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Unraveled Destiny #1
Wolfsgate
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here
Forced to marry in a cruel game of family greed, no one counted on Brandon and Justine falling in love.
Not even Brandon and Justine.
Gripping and sensual, a deeply romantic 18th century tale of deception and revenge, and the healing of two souls hungering for love and absolution.
A fateful shipwreck leaves the young and wealthy Lord Brandon presumed dead, and his estate in England lies abandoned and ripe for the picking. Years later, his step-cousin Justine finds him alive and drug-addicted, and against his family’s wishes, boldly brings him home to reclaim his inheritance.
Dark surprises disturb Brandon at every turn—a ruined property, a traitorous, bitter family, his fiancée married to his rival. And Justine, the shy, quiet girl he grew up with is no longer a little girl, but an alluring and determined young woman. Can he trust her or is she a part of the intricate web of lies and half-truths?
As they work together to salvage what’s left of Wolfsgate and their place in society, age-old jealousies and shadowy secrets threaten at every turn, but irresistible passions run wild and prove even more powerful.
Justine is his wife, after all.
Justine and Brandon have been bound in a marriage forced upon them by their family for their own deceitful purposes. But the deep, loyal bond that grows between husband and wife isn’t part of their enemies’ plan.
In fact, it could destroy their plan.
No one counted on Brandon and Justine falling in love.
Not even Brandon and Justine.
>> Please Note: This book has been re-edited & re-formatted in July 2020 since the book's release in 2014 <<
Forced to marry in a cruel game of family greed, no one counted on Brandon and Justine falling in love.
Not even Brandon and Justine.
Gripping and sensual, a deeply romantic 18th century tale of deception and revenge, and the healing of two souls hungering for love and absolution.
A fateful shipwreck leaves the young and wealthy Lord Brandon presumed dead, and his estate in England lies abandoned and ripe for the picking. Years later, his step-cousin Justine finds him alive and drug-addicted, and against his family’s wishes, boldly brings him home to reclaim his inheritance.
Dark surprises disturb Brandon at every turn—a ruined property, a traitorous, bitter family, his fiancée married to his rival. And Justine, the shy, quiet girl he grew up with is no longer a little girl, but an alluring and determined young woman. Can he trust her or is she a part of the intricate web of lies and half-truths?
As they work together to salvage what’s left of Wolfsgate and their place in society, age-old jealousies and shadowy secrets threaten at every turn, but irresistible passions run wild and prove even more powerful.
Justine is his wife, after all.
Justine and Brandon have been bound in a marriage forced upon them by their family for their own deceitful purposes. But the deep, loyal bond that grows between husband and wife isn’t part of their enemies’ plan.
In fact, it could destroy their plan.
No one counted on Brandon and Justine falling in love.
Not even Brandon and Justine.
>> Please Note: This book has been re-edited & re-formatted in July 2020 since the book's release in 2014 <<
672 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2014
1188 people are currently reading
2056 people want to read
About the author
Cat Porter
29 books1,652 followersI daydream all the time, "what if" way too much, and am a lip-biting romantic. And I don't want to be cured of any of those. Ever. A New Yorker who now lives on a beach in beautiful Greece, I've been writing since forever because I need to. I have two children's books traditionally published and I've self-published my romantic suspense series, spinoff standalones, and a historical. Join me in my world!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 280 reviews
November 24, 2014
Know this, Justine," he whispered. "When I made you mine that very first time, whatever came before simply fell away."
What drew me to this book was the fact that it was about revenge, I love this theme. But it's about a lot more than just revenge, there are secrets, there's jealousy, addiction, betrayal and of course love.
On his way back to England, the ship Brandon is on is wrecked at sea. He's gravely injured and is taken to hospital, he's given Opium to help re-leave the pain. So begins his addiction. The plot is so intricate and anything I tell you would completely spoil the book but a year late Brandon goes back to his home, his a shell of the man he used to be but Justine the wife he didn't know he had is right there to help him recover. The place he once called home is in disrepair, his fortune was slowly being squandered by his own family. The very people who should have looked out for him, were the ones who had left him for dead. He doesn't trust Justine, yet he can't help but be drawn to her.
"I only want your attentions, Lady Graven," he said into the side of her throat. "Your attentions excite me." He kissed the delicate skin under her jaw, wrapping a trail of molten heat around her. "It's quite a combination really." He let out a low laugh between soft kisses. "You arouse me, yet you keep me calm and even. I believe you are my new craving."
This book had so many layers, Brandon's character was dark, intense and he was hesitant to trust anyone, even his own wife. Apart from having to deal with the fact that his cousin and uncle tried to squander his inheritance he has to deal with the constant urge to give in to his addiction. Justine's character incredibly strong, even though she was a victim at first but that didn't last very long.
The writing was fantastic, I got swept up in the story. One minute you think you know who the friends and enemies are the next you're not so sure any more. Brandon and Justine's had so much chemistry together, their banter was sexy and hilarious and times. The sex scenes were scorching hot. The angst, god the angst was delicious and torturous. Both characters had gone through so much, and had been betrayed and taken advantage of by people who should have had their best interests at heart. Brandon seeks revenge and justice for everyone who has wronged him and his wife. Justine seeks happiness with the only man she has ever loved.
"This is us." Brandon's voice was gentle. "No one and nothing can take that away, sweet thing. Not ever. Not things that happened in the past way before us, not people's poisonous tongues today nor even tomorrow. Nothing."
The author kept me riveted right till the end, the drama of it all! I felt like I was a part of the story. It was wildly romantic, heartbreaking, a little bit dark and most importantly I loved both characters.
November 30, 2014
Almost 5 Stars
"This is our revenge, our satisfaction together..."
Bradon Treharne, Lord Graven, spent the last two years in a hospital deeply sedated healing after a terrible shipwreck. Now he awakes to find everything he knew gone. His father is dead, he is an opium addict, his family brought his estate to the ground. And he is also married to his step-cousin, an alluring and proud woman, ready to fight by his side and reclaim his family's glorious past.
Justine only wanted a family and a home for herself. Since she was a child she wanted to belong. The family that was supposed to protect her, betrayed and abused her. She is blackmailed into marrying a man on his deathbed but the bastards didn't count on her determination and honor.
Now these two wounded people will fight each other's demons and nightmares to protect their fragile bond and the passion they found. But darkness looms and danger lurks in every corner when old time feuds are rekindled and jealousies are stirred. Will they weather this new storm and create a safe haven for their weary souls?
Let me say...
and seriously...
I am not usually into 18th-19th century historicals, finding myself more into medieval stuff but I liked the cover and the sound of this one and it didn't disappoint. Dark and erotic, it intrigued me from page one.
Wolfsgate is a novel of secrets and betrayals from the first to the last page! And of a love greater than our heroes could ever dream of. If I have a teeny tiny complaint and it's due to my sense of justice. I am a bloodthirsty wench and I wanted something more.
Hint:
That said, I looooooooooved it and now I kinda wish there was more.
Not teased enough???
Here is some moreIan Sommerhalder Brandon.......
Pre-reading!
I won a giveaway on FB!!!!
So excited for this book!
"This is our revenge, our satisfaction together..."
Bradon Treharne, Lord Graven, spent the last two years in a hospital deeply sedated healing after a terrible shipwreck. Now he awakes to find everything he knew gone. His father is dead, he is an opium addict, his family brought his estate to the ground. And he is also married to his step-cousin, an alluring and proud woman, ready to fight by his side and reclaim his family's glorious past.
Justine only wanted a family and a home for herself. Since she was a child she wanted to belong. The family that was supposed to protect her, betrayed and abused her. She is blackmailed into marrying a man on his deathbed but the bastards didn't count on her determination and honor.
Now these two wounded people will fight each other's demons and nightmares to protect their fragile bond and the passion they found. But darkness looms and danger lurks in every corner when old time feuds are rekindled and jealousies are stirred. Will they weather this new storm and create a safe haven for their weary souls?
Let me say...
and seriously...
I am not usually into 18th-19th century historicals, finding myself more into medieval stuff but I liked the cover and the sound of this one and it didn't disappoint. Dark and erotic, it intrigued me from page one.
Wolfsgate is a novel of secrets and betrayals from the first to the last page! And of a love greater than our heroes could ever dream of. If I have a teeny tiny complaint and it's due to my sense of justice. I am a bloodthirsty wench and I wanted something more.
Hint:
That said, I looooooooooved it and now I kinda wish there was more.
Not teased enough???
Here is some more
Pre-reading!
I won a giveaway on FB!!!!
So excited for this book!
February 22, 2024
I listened to the audiobook from the free side of Audibles. I have not had two readers (Will Thorne fantastic and Justine Eyre good) take alternate turns reading (and I don't understand the point) but it made for a pleasant listen. The book is 11 hours long and needed to be trimmed by 3 hours. The erotica is a 5* listen and takes up a large part of the first half of the book. The plot is a 2* for me. I wish that there has been more of a mixing of the storyline with the sex as the action was too heavily loaded in the last 40% of the book.
What I liked...Justine breaking her husband out of the "hospital" and helping to wean him off of his Opinium addiction. Helping to keep Wolfsgate from being bankrupted by her Stepfather and Stepbrother who were her guardians.
What I didn't like...Brandons mistrust of Justine. I mean she gave it her all. The non and miscommunication dragged the plot out by over an hour. Plus why keep interacting with someone that has harmed both of you greatly. The ending just was stupid, and I thought justice needed to be served.
What I liked...Justine breaking her husband out of the "hospital" and helping to wean him off of his Opinium addiction. Helping to keep Wolfsgate from being bankrupted by her Stepfather and Stepbrother who were her guardians.
What I didn't like...Brandons mistrust of Justine. I mean she gave it her all. The non and miscommunication dragged the plot out by over an hour. Plus why keep interacting with someone that has harmed both of you greatly. The ending just was stupid, and I thought justice needed to be served.
November 30, 2014
3.5 ~ 3.75 Stars
There were parts I liked a lot but overall the story went to just okay territory with a soap opera type plot. However the writing was strong and the sex scenes were hot and I would definitely try this author again.
I have to think on it a bit more for my full review...
There were parts I liked a lot but overall the story went to just okay territory with a soap opera type plot. However the writing was strong and the sex scenes were hot and I would definitely try this author again.
I have to think on it a bit more for my full review...
June 1, 2021
TW for loss of a loved one and sexual assault
I had no idea Cat Porter had a historical romance, so when I saw Wolfsgate on my Hoopla, I had to listen to the audiobook. Brandon was in a shipwreck and has been recovering from that for the past four years. Justine is forced to enter a marriage of convenience with Brandon so that his family can get control of Wolfsgate and all of Brandon's money. Brandon finally wakes up and is lucid and is shocked to learn he's married to Justine and that so much has changed.
I really enjoyed this romance and how Brandon and Justine fell in love. I will say that there are some things with Brandon's character at the end that I wasn't a fan of, which is why I dropped this down a star. He was obsessed with people who wronged him by stealing his almost-fiance and I wanted to yell at him and tell him to focus on what he has now. But I really loved Justine's character and how she was just trying to be there for Brandon and help him and their estate. The story did go on a little too long, but overall I really enjoyed it!
I had no idea Cat Porter had a historical romance, so when I saw Wolfsgate on my Hoopla, I had to listen to the audiobook. Brandon was in a shipwreck and has been recovering from that for the past four years. Justine is forced to enter a marriage of convenience with Brandon so that his family can get control of Wolfsgate and all of Brandon's money. Brandon finally wakes up and is lucid and is shocked to learn he's married to Justine and that so much has changed.
I really enjoyed this romance and how Brandon and Justine fell in love. I will say that there are some things with Brandon's character at the end that I wasn't a fan of, which is why I dropped this down a star. He was obsessed with people who wronged him by stealing his almost-fiance and I wanted to yell at him and tell him to focus on what he has now. But I really loved Justine's character and how she was just trying to be there for Brandon and help him and their estate. The story did go on a little too long, but overall I really enjoyed it!
June 4, 2022
What a masterpiece!
I can’t believe this was Cat Porter’s first book! This steamy, historical romance sucked me in from chp 1. So many secrets, twists, turns, lies, passion, hot steamy sex..all a fabulous recipe for an amazing story. Brandon and Justine..another beloved book couple on my book loves shelf. I just love them.
I can’t believe this was Cat Porter’s first book! This steamy, historical romance sucked me in from chp 1. So many secrets, twists, turns, lies, passion, hot steamy sex..all a fabulous recipe for an amazing story. Brandon and Justine..another beloved book couple on my book loves shelf. I just love them.
November 29, 2020
Audio 4.5 Stars
Story 3.5 Stars
Story 3.5 Stars
December 7, 2021
This one is loaded with tropey goodness, MOC, evil family, back from dead, addiction, meddling OM/OW… to name a few. I gobbled it up, but it’s long, and if you’re an impatient reader like myself… it drags at times. Also, it’s heavy of drama feels, but not so much with angsty feels.
Brandon was in an accident (shipwreck) and presumed dead. The book opens with a very injured Brandon being discovered and left to rot in a hospital by his horrible family. We immediately FFW two years with Justine breaking out an opium addicted Brandon, and bringing him home to Wolfsgate against his family’s wishes. (they’re step cousins) This part goes very fast, I believe he only spends a chapter (or 2) detoxing. Upon waking, he’s informed that he was in a shipwreck, lost several years, his ex married his cousin, is broke, and married to Justine. The rest is their twisty journey to HEA.
I liked both mc's, and felt the author did a great job of showing their personal and relationship growth. Brandon has a lot to deal with, and was confused/moody but never overly cruel. Justine was awesome, she was strong and resilient, and not pathetic at all. I loved her.
Bottom Line- I liked it, but thought it could’ve been 100 less pages. There’re several obstacles the couple must tackle that generates drama, but they’re a team the majority of the time, so there isn’t a ton of angst. (I was never worried about the OW/OM) There’s quite a bit of sexytime, and it’s pretty erotic for a historical romance, so FYI, if that isn’t your thing. The comeuppance was lacking, but a good read, and free with KU.
Brandon was in an accident (shipwreck) and presumed dead. The book opens with a very injured Brandon being discovered and left to rot in a hospital by his horrible family. We immediately FFW two years with Justine breaking out an opium addicted Brandon, and bringing him home to Wolfsgate against his family’s wishes. (they’re step cousins) This part goes very fast, I believe he only spends a chapter (or 2) detoxing. Upon waking, he’s informed that he was in a shipwreck, lost several years, his ex married his cousin, is broke, and married to Justine. The rest is their twisty journey to HEA.
I liked both mc's, and felt the author did a great job of showing their personal and relationship growth. Brandon has a lot to deal with, and was confused/moody but never overly cruel. Justine was awesome, she was strong and resilient, and not pathetic at all. I loved her.
Bottom Line- I liked it, but thought it could’ve been 100 less pages. There’re several obstacles the couple must tackle that generates drama, but they’re a team the majority of the time, so there isn’t a ton of angst. (I was never worried about the OW/OM) There’s quite a bit of sexytime, and it’s pretty erotic for a historical romance, so FYI, if that isn’t your thing. The comeuppance was lacking, but a good read, and free with KU.
March 21, 2024
Reread: 3/21/24
Read: 2020
Read: 2020
April 12, 2024
2☆ Meh. DNF 40% Ick given. ❌
I'm so over Brandon's continued distrust of Justine--he should be too! I mean ffs she single-handedly saved his estate, fortune, and oh yeah his LIFE from a pack of evil vultures (AKA his family members) when they had him imprisoned for years, then brought him back from involuntary drug addiction! Yet he couldn’t get over his paranoia and pride to accept the gift that she was, even entertaining a completely traitorous witch for a minute? 🤬 Psssh no thanks. Poldark vibes only get you so far, dude. 😒
I'm so over Brandon's continued distrust of Justine--he should be too! I mean ffs she single-handedly saved his estate, fortune, and oh yeah his LIFE from a pack of evil vultures (AKA his family members) when they had him imprisoned for years, then brought him back from involuntary drug addiction! Yet he couldn’t get over his paranoia and pride to accept the gift that she was, even entertaining a completely traitorous witch for a minute? 🤬 Psssh no thanks. Poldark vibes only get you so far, dude. 😒
December 13, 2025
This no Patricia Gaffney, for sure
What in the clusterfuck was this mess? Is this serious? Was I rage baited? This has to be rage bait, there's no other explanation for it.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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What in the clusterfuck was this mess? Is this serious? Was I rage baited? This has to be rage bait, there's no other explanation for it.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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December 25, 2021
I'm in the middle on this book. There were things I really liked. The prologue and first chapter were so well written, they captured my imagination immediately. The H was in a shipwreck and thought dead. His cousin and uncle find him, force the h to marry him so they can have access to his money, and put him in a London hospital and drug him with opium for 2 years before the h can rescue him. Things slow down a bit after that and the book starts to feel over-long, over-troped, and overly repetitive. Despite everything, I like historical romance, as a rule, and I liked this one. The romance between the H/h took some time to develop but was believeable. The H is a jerk at different points in the story but he redeems himself in the end. I don't want to give too much away, there were some good twists to the story.
Safety
Safety
November 24, 2014
Everything was going so well.... The story had a great plot, great main characters, some evil scheming going on, the whole jealousy but not cheating thing, it was great!! And then... The main character was raped and abused... By her step-brother.. Who had tried to kill/stole/forced a marriage/stolen his love interest/etc the H.. And finally tries to kill said step-sister (and I am confused about this since it was never fully addressed, but I think the wife was also very much involved in the trying to kill scenario) and what does the hero doooooo, nothing at all! Oh no wait he does! He pays off all of their debts and makes the evil couple who almost killed his wife and unborn child, promise to never speak of this again and all will be settled.. WTF? Honestly, I don't know if rape and attempted murder have other meanings in this book than on real life.. But fuck me I would at least put someone in jail.. Or something? And the epilogue actually states that the wife of the rapist/murderer sends them a gift for the birth of their child and that she is pregnant.. Oh joy! And maybe this is a new beginning and someday al can be forgiven and they can all be together without fighting... I don't even know what to say.. When did it all go wrong.. I was so happy.. And now I'm so mad..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2021
This book was quite dark. I mean, there are lots of historical romance that discuss abuse, violence, rape and so on, but the writing and plot will determine how dark it can be. And in this case it was quite dark.
Both the hero and heroine had suffered a lot in the hands of their relatives, they are cousins by marriage and forced to marry when he's out of his drugged mind. They have so many dark problems that they end up finding realese in a physical way together. Their relationship is not sweet but brutal, a lot of poison everywhere around them.
If you want to read a dark historical, I recommend this one.
Both the hero and heroine had suffered a lot in the hands of their relatives, they are cousins by marriage and forced to marry when he's out of his drugged mind. They have so many dark problems that they end up finding realese in a physical way together. Their relationship is not sweet but brutal, a lot of poison everywhere around them.
If you want to read a dark historical, I recommend this one.
September 26, 2022
I really didn’t enjoy this. This book is populated with some horribly nasty characters, even the not-nasty characters had nasty moments when they said or did offensive or patently stupid things, and it felt unpleasant from beginning to end. I didn’t like these brittle, calculating, conscienceless people, and am glad to leave them in the rear view mirror. This author is not for me.
November 22, 2014
Five Amazing Stars Total book hangover. It's a tale of greed, jealousy, envy, deception, revenge and so much more. The sex scenes were sizzling hot and it didn't feel like a historical romance at all. It is dark and gritty for in the beginning our hero, Brandon is lost and broken, but his wife Justine is determined to get him well. At first there was distrust on Brandon's side regarding what role Justine played in his cousin and uncle's deception in trying to usurp what was his—his estate and Wolfsgate.
There are secrets upon secrets. There are layers to each character. None of them are caricatures. Even Justine, who has the quiet strength and the most selfless of them all had times when I wanted to scream at her, especially toward the end . Brandon's method of revenge had caused some angst and had me questioning whether I would like him as a hero, but boy did he make up for it in a swoon-y way once he realized he was hurting Justine in the process. No matter what lies and twisted information came at him regarding Justine's past, he remained steadfast and determined to only move forward with his wife. And the man had a way with words ... sigh.
There is intrigue. You don't know whether a character is a friend or foe. You question their motives. There are some revelations that I guessed from the beginning, but somewhere in the middle of the book I was proven wrong and then later on proven right. I like how the book kept me on the edge.
I love the author's flair for narrative and dialogue. It was never boring and though I thought the book was a tad too long, maybe it was because I was impatient to see how it was going to end.
So yes, I loved this book. Do not look for a fluff read in this one and if you want your hero to be morally straight the entire way, this may not be for you. There are shades of gray in each character's actions and as long as you can roll with it, you will enjoy this book.
There are secrets upon secrets. There are layers to each character. None of them are caricatures. Even Justine, who has the quiet strength and the most selfless of them all had times when I wanted to scream at her, especially toward the end . Brandon's method of revenge had caused some angst and had me questioning whether I would like him as a hero, but boy did he make up for it in a swoon-y way once he realized he was hurting Justine in the process. No matter what lies and twisted information came at him regarding Justine's past, he remained steadfast and determined to only move forward with his wife. And the man had a way with words ... sigh.
There is intrigue. You don't know whether a character is a friend or foe. You question their motives. There are some revelations that I guessed from the beginning, but somewhere in the middle of the book I was proven wrong and then later on proven right. I like how the book kept me on the edge.
I love the author's flair for narrative and dialogue. It was never boring and though I thought the book was a tad too long, maybe it was because I was impatient to see how it was going to end.
So yes, I loved this book. Do not look for a fluff read in this one and if you want your hero to be morally straight the entire way, this may not be for you. There are shades of gray in each character's actions and as long as you can roll with it, you will enjoy this book.
December 18, 2014
ok thanks to a few friend reviews i know the book will turn in to a complite clusterfuck later i didnt get to that parts yet since i got bored extrimly bored at 32% and my ADD doesnt allow me to read uneventful dragging parts in books i like crazy and even soap opera like plots sometimes but here i kind of want something diferent i also knew the William twist so know surprise here i mean such a sweet heroine and in HR heroines can not be a vergin only in one case i guess ok i couldnt finish this book i tried a few times but gave up my three stars goes to the steamy scienes and i liked the lead charecters at times
January 26, 2016
3.5
There were some frustrating parts, but overall iked it. Loved the author's style. Definitely reading more from her.
There were some frustrating parts, but overall iked it. Loved the author's style. Definitely reading more from her.
January 24, 2023
Almost perfect!
This was a beautiful love story a man lost at sea, found but kept in an asylum by his evil cousin and uncle. He was a scarred and drugged man rescued from an asylum by his proxy wife, and healed by her. And I mean healed. She was everything I would want in a heroine. He was almost a perfect tortured hero. Almost perfect because there was a former OW in this and I thought he was going to cheat for sure. There is so much going on in the story it is almost overwhelming. An evil step brother (also the heroes cousin), a horrible step father, A former ow now married to his cousin, and so much angst. It was hard to read sometimes. The love was so amazing and it was so steamy. I wish I could read it again for the first time.
This was a beautiful love story a man lost at sea, found but kept in an asylum by his evil cousin and uncle. He was a scarred and drugged man rescued from an asylum by his proxy wife, and healed by her. And I mean healed. She was everything I would want in a heroine. He was almost a perfect tortured hero. Almost perfect because there was a former OW in this and I thought he was going to cheat for sure. There is so much going on in the story it is almost overwhelming. An evil step brother (also the heroes cousin), a horrible step father, A former ow now married to his cousin, and so much angst. It was hard to read sometimes. The love was so amazing and it was so steamy. I wish I could read it again for the first time.
June 16, 2023
*Not very taboo considering it's a historical period.
*The H and h are step-cousins.
*The H and h are step-cousins.
December 12, 2014
“To us then, Justine – the manipulated, the tossed off, the rejected.”
After falling in love with this Authors work in Lock and Key and then being seduced by the Synopsis and Teaser for Wolfsgate, we were eager to get stuck into this Historical romance. It’s been too long since we’ve read a book in this much loved genre and Wolfsgate seemed like the perfect opportunity to remedy that.
Wolfsgate is a story of grief, loss, greed, strength and love and whilst we did enjoy most aspects of the story, there were some issues we found we couldn’t overlook as they impacted our enjoyment of Wolfsgate as a whole.
‘Here he was before her; her tragic howling, lone wolf.’
One of the things we loved immensely were the characters, and in particular, Justine. Justine is without doubt one of our favourites; her strength, her sassiness, her loyalty, honour and the absolute belief she had in Brandon at a time when he didn’t believe in himself, was commendable and endeared her to us completely. There were times this young lady’s story broke our hearts too. She certainly had some obstacles to overcome.
“Jus, I want to give you so much….But I’m not sure it’s enough.”
Our hero Brandon was gorgeous, strong, dominating and flawed, yet showed a vulnerability that had us sympathising with him and the predicament he found himself in. The nature of his growing love for Justine and the strength they empowered together was breathtaking.
“I wish I could save you somehow, but only can save yourself.”
The story itself captivated us and we enjoyed the concept of heroine saving hero; then hero saving the heroine in return. We had no problem believing in their friendship and eventual love as the author portrayed this aspect of the story beautifully. The story moved us without question.
“You make me feel alive.���
Where the telling fell short with us was the portrayal of the period it was meant to be set in. The setting and tone of the story was crucial. Wolfsgate is set in 18th century England and to allow us to become completely swept up with – and – live the story, we have to feel the authenticity. The author has to make us believe we’re in that moment, that we’re seeing the story and the setting through the characters eyes and sadly, overall, that wasn’t consistent. When reading a historical it’s imperative that we vividly see, hear and feel the era. The spelling, language and dialogue must pertain to the period setting of the story. Sadly in Wolfsgate this wasn’t the case and the disconnection with the setting and era was only exacerbated by American spellings and words used in the incorrect context of that time e.g. someone feeling awesome. When this happens, it ceases to feel like a Historical novel somewhat.
However, there was much we adored about Justine and Brandon’s love story. The writing itself was beautiful. Their story was moving, dramatic, passionate and steamy. We were swept up in their love and we felt their emotions, we just would have loved to have lived through the period setting with them which would have allowed us to be completely swept up in its beauty.
“I feel more like a thousand broken pieces, and I’m not sure what to try to mend first.”
“One thing at a time, Brandon. That’s all you can do.”
***Reviewed from an ARC Copy provided by the author with thanks***
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June 10, 2018
This book was a 5 Star Read well into 3/4 of the book then it all fell apart for me and I felt robbed.
Let me explain..
It’s early 1700s....Justine has rescued her step cousin Lord Brandon of Wolfsgate, a Baron from a hospital in London, after he’s been there for two years. He was one of the few remaining survivors of a shipwreck after coming home from Jamaica. He’s battered, barely coherent and addicted to morphine. So, we slowly find out WHY he’s been left there.....Why Justine rescued him.
His Uncle and cousin wanted control of his estate. During his rescue, they found him, addicted him, hid him and married him off to his step cousin Justine for control of his estate. They plan to leave him there forever. In fact everyone thinks he’s dead. Only Justine, rescues him. They’ve known each other since children, she plots and plans his escape and finally has a chance when they leave the house for weeks. They wean him off the opium, it’s dark and brutal, but he finally comes out of the haze of it. He’s shocked to learn they are married and he’s lost 2 years of his life.
We learn what happened.....
But it’s so much uglier....Justine has been used, Brandon betrayed, but he slowly takes back his life. The woman Amanda he was supposed to marry is now married to his awful cousin William. Brandon’s lost everything. His father died of grief and he’s married to a stranger. Justine was only 16 when he left, so in total he hasn’t seen her in 5 years. He thinks his estate is lost as he walks around and sees the decrepit look of it.
But....
Justine has saved it. She took over the books, out maneuvered the men, corresponded with the sugar plantations and made it look like all was lost and spent when in reality, she was just waiting to rescue Brandon, she’s an amazing heroine for her time.
They fall in love, it’s hot, steamy, wonderful.....
I’m thinking holy moly, this book is FANTASTIC! Right!?!? This is going to be an epic revenge book!
No....
Spoiler ahead for my safety gang...
So, to wrap up, Brandon is tortured, drugged, a prisoner in a looney bin, his father dies, William marries the woman meant for him, they rob him, in debt him, use his step cousin in the most horrendous way and.....
NO JUSTICE IS SERVED.
No! NO! no! I’m one mad reader......Grrrrrrrrr.....
Decent epilogue but WTF cares if that scum still walks the earth.
Let me explain..
It’s early 1700s....Justine has rescued her step cousin Lord Brandon of Wolfsgate, a Baron from a hospital in London, after he’s been there for two years. He was one of the few remaining survivors of a shipwreck after coming home from Jamaica. He’s battered, barely coherent and addicted to morphine. So, we slowly find out WHY he’s been left there.....Why Justine rescued him.
His Uncle and cousin wanted control of his estate. During his rescue, they found him, addicted him, hid him and married him off to his step cousin Justine for control of his estate. They plan to leave him there forever. In fact everyone thinks he’s dead. Only Justine, rescues him. They’ve known each other since children, she plots and plans his escape and finally has a chance when they leave the house for weeks. They wean him off the opium, it’s dark and brutal, but he finally comes out of the haze of it. He’s shocked to learn they are married and he’s lost 2 years of his life.
We learn what happened.....
But it’s so much uglier....Justine has been used, Brandon betrayed, but he slowly takes back his life. The woman Amanda he was supposed to marry is now married to his awful cousin William. Brandon’s lost everything. His father died of grief and he’s married to a stranger. Justine was only 16 when he left, so in total he hasn’t seen her in 5 years. He thinks his estate is lost as he walks around and sees the decrepit look of it.
But....
Justine has saved it. She took over the books, out maneuvered the men, corresponded with the sugar plantations and made it look like all was lost and spent when in reality, she was just waiting to rescue Brandon, she’s an amazing heroine for her time.
They fall in love, it’s hot, steamy, wonderful.....
I’m thinking holy moly, this book is FANTASTIC! Right!?!? This is going to be an epic revenge book!
No....
Spoiler ahead for my safety gang...
So, to wrap up, Brandon is tortured, drugged, a prisoner in a looney bin, his father dies, William marries the woman meant for him, they rob him, in debt him, use his step cousin in the most horrendous way and.....
NO JUSTICE IS SERVED.
No! NO! no! I’m one mad reader......Grrrrrrrrr.....
Decent epilogue but WTF cares if that scum still walks the earth.
October 9, 2021
2 stars (of which 1 is for the main couple’s undeniable chemistry and the well-written sex scenes).
Despite a promising beginning that gave me hope for a smooth and enjoyable ride through late 18th century gothic romance landscape, at around 40% we started meeting various bumps in the road and things got progressively worse until our carriage was inevitably overturned and we crashed into the frigid waters of a soap opera narrative.
What I’m trying to say through this forced metaphor is that this novel showed great promise in the first quarter but the author’s banal narrative choices killed both my suspension of disbelief and initial interest in these characters.
I had three main issues with this novel:
1- the many glaring anachronisms and haphazard historical research on the author’s part: people explicitly discussing marital relations in the middle of a ballroom, public PDA, modern turn of phrases(“I’m damn proud of you!”), and various applications of 21st century logic.
2- the hero’s jealous obsession with his wife’s supposed lover(s): the hero not only sets out to encourage the OW’s advances and even kisses her (apparently in a hare-brained plan to make her husband, his enemy, jealous), he also dismisses the heroine’s feelings and justified jealousy (since the hero and OW used to be in love years before). Meanwhile, he continuously taunts her about each and every man she happens to interact with. It was enough for her to have a conversation with a person of the opposite sex to trigger the hero’s possessive outbursts and for him to manhandle her and publicly threaten the man in question.
This double standard and complete lack of trust in his wife on the hero’s part, especially since the heroine never gave any indication of wanting to betray him, made their relationship downright toxic. What makes the hero’s behaviour even more disgusting is that he jumped to the worst possible conclusions when it came to the h and believed each and every lie the villain(whom the hero knew was trying to destroy them) told him in regards to her! According to the hero the moustache twirling villain is deserving of his trust, unlike the woman who’s proved to have his best interests at heart. But it gets even worse.
When they consume their marriage, the hero notices that the heroine isn’t a virgin. Instead of calmly asking for an explanation, he proceeds to obsess over which man of their acquaintance took her virginity. This piece of information was irrelevant by the hero’s own admission, but that didn’t stop him from making gross allusions to it throughout the book and taunting the heroine with references to her ‘previous lovers’, which seemed extremely hypocritical given that the hero had had a number of affairs in the past (but somehow the heroine ought to be held accountable for what she supposedly did before they were even married?). I don’t know if Brandon’s rage and possessiveness were meant to be after effects of his opium addiction, but the fact that the heroine was the sole target of his jealousy made me think that he was a very insecure and toxic lover and that he would keep behaving like a jerk even after the events of the book.
3- the villains of the story, one of whom raped the heroine and then tried to kill her, not only get away with a few scratches, but also have their debts paid in full by the hero, but not before he’s helped them get away with murder! What the hero ought to have done in period honored fashion was to call out the man responsible for his wife’s rape and possibly murder him in the ensuing duel. It would’ve made sense for the time period and showed that the hero actually cared for the heroine to the point of risking his life. But the hero simply confronts the villain and limits himself to throwing a few punches because ‘it isn’t worth going to jail for his murder’ (again, 21st century logic). It seemed like a disproportionately tepid reaction on his part! And as if that wasn’t enough, in the Epilogue the hero expresses the hope of a peaceful reunion between his family and the villains in the future. Because nothing spells out true friendship and authentic familial relationships like having raped and tried to murder your wife. So the heroine remains unavenged, the disclosure of her rape is only used by the author for shock value, and she will probably have to put up with her abusers in the future.
I feel like I’ve only touched the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the nonsensical plot lines and character decisions in this book but I honestly don’t feel like analysing something that made no logical sense more than I already did. I got the impression that the author was trying to emulate Brontë’s Wuthering Heights but instead of complex character dynamics and driving desire for revenge, they wrote a soap opera.
Despite a promising beginning that gave me hope for a smooth and enjoyable ride through late 18th century gothic romance landscape, at around 40% we started meeting various bumps in the road and things got progressively worse until our carriage was inevitably overturned and we crashed into the frigid waters of a soap opera narrative.
What I’m trying to say through this forced metaphor is that this novel showed great promise in the first quarter but the author’s banal narrative choices killed both my suspension of disbelief and initial interest in these characters.
I had three main issues with this novel:
1- the many glaring anachronisms and haphazard historical research on the author’s part: people explicitly discussing marital relations in the middle of a ballroom, public PDA, modern turn of phrases(“I’m damn proud of you!”), and various applications of 21st century logic.
2- the hero’s jealous obsession with his wife’s supposed lover(s): the hero not only sets out to encourage the OW’s advances and even kisses her (apparently in a hare-brained plan to make her husband, his enemy, jealous), he also dismisses the heroine’s feelings and justified jealousy (since the hero and OW used to be in love years before). Meanwhile, he continuously taunts her about each and every man she happens to interact with. It was enough for her to have a conversation with a person of the opposite sex to trigger the hero’s possessive outbursts and for him to manhandle her and publicly threaten the man in question.
This double standard and complete lack of trust in his wife on the hero’s part, especially since the heroine never gave any indication of wanting to betray him, made their relationship downright toxic. What makes the hero’s behaviour even more disgusting is that he jumped to the worst possible conclusions when it came to the h and believed each and every lie the villain(whom the hero knew was trying to destroy them) told him in regards to her! According to the hero the moustache twirling villain is deserving of his trust, unlike the woman who’s proved to have his best interests at heart. But it gets even worse.
When they consume their marriage, the hero notices that the heroine isn’t a virgin. Instead of calmly asking for an explanation, he proceeds to obsess over which man of their acquaintance took her virginity. This piece of information was irrelevant by the hero’s own admission, but that didn’t stop him from making gross allusions to it throughout the book and taunting the heroine with references to her ‘previous lovers’, which seemed extremely hypocritical given that the hero had had a number of affairs in the past (but somehow the heroine ought to be held accountable for what she supposedly did before they were even married?). I don’t know if Brandon’s rage and possessiveness were meant to be after effects of his opium addiction, but the fact that the heroine was the sole target of his jealousy made me think that he was a very insecure and toxic lover and that he would keep behaving like a jerk even after the events of the book.
3- the villains of the story, one of whom raped the heroine and then tried to kill her, not only get away with a few scratches, but also have their debts paid in full by the hero, but not before he’s helped them get away with murder! What the hero ought to have done in period honored fashion was to call out the man responsible for his wife’s rape and possibly murder him in the ensuing duel. It would’ve made sense for the time period and showed that the hero actually cared for the heroine to the point of risking his life. But the hero simply confronts the villain and limits himself to throwing a few punches because ‘it isn’t worth going to jail for his murder’ (again, 21st century logic). It seemed like a disproportionately tepid reaction on his part! And as if that wasn’t enough, in the Epilogue the hero expresses the hope of a peaceful reunion between his family and the villains in the future. Because nothing spells out true friendship and authentic familial relationships like having raped and tried to murder your wife. So the heroine remains unavenged, the disclosure of her rape is only used by the author for shock value, and she will probably have to put up with her abusers in the future.
I feel like I’ve only touched the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the nonsensical plot lines and character decisions in this book but I honestly don’t feel like analysing something that made no logical sense more than I already did. I got the impression that the author was trying to emulate Brontë’s Wuthering Heights but instead of complex character dynamics and driving desire for revenge, they wrote a soap opera.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2015
Really, really good
Absolutely loved this story. The writing was brilliant, the main characters were people you could not help but love and the villains were hateful, arrogant and selfish. The storyline was riveting and kept my attention with wonderful descriptive passages and dialogue that made me feel like I was sitting in the room with them.
I am a huge fan of historical romances and this was a little darker than my normal fare. A few times I felt that it sounded a little too modern with some of the swearing and feelings expressed, but maybe that made it a little more easier to understand.
Lots of hot sexy bits and a real connection between Justine and Brandon.
There were some scenes that may be triggers for some, but none of it offended me and all of the bad stuff was described well without being OTT.
I really like some of the additional characters and would love it if Charles got his own HEA...maybe even with Georgina???
Ms Porter love you work and I hope you will write more Historical Romances just for me.
Absolutely loved this story. The writing was brilliant, the main characters were people you could not help but love and the villains were hateful, arrogant and selfish. The storyline was riveting and kept my attention with wonderful descriptive passages and dialogue that made me feel like I was sitting in the room with them.
I am a huge fan of historical romances and this was a little darker than my normal fare. A few times I felt that it sounded a little too modern with some of the swearing and feelings expressed, but maybe that made it a little more easier to understand.
Lots of hot sexy bits and a real connection between Justine and Brandon.
There were some scenes that may be triggers for some, but none of it offended me and all of the bad stuff was described well without being OTT.
I really like some of the additional characters and would love it if Charles got his own HEA...maybe even with Georgina???
Ms Porter love you work and I hope you will write more Historical Romances just for me.
September 14, 2015
I liked this one - sure I had a few problems with it, but I got past them fairly quickly. It has angst, drama, secrets, betrayal, horrible family (for both H and h), some suspense, some nasty characters (OW, h's stepbrother, H's uncle), greed, secrets, opium addiction, a strong and likeable h (for her time but not a modern h in a historical), revenge, comeuppance, and a few twists.
In the beginning, I thought it might only be a 2 star - why? The initial timeline of Brandon's rescue from the hospital and initial withdrawal from opium is too short and unrealistic. It feels like the author needed to get through this part of the story (setup) to the real story. This occurs in the beginning and I thought - oh jeez, I can't buy into this now). As I continued reading, I did get caught up in the story. I was entertained and had to finish it. (I think I might re-read.) So, 3.5 rounded stars for me.
In the beginning, I thought it might only be a 2 star - why? The initial timeline of Brandon's rescue from the hospital and initial withdrawal from opium is too short and unrealistic. It feels like the author needed to get through this part of the story (setup) to the real story. This occurs in the beginning and I thought - oh jeez, I can't buy into this now). As I continued reading, I did get caught up in the story. I was entertained and had to finish it. (I think I might re-read.) So, 3.5 rounded stars for me.
December 23, 2015
4 stars
March 12, 2021
Well, if like me, Historical romance is not really your thing then think again.
Wolfsgate is good, very good.
I read this mainly because I loved Cat Porter's MC book - her writing was exceptional.
This got 5 stars because it had everything in it for me, a beginning, a middle, and an end. A hero, a strong heroine and erotic but most of all just good strong writing.
for those who do love Historical romance stories, this is a recommended read.
You are in for a treat.
Wolfsgate is good, very good.
I read this mainly because I loved Cat Porter's MC book - her writing was exceptional.
This got 5 stars because it had everything in it for me, a beginning, a middle, and an end. A hero, a strong heroine and erotic but most of all just good strong writing.
for those who do love Historical romance stories, this is a recommended read.
You are in for a treat.
November 28, 2014
A very nice historical romance.
November 25, 2014
A true page turner !!
December 12, 2014
“To us then, Justine – the manipulated, the tossed off, the rejected.”
After falling in love with this Authors work in Lock and Key and then being seduced by the Synopsis and Teaser for Wolfsgate, we were eager to get stuck into this Historical romance. It’s been too long since we’ve read a book in this much loved genre and Wolfsgate seemed like the perfect opportunity to remedy that.
Wolfsgate is a story of grief, loss, greed, strength and love and whilst we did enjoy most aspects of the story, there were some issues we found we couldn’t overlook as they impacted our enjoyment of Wolfsgate as a whole.
‘Here he was before her; her tragic howling, lone wolf.’
One of the things we loved immensely were the characters, and in particular, Justine. Justine is without doubt one of our favourites; her strength, her sassiness, her loyalty, honour and the absolute belief she had in Brandon at a time when he didn’t believe in himself, was commendable and endeared her to us completely. There were times this young lady’s story broke our hearts too. She certainly had some obstacles to overcome.
“Jus, I want to give you so much….But I’m not sure it’s enough.”
Our hero Brandon was gorgeous, strong, dominating and flawed, yet showed a vulnerability that had us sympathising with him and the predicament he found himself in. The nature of his growing love for Justine and the strength they empowered together was breathtaking.
“I wish I could save you somehow, but only can save yourself.”
The story itself captivated us and we enjoyed the concept of heroine saving hero; then hero saving the heroine in return. We had no problem believing in their friendship and eventual love as the author portrayed this aspect of the story beautifully. The story moved us without question.
“You make me feel alive.”
Where the telling fell short with us was the portrayal of the period it was meant to be set in. The setting and tone of the story was crucial. Wolfsgate is set in 18th century England and to allow us to become completely swept up with – and – live the story, we have to feel the authenticity. The author has to make us believe we’re in that moment, that we’re seeing the story and the setting through the characters eyes and sadly, overall, that wasn’t consistent. When reading a historical it’s imperative that we vividly see, hear and feel the era. The spelling, language and dialogue must pertain to the period setting of the story. Sadly in Wolfsgate this wasn’t the case and the disconnection with the setting and era was only exacerbated by American spellings and words used in the incorrect context of that time e.g. someone feeling awesome. When this happens, it ceases to feel like a Historical novel somewhat.
However, there was much we adored about Justine and Brandon’s love story. The writing itself was beautiful. Their story was moving, dramatic, passionate and steamy. We were swept up in their love and we felt their emotions, we just would have loved to have lived through the period setting with them which would have allowed us to be completely swept up in its beauty.
“I feel more like a thousand broken pieces, and I’m not sure what to try to mend first.”
“One thing at a time, Brandon. That’s all you can do.”
***Reviewed from an ARC Copy provided by the author with thanks***
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