The Night Calling

Rite World: Night Wolves #1

by Juliana Haygert

I’ve fallen for the alpha’s son … and he left me to die.

I’m the underdog in my own pack, an outcast of the worst kind, and Shane, the cocky alpha heir, doesn’t hide just how much he despises me. Well, the feeling is mutual.

But fate tricks the both of us. Shane and I share a mating bond, and there’s no denying temptation.

That is, until everything changes and our pack is left to ruin. Now I’m held captive, enslaved to another wolf while my mate is nowhere to be found.

I’m told Shane fled and left us behind—left me. All I can think of is getting revenge.

There might be a way to save my pack, but it won’t be easy. Despite once rejecting my love, Shane is coming to claim me.

Heaven help any wolf, witch, or vampire who stands in his way.

***

The Night Calling is an enemies-to-lovers fated mates romance that is a part of Juliana Haygert’s Rite World saga. Wolf shifters go to war as two cursed lovers fight a common enemy and come together to unite their pack. This steamy, action-packed paranormal romance will leave readers smoldering and howling for more.

Genres: Paranormal, Fantasy, Audiobook, Romance, Paranormal Romance, Werewolves, Shapeshifters

256 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 7, 2022

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author.

While Juliana Haygert dreams of being Wonder Woman, Buffy, or a blood elf shadow priest, she settles for the less exciting—but equally gratifying—life of a wife, mother, and author. She resides in North Carolina and spends her days writing about kick-ass heroines and the heroes who drive them crazy.

Want to know about announcement, events, cover reveals, and other fun stuff related to my writing and my books? Sign up for my newsletter: bit.ly/JuHNL

Reviews

[Chiara | wordsbychiara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I highly recommend NIGHT CALLING to fans of shifter romance. It’s a very fast-paced book, full of supernatural intrigue, romance and a dash of mystery. I’ve read many books in this genre that tend to repeat themselves in terms of dynamics and plots, but Night Calling sets itself apart in multiple ways. It begins with the pack imprisoned by the enemy, and Raika’s status as an omega puts her at a disadvantage towards the rest of the pack instead of turning her into the girl that everyone wants, which is closer to what happens in nature. My NatGeo fangirl self was pleased!

I really liked Raika’s character. She’s determined, and despite the hardships she had to endure in life—not only by the hands of the villain, Conri, but also from her pack—she does what she can in order for her pack to survive, showing more kindness than most of them deserved. I was also intrigued by the clear signs that there’s something special about her, though we only begin to understand how at the end of the book. And then we have the romance, which I really enjoyed! The chemistry between Raika and Shane was intense, and I’m glad the author is taking a slower burn route with them. This book served more as a buildup, but it pays off. There is so much tension and the spicy content in this book promises good things for the future.

Even though I really enjoyed the story as a whole, I did find some situations to be too convenient, like how easily Raika and Shane are able to sneak about without being noticed, but these situations didn’t impact my enjoyment of the story, so I could easily overlook them. Can’t wait for the next installment!

Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.

[Thais • tata.lifepages • · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Night Calling is a steamy enemies to lovers paranormal fantasy romance, with a unique plot: the Nightshade wolf-shifter pack has been overtaken by the enemy.

We follow Raika and Shane, the omega and the alpha heir of the Nightshade pack, one year after the attack led by the demon-wolf Conri that sees the former alpha defeated and most of the pack killed. Raika is enslaved by the new alpha, all the while believing that Shane has fled for his life and left what remains of the pack to suffer beneath the demons. But fate has it that Raika and Shane meet again, and they must put their differences aside to save their pack from Conri and his goons. But the closer Raika is to Shane, the harder it is for her to resist their mating bond.

I love the fated-mates trope, and it's my first time seeing it combined with the rejected-mate trope this way 😍 There is a vast cast of supernatural species: werewolves, vampires, witches, demons.. paranormal at its finest!

Because of the complicated history between Raika and Shane, the romance was a medium burn enemies to lovers despite their mating bond. Sometimes I felt like they were able to meet each other too easily and would have liked to see more obstacles to their encounters. The tension was intense, and every time they draw closer the temperature grew higher! 🥵 There’s only one spicy scene, but it promises great things to come for the rest of the series!

Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review.

[Rozanne Visagie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read by this author and I loved it! I will never say no to a wolf shifter paranormal romance, especially when it has enemies to lovers.

I'm keeping my review spoiler-free, but in a nutshell, you can expect a fierce FMC, alpha male energy with a side of rejected mates and did I mention steamy scenes?

I am always team vampire, but this book definitely made me rethink my choices. The pack dynamics, the twists and the bond all add to the reason why I enjoyed this book so much. Held captive by an enemy wolf shifter, Raika tries her best to come to terms with the fact that her mate abandoned her and the pack, but then Haygert drops a twist and everything you believed, ceases to exist.

I recommend this book to readers who like fast-paced, shifter romances with some steam.

- enemies to lovers
- fated mates x rejected mates
- wolf shifters
- steamy
- fierce FMC
- part of the Rite World

Many thanks for the author for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love the Rite world and this latest series allows us to go back and visit with old friends as well as meet new ones. This new series the night wolves is every bit as enthralling as the previous series as we find ourselves meeting Rakia our kick ass, take no nonsense heroine who is also the omega of the pack. A pack that has been mainly slaughtered and taken over by a demon / wolf and held hostage for nefarious reasons later shared in the story. You find yourself drawn into the story right from the very start as we follow Rakia who despite being bullied and ridiculed her whole life tries to make things a little easier for the pack prisoners. Enter Shane our Alpha who believes his whole pack is dead including his mate only to discover there are some survivors. He charges full steam ahead to find a way to release them and save his pack along with his new found friends but of course there are always twists and turns and a few surprises along the way in this exciting and gripping read. I cannot wait to read book two.

[Lene Blackthorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The next series in the Rite World focuses on Shane, his lost pack life and the situation his pack is suffering from. Under the tyranny of the demon Conri, Shane's pack is locked and imprisoned, and his sister Minsi together with his mate Raika are watched by the demon goons. Shane, who wasn't aware that anyone survived the attack, upon learning they are alive immediately starts preparing a plan how to take over his pack back.. and win his mate's heart.
This PNR is easy to read with a fast developing story. The focus is more on Raika, her position in the pack, and on the fact there might be something very special about her, something the demons want. I like her stubborn and loyal personality, and the devotion with which she cares for Minsi. It is also interesting to watch the changes in Shane and get to know the layers of his personality. Looking forward to see what happens next.

[Candice Willman · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you know me, you know I am a shifter lover through and through. Werewolves are my passion and paranormal romance my fav. This book did not disappoint. Slow burn. Some spice. And def more to come. I enjoyed the world and the character development. I cannot wait for more.

[S Picazo Page Turner 🎨📖 · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5⭐️

[Maria Elena | pagesofmaria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I blinked, and the book was over. That’s how fast paced and gripping it was.

The Night Calling had a wonderful blend of not only supernatural species—werewolves, demons, witches, vampires—but also of romance and intrigue, which is ultimately what hooked me to the story. The premise of the book gripped me from the first page, as we’re thrust into the less than ideal life Raika and what remains of her pack are forced to live under Conri’s rule. I found myself wanting to put together the pieces behind Conri’s attack, why he’s so protective of Raika, what his ultimate goal is. He was a very enigmatic villain, not giving much away, I’ll give him that, though I couldn’t wait for someone to hand his…ehm…over to him.

Character-wise, I liked both Raika and Shane, and I appreciated the dual POV so much because we immediately got to see the inside of Shane’s head and knew that everything Raika thought to be true was a lie. Their chemistry and the push and pull was intense, especially since they have a lot to unpack from their past while their bond grows stronger the more they're together.

The beginning and ending of the book were amazing, but I found the middle to be a little bit slower as Raika and Shane secretly work together to overthrow Conri.

Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.

[nat _lovestoread · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing page-turner! 🖤

With lots of action, twisted plot and unexpected turns, this amazing installment will enthrall you from start to finish!!! 😍
Raika is awesome, strong and fierce, in spite all she had to endure from her packmates all her life, her spirit is strong and noble; she wants to help them, even if they continue to bully her; she’s the best! 🤗💪🏻👊🏻
Shane is surviving life, without a real purpose; until a surprising encounter with his mate rocks his world and he realizes he's been lied to! 😳😫
Aahhh!, this book had me on my toes and when everything seemed fine, bam!, cliffhanger!!! 🤯
I'm so in love with this amazing world and can't wait to read the rest of the books in this new and fantastic series!!! 😍❤️

[Mrs A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this! Fast paced, enemies to lovers and the FMC is badass! Low ish on the steam factor but this doesn’t distract from the story. Raika is an omega who isn’t treated very well by her pack. She is attracted to Shane, the alphas son- cocky and arrogant. They discover they have a mating bond. Before they can act in this, their pack is attacks. brooke survives but is held captive by a demon wolf (conri). There are many twists and turns as the story progresses and there is a massive cliffhanger too.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fast paced wonderful read and the first installment in the rite world night wolves series. It’s well written with a good storyline and characters that have an awesome chemistry. It’s Raika and Shane’s story. Their story was dramatic intriguing with emotions trauma suspenseful chemistry some steam romance and love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much anguish, so much pain, so much struggle and so much betrayal. But it all paid off in the end. My heart wept for Shane and Raika! I do hope that his undying sense of duty and honor will be rewarded in the end. I loved him! And Raika is so brave, just perfect.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amanda Wascavage · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story drew me in from the beginning had suspense and action which I prefer the characters were great I wanted to slap some for Raika. I didn't lose interest in the story at any time I still want more questions answered so I'll definitely be looking out for the next book. I'd recommended you read this you won't be disappointed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a great entry in the rite world series, and I had a really great time reading this book. the writing was really well done and the characters were what I was looking for.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kandiemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an awesome story. The action and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. I was hooked from the beginning. The characters are wonderful and I enjoyed the storyline. I can’t wait to read what happens next.

[VoraciousBookDragoness · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow🤩
A very well written story, page turner, great world building, fascinating characters, captivating plot, & unexpected secrets. Action, mystery & romance; all intertwined together. I can’t wait to read the next in series.

[Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t get enough of this book! I didn’t put it down I read through it so fast my coffee got cold! I loved the FMC she’s epic! I can’t wait for the next because this was a book that gave me a book hangover. And that ending had my jaw on the ground that was absolutely epic and so emotional 😭.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it more then I thought I would, definitely curious about the other books in this series

[Olivia Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

LOL leave me alone let me read my cheesy romantasy in peace

[Sky]

This book was kind of boring. It didn't help that I kept getting distracted while reading the book

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Night Calling is the first installment in the Rite World: Night Wolves series written by Juliana Haygert. This book is a standalone series but interconnected with other books written in the intricately crafted Rite World. The Night Calling is a five star read for fans of enemies-to-lovers, fast paced action, and a kickass heroine. There is also sprinkles of steam which is fabulous.

Raika is a young omega wolf that has been treated poorly her entire life. She was isolated and bullied by her peers and members of the pack due to her low ranking status. She has learned to stay tough and fight back. Her character is likable and relatable.

The Nightshade pack is massacred by a demon wolf named Conri and the Nightmist witches. The few lucky (or should I say unlucky) survivors are held captive in the local school with shackles that prevent them from transforming into their wolves. Conri, for some reason, has a soft spot for Raika and allows her to be held in the house with two demons tracking her every move. She also convinced Conri to allow the youngest child of the former Alpha, Minsi, to stay with her.

Shane is the alpha heir that abandoned the Nightshade pack during the massacre. He was tortured by the witches for many months before being rescued by Lord Drake at the DuMoir Castle. He believes everyone from the Nightshade pack is dead until he spots his fated made, Raika, and realizes he was wrong all along. Can he convince Raika that he is not the enemy that abandoned his pack and save all of their lives?

This book ends on a massive cliffhanger and I cannot wait for book 2!

Tropes: Enemies-to-lovers, fated mates,
Heat: 2/5
CW: Abuse, violence, death, grief, mature content

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you ready for some new and old familiar characters? Then be sure to grab this book! Night Calling is the start to a new beginning in the Rite World saga and we've got lots to look forward to with these characters.
Raika is dealing with a life that she couldn't have seen coming. She's the prisoner to the new alpha, but he's no wolf. He's half demon and he has no qualms hiding what he is. Raika's pack was taken over and some, still, blame her for what happened to them. But what of the alpha's son? They were told he ran. But did he? And if so, is he that much of a coward?
This book really starts off with some great building blocks and moves forward engaging you into the story with some new and old characters to entertain. I like Raika a lot because she's not one to shy away from the truth. I hate that she has to deal with the drama being heaped on her head by the survivors, but you'll see really quick they just don't care.
I'll resist spoiling anything, but there is a lot to look forward to in this book. I'm rating this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. I can't wait to read what comes next.

[Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderfully exciting, emotional and cruel story this was. And so nice... it's not over yet!
Raika is a wolfshifter and her mate is Shane. But their story is not without betrayal.
One evening, half-wolves and demons come to take over the pack. Many of her pack were killed, including the alpha. His son, the heir to the pack, fled at the time of the attack. Those who survive are locked up, except for Raika. Always afraid of what might happen, she is kept alone minus the demons that always follow her.
Shane returns after 1 year. He was captured and tortured by witches who were part of the murderous pack takeover. Only now does he know what has happened and he wants to free the pack but especially his mate Raika who mistrusts him and does not believe what has happened. This story tells how he succeeds on both fronts.
A beautiful fanatasy and paranormal story that ends with an end but then again not......

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Victor Gonzalez Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Night Calling is an adrenaline-pumping start to the Night Wolves series.
The troublesome situation that Raika finds herself in catches you from the first moment and makes you worry about her, knowing how her life turned out that way.
We learn more about Shane and his backstory leaves you speechless. Everything that he believed was not true and that is where it all begins.
Raika and Shane's relationship has its ups and downs, but each encounter between them is fiery and electrifying.
I love how with each story, this amazing world expands more and more. There are twists in the story that leave you speechless and the ending all does is leave you with a void that you only fill by reading the next book and I can't wait to read it.

[Lisa Lyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic start to raikia and Shane's story, after learning that some of his pack and mate are still alive it's a race against time for Shane to do all he can to save them all, raikia as been through so much for the sake of her pack after watching her family be slaughter in front of her and then being imprisoned for over a year she's all but giving up. Then out of the blue her mate as turned up after think Shane never liked her it was the mating bond pulling them together, she is hit with the truth and now she sees Shane differently can they save what's left of there pack..... aboustly loved this read .

[Darla Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raika is an omega in her pack and Shane's the alpha heir, but Fate surprises them both and they have a mating bond. Before they can do anything about it, the pack is attacked and the survivors are held captive. But things are not as they seem, and there's a chance that the pack can be saved.

I received an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and this is my honest, unbiased review. This is the first book in what promises to be a fantastic series. The book's well-written with wonderful characters and great world building. The enchanting story kept me hooked from beginning to end. I didn't want the story to end, and I am looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend this one.

[Shawna Jimenez more.books.forever · Rating 5 out of 5]

I instantly fell hard for Raika and Shane. Raika is put through the ringer trying to protect her pack even the ones who don’t deserve her protection. When Shane and Raika finally meet they definitely have this love/hate thing happening. You can feel the chemistry and the pull to one another but Shane has a lot to make up for. There are issues that need to be set aside because these two need to work together to save their pack. This was a great start to Shane and Raika and the author has setup this world perfectly and that freaking cliffy at the end left me dying for the next book.. This was a fantastic read and I am really looking forward to book 2.

[Sue Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

The night calling by Juliana Haygert.
Book 1 of Rite World: Night Wolves.
I've fallen for the @lpha's son ... and he left me to die.
 I'm the underdog in my own pack, an outcast of the worst kind, and Shane, the cocky alpha heir, doesn't hide just how much he despises me. Well, the feeling is mutual.
 But fate tricks the both of us. Shane and I share a mating bond, and there's no denying temptation.
 That is, until everything changes and our pack is left to ruin. Now I'm held captive, enslaved to another wolf while my mate is nowhere to be found.
A very good read. I liked Minsi and Raika but I wasn't sure about Conri. I didn't trust him. 4*.

[DesN2004 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great paranormal read! I really enjoyed this book and the way the writing flowed. I have read a lot of paranormal reads and this one had some unique ideas as far as creatures and powers. This read was action packed and a good storyline. There is a steamy scene, but just the one. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series. This was a cliffhanger, however there was a happy for now ending that left me satisfied until I get my hands on the next. I enjoyed the characters and will look at other books from this author to see if some have a story. This was a first for me from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed reading!!

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raika's family was the lowest in the pack hierarchy, so she has never been treated nicely by her pack. She has taken it on herself to protect them, as best as she can, after they were attacked and held captive by Conri. Will her mate Shane (the alpha heir) come back and save them? Or will it be left to Raika, to save them? I loved this slow burn story, that has you on the edge of your seat by the end of it. Raika has such a big heart, and I loved her strength and determination. I loved Shane too, he has more to his story than you first think.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.