, seeing people behind the scenes trying to prevent tragedy, then dealing with its aftermath was moving. Sure, it's fiction, but enough of it is true to life to have me start paying closer attention to similar real world events and how governments are responding.
I cannot begin to lay out all the interesting little subplots playing out; they enrich both books in the series. And I do like the mischief Devareaux and Scarlett get up to! Mischief with a purpose, too!
This is as well written, thought provoking, and entertaining as book one. There is less violence, though we are faced with seeing the aftermath in two serious crime scenes. Again, there are no scenes of sexual intimacy.
We have Devereau, our main man and a werewolf, who holds our hand and leads us through the story. And there’s Scarlett, a one-toothed vampire and the person that Devereau hopes will be his main lady. Eventually.
Devereau is a fantastic character. He has a real depth and we were introduced to so many aspects of his personality. My favorite side though is his ability to come up with snarky, lightning-fast responses. He is never lost for words!
Scarlett is more of a mystery. We get glimpses into her, but she’s still behind her walls. While she does give us moment of insight into her, she’s still keeping her mystery alive.
This story has a lot going on. And I loved every bit of it. While it has plenty of light hearted moments, it also has plenty of darker moments to make you stop and think.
And the characters aren’t at all shallow. They cover a gamut of emotions, from fear, to self-doubt and regret. And it’s all handled well.
Plus we can’t forget that the whole story plays out around the background of an international terrorist plot!
And on a side note - some insider info about the leprechaun. Be sure not to ask him if he has a pot of gold at the end of his rainbow. He’s heard that question one time too many already…
I’m loving this series and can’t wait to see what comes next!
It’s great to be back in the world of former crime boss and recently turned werewolf, Devereaux Webb. Although he has refused to join any of the local clans electing to be a lone Wolf instead he has decided to work with MI5 in an attempt to take down a terrorist group.
When Devereaux goes to Paris he fails to meet with the Alpha of the local clan and pay his respect. This doesn’t sit well with Morretti and he is about to make Devereaux pay for the slight. Of course Dev attends an auction where there is fierce bidding going on for an ugly ring known as The Ring of All Seasons. It is rumored to allow the wearer to see into the future one night out of the year which is quickly approaching.
Dev follows the winners car and o see who bought it and stumbles upon the one woman who sets his heart aflame, vampire Scarlett Cook. Soon they are working together to try and take down the terrorists but not before there are innocent victims. MI5 is not please and want to ship Devereaux home but he and Scarlett are out for blood. They want to catch the bad guys and make them pay.
There is plenty of action, subterfuge and sexual tension in this little gem and in the end, you will be begging for more! I just loved it!!
I love the direction that Helen Harper is going with this series. Dev is a new werewolf who is extremely powerful and London seems child's play for him with a human underground he understands but no longer wants him, a supernatural community that he doesn't fear but also doesn't want him. So when MI5 approach him, it seems like the perfect opportunity to prove himself, his prowess, forge new alliances and relieve his boredom. What he gets is not what he expects, a reality if ever there was one, an adventure and as much danger to appease even him. On a race across Europe, meeting new (powerful) supernaturals and spending time with Scarlett, Dev tests his limits and realises that he is not all powerful. I loved his journey from cocky ex criminal to self realisation that he is more than he thought and not as powerful as would sometimes like. Great fun, wonderful characters and plenty of drama. Can't wait for more.
Book 2 this is a spin off series following Dev and how he is coping as a shifter now also he was not liked by many but the truth was he was a good guy who did shady dealing to make money and look after the poor but when he turned into a wolf (his choice) they pushed him away.the last book had him working with vampire scarlet and his feelings for her growing (see other series for her story and more of dev) but this book continues from book one when he met CIA Sara and goes to work for her as a spy in Rome but who should be bump into yes scarlet (who keeps pushing him away after two weeks of sex) but together they work again to stop terrorists.the storyline was good and lots of action some funny moments to but I did get bored at times but still worth reading but I think he needs a few loyal wolves (and not just one teenager)
Review: Glad I continued with this Helen Harper Firebrand spinoff... Devereau is asked to become a secret member of Britain's MI6. First real assignment, he is sent to Rome to do some sleuthing. Lucky for him, Scarlet is also in Rome to purchase an antique ring supposedly with power to tell the future and the past. But he encounters a much larger problem when he doesn't pay proper respect to the residing pack and leader. With Scarlet in hand, they set off to meet Rome's society and uncover who is the terroristic threat. I think this series really hits its stride with this book. Devereau's unorthodox methods and intelligence actually start to shine. I know its been a couple of years since this book was released, but I hope HH plans to revisit this character and we get another edition in the Wolfbrand series. Listened to the audio and it was another good listen.
Licence to Howl by Helen Harper a five-star read that will have you howling with joy. This was so good, Devereau Webb you melt my heart at every turn, you break it as well, but ehh Scarlett is more deserving, this story has it all, it will keep you on your toes at every turn. Italy and the Italians made me chuckle, especially the Colosseum, ohhh the Colosseum, I have dreamy eyes as I write. This one has a fast paced story, and each step will have your heart in your mouth, and just overall it was so well done, it shows us how Devereau has more sides than a diamond, he shows us the shiny side to distract and then polishes it to shine more. This is a great story and I need more Wolfbrand in my life.
4.5 stars. Silly name aside, this book was actually really good if you like spy thriller type of books... it's kind of a play on James Bond, but with a werewolf and a vampire... and a healthy dose of sarcasm thrown in from time to time lol. There are terrorists threatening to blow up important landmarks in Rome, Berlin, Paris, and London. And Dev and Scarlett are on the scene to try and stop them. Dev was recruited by MI5 after his heroic efforts in the first book to stop the supe slave auctions... and Scarlett just wants to help because she's awesome like that. They're super cute together and they're both badasses, and even though there are some seriously violent and devastating scenes in this book, it still managed a really good balance of reality and humor. 💜👍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I first met Devereaux in the Firebrand series and have really enjoyed getting to know him better now. This book was one of a few books that I had the chance to read while waiting for the power to come back on at my house after Hurricane Ida rolled through. I'm so glad I already had it before we lost power, because it gave me many hours of entertainment that I didn't need power for. The character are fun and somewhat relatable. The story is fast paced, but not so faced paced that it seemed rush. It ran at almost the perfect speed. I couldn't have asked for more in a good book and this one is a great book. Well done to the author. I look forward to seeing what comes next.
This book totally deserves a five star 🌟rating, the characters are lovable, detestable and everything inbetween Set between the human world and the "supe's" world, the mistrust and the communal tightness, you venture with the characters on a journey of m15 intelligence to pixies. I really loved the ending, thought it was perfect and cannot sIt still long enough for the next book! The imagination and hard work and lots of skilled talent brings the second book in this series to life, it's more like watching a film than reading, so immersive that it was with reluctance I put the book down so I could sleep.....very enjoyable fantasy fiction
This is the 2nd novel of the Wolfbrand series. Devereau has accepted working with MI5 and travels abroad to save the day. He manages to bring up the locals against him with a little bit of ignorance and a lot of maverick like behavior.
The novel is well-written and it captured me like every story by Helen Harper. Once started reading I wouldn't put the book down before I finished. All in one day. Afterwards, I felt satisfied and instantly wanted to know when the next novel of the Firebrand series is to be published since the 2 series are related.
I am still hooked on both storylines and cannot wait for more.
This book had a slower start than the others and I wasn’t sure if I would like it, but the plot picked up and I love seeing Dev and Scarlett work together. I also like seeing Dev figure out his place in the world. We know he’s an intelligent person and he’s capable of making and carrying out long term plans, so it’s really fun to see him manage new situations. Helen Harper is a gifted storyteller and her books are fun and well written. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to continuing the series.
Second book in the new series featuring Devereau Webb, former leader of a small criminal syndicate in London, turned werewolf.
Devereau has been approached by MI5, sadly there's no sign of an Aston Martin or a Walther PPK, to gather intelligence about an alleged terrorist ring with Scarlett the one-toothed vampire.
Yet another fast-paced, enjoyable caper story. Loving this new series and I can't wait for the next book.
I have read all the books in the series this spun off from. I knew webb in them, and I read his first book.
I liked the character he is becoming but I didn't like the first half of the book and almost decided to abandon this series. However Scarlet and some interesting incidents reminded me why this promises to be such a good series when he is fully in his new role and has acclimated. He might have a new flock to shepherd after all.
However, since I already read Firebrand series and saw how Devereau’s behaviour there, I kind of thinking he had got a new personality transplant in his series, 😳😂😆.
Not that I complained, he certainly more in his series and Scarlett has grown on me too. Also, the story is very interesting in this one 😍.
Firebrand next book will publish next month, read this series while you’re waiting 😘.
Helen Harper has done it again. A book I struggled to put down, I enjoyed every second of this book, It's great to read more of Devereau Webb to see what he gets up to, this is only book 2 and I'm already looking forward to more. It's nice to see characters that are already familiar. It has werewolves, vampires, humans, plenty of action and moment's that make you smile. A must read of any Helen Harper fans and anyone looking for a great read.
I thought this book was long and boring. There were some interesting parts in this book but there was also a lot of unnecessary chatter. I do like Devereau and Scarlet. Those two definitely work well together. Devereau definitely has a big ego and thinks he doesn’t need help from anybody to do some thing and that is what gets him into trouble. I am not sure if I’m going to read the next book in the series or not. Hopefully the next book will be better.
I just really don't like this character. I hoped it might get better after the first book, and might connect back tot he spin-off series more, but nope. The set up here was okay, but the story spent more time detailing unnecessary and quite boring gladiator style fights between werewolves than solving the mystery, and a lot of the mystery solving was just dumb luck or coincidences, which makes this even less worth it for me, since I don't like the characters.
Devereau is such a great character. I love how smart he is and his combination of hero and anti-hero. Scarlet is also fun, and I like them together.
In this novel, they're trying to stop a terrorist. There were some nice twists and turns. I've already read the Firebrand series and book one, which provide nice background information. However, I think you could probably jump into book two and do okay.
This book was lovely. I liked the action and drama packed story. It kept me riveted. The writing is great, the details really pull the story together and helped me visualize the scenes as they occurred. Honestly it almost feels like I’ve watched a great film, although the book is always better;)
The ending has me smiling from ear to ear and snickering because of Webb!! Absolutely loved that ending!!! Overall I liked reading the book and feel it was time well spent with a good book, great characters, and a story that made me feel a variety of emotions. Great job!
Scarlet cut Devereau off after a brief fling and he is tasked by MI5 to go to Rome to infiltrate a suspected criminal network. Being a new powerful werewolf without a pack and training means wits and street smarts lead him on a merry chase for the guilty parties.
This book put me into a week long reading slump. I don't know if it was how cocky the MMC is or the storyline and him being a secret agent that is just being used or the "romantic" part but I honestly didn't want to finish it but also didn't want to DNF in case some day in the future I decided to pick up the remaining books in the "world" series.
Such a great book to continue the series! New adventure take us to Rome, to solve the crime and to save the world. It’s funny and well written, I liked this male POV and I usually don’t, so more points to already favourite Helen Harper.