The Devouring Wolf

The Devouring Wolf #1

by Natalie C. Parker

A queer tale about kid werewolves, big bad mistakes, and terrifying creatures in Natalie C. Parker's exciting middle grade debut.

Little wolf, little wolf, here I come.

They say that the Devouring Wolf isn't real, just an old legend, a giant creature who consumes the magic inside young werewolves. The elders tell the tale to scare young pups into obedience. It's a spooky campfire story for fledging wolves. Or is it?

It's the eve of the first full moon of summer, and twelve-year-old Riley Callahan is ready. This is the year she will finally turn into a wolf. She has to--no one transforms after twelve.

Nothing can ruin her mood: not her little brother Milo's teasing, not mama N's smothering, and not even her other mom C's absence from their pack's ceremony. But then the unthinkable happens--something that violates every rule of wolf magic: Riley doesn't shift.

Along with the four other kids who somehow didn't transform, Riley is left with questions that even the pack leaders don't have answers to. And to make matters far worse, it appears something was awoken in the woods that same night. A creature with an insatiable hunger . . . has the Devouring Wolf been awakened?

Genres: Middle Grade, Fantasy, LGBT, Paranormal, Queer, Graphic Novels, Mystery

288 pages, Hardcover

First published August 2, 2022

Reviews

[Julie Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect read for every kid and every kid at heart who's ever felt like they weren't enough. This story of family in all its many forms is as deliciously fun to read as it is deeply relevant.

[Zoraida · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s a quirky lil wolf girl named Aracely, and she is inspired by ME. The plus side of having writer friends. I’m immortalized in literature 💖🐺

Also I love this book! And it has a gender inclusive, queer world on the actual page! 🏳️‍🌈

[Brianna]

I’m not too sure how to rate this!

I enjoyed it and will most likely read future instalments, but I also feel like the story progression was too similar to other MG fantasy books. I’m not sure if there’s a recipe to follow when writing MG books or if it’s a coincidence?

I also think that there could have been a bit more introduction to the characters because there were a lot. I had a bit of a tricky time trying to remember who was who. I can definitely see there being development as the series goes on though!

The epilogue was perfect and I’m really happy that this queer werewolf story exists.

[Jess - The Hexed Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars
Cover 5; characters 4; Plot 4; Pace 5; Intrigue 3; Logic 4; worldbuilding 4; Writing 4; Enjoyment 4.

This one started off a bit slow for me but I really ended up enjoying the story!

I'm always a bit weary about werewolf stories but I actually hadn't read the synopsis when I started this one so when I hit page one and learned about the werewolf bit I was not exactly excited for my reading experience. The book managed to prove me wrong.

This book, while about werewolves, has a lot more to do with finding your pack, your family, the people who will support you through all of life's ups and downs. And I dooooo love a good found family in a book.

I enjoyed our pre-teen heroes and I was excited to see that there's a sequel upcoming because I'd like to see more of them and their growth.

[Xan Rooyen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightfully queer MG book with varied and diverse rep including a non-binary kid part of Riley's pack.

I really enjoyed this adventure with touches of MG-appropriate horror. The Devouring Wolf reminded me a lot of the scary wolf G'mork in The Neverending Story. While I did the see the twist coming, seeing how the kids - especially Riley - handle that kept me interested and invested.

Overall, a wonderful LGBT+ MG story that will no doubt appeal to young readers who enjoy feeling a little scared.

[Jen Rothmeyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super wholesome early middle grade book about a queer werewolf pack. Coming of age story mixed with a mystery. NB and trans representation. Lesbian and gay relationships. Riley has been waiting to transform and it doesn’t happen. But it always happens to a born werewolf. Meanwhile something is stalking the pack and stealing their wolves. What’s going on? Good character development, strong moral discussion, lightly interesting plot, near nonexistent details on setting.

[Lizzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The plot of this book was really interesting, and I felt that most of the characters were very likable. The main character was a bit self absorbed and inconsiderate, which at times made you wonder if she was really the protagonist. Overall, a very interesting read.

[Alice4170 🌙 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5 ⭐️

[Kendal · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 ✨

[Carrington | sapphicpages · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had to try really, really hard to like this book. I absolutely loved the plot and the theme of having a found family. But the characters nearly ruined it for me. The main character, Riley, is a selfish brat. I could not stand her and her obsession with being the pack alpha when she showed ZERO qualities of a good leader. I also really disliked Kenver and Riley’s moms. Nearly everyone in this was so insufferable. But, again, I loved the plot. It was so interesting and I probably will read book 2 just to know what happens. Hopefully, these characters can be humbled a bit.

The Devouring Wolf - 2.5 Stars

[Dax · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute!! The internal narrative of Riley feels super on par for the age and I loved the queer angst even if Riley doesn't know what it means, or maybe especially so. I'm super excited for the next one in this adorable series!

[Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Middle grade werewolf horror... I win.

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 3 out of 5]

E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus

Riley Callahan lives with her siblings and moms in rural Kansas. Mom C. was born a werewolf and is currently the pack alpha, and Mom N. became one, so the family spends a lot of time with the werewolf community. Children usually develop their powers between the ages of 9 and 13, but Riley (who is 12) still hasn't. This year, her younger brother Milo will be participating in the Full Moon Rite. Children who aren't called to be with the pack as werewolves spend time at Tenderfoot Camp, and Riley, whose best friend Stacey turned last year, does NOT want to have to go back to camp. Milo is working on his wolf magic, and is having some success with combining two of the three forms required: alchemy and lithomancy. When the rite happens, Milo is called, but Riley, along with four others, is not. The parents don't know what to do, and have the children go to the Clawroot camp inside the boundaries of Tenderfoot Camp in order to keep them safe. Riley's cousin Dhoneille is there, as is Lydia, Aracely, Kenver and Lydia. The five are all scared and worried about not turning, and there's a brief moment of misunderstanding when one of the girls misgenders Kenver, who uses they/them pronouns. The adults are trying to figure out what's going on, but there are bigger problems; two of the older teens have their wolf stolen from them. Riley, who has been hearing mysterious voices calling to her, is sure that the Devouring Wolf has come back, even though the adults tell her that he is just a myth. In diary pages from a girl named Grace, we find out more about the Devouring Wolf and how he came to be. Riley and her new pack defy the adults and start their own investigations, which they intensify after Milo's wolf is also stolen. Will they be able to figure out what is going on in time to save the rest of their community?
Strengths: Riley's predicament of not becoming a werewolf on her desired timetable will speak to many middle grade readers who feel, for whatever reason, that they are developmentally behind their classmates, even if they are not! The werewolf community is well drawn, and I was easily able to believe that there is a small lupine enclave in rural Kansas. There is great LGBTQIA+ representation with Riley's moms, her sister, who is transgender, and Kenver. The journal entries give just enough information to direct the children to find out more, and since we as the readers seem to have a little more information than they do, it's possible to feel a little more prepared about what is going to happen. There's still plenty of suspense and action, though, and the book is well paced, with quieter times researched being interspersed with attacking wolves. Parker also has a series of YA fantasy books, but made a great transition to middle grade concerns and voice. Very well done.
Weaknesses: The werewolves use of magic, and the combinations thereof, was very interesting, but we didn't see very much of it. Putting objects inside rocks? Creating magical treats? There wasn't a lot of time to use the magic, since there was the immediate concern of the Devouring Wolf, but I rather wanted to know more!
What I really think: Werewolf books were hugely popular about fifteen years ago, when vampire books were also much in demand. LeFever's Werewolf Rising (2006), and Moore's Red Moon Rising (2011) are my favorite, but I also have Schrieber's Full Moon series, Stiefvater's The Wolves of Mercy Falls, and Barnes' Raised by Wolves. Sadly, none of these have circulated much recently, but maybe the growing interest in vampire books will lead to a larger demand for werewolf tales.

[eve.lyn._.reads · Rating 2 out of 5]

🐺❤️‍🔥🌑The Devouring Wolf🌑❤️‍🔥🐺
Every werewolf by the age of twelve has been able to transform into a wolf. The crushing peer pressure from Riley's peers and herself is amounting to a lot of stress. Now that she is twelve, and the first full moon of the summer is happening, Riley is hopeful for things to change. However, four other people have not transformed, and the five of them are left together to solve a mystery. Those who are able to reach their full potential have been losing their wolf from an elusive being called The Devouring Wolf.

*Every single person in this world can view a work of literature and have completely different thoughts and opinions. My opinion is not meant to offend you. If you do not want to see a review criticizing your favorite book (or a book you enjoyed) then I recommend not to proceed reading this review.
The Devouring Wolf was another its-me-not-you situation. The book had a good plot although it did feel cliché. The characters weren't the most complex, but Riley was still a good protagonist. The whole concept of werewolves and the lore was interesting. I just couldn't find myself immersed in the plot or characters. I felt like I was drifting through the book rather than absorbing much. There wasn't anything I liked about the story and there wasn't anything I hated. Werewolves are not something I was ever interested in. To those who loved this book; that's amazing! I liked Natalie's writing, so if she comes out with any other books I will definitely read those, but I will not continue on with this series.
⛔PLOT
⛔CHARACTERS
☑️PLOT TWISTS

[Jamie Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Riley Callahan is ready for the Full Moon Rite on the first full moon of summer to turn her into a werewolf. She wants to be a leader, like her Mama C, but things don't go as planned when she and four other tenderfoot pups, all aged 12, don't hear the call to change. This means Riley isn't a wolf after all, right?, and that she won't find her prime pack - 5 werewolves bound together by magic for life. That isn't the only thing that goes wrong as odd occurrences lead Riley and her new pack of non-shifters to believe the myth of the Devouring Wolf is all too real. This fast-paced book is layered with werewolf mythology, a unique magic system, and young ladies coming into their own. Riley fights self-doubt and the pangs of jealousy, but steps closer to the role of leader she has always wanted to be while learning to depend on the new members of her pack, shiftless or not. For werewolf fans, this is a total must! The characters shine through the supernatural worldbuilding and the magic spreads out to show how the wolves and their packs are connected.

[Steff Fox · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ll admit that I was a little bored reading this myself. The story and plot points felt fairly predictable at times. But, I’d be remiss if I did not acknowledge to myself that this story is not really for those my age.

I picked up The Devouring Wolf because I loved the author’s Seafire series. And after reading all these books of NCP’s, it’s become very apparent to me that she does friendship (sisterhood, siblingship, found family, etc) exceedingly well. And if that is what you’re looking for in a novel, this is a great read. Especially as a coming of age story.

If I were in my early tween years, it is unquestionable that this book would be one I’d find extremely powerful. I am certain it would be the sort of story that stuck with me over the years. For this book, my hope is that it finds many young readers and becomes that kind of story for them.

[Brianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet middle grade novel about a young werewolf named Riley who is anxiously awaiting her first transformation. Unfortunately, the night arrives and the call goes out, but she doesn't transform. Alongside 4 other wolfless kids, she gets to the bottom of what's happening to their pack. The cast of characters for this was cute, if a little simplistic. I appreciated the way the author included a diverse mix of genders, sexualities, races, and body types. Riley and her friends are all 12 years old and they do feel young. It was well done for a middle grade novel, but I still can't find much enthusiasm for books in this age range.

[Cj Otaw · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 stars)

Quick Take: A cozy YA shapeshifter story with friendship, found family, and just a sprinkle of mystery.

What I Liked:
• A nice palate cleanser—light, fast, and heartwarming.
• Loved the themes around friendship, mother-daughter bonds, and found family.
• Solid character development, even if the main character was a bit irritating at first.

What I Wanted More Of:
• The mystery around why five kids didn’t transform felt a little vague. Curse? No curse? Unclear.
• Not a super deep plot, but that’s fine for a chill read.

Would I Recommend?
Yes, especially if you want something wholesome with light magic vibes. I’ll be checking out the next book in the series!

[Timothy Pitkin · Rating 2 out of 5]

The story was just ok as it features a bunch of young werewolves trying to figure out why they do not change during a werewolf rite of passage. This take of werewolves is kind of generic as it seems they lack anything really unique to stand out. The only really interesting is the villain, the Devouring Wolf as it is a cool idea. The idea of a giant wolf spirit who devours the wolf spirit from werewolves. It is such a unique idea as it presents a different kind of threat.

[Ned C. Ward · Rating 4 out of 5]

Any story that handles the matter of mythology or folklore, be it a reimagining or not, is something I love. This story has all the makings of a brilliant tale, the only thing I found hard to get my head around was the main character and that is why it is a four, not a five, out of five from me. I love the plot, the dialogue and the art; the art is stunning!

[Sam Roman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reasons to read:
-LGBT+ characters
-werewolves!
-5 kids don't transform for unknown reasons
-dark villain
-historical magical connections to help solve the mystery

It's fun, harrowing, daunting, and a little creepy at times. A great werewolf story for all ages, and not too spooky for young readers (I'd give it to my 8yo niece).

[Brenda]

There are not many middle grade fantasies that can catch my attention. This wasn't one of them. It just read too young for me (I mean, obviously I'm not the target age for middle grade, but some of them are written in a way that I'm interested, even though I'm old).

[Aria · Rating 3 out of 5]

If I’m being so real this was like a 2.75 maybe

It wasn’t that this book was bad, it was just… not graceful? Many things are lingered on that didn’t have to be, and many things weren’t lingered on when they should have been.

[A.Rae]

This exactly the kind of book I wish I had as a young queer kid.

[KatieLee · Rating 5 out of 5]

write more queer werewolves 2k22

this book is a whole vibe and I loved it immensely 🐺

[Giselle]

DNF'd 67%

[Annie Magness · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Kim Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio was amazing 😻

[Angela Sandoval · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love a good werewolf story. This one was enjoyable, but didn't feel like a particularly unique story.

[CJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute and creative. Would have liked more info on the Aunt Alexis thing, though.