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The Wolf Queen #1
With Fangs and Claws
The duke’s daughter
One girl, two lives. Dutiful daughter of the Duke of Elverston on the one hand, a wilful girl who learns to fight on the other. Her father has let her run wild, as long as she never embarrasses him. And if she does? Consequences are likely to be swift and brutal.
Her beasts
The wargen are fierce men who wear two faces, one wolf, one human. They’re the monsters mothers warn their children about in Grania, and now four wargen princes have been sent there to strike a deal with the duke. But when they catch sight of the wild Darcy everything changes. They may dress in fine furs and gold but their feral natures persist. Instead of chasing down prey, they pursue Darcy with all the same deadly intensity.
Their world
The wargen think their union with Darcy is written in the stars but she is something far older and far stranger than any of them could ever imagine. Something both countries are going to need, because while each realm focuses their distrust on the other, they ignore a far greater danger that lies beneath. If the wargen can’t get past Darcy’s defences, they might not just lose their mate, but everything.
Author this is a NA fantasy romance that takes place in a fantasy realm that has nothing to do with our own.
One girl, two lives. Dutiful daughter of the Duke of Elverston on the one hand, a wilful girl who learns to fight on the other. Her father has let her run wild, as long as she never embarrasses him. And if she does? Consequences are likely to be swift and brutal.
Her beasts
The wargen are fierce men who wear two faces, one wolf, one human. They’re the monsters mothers warn their children about in Grania, and now four wargen princes have been sent there to strike a deal with the duke. But when they catch sight of the wild Darcy everything changes. They may dress in fine furs and gold but their feral natures persist. Instead of chasing down prey, they pursue Darcy with all the same deadly intensity.
Their world
The wargen think their union with Darcy is written in the stars but she is something far older and far stranger than any of them could ever imagine. Something both countries are going to need, because while each realm focuses their distrust on the other, they ignore a far greater danger that lies beneath. If the wargen can’t get past Darcy’s defences, they might not just lose their mate, but everything.
Author this is a NA fantasy romance that takes place in a fantasy realm that has nothing to do with our own.
456 pages, Paperback
First published May 21, 2022
1451 people are currently reading
5432 people want to read
About the author
Sam Hall
75 books1,999 followersAustralian author of paranormal RH novels
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 398 reviews
June 16, 2022
5 stars
This book was absolutely phenomenal!!
Its been a long time since I really enjoyed a fantasy book and this just made me fall in love with the genre all over again.
I liked how the FMC was strong in her own right while still maintaining an air of innocence. While she did endure many hardships with in Elverston, she did come out stronger.
Out of all the guys, Gael has to be hands down my favourite. Maybe it's because he is the black sheep of the family.
That last chapter left me at the edge of my seat. I'm eager to see what happens to Darcy. How will she move on from what she witnessed? Will she accept her mates? Where is Nordred???
Highly Recommend you read this book, you will not regret it.
This book was absolutely phenomenal!!
Its been a long time since I really enjoyed a fantasy book and this just made me fall in love with the genre all over again.
I liked how the FMC was strong in her own right while still maintaining an air of innocence. While she did endure many hardships with in Elverston, she did come out stronger.
Out of all the guys, Gael has to be hands down my favourite. Maybe it's because he is the black sheep of the family.
That last chapter left me at the edge of my seat. I'm eager to see what happens to Darcy. How will she move on from what she witnessed? Will she accept her mates? Where is Nordred???
Highly Recommend you read this book, you will not regret it.
June 8, 2022
The biggest problem... Darcy is a Mary-Sue. She has little personality but is the subject of the affections of not one, not two, but four handsome, werewolf princes who all want her as their mate. Not individually, but to share. Does this cause any tension or any jealousy amongst the men? Of course not.
She is trained in weapons throughout her life by a legendary wizard character who masquerades as her father’s horse master. Couldn’t someone like this be off doing more important things you ask? Well, probably. The question is never brought up, but if it were I’m sure Nordred would have to explain just how much more important Darcy is than everyone else in the world, just like her simps…, I mean ‘mates’ do all the damn time. Frankly I’m surprised that she even needs training. By the time she actually has to use it she’s already gained powers beyond everyone else’s ability anyway.
You know how to tell a good character from the bad ones in this book? All the good characters instantly love her and all the bad ones instantly hate her. Nothing is earnt with Darcy, everything is given including respect. The princes want her because you know ‘fated mates’, any obstacle she encounters she overcomes with ease, anything anyone else can do she can do better. She never loses, has to go back to the drawing board, learn from mistakes or question herself in anyway. She basically winds up at the end of the book the same person she was at the beginning but with her god given powers unlocked.
I think the reason for all of this is that she has no motivation of her own, no goals or objectives, no higher purpose to strive for. Destiny calls on her, quite literally, from ‘The Maiden’ herself and Nordred telling her she will be queen one day, and other than being surprised she has no other reaction, no doubts, no fears, nothing approximating a normal reaction. I mean, she is being told she will quite literally be the queen of an entire country which she has lived in for less than a month and knows nothing about and she’s basically fine with it.
We are constantly told things about Darcy rather than shown them, mainly by her ‘mates’, who when they do venture to provide some explanation it’s a weak one.
Darcy: “So what should a warg mate be like?”
Axe, I think: “She should be fierce and strong. And taking down that stag all by yourself qualifies you there” – She shot it with a bow and arrow, big whoop!
To try and actually give Darcy some character this book is filled with constant jabs at men for their oppression of women and they are made so often and so on the nose that you can tell that the author is trying to make some sort of statement here. But the problem for me is this is a fantasy world that the author has created, it doesn’t have to be this way. I get it is based off medieval society but its hard to say that men as a whole had it better than women. Life in the past was pretty shit for everyone apart from the few people who happened to be of the ruling class. But the book doesn’t specifically refer to them, no, its ‘men’ as a whole. And this is such a hypocritical point to make given Gael’s story and that they come by a village where all the men are dead having tried to defend it from Reavers, their sacrifice allowing them to save some of the women and children. But no, we are constantly reminded that men are the real problem. And it doesn’t make for a strong female character to have her complain about it so frequently.
Nothing is aided by the side characters either. The bad guys are such generic bad guys with absolutely no depth (that is expressed in this book at least). The issue here is that the hero is a reflection of the villain they overcome and these ones don’t do anything that makes either you as the reader or Darcy question whether or not it is the right thing to overthrow them. No bad guy causes her to lose, challenges her, makes her question herself, or grow, resulting in Darcy's victories having little to no personal significance.
The wolf princes aren’t much better. They do have some character of their own, although initially it was hard to distinguish between them. A romantic interest is supposed to be the part of the heroin they didn’t know they needed, the part that challenges them, shows them things about themself that they didn’t even know. Despite there being four of them, none of them do this, other than sexually. The reason they want to be with her over every other woman isn’t because of any trait she possesses but because of the fated mate trope. Like the book does us, rather than showing Darcy things about herself, they tell her. Constantly. Their affection for her, and her for them for that matter, is purely inspired by attraction. If you imagined that they took a drug that made them madly attracted to each other, the effect is the same. Their romance comes across totally superficial. I’m not convinced how much they actually cared for Darcy either, because all they seemed to care about initially and throughout was possessing her. Here’s a pretty funny quote that sums it up.
Darcy: “what do you know of a human woman’s needs?”
Dane, I think: “We’ll need to learn more about that once we get on the road”. This isn’t even taken out of context.
Nordred her mentor is another cardboard cutout character. He acts like a wise old mentor but offers little in the way of anything approximating wisdom. There is one funny scene when Darcy is challenged by one of the queens handmaids, or whatever, and while everyone is questioning whether Darcy actually has to fight her Nordred just appears and is like ‘She’ll do it!’. That made me laugh. The ‘No’ in Nordred is for no fucks given!
Logical consistency is another weak point. If Strelae is such a nice place for women to live, why do any women live in Grania? If the wolf-shifters are so powerful, how did Grania ever establish itself? Why does Darcy, who is very pro-women say “made him rethink treating me like some wench”? Why has her father never tried to sell her off, or marry her to someone for his benefit before?
At the beginning, why does Darcy never consider consequences to being insubordinate to her fiances'? This could affect the treaty the princes make with the duke, which is especially important since the priests tell us later Strelan iron could be used to protect people. Some martyr-like noble purpose could be derived from this on Darcy's part, but it's not. None of these questions have clear answers.
Honestly, I could continue, I have pages of notes and a thousand quotes from the book which are totally contradictory to what we know about the character and the narrative, but this is already too long. I feel like this book did get slightly better as it went on but not much. Given the glacially slow pacing, weak romance, lack of action, and poor characters, the only reason to read on is for the sexual tension but its not worth it. At the end of the day I ask, was this a story that meant anything, that needed telling? Frankly, it wasn’t.
I don't mean for this to read as harshly as it probably does. I wish I could give it more than one star, but I just can’t. The average rating of this book is 4.55, putting it in the region of the hunger games, or Harry potter, or ASoIaF books, above in most cases, and it is nowhere near that standard.
She is trained in weapons throughout her life by a legendary wizard character who masquerades as her father’s horse master. Couldn’t someone like this be off doing more important things you ask? Well, probably. The question is never brought up, but if it were I’m sure Nordred would have to explain just how much more important Darcy is than everyone else in the world, just like her simps…, I mean ‘mates’ do all the damn time. Frankly I’m surprised that she even needs training. By the time she actually has to use it she’s already gained powers beyond everyone else’s ability anyway.
You know how to tell a good character from the bad ones in this book? All the good characters instantly love her and all the bad ones instantly hate her. Nothing is earnt with Darcy, everything is given including respect. The princes want her because you know ‘fated mates’, any obstacle she encounters she overcomes with ease, anything anyone else can do she can do better. She never loses, has to go back to the drawing board, learn from mistakes or question herself in anyway. She basically winds up at the end of the book the same person she was at the beginning but with her god given powers unlocked.
I think the reason for all of this is that she has no motivation of her own, no goals or objectives, no higher purpose to strive for. Destiny calls on her, quite literally, from ‘The Maiden’ herself and Nordred telling her she will be queen one day, and other than being surprised she has no other reaction, no doubts, no fears, nothing approximating a normal reaction. I mean, she is being told she will quite literally be the queen of an entire country which she has lived in for less than a month and knows nothing about and she’s basically fine with it.
We are constantly told things about Darcy rather than shown them, mainly by her ‘mates’, who when they do venture to provide some explanation it’s a weak one.
Darcy: “So what should a warg mate be like?”
Axe, I think: “She should be fierce and strong. And taking down that stag all by yourself qualifies you there” – She shot it with a bow and arrow, big whoop!
To try and actually give Darcy some character this book is filled with constant jabs at men for their oppression of women and they are made so often and so on the nose that you can tell that the author is trying to make some sort of statement here. But the problem for me is this is a fantasy world that the author has created, it doesn’t have to be this way. I get it is based off medieval society but its hard to say that men as a whole had it better than women. Life in the past was pretty shit for everyone apart from the few people who happened to be of the ruling class. But the book doesn’t specifically refer to them, no, its ‘men’ as a whole. And this is such a hypocritical point to make given Gael’s story and that they come by a village where all the men are dead having tried to defend it from Reavers, their sacrifice allowing them to save some of the women and children. But no, we are constantly reminded that men are the real problem. And it doesn’t make for a strong female character to have her complain about it so frequently.
Nothing is aided by the side characters either. The bad guys are such generic bad guys with absolutely no depth (that is expressed in this book at least). The issue here is that the hero is a reflection of the villain they overcome and these ones don’t do anything that makes either you as the reader or Darcy question whether or not it is the right thing to overthrow them. No bad guy causes her to lose, challenges her, makes her question herself, or grow, resulting in Darcy's victories having little to no personal significance.
The wolf princes aren’t much better. They do have some character of their own, although initially it was hard to distinguish between them. A romantic interest is supposed to be the part of the heroin they didn’t know they needed, the part that challenges them, shows them things about themself that they didn’t even know. Despite there being four of them, none of them do this, other than sexually. The reason they want to be with her over every other woman isn’t because of any trait she possesses but because of the fated mate trope. Like the book does us, rather than showing Darcy things about herself, they tell her. Constantly. Their affection for her, and her for them for that matter, is purely inspired by attraction. If you imagined that they took a drug that made them madly attracted to each other, the effect is the same. Their romance comes across totally superficial. I’m not convinced how much they actually cared for Darcy either, because all they seemed to care about initially and throughout was possessing her. Here’s a pretty funny quote that sums it up.
Darcy: “what do you know of a human woman’s needs?”
Dane, I think: “We’ll need to learn more about that once we get on the road”. This isn’t even taken out of context.
Nordred her mentor is another cardboard cutout character. He acts like a wise old mentor but offers little in the way of anything approximating wisdom. There is one funny scene when Darcy is challenged by one of the queens handmaids, or whatever, and while everyone is questioning whether Darcy actually has to fight her Nordred just appears and is like ‘She’ll do it!’. That made me laugh. The ‘No’ in Nordred is for no fucks given!
Logical consistency is another weak point. If Strelae is such a nice place for women to live, why do any women live in Grania? If the wolf-shifters are so powerful, how did Grania ever establish itself? Why does Darcy, who is very pro-women say “made him rethink treating me like some wench”? Why has her father never tried to sell her off, or marry her to someone for his benefit before?
At the beginning, why does Darcy never consider consequences to being insubordinate to her fiances'? This could affect the treaty the princes make with the duke, which is especially important since the priests tell us later Strelan iron could be used to protect people. Some martyr-like noble purpose could be derived from this on Darcy's part, but it's not. None of these questions have clear answers.
Honestly, I could continue, I have pages of notes and a thousand quotes from the book which are totally contradictory to what we know about the character and the narrative, but this is already too long. I feel like this book did get slightly better as it went on but not much. Given the glacially slow pacing, weak romance, lack of action, and poor characters, the only reason to read on is for the sexual tension but its not worth it. At the end of the day I ask, was this a story that meant anything, that needed telling? Frankly, it wasn’t.
I don't mean for this to read as harshly as it probably does. I wish I could give it more than one star, but I just can’t. The average rating of this book is 4.55, putting it in the region of the hunger games, or Harry potter, or ASoIaF books, above in most cases, and it is nowhere near that standard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2022
I wanted smut. Didn’t get it.
May 21, 2022
With Fangs and Claws, the first book in the Wolf Queen series by Sam Hall, was absolutely amazing—and in fact quickly became the best read of 2022 for me as of yet! This book has all the perfect ingredients for a five star epic read and did not disappoint! Hot alpha males, a fierce female lead, charismatic side characters and of course a captivating plot with tons of action, magic, heat and a few added twists to keep you guessing!
Darcy, the human daughter of the Duke of Elverston is a fierce heroine that has dealt with a lot in her young life, having grown up with a father that has a heavy hand and living in a world where women are looked down upon. And even though she grew up more or less all alone in this very stilted world, she still was able to flourish under the guidance of Nordred, her fathers horse master, who taught her in all the ways of fighting and inner strength and was just the father figure she needed.
Thinking this may always be the life for her, Darcy’s life takes a drastic turn one evening while hunting a stag in the nearby forest when she suddenly finds herself surrounded by four Wargen, two-souled or wolf shifter men. When a little taste of blood ignites something between one of the men and Darcy, connections are made that will alter their fate—and no amount of running will deter them.
“Wolves don’t let prey go…..Don’t run. The harder you fight, the more they’ll come after you.”
And upon arriving back at the castle Darcy soon learns just that when a proposition of marriage is made and a deal is brokered between her father and the Wargen princes of Strelae—much to the horror of a few of the Duke’s people, and in particular one of his knights that also had his eyes on Darcy.
What ensues next is a wild whirlwind of a “romance” steeped heavy in mystery, intrigue, emotional angst and sexual tension. With attempted kidnappings, forced marriages, near death beatings, awakening powers, mystical connections and magical entrapments Darcy will have quite the journey with her men as she soon finds herself in a new world where women aren’t treated as property but honored for who they are…and what they can become….
The thought and creativity that Hall put into this massive beast of a book was evident throughout the story as the character development was as brilliant as ever, the world building was on point and of course the storyline was so utterly captivating I couldn’t put this one down and devoured it in one sitting! Darcy’s evolution throughout this story was absolutely brilliant and I loved how quickly the men realize how important she is to them and how dedicated they are to her. Needless to say Darcy and her men have quickly become some favorites for sure and I can’t wait to see where this story takes them!
Overall if you love paranormal slow burn fantasy RH romances with kick butt characters, fated loves, tons of steam and some villains you love to hate—then this a define must read and just the one for you! And that ending?!?? I need the second book stat!!!!
Darcy, the human daughter of the Duke of Elverston is a fierce heroine that has dealt with a lot in her young life, having grown up with a father that has a heavy hand and living in a world where women are looked down upon. And even though she grew up more or less all alone in this very stilted world, she still was able to flourish under the guidance of Nordred, her fathers horse master, who taught her in all the ways of fighting and inner strength and was just the father figure she needed.
Thinking this may always be the life for her, Darcy’s life takes a drastic turn one evening while hunting a stag in the nearby forest when she suddenly finds herself surrounded by four Wargen, two-souled or wolf shifter men. When a little taste of blood ignites something between one of the men and Darcy, connections are made that will alter their fate—and no amount of running will deter them.
“Wolves don’t let prey go…..Don’t run. The harder you fight, the more they’ll come after you.”
And upon arriving back at the castle Darcy soon learns just that when a proposition of marriage is made and a deal is brokered between her father and the Wargen princes of Strelae—much to the horror of a few of the Duke’s people, and in particular one of his knights that also had his eyes on Darcy.
What ensues next is a wild whirlwind of a “romance” steeped heavy in mystery, intrigue, emotional angst and sexual tension. With attempted kidnappings, forced marriages, near death beatings, awakening powers, mystical connections and magical entrapments Darcy will have quite the journey with her men as she soon finds herself in a new world where women aren’t treated as property but honored for who they are…and what they can become….
The thought and creativity that Hall put into this massive beast of a book was evident throughout the story as the character development was as brilliant as ever, the world building was on point and of course the storyline was so utterly captivating I couldn’t put this one down and devoured it in one sitting! Darcy’s evolution throughout this story was absolutely brilliant and I loved how quickly the men realize how important she is to them and how dedicated they are to her. Needless to say Darcy and her men have quickly become some favorites for sure and I can’t wait to see where this story takes them!
Overall if you love paranormal slow burn fantasy RH romances with kick butt characters, fated loves, tons of steam and some villains you love to hate—then this a define must read and just the one for you! And that ending?!?? I need the second book stat!!!!
May 6, 2022
**I received this as an ARC. (My review's are typically short)**
I have had Sam's books in my TBR for a long time. This will be the first book I have read from them. Holy moly this book. Wow. Fantasy is one of my favorite genres, and this hits every single one of my marks.
The world building, the character building, just everything in this story was absolutely amazing. This is a series, so it does in on a cliffhanger. However, that cliffhanger is so good!
In this story we follow Darcy and her 4 mates; Dane, Gael, Axe, and Weyland. They guys are having to slowly allow Darcy to become used to the idea of having mates. There are a lot of twists and turns in this story that are written so incredibly well. I find it is always best to go into a story without knowing too much. I cannot wait for the next book to release.
I have had Sam's books in my TBR for a long time. This will be the first book I have read from them. Holy moly this book. Wow. Fantasy is one of my favorite genres, and this hits every single one of my marks.
The world building, the character building, just everything in this story was absolutely amazing. This is a series, so it does in on a cliffhanger. However, that cliffhanger is so good!
In this story we follow Darcy and her 4 mates; Dane, Gael, Axe, and Weyland. They guys are having to slowly allow Darcy to become used to the idea of having mates. There are a lot of twists and turns in this story that are written so incredibly well. I find it is always best to go into a story without knowing too much. I cannot wait for the next book to release.
January 30, 2023
Ratings: ★★☆☆☆
.
First things first, the heroine name is so ugly like I’m sorry I could never take her seriously 💀.
Second of all, what the fck is this supposed be? What’s going on? The whole story is confusing and there are a lot of inconsistencies and questions unanswered like??????
Third of all, WHERE’S THE CHARACTER DEVELOPMENTS. This part is the most disappointing like all of them lacked character development at all. Darcy is so like this already perfect character with all abilities and such but really doesn’t know nor care at all. She doesn’t have any solid backbone and pretty unrealistic in many ways. Don’t get me started with the men 💀
Lastly, this has potential but the execution isn’t it. Look, there are elements that are intriguing such as the werewolf thing, Darcy and the world building but it was so poorly written.
Overall, this is so disappointing.
.
First things first, the heroine name is so ugly like I’m sorry I could never take her seriously 💀.
Second of all, what the fck is this supposed be? What’s going on? The whole story is confusing and there are a lot of inconsistencies and questions unanswered like??????
Third of all, WHERE’S THE CHARACTER DEVELOPMENTS. This part is the most disappointing like all of them lacked character development at all. Darcy is so like this already perfect character with all abilities and such but really doesn’t know nor care at all. She doesn’t have any solid backbone and pretty unrealistic in many ways. Don’t get me started with the men 💀
Lastly, this has potential but the execution isn’t it. Look, there are elements that are intriguing such as the werewolf thing, Darcy and the world building but it was so poorly written.
Overall, this is so disappointing.
May 18, 2022
Fantasy Reverse Harem with wolf shifters that are a mix between Vikings and Scottish Highlanders? Sign me up! Sizzling slow burn with all the delicious tension and lots of big feels? Even better!
I’m not used to reading a slow burn from Sam Hall but it made complete sense for these characters and was written beautifully. Our FMC Darcy is the daughter of a Duke and has a wildness inside, manifesting in a need to spar with the boys and hunt in secret. When she meets her four mates, wolf shifter princes from a neighboring land, it’s that wildness that attracts them and reveals who and what Darcy really is.
Because this is a slow burn, the spice doesn’t happen until the final third of the book but the build-up is everything. Book 1 is mostly focused on character development and world building, setting the scene for the major conflict to occur in the next book. I love Sam’s unique take on wolf shifters in this story with a touch of Omegaverse elements thrown in.
If you enjoy slow burn fantasy romance with lots of world building, an intricate plot and characters that will give you all the feels, I encourage you to give this book a try!
I’m not used to reading a slow burn from Sam Hall but it made complete sense for these characters and was written beautifully. Our FMC Darcy is the daughter of a Duke and has a wildness inside, manifesting in a need to spar with the boys and hunt in secret. When she meets her four mates, wolf shifter princes from a neighboring land, it’s that wildness that attracts them and reveals who and what Darcy really is.
Because this is a slow burn, the spice doesn’t happen until the final third of the book but the build-up is everything. Book 1 is mostly focused on character development and world building, setting the scene for the major conflict to occur in the next book. I love Sam’s unique take on wolf shifters in this story with a touch of Omegaverse elements thrown in.
If you enjoy slow burn fantasy romance with lots of world building, an intricate plot and characters that will give you all the feels, I encourage you to give this book a try!
June 19, 2022
Not my favorite
I have been trying to get through this book since it came out, and still I can't seem to Push through it what's so ever. Now it started out ok, but as the story progressed, I found myself more put off with how our H was acting. The back and forth of how she feels about the guys and her place with them dragged on a bit, and was becoming ridiculous, I also was getting crazy bi-polar from her throughout this read and I'm not digging it. Then the story just kinda gets crazy midway in about 56%, and I just lost interest completely.
I have been trying to get through this book since it came out, and still I can't seem to Push through it what's so ever. Now it started out ok, but as the story progressed, I found myself more put off with how our H was acting. The back and forth of how she feels about the guys and her place with them dragged on a bit, and was becoming ridiculous, I also was getting crazy bi-polar from her throughout this read and I'm not digging it. Then the story just kinda gets crazy midway in about 56%, and I just lost interest completely.
August 12, 2022
So this is probably going to be a DNF for me. I got over halfway and then a lot of issues came up that I just couldn't ignore anymore.
The book is written in Australian medieval-esk English. The author prefaces this book with both the statement that the book is in Australian English and set in medieval like period with some creative changes. With that said I had trouble connecting to the writing. It took me a lot of re reading to understand certain sections. This isn't a normal occurrence for me and I've read medieval and Australian English books before with no issue.
However I decided to push that aspect aside. After 30 min or so of reading I managed to read the authors prose choices with more ease (though when I put the book down i have to get used to it all over again when i pick it back up).
The start of the book was good but had more then one inconsistency. One example is the MC sits, then not even a page later someone pulls a chair for her and she sits again. But she was already sitting? I pointed this particular example to the author (as it was particularly jarring when reading) and she said she would add it to her list of fixes.
However despite the issues above, I was intrigued enough still to keep reading.
The book then drags again a bit, the MC seems to be taking a LONG time to wake up and realize multiple things around her. But again, I thought to myself "it's not that bad, some elements I like, maybe its a conscious choice on the authors part and there's a reason for it. Lets keep reading."
Then the closing part of act 1 arrives and at this point this book really started to lose me. So many missed opportunities to show character growth and build her relationship with her guys. Then the last scene of act 1 happens and suddenly it's like a full 180 of her personality. The tense also seemed to change and she was talking about "later I would know..." or "I thought of this moment later in my life" where did this come from?! Even with what is happening in this scene this part was odd. I understood the language used for her out of body experience but this was before any of that happened. It wasn't connected to that voice from the out of body experience.
Then this other large element happens in the scene but it's glossed over. I thought, ok well maybe she is in adrenaline mode and she will process later. But later happens and she ignores everything!
The personality change also sticks after this scene but in an unrealistic way. I need to see at least some gradual growth and this seems to be missing here. The author has band aids to explain why she's acting this way but it's not fully explored or believable. Even with what happened the ways she's acting doesn't add up.
Then there all the things which happen when she wakes up which make no sense. The way she acts when she wakes up makes no sense (wont elaborate because of spoilers). Then the character there when she wakes up takes her out shopping after everything that happened? The MC wakes up and is like. Cool. Let's go shopping! I don't want to do spoilers but that is not a typical reaction AT ALL after what happened in the previous scene.
Then the guys. This thing happened, they have been all like "well protect you" and overbearing but then they 1)aren't there when she wakes up and 2)when they finally do have 1 on 1 time with her they don't even talk! They also bring her somewhere which seems weird after everything. All the while I don't recognize the MC and not in a good way. It's like it's another character. One of the boys also has a 180 in personality and that's also not explained.
After all this I still was trying to be positive but after looking at other reviews I see the things frustrating me with this book don't seem to get better. This ultimately makes me think this book is not for me.
Of course it wasn't all bad. As with all my reviews which are more heavy in constructive criticism I like to add thing I did like.
Pros:
- Very cool concept
- A lot of potential in the world building
- I liked the themes of women empowerment (though the execution unfortunately wasn't fully there for me)
- I liked that there seemed to be a twist on the regular "werewolves" we usually see.
The book is written in Australian medieval-esk English. The author prefaces this book with both the statement that the book is in Australian English and set in medieval like period with some creative changes. With that said I had trouble connecting to the writing. It took me a lot of re reading to understand certain sections. This isn't a normal occurrence for me and I've read medieval and Australian English books before with no issue.
However I decided to push that aspect aside. After 30 min or so of reading I managed to read the authors prose choices with more ease (though when I put the book down i have to get used to it all over again when i pick it back up).
The start of the book was good but had more then one inconsistency. One example is the MC sits, then not even a page later someone pulls a chair for her and she sits again. But she was already sitting? I pointed this particular example to the author (as it was particularly jarring when reading) and she said she would add it to her list of fixes.
However despite the issues above, I was intrigued enough still to keep reading.
The book then drags again a bit, the MC seems to be taking a LONG time to wake up and realize multiple things around her. But again, I thought to myself "it's not that bad, some elements I like, maybe its a conscious choice on the authors part and there's a reason for it. Lets keep reading."
Then the closing part of act 1 arrives and at this point this book really started to lose me. So many missed opportunities to show character growth and build her relationship with her guys. Then the last scene of act 1 happens and suddenly it's like a full 180 of her personality. The tense also seemed to change and she was talking about "later I would know..." or "I thought of this moment later in my life" where did this come from?! Even with what is happening in this scene this part was odd. I understood the language used for her out of body experience but this was before any of that happened. It wasn't connected to that voice from the out of body experience.
Then this other large element happens in the scene but it's glossed over. I thought, ok well maybe she is in adrenaline mode and she will process later. But later happens and she ignores everything!
The personality change also sticks after this scene but in an unrealistic way. I need to see at least some gradual growth and this seems to be missing here. The author has band aids to explain why she's acting this way but it's not fully explored or believable. Even with what happened the ways she's acting doesn't add up.
Then there all the things which happen when she wakes up which make no sense. The way she acts when she wakes up makes no sense (wont elaborate because of spoilers). Then the character there when she wakes up takes her out shopping after everything that happened? The MC wakes up and is like. Cool. Let's go shopping! I don't want to do spoilers but that is not a typical reaction AT ALL after what happened in the previous scene.
Then the guys. This thing happened, they have been all like "well protect you" and overbearing but then they 1)aren't there when she wakes up and 2)when they finally do have 1 on 1 time with her they don't even talk! They also bring her somewhere which seems weird after everything. All the while I don't recognize the MC and not in a good way. It's like it's another character. One of the boys also has a 180 in personality and that's also not explained.
After all this I still was trying to be positive but after looking at other reviews I see the things frustrating me with this book don't seem to get better. This ultimately makes me think this book is not for me.
Of course it wasn't all bad. As with all my reviews which are more heavy in constructive criticism I like to add thing I did like.
Pros:
- Very cool concept
- A lot of potential in the world building
- I liked the themes of women empowerment (though the execution unfortunately wasn't fully there for me)
- I liked that there seemed to be a twist on the regular "werewolves" we usually see.
May 17, 2022
I miss a lot of sleep hours by now but... I love this book! It is something else... I love all of Sam Hall's books but... Wow. I think this is One if my favorite books ever! Gael... I want him so much! Darcy is really all woman want to ve. We want to be whatever we want to, and no be constricted buy any type of rules, religion, stereotypes, we could be anything at all if we just reach for it. Such an empowering story. I can't wait to see what Darcy Will do. That evil Queen... I don't buy fisical books anymore but I would love to have this One! It blew my mind! I didn't even want to finish this book because I loved it so much! Higly recomended!
December 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this book.
Audible version 4 stars.
Pet peeve: virgin
Audible version 4 stars.
Pet peeve: virgin
March 9, 2024
I loved this book! The setting, world-building, and the way the story unfolded, all of it. While I adored most characters, Darcy could be a bit annoying at times. It's fantasy first and foremost and that's what I loved about it the most.
September 15, 2024
Hmmmm, okay I came into this book looking forward to some cute werewolf action running in the moonlight but was faced with an extreme jumpscare after seeing the tags on goodreads. As a firm believer in the "YOU ALREADY HAVE ONE MAN, DON'T BE GREEDY" movement, seeing the tag "reverse harem" chilled me to the absolute core about what freaky deaky shit would be in this book. However I saw my challenge, I was 2 books behind so decided to lock in and push through my discomfort, hopefully in the end of this I will come out with broadened horizons and a less prejudice view on polyamorous relationships.
Well I can say as the future me, my horizons were not broadened and I am still deathly scared of polyamory. I found myself at several points feeling bad for the other 3 of the FMC Darcy's harem as it was very clear she had a favourite, the brooding, scarred half brother of the harem Gael. Tbh I cant blame her if I were in this strange situation (God forbid) I also would have a favourite, I feel its just human nature to have preferences, but I (being the humanitarian I am) would release the other 3 men from their service.
My roses:
There was no crazy freaky stuff (however I feel like it comes in book 2)
At the beginning I cared about Darcy (she was kinda interesting cos her dada used to beat her)
Minority rep for people with fractured eyes that lets them see people's aura
My thorns:
The book was tooo longgggg, after 390 pages you're taking the piss
Darcy became boring after she left her dad (he really gave her that character development)
Read this book if you like wolves ig
Well I can say as the future me, my horizons were not broadened and I am still deathly scared of polyamory. I found myself at several points feeling bad for the other 3 of the FMC Darcy's harem as it was very clear she had a favourite, the brooding, scarred half brother of the harem Gael. Tbh I cant blame her if I were in this strange situation (God forbid) I also would have a favourite, I feel its just human nature to have preferences, but I (being the humanitarian I am) would release the other 3 men from their service.
My roses:
There was no crazy freaky stuff (however I feel like it comes in book 2)
At the beginning I cared about Darcy (she was kinda interesting cos her dada used to beat her)
Minority rep for people with fractured eyes that lets them see people's aura
My thorns:
The book was tooo longgggg, after 390 pages you're taking the piss
Darcy became boring after she left her dad (he really gave her that character development)
Read this book if you like wolves ig
March 10, 2025
So I am fairly new to reading fantasy which is definitely what I would consider this. It was good. I’m enjoying this slow burn.. that ending though 🔪❤️🥲
May 17, 2022
Another amazing story from Sam Hall. Once I read the blurb I knew I had to read it. Loved Darcy. Storyline was very very good. Very well written. Definitely one of those books that once you start reading you won’t be able to stop. Loved this world that author has built. Can’t wait to read more. Definitely recommend.
June 6, 2022
this was fab !!!! fated mates but done in such a good way, and darcy is a female boss through and through. plus like shifters and knots etc etc great
September 23, 2025
Eh, free on audible, this one’s on me.
December 21, 2023
Absolutely amazing!
Sam Hall's books are always a delight to read, regardless of their themes. But this one is special. I adored everythingwell ...almost everything about this. The cliffhanger however was epic. I only had a bit of trouble with the guys at the beginning of the plot for being a litttle too pushy, but I kind of also liked it.
Tags:
Paranormal MMCs👻👹😈
Virgin FMC ♍🌮💦
Historical Romance (kinda)⚔️🏰🐲
Reverse Harem/ MFMMM💯 💢💦
Learning intimacy💫 ⭐️🌈
Omegaverse/Alpha,beta,omega dynamics 🅰️🅱️🅾️
Insta love-matehood❤️🔥 ❤️
Heats/Ruts🥵 🥴👋
Interesting Anatomy👀✨🥵
Primal play 🥵🔞✨
Cliffhanger ❤️🩹 💔
Sam Hall's books are always a delight to read, regardless of their themes. But this one is special. I adored everything
Tags:
Paranormal MMCs👻👹😈
Virgin FMC ♍🌮💦
Historical Romance (kinda)⚔️🏰🐲
Reverse Harem/ MFMMM💯 💢💦
Learning intimacy💫 ⭐️🌈
Omegaverse/Alpha,beta,omega dynamics 🅰️🅱️🅾️
Insta love-matehood❤️🔥 ❤️
Heats/Ruts🥵 🥴👋
Interesting Anatomy👀✨🥵
Primal play 🥵🔞✨
Cliffhanger ❤️🩹 💔
May 21, 2022
Sam Hall has been giving readers fantastic Urban fantasy stories for a few years now but now she's ready to jump right into full-on fantasy with, With Fangs and Claws a dark slow-burn paranormal reverse harem and she has stuck the landing, it was glorious. It's Vikings plus wolf shifters meet a gender-bent King Arthur retelling. Only Sam Hall can come up with something this masterful.
Darcy has lived a cruel life, she is willful and wild, and independent in a kingdom where women are subservient to men and beaten for misconduct. However, that doesn't stop Darcy, being the daughter of the Duke gave her more freedom than other women it also brought more pressure and more punishments. However Darcy endures, she discovers herself and the power that men have tried to take away. I will admit Darcy annoyed me at first because she wasn't seeing the truth staring her in the face or even listening to her own inner voice but she learns better and is on her way to becoming who she's meant to be.
In this one four wargs(wolf shifter) princes fall in love first and are willing to do anything to get what they want and what they want is Darcy. Dane is the leader of the pack, he is patient when it comes to Darcy. Gael has issues stemming from the past but is the most understanding of the group while Weyland is the smooth talker, and Axe is the blunt honest but happy one. Each of the guys treats Darcy with so much respect and understanding and each one has a big heart, they genuinely care about people. They each show her what caring for someone truly is and that's something she's never had. The guys are amazing and honestly, I was dumbfounded how Darcy fought them for so long. They are fantastic men who while they may have made some mistakes showed love and care to Darcy with not only words but actions as well.
Gods this story was amazing. It had berserker, you know the kind that kills and ravages everything, petty royals vying for power, gods and their plans, fated mate bonds, and so much more. The women in this had anywhere from no power or control to being power incarnate and showed all varying types from the good the bad and the ugly. Not to mention some pretty damaging parts of society, it's not just the humans who have messed up. So much scheming and evil is working and not from behind the scenes either, it's right there in your face. The plot is so fascinating and unique, I loved going along on this journey not knowing where it was going or what was gonna happen next.
With Fangs and Claws was a wondrously fantastic read that had an explosive ending, that blew my freaking mind. It's just the first book and the Wolf Queen series and I'm dying for the next book. Through Battles and Blades is gonna be so awesome.
Darcy has lived a cruel life, she is willful and wild, and independent in a kingdom where women are subservient to men and beaten for misconduct. However, that doesn't stop Darcy, being the daughter of the Duke gave her more freedom than other women it also brought more pressure and more punishments. However Darcy endures, she discovers herself and the power that men have tried to take away. I will admit Darcy annoyed me at first because she wasn't seeing the truth staring her in the face or even listening to her own inner voice but she learns better and is on her way to becoming who she's meant to be.
In this one four wargs(wolf shifter) princes fall in love first and are willing to do anything to get what they want and what they want is Darcy. Dane is the leader of the pack, he is patient when it comes to Darcy. Gael has issues stemming from the past but is the most understanding of the group while Weyland is the smooth talker, and Axe is the blunt honest but happy one. Each of the guys treats Darcy with so much respect and understanding and each one has a big heart, they genuinely care about people. They each show her what caring for someone truly is and that's something she's never had. The guys are amazing and honestly, I was dumbfounded how Darcy fought them for so long. They are fantastic men who while they may have made some mistakes showed love and care to Darcy with not only words but actions as well.
Gods this story was amazing. It had berserker, you know the kind that kills and ravages everything, petty royals vying for power, gods and their plans, fated mate bonds, and so much more. The women in this had anywhere from no power or control to being power incarnate and showed all varying types from the good the bad and the ugly. Not to mention some pretty damaging parts of society, it's not just the humans who have messed up. So much scheming and evil is working and not from behind the scenes either, it's right there in your face. The plot is so fascinating and unique, I loved going along on this journey not knowing where it was going or what was gonna happen next.
With Fangs and Claws was a wondrously fantastic read that had an explosive ending, that blew my freaking mind. It's just the first book and the Wolf Queen series and I'm dying for the next book. Through Battles and Blades is gonna be so awesome.
July 12, 2023
I read many good reviews about this particular book and although I have not read anything by Sam Hall prior to this one, my genuine curiosity tipped the scales in its favour. I am so glad that I started with Fangs and Claws as it was a spectacular experience for me, one that kept me turning the pages in the late hours of the night.
The story itself is enchanting as two very contrasting societies have been presented, one that has very strong Medieval vibes and the other where equality between the genders has been established. As the FMC came from a rather stricter, more restrictive upbringing, she had yet to discover what life is like when one is given the freedom to choose for thyself and explore what the world has to offer.
Darcy appears to be this innocent, obedient young lady, who bides by the rules and follows her fathers’ orders and to an extent that is the case until her fated mates come knocking on her door. It was lovely to see the main protagonist experiencing the freedom of being herself and for the first time in her life having the opportunity to determine her own destiny.
Alongside the sweet and tender love story that starts to bloom there is political court scheming, plotting and the undeniable danger that lurks outside the Kingdom’s walls. I love a good intrigue and the suspense of seeing who would outplay who in a game where all bets are off and the future is simply uncertain.
The writing was great and there were smooth transitions from one scene to the next. The characters were well developed though I believe there is more to be seen, in terms of character development and getting to know all key players as the series progresses.
This book most certainly exceeded my expectations and I have to say that it was a delightful treat, one that I did not see coming. Starting the second book ASAP as I assume there would be more hidden secrets that would surface in the next installment.
The story itself is enchanting as two very contrasting societies have been presented, one that has very strong Medieval vibes and the other where equality between the genders has been established. As the FMC came from a rather stricter, more restrictive upbringing, she had yet to discover what life is like when one is given the freedom to choose for thyself and explore what the world has to offer.
Darcy appears to be this innocent, obedient young lady, who bides by the rules and follows her fathers’ orders and to an extent that is the case until her fated mates come knocking on her door. It was lovely to see the main protagonist experiencing the freedom of being herself and for the first time in her life having the opportunity to determine her own destiny.
Alongside the sweet and tender love story that starts to bloom there is political court scheming, plotting and the undeniable danger that lurks outside the Kingdom’s walls. I love a good intrigue and the suspense of seeing who would outplay who in a game where all bets are off and the future is simply uncertain.
The writing was great and there were smooth transitions from one scene to the next. The characters were well developed though I believe there is more to be seen, in terms of character development and getting to know all key players as the series progresses.
This book most certainly exceeded my expectations and I have to say that it was a delightful treat, one that I did not see coming. Starting the second book ASAP as I assume there would be more hidden secrets that would surface in the next installment.
May 22, 2022
What a tale of epic proportions! Sam Hall has created a fantasy world that had me hooked from the first chapter! She has weaved a tale of a young girl who is not at all what she pretends to be for her father the Duke.
Darcy is a survivor, a fighter and the mate of the four princes of Strelea. When she meets them it’s while she is out hunting and she is all alone. After killing a stag they appear, they’re intrigued and once they get closer they realize she is their mate, a human girl.
You will see the Princes become stubborn in their pursuit of Darcy. They make a deal with her father and she has no choice but to obey but others do not want her to be given to those savages. Drama, angst and passion will have you turning this beast of books pages!
This was a slow burn with little touches of passion, seduction and 4 determined men trying to prove to Darcy that they are mates, destined to be together.
The world created was easily imagined by they way Sam Hall brought forth so many details in her description of their surroundings. Her attention to detail blew me away!
Sam left this on one helluva of a cliffhanger!!! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in this series!
Darcy is a survivor, a fighter and the mate of the four princes of Strelea. When she meets them it’s while she is out hunting and she is all alone. After killing a stag they appear, they’re intrigued and once they get closer they realize she is their mate, a human girl.
You will see the Princes become stubborn in their pursuit of Darcy. They make a deal with her father and she has no choice but to obey but others do not want her to be given to those savages. Drama, angst and passion will have you turning this beast of books pages!
This was a slow burn with little touches of passion, seduction and 4 determined men trying to prove to Darcy that they are mates, destined to be together.
The world created was easily imagined by they way Sam Hall brought forth so many details in her description of their surroundings. Her attention to detail blew me away!
Sam left this on one helluva of a cliffhanger!!! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in this series!
December 29, 2023
The after note stated this could've been 3 books, and she was right. Spoilers ahead.
Honestly this seemed rushed and drawn out at the same time. The part one could have been and should've been it's own book. Then part 2 as a separate book. First book is the beginning of the journey, the challenge with her father and her discovering she isn't human. End book.
Second book enter the trauma of her past and her actions, the getting to know the princes and the real danger she faces with a twist at the end.
This book being crammed into one book is actually why I was not a huge fan, and why I will openly admit I skimmed a ton at the 60-90 range. It didn't need to have a ton of the scenes and the lack of real connection to her mates and their lives is my least favorite thing. They were people before you met them too. Why are you continuing to whine?
I can't even say that the end scenes with Gael gave me any sort of satisfaction or excitement because it felt like it came out of nowhere after the scenes of her being so into the dance ritual.
Honestly.
I am not sure I'll do the next book and I feel generous with my 3.
Honestly this seemed rushed and drawn out at the same time. The part one could have been and should've been it's own book. Then part 2 as a separate book. First book is the beginning of the journey, the challenge with her father and her discovering she isn't human. End book.
Second book enter the trauma of her past and her actions, the getting to know the princes and the real danger she faces with a twist at the end.
This book being crammed into one book is actually why I was not a huge fan, and why I will openly admit I skimmed a ton at the 60-90 range. It didn't need to have a ton of the scenes and the lack of real connection to her mates and their lives is my least favorite thing. They were people before you met them too. Why are you continuing to whine?
I can't even say that the end scenes with Gael gave me any sort of satisfaction or excitement because it felt like it came out of nowhere after the scenes of her being so into the dance ritual.
Honestly.
I am not sure I'll do the next book and I feel generous with my 3.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2022
Steam: 2.5/5 Strong Language: 2/5. Plot: 4/5. Characters: 5/5
Triggers: Child Abuse, Violence, Assault, Murder, Death, Beatings, Battle
First book in a fantasy, historical, reverse harem romance.
Darcy has been raised in an oppressive manor by a tyrannical, selfish, abusive father and scheming governess. Her only bright spot was training with horses, to hunt, and to fight like a knight by her father's groom, Nordred. The rest of the time, she must comply with the harsh dictates of what a lady ought to do.
One day, four Stelean Princes (Axe, Gael, Weyland, and Dane) come to negotiate terms for ore with her father. They recognize Darcy as their Fated Mate. They have the ability to shift into wolf form and can sense her. They arrange the deal around her.
The story is centered around Darcy coming into herself as a person. She escapes her abusive home and leaves the only kind of life she's ever known - A human one. She then takes on a two-souled shifter life and all it's complications. The Princes are patient. They let her take her time getting to know them. This is not an insta love story. She gets to choose which path to follow. Of course, not everyone is happy about her arrival. Schemes, betrayal, and plots abound at court and throughout the realm to challenge the fledgling relationships.
Really Good writing. A bit slow in the middle but it really revved up in the end. These are Great characters. Loved that Darcy was treated like she had a brain and wasn't just bound to the lust of ‘BAM, I found my Fated Mate, everything else in my life is over’. She ponders her decision, weighs her options, and makes an intelligent choice. This book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
5 ⭐ I loved it. I’ll revisit it like an old friend. This book is moving right into my favorites category. I would recommend it to everyone, even people that don’t ask. I’ll one click this author’s work in the future.
4 ⭐ A great read. I’ll probably reread again when feeling nostalgic. It was enjoyable, not portable magic. I would recommend it.
3 ⭐ I liked it. It was a nice way to pass the time. I doubt I’ll reread it. I’d recommend it to someone asking for a specific genre. Thanks for the memories.
2 ⭐ I completed the Herculean task of finishing this book. At times, it felt like I was Prometheus and the suffering would never end. It just wasn’t for me but I applaud the author for their effort.
1 ⭐ I couldn’t finish this book or I wish I hadn't finished. How do I put this? It’s not me, it’s you.
Triggers: Child Abuse, Violence, Assault, Murder, Death, Beatings, Battle
First book in a fantasy, historical, reverse harem romance.
Darcy has been raised in an oppressive manor by a tyrannical, selfish, abusive father and scheming governess. Her only bright spot was training with horses, to hunt, and to fight like a knight by her father's groom, Nordred. The rest of the time, she must comply with the harsh dictates of what a lady ought to do.
One day, four Stelean Princes (Axe, Gael, Weyland, and Dane) come to negotiate terms for ore with her father. They recognize Darcy as their Fated Mate. They have the ability to shift into wolf form and can sense her. They arrange the deal around her.
The story is centered around Darcy coming into herself as a person. She escapes her abusive home and leaves the only kind of life she's ever known - A human one. She then takes on a two-souled shifter life and all it's complications. The Princes are patient. They let her take her time getting to know them. This is not an insta love story. She gets to choose which path to follow. Of course, not everyone is happy about her arrival. Schemes, betrayal, and plots abound at court and throughout the realm to challenge the fledgling relationships.
Really Good writing. A bit slow in the middle but it really revved up in the end. These are Great characters. Loved that Darcy was treated like she had a brain and wasn't just bound to the lust of ‘BAM, I found my Fated Mate, everything else in my life is over’. She ponders her decision, weighs her options, and makes an intelligent choice. This book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
5 ⭐ I loved it. I’ll revisit it like an old friend. This book is moving right into my favorites category. I would recommend it to everyone, even people that don’t ask. I’ll one click this author’s work in the future.
4 ⭐ A great read. I’ll probably reread again when feeling nostalgic. It was enjoyable, not portable magic. I would recommend it.
3 ⭐ I liked it. It was a nice way to pass the time. I doubt I’ll reread it. I’d recommend it to someone asking for a specific genre. Thanks for the memories.
2 ⭐ I completed the Herculean task of finishing this book. At times, it felt like I was Prometheus and the suffering would never end. It just wasn’t for me but I applaud the author for their effort.
1 ⭐ I couldn’t finish this book or I wish I hadn't finished. How do I put this? It’s not me, it’s you.
dnf
July 4, 2023DNF 25%
Tropes / Featuring:
🐺 Shifters
👰🏼 Arranged Marriage
💕💕 Polyamory Relationships
❤️🔥⚔️ Hate to Love
💖 Fated Mates
👑 Royalty
Summary:
✔️ The premise is really fascinating
❌ I couldn't care less about the characters. The MMCs are bland and always talk about rutting
and the FMC is a Mary Sue, who is really stupid and naive
Will I continue this series? ❌
Would I recommend? ❌
TW / CW:
Tropes / Featuring:
🐺 Shifters
👰🏼 Arranged Marriage
💕💕 Polyamory Relationships
❤️🔥⚔️ Hate to Love
💖 Fated Mates
👑 Royalty
Summary:
✔️ The premise is really fascinating
❌ I couldn't care less about the characters. The MMCs are bland and always talk about rutting
and the FMC is a Mary Sue, who is really stupid and naive
Will I continue this series? ❌
Would I recommend? ❌
TW / CW:
April 27, 2025
Frustratingly slow and inconsistent
I picked up With Fangs and Claws as a palate cleanser after two, more complex reads, hoping for something fast-paced with a bit of spice. Somehow, I missed that the FMC is a v-card carrier — usually a red flag for me — and this turned out to be anything but spicy or fast.
Darcy, the FMC, is immature, self-absorbed, and deliberately contrary — she considers refusing pastries she wanted, just because a mate suggested she eat. She’s inconsistent, insincere, but somehow instantly brilliant at anything she tries because she’s “God Touched.”
The pacing is painfully slow, with endless manufactured obstacles preventing any real progress with her mates. There are glaring plot holes too, for example: she’s supposedly human and can’t feel the mate bond — until she’s not, but still doesn’t experience it as her mates do, and somehow being a Wolf Maiden requires remaining untouched, yet she’s part of a ritual where the Wolf Maiden hunts pleasure? She also experiences dreams where she sees future or current events happening. Nobody, including Darcy, blinks an eye or gives an explanation, as if it happens to us all!
When Darcy finally succumbs to one mate, the scene feels hollow, lacking real chemistry — it’s hard to tell whether the connection is real or just the influence of the Wolf Maiden ritual. The villains are equally flat, written as one-dimensional caricatures rather than believable threats.
The mates are long suffering, Darcy likes to deny a connection, reject them, then complain that they consider she isn’t ready for more.
I won’t be continuing the series.
I picked up With Fangs and Claws as a palate cleanser after two, more complex reads, hoping for something fast-paced with a bit of spice. Somehow, I missed that the FMC is a v-card carrier — usually a red flag for me — and this turned out to be anything but spicy or fast.
Darcy, the FMC, is immature, self-absorbed, and deliberately contrary — she considers refusing pastries she wanted, just because a mate suggested she eat. She’s inconsistent, insincere, but somehow instantly brilliant at anything she tries because she’s “God Touched.”
The pacing is painfully slow, with endless manufactured obstacles preventing any real progress with her mates. There are glaring plot holes too, for example: she’s supposedly human and can’t feel the mate bond — until she’s not, but still doesn’t experience it as her mates do, and somehow being a Wolf Maiden requires remaining untouched, yet she’s part of a ritual where the Wolf Maiden hunts pleasure? She also experiences dreams where she sees future or current events happening. Nobody, including Darcy, blinks an eye or gives an explanation, as if it happens to us all!
When Darcy finally succumbs to one mate, the scene feels hollow, lacking real chemistry — it’s hard to tell whether the connection is real or just the influence of the Wolf Maiden ritual. The villains are equally flat, written as one-dimensional caricatures rather than believable threats.
The mates are long suffering, Darcy likes to deny a connection, reject them, then complain that they consider she isn’t ready for more.
I won’t be continuing the series.
May 21, 2022
Oh my goodness, I cannot put into words how much I loved the start of this new series by Sam Hall! This dive into a medieval, fantasy world is incredible, and this is such a refreshing take on werewolves!
I adored Darcy as the main lead! She's grown so much throughout this book, and I've loved watching her work through her struggles to figure out who was she exactly and what she wanted.
I adored each of the men in this book! Gael may be my fav, but it's a tough pick. I love each of them for their own personalities. But I can definitely feel their love for Darcy and their country.
But the Queen?! I want to give that woman a piece of my mind, and with how that cliffhanger ends, I hope Darcy gives it to her good!
Can't wait for the next book! Another 5 star read!
I adored Darcy as the main lead! She's grown so much throughout this book, and I've loved watching her work through her struggles to figure out who was she exactly and what she wanted.
I adored each of the men in this book! Gael may be my fav, but it's a tough pick. I love each of them for their own personalities. But I can definitely feel their love for Darcy and their country.
But the Queen?! I want to give that woman a piece of my mind, and with how that cliffhanger ends, I hope Darcy gives it to her good!
Can't wait for the next book! Another 5 star read!
June 19, 2022
Perfect Female bad-ass lead and hot Alpha Males ….
they are some triggering scenes though, but I hold myself and want to finish it..that's how I love this book., yes I stepped out of my comfort zone for a while to see the whole process ... and it's so worth it !!!🥰
this one of those book that " dont judge book by its cover " because i certainly not fan of the cover.
I didn't know why this is not hyped yet !!.. it should be everywhere !!!
they are some triggering scenes though, but I hold myself and want to finish it..that's how I love this book., yes I stepped out of my comfort zone for a while to see the whole process ... and it's so worth it !!!🥰
this one of those book that " dont judge book by its cover " because i certainly not fan of the cover.
I didn't know why this is not hyped yet !!.. it should be everywhere !!!
July 24, 2022
This book had me hooked! The only reason I’m only giving it 4 stars instead of five is because some spots feel a little winded in detail, but! Darcy is a strong female who is definitely a girl to get lost in. I don’t want to give any spoilers but the romantic semantics of this one definitely makes it a thrill ride! Worth the read and I can’t wait till May 2023 when the next book in the series comes out!
December 18, 2022
With Fang and Claw!
Wow! What an amazing book this is to read! Darcy is an amazing FMC and her growth throughout this book is impressive. She is absolutely amazing.
The moment you start reading you will not want to stop because Darcy will soak her way into your heart!
A must read!!!
Wow! What an amazing book this is to read! Darcy is an amazing FMC and her growth throughout this book is impressive. She is absolutely amazing.
The moment you start reading you will not want to stop because Darcy will soak her way into your heart!
A must read!!!
May 31, 2022
Amazing. Just… amazing.
The world building. The characters. The writing. I am seriously in awe of this author. Well done. And now I’m going to go cry because I’ll have to wait until May of 2023 for the next in the series.
The world building. The characters. The writing. I am seriously in awe of this author. Well done. And now I’m going to go cry because I’ll have to wait until May of 2023 for the next in the series.
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