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A thrilling story of friendship, survival, and the need to belong.
For two moons Torak has hidden a terrible secret—and now it is revealed. He bears the mark of the Soul-Eater, and must pay the price. Cast out from the clans, he is alone and on the run: cut off from his best friend, Renn, and his beloved pack-brother, Wolf.
He flees to the haunted reed-beds of Lake Axehead, where he is hunted by the Otter Clan, taunted by the Hidden People, and, as soul-sickness claims him, he falls prey to an even greater menace. Tormented by secrets and broken trust, he uncovers a deception that will turn his world upside down.
For two moons Torak has hidden a terrible secret—and now it is revealed. He bears the mark of the Soul-Eater, and must pay the price. Cast out from the clans, he is alone and on the run: cut off from his best friend, Renn, and his beloved pack-brother, Wolf.
He flees to the haunted reed-beds of Lake Axehead, where he is hunted by the Otter Clan, taunted by the Hidden People, and, as soul-sickness claims him, he falls prey to an even greater menace. Tormented by secrets and broken trust, he uncovers a deception that will turn his world upside down.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2007
122 people are currently reading
3656 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Paver
59 books2,339 followersMichelle Paver was born in central Africa, but came to England as a child. After gaining a degree in biochemistry from Oxford University, she became a partner in a city law firm, but eventually gave that up to write full-time.
The hugely successful Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series arose from Michelle's lifelong passion for animals, anthropology and the distant past—as well as an encounter with a large bear in a remote valley in southern California. To research the books, Michelle has traveled to Finland, Greenland, Sweden, Norway, Arctic Canada and the Carpathian Mountains. She has slept on reindeer skins, swum with wild orca (killer whales), and got nose-to-nose with polar bears—and, of course, wolves.
The hugely successful Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series arose from Michelle's lifelong passion for animals, anthropology and the distant past—as well as an encounter with a large bear in a remote valley in southern California. To research the books, Michelle has traveled to Finland, Greenland, Sweden, Norway, Arctic Canada and the Carpathian Mountains. She has slept on reindeer skins, swum with wild orca (killer whales), and got nose-to-nose with polar bears—and, of course, wolves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 361 reviews
February 11, 2013
This series just keeps getting better and better! Outcast was a non-stop thrilling adventure! I couldn’t put it down for one second.
Outcast really defined Torak and Renn’s character. I loved how we got to know more about Renn here. To be honest, Torak and Renn aren’t really that different from each other. Even though Renn lived with her clan, she is different from her clan because of her ability to do Magecraft. I just love the parallel between Torak and Renn. Also we got to see more of Bale! I really like him. It’s nice to him team up with Renn to help Torak. My heart goes out to Torak. He has been through so much and he’s just fourteen!
The plot was simply fantastic! There were so many twists. The biggest and most unexpected surprise has got to be Renn’s. I didn’t see that coming at all. Not at all. My jaw dropped when I found out. There were so many events that happened caught me by surprise. I treasured this feeling okay? When Torak revealed his tattoo though. That scene gave me the chills. It was dreadful. And when Torak found out about Renn’s secret. I was kinda angry with his reaction to be honest. Dude, you had your secret and this is Renn for gods sake! She’s your best-friend! She saved your life countless times. Just give her a chance to explain will you. But in the end, everything was settled nicely so that made me extremely happy.
Wow, I cannot believe that four books have gone by. Only two books left in this amazing series. I am not ready to say goodbye. I don’t think I’ll ever be. Sobs.
Outcast really defined Torak and Renn’s character. I loved how we got to know more about Renn here. To be honest, Torak and Renn aren’t really that different from each other. Even though Renn lived with her clan, she is different from her clan because of her ability to do Magecraft. I just love the parallel between Torak and Renn. Also we got to see more of Bale! I really like him. It’s nice to him team up with Renn to help Torak. My heart goes out to Torak. He has been through so much and he’s just fourteen!
The plot was simply fantastic! There were so many twists. The biggest and most unexpected surprise has got to be Renn’s. I didn’t see that coming at all. Not at all. My jaw dropped when I found out. There were so many events that happened caught me by surprise. I treasured this feeling okay? When Torak revealed his tattoo though. That scene gave me the chills. It was dreadful. And when Torak found out about Renn’s secret. I was kinda angry with his reaction to be honest. Dude, you had your secret and this is Renn for gods sake! She’s your best-friend! She saved your life countless times. Just give her a chance to explain will you. But in the end, everything was settled nicely so that made me extremely happy.
Wow, I cannot believe that four books have gone by. Only two books left in this amazing series. I am not ready to say goodbye. I don’t think I’ll ever be. Sobs.
November 20, 2019
Yes! Michelle Paver does it again with this splendid entry in her Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series. Torak is alone and soul sick and we wonder whether Seshru, the Soul Eater and Viper Mage will get the fire opal and conquer him or whether Bale and Renn will save him in time. And Wolf...
As always, we are spellbound with the vivid evocation of this world long ago and the wonder of discovery and friendship of the characters. There are painful revelations here as we pass the summit of the story and head towards the last two books - certainly the confrontations with the remaining soul eaters will be paramount. In the meantime, I derive an incredible amount of satisfaction from this series reading it with my son and rooting for Torak, Renn and Wolf!
As always, we are spellbound with the vivid evocation of this world long ago and the wonder of discovery and friendship of the characters. There are painful revelations here as we pass the summit of the story and head towards the last two books - certainly the confrontations with the remaining soul eaters will be paramount. In the meantime, I derive an incredible amount of satisfaction from this series reading it with my son and rooting for Torak, Renn and Wolf!
March 20, 2013
Tyler, 8yrs, said it was very dramatic and very good. He really likes this series.
Update 3/17/13 - my review:
Now I know what Tyler meant by dramatic. This book tore my heart out. It was so hard to watch Torak go through so many painful experiences - becoming an outcast and watching him suffer from soul-sickness. He begins to make choices that are against the laws of the Forest and clans. I found myself shocked and fearing for him. The pain that wolf feels as he is rebuffed by Torak and finding himself caught between two clans. Then as if there couldn't be more...finding out the secret that Renn has been carrying all this time.
This by far has been the darkest book in the series. I did not realize just how invested I was in these characters until we all had to go on this painful journey together. And while Soul Eater was also quite dark - there was a sense of many against the evil. I felt more hopeful. Being an outcast in this book.. Torak being completely alone; it felt so very hopeless.
This remains Tyler and I's favorite series. Onto the Oath Breaker....
Update 3/17/13 - my review:
Now I know what Tyler meant by dramatic. This book tore my heart out. It was so hard to watch Torak go through so many painful experiences - becoming an outcast and watching him suffer from soul-sickness. He begins to make choices that are against the laws of the Forest and clans. I found myself shocked and fearing for him. The pain that wolf feels as he is rebuffed by Torak and finding himself caught between two clans. Then as if there couldn't be more...finding out the secret that Renn has been carrying all this time.
This by far has been the darkest book in the series. I did not realize just how invested I was in these characters until we all had to go on this painful journey together. And while Soul Eater was also quite dark - there was a sense of many against the evil. I felt more hopeful. Being an outcast in this book.. Torak being completely alone; it felt so very hopeless.
This remains Tyler and I's favorite series. Onto the Oath Breaker....
April 11, 2019
From start to finish a 5 star rating through and through. What a ride! Whew!
When the books in this series were first emerging I was a newlywed, charting three new courses at once: Wifedom, Motherhood, and the Wilds of Alaska. Overly preoccupied at the time I somehow managed to not see (or hear) of these books.
Late to the party but shouting from the rooftops now! "The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness, a book series not to be missed!"
"Outcast", more than any of the other books (thus far) surprised me the most! The twists? The turns? The truths uncovered? I didn't see them coming!
Not being able to see the big surprises in advance, (so wrapped up was I in the unfolding story), the entire read (layer upon layer) was captivating, disturbing, heart-wrenching, and ultimately refreshing.
To me, this 4th installment had the best (most heartfelt and heartening) story ending to date. Finally, after closing the back cover, I feel as though I'm free to breathe deeply again; and, for a moment, all is well within the world.
Michelle Paver, what a talent! Her words provide such rich detail, (never dull or overindulgent), just the right amount to sink you deeper within the story being read. Truly, a tremendous, gifted, authoress!
Up next, on deck? The "Oath Breaker". A good night's rest then, the journey towards darkness continues; it all must be vanquished. No stone left unturned.
When the books in this series were first emerging I was a newlywed, charting three new courses at once: Wifedom, Motherhood, and the Wilds of Alaska. Overly preoccupied at the time I somehow managed to not see (or hear) of these books.
Late to the party but shouting from the rooftops now! "The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness, a book series not to be missed!"
"Outcast", more than any of the other books (thus far) surprised me the most! The twists? The turns? The truths uncovered? I didn't see them coming!
Not being able to see the big surprises in advance, (so wrapped up was I in the unfolding story), the entire read (layer upon layer) was captivating, disturbing, heart-wrenching, and ultimately refreshing.
To me, this 4th installment had the best (most heartfelt and heartening) story ending to date. Finally, after closing the back cover, I feel as though I'm free to breathe deeply again; and, for a moment, all is well within the world.
Michelle Paver, what a talent! Her words provide such rich detail, (never dull or overindulgent), just the right amount to sink you deeper within the story being read. Truly, a tremendous, gifted, authoress!
Up next, on deck? The "Oath Breaker". A good night's rest then, the journey towards darkness continues; it all must be vanquished. No stone left unturned.
January 6, 2009
I have found with series, the further you delve, the sooner you'll find a book that disappoints. Not so with the Chronicles of Ancient Darkness. "Outcast" is the fourth in the series and as captivating, well-written and engaging as the three previous books.
Michelle Paver's series was written for children but appeals to people of all ages. (I have been hooked since the first word in "Wolf Brother"!)
Whilst completely engaged in the story, heart-pounding as the circumstances Torak, Renn and Wolf often find themselves, appears hopeless, I can't help but think how a child's mind would process it. My guess? That it awakens their imagination and introduces them to those magical worlds you often only find in books.
When I was a child, books like this is what sparked my love for reading and I can see this giving the same gift to a whole new generation.
A thoroughly enjoyable series. Captivating and maturing with each book ~ I can't wait to see how it all ends.
Michelle Paver's series was written for children but appeals to people of all ages. (I have been hooked since the first word in "Wolf Brother"!)
Whilst completely engaged in the story, heart-pounding as the circumstances Torak, Renn and Wolf often find themselves, appears hopeless, I can't help but think how a child's mind would process it. My guess? That it awakens their imagination and introduces them to those magical worlds you often only find in books.
When I was a child, books like this is what sparked my love for reading and I can see this giving the same gift to a whole new generation.
A thoroughly enjoyable series. Captivating and maturing with each book ~ I can't wait to see how it all ends.
May 15, 2018
Rejection
Torak's life-centred quest to defeat the Soul Eaters takes a devasting turn when he is branded with the Soul Eater mark on his chest. Like many secrets eventually they come out and when Torak's mark is discovered he is outcast by all the clans. The law of the outcast one is to be hunted and killed on sight and anyone disobeying the law will also be cast out.
Torak says of the Wolf clan "I may not be Wolf clan but I can do what you cannot do and talk to wolves". With that Torak and Wolf walk away from the gathering to now be the hunted ones. Now Torak must prove he is not a Soul Eater and the marking on his chest was put there by force.
These stories proceed at a very fast pace which doesn't affect the wonderful descriptions of the forests and mountains. We also see a real bond between Torak and his wolf brother develop and understand what selfless friendship looks like. Who in the clans has a hidden agenda and is working to grab power? Who is the real enemy?
Torak's life-centred quest to defeat the Soul Eaters takes a devasting turn when he is branded with the Soul Eater mark on his chest. Like many secrets eventually they come out and when Torak's mark is discovered he is outcast by all the clans. The law of the outcast one is to be hunted and killed on sight and anyone disobeying the law will also be cast out.
Torak says of the Wolf clan "I may not be Wolf clan but I can do what you cannot do and talk to wolves". With that Torak and Wolf walk away from the gathering to now be the hunted ones. Now Torak must prove he is not a Soul Eater and the marking on his chest was put there by force.
These stories proceed at a very fast pace which doesn't affect the wonderful descriptions of the forests and mountains. We also see a real bond between Torak and his wolf brother develop and understand what selfless friendship looks like. Who in the clans has a hidden agenda and is working to grab power? Who is the real enemy?
January 27, 2022
Jagad av Klanerna är fjärde boken i serien Vargbröder.
Efter den förra boken, Demonernas Port, var jag lite besviken. Jag hade hoppats på mer i den, men oj vad Jagad av Klanerna tog igen allt de jag saknade tidigare.
Handlingen innehåller minst sagt ett spännande äventyr. När Torak blev fredlös hade jag en liten aning om vart berättelsen skulle ta vägen, men så fel jag hade. Oväntade vändningar på oväntade vändningar förde berättelsen framåt i ett högt tempo. Inte en enda lugn stund får karaktärerna eller mig som läsare. Det hände något i varje kapitel.
I den här boken får vi utforska mer av den värld författaren skapat och träffa på fler klaner. Jag kan inte få nog av all skogsmiljö karaktärerna lever i. Det är intressant att läsa om hur de lever för det är så människorna levde för 6000 år sedan.
Om du inte läst Vargbröder ännu så gör det. Dessa böcker är så bra och är läsvärda även för vuxna som det är för barn.
Efter den förra boken, Demonernas Port, var jag lite besviken. Jag hade hoppats på mer i den, men oj vad Jagad av Klanerna tog igen allt de jag saknade tidigare.
Handlingen innehåller minst sagt ett spännande äventyr. När Torak blev fredlös hade jag en liten aning om vart berättelsen skulle ta vägen, men så fel jag hade. Oväntade vändningar på oväntade vändningar förde berättelsen framåt i ett högt tempo. Inte en enda lugn stund får karaktärerna eller mig som läsare. Det hände något i varje kapitel.
I den här boken får vi utforska mer av den värld författaren skapat och träffa på fler klaner. Jag kan inte få nog av all skogsmiljö karaktärerna lever i. Det är intressant att läsa om hur de lever för det är så människorna levde för 6000 år sedan.
Om du inte läst Vargbröder ännu så gör det. Dessa böcker är så bra och är läsvärda även för vuxna som det är för barn.
June 18, 2008
"Outcast" was much darker and more chaotic than the rest of the books in this series so far. However, the outcasting posed an interesting problem that developed into an engaging, fast-moving plot. The dark and chaotic feeling of this book turned me off only a bit, but I think it's because of that (and that alone) I give it four stars instead of five. The thing with Seshru and Renn also annoyed me a bit... it just felt cliche, but it certainly did provide an interesting twist. I felt really bad for Torak throughout the entire story.
Perhaps "Outcast" wasn't as good as its prequels, but I still enjoyed it, and I'm eager to read the rest of the books in this series.
(PS: I just hate saying this series' name. The only thing that really irks me about these books is the horrible series name. I've hardly seen anything worse... "Shadows of Doom" is about it.)
Perhaps "Outcast" wasn't as good as its prequels, but I still enjoyed it, and I'm eager to read the rest of the books in this series.
(PS: I just hate saying this series' name. The only thing that really irks me about these books is the horrible series name. I've hardly seen anything worse... "Shadows of Doom" is about it.)
March 25, 2013
Although I read a lot of series, I find that I lose interest after just 2 or 3 books. Often the plot becomes predictable and the writing more haphazard. Not so with Michelle Paver's Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series. Outcast is the fourth in the series and my favorite so far.
The story picks up right where Soul Eater left off without any annoying recap. Torak is quickly outcast from the clans because he bears the mark of the Soul Eaters. Being an outcast is worse than it sounds, by law anyone who sees Torak is now obligated to kill him. On the run, Torak is pursued by the clans, but also by a Soul Eater who is desperate to use his spirit walker power.
I found this installment in the series to be intriguing and well-paced, with lots of Paver's incredible world building and character development. Each book reveals more and more about the clans and their belief systems. The concept of soul-sickness is especially interesting in this book. The protagonists Torak, Renn, and Wolf never become static. This book does a especially wonderful job of exploring the developments of Renn and Wolf.
The story picks up right where Soul Eater left off without any annoying recap. Torak is quickly outcast from the clans because he bears the mark of the Soul Eaters. Being an outcast is worse than it sounds, by law anyone who sees Torak is now obligated to kill him. On the run, Torak is pursued by the clans, but also by a Soul Eater who is desperate to use his spirit walker power.
I found this installment in the series to be intriguing and well-paced, with lots of Paver's incredible world building and character development. Each book reveals more and more about the clans and their belief systems. The concept of soul-sickness is especially interesting in this book. The protagonists Torak, Renn, and Wolf never become static. This book does a especially wonderful job of exploring the developments of Renn and Wolf.
April 11, 2017
I forgot how amazingly awesome this book is!!!!! *screams*
My sister is in the fandom now, she drew fanart (which is WAY better than mine) and she even used the quote: "A wolf cannot be of two packs" in real life! I'm so proud of her.
(Also, I've read this book 3 times, but Goodreads isn't letting me say that I have ;-; )
My sister is in the fandom now, she drew fanart (which is WAY better than mine) and she even used the quote: "A wolf cannot be of two packs" in real life! I'm so proud of her.
(Also, I've read this book 3 times, but Goodreads isn't letting me say that I have ;-; )
March 26, 2021
Yep, I see from other reviews for Outcast that there are lots of other readers out there as enthralled with Michelle Paver’s Chronicles of Ancient Darkness as I am!
Rereading them all again, and excited to see that there’s a 7th book now!
Rereading them all again, and excited to see that there’s a 7th book now!
March 13, 2023
renn is HER!
January 9, 2023
4,5
Inte min favorit i serien men tyckte om den väldigt mycket ändå <3 Så mysigt slut och ser fram emot att fortsätta serien!
Inte min favorit i serien men tyckte om den väldigt mycket ändå <3 Så mysigt slut och ser fram emot att fortsätta serien!
June 10, 2024
4,5 ⭐ — this one was definitely much darker than the previous books but I liked it a lot. and what an amount (of good) plot twists at the end!!!
January 6, 2025
God bless me look it’s another book in this amazing series…..this one also great we love a bit of inter-relationship politics and a little bit of a mystery….
June 18, 2025
More and more as I re-read these books as an adult do I understand why I think the things I think and believe the things I believe.
January 29, 2024
Michelle has done it again. The story is fantastic. Characters are excellently written, and the world is so rich and real. Highly recommended.
April 26, 2024
The writing of this book was even better and the story… OMG I can’t even talk about it. Loved every last bit of it. And the twist took me so off guard, I was so shocked.
On to the next one!
On to the next one!
July 29, 2025
'Ik moet zeggen dat het me verbaast dat je hem dat nooit hebt verteld. Als hij je vriend is... Als je net zo veel om hem geeft als hij om jou, en dat is veel, heel veel... Maar je hebt het hem niet verteld, en dat was een grote vergissing.'
Ik moet iets toegeven, en het is iets waar ik niet trots op ben: ik vond dit vroeger een rotboek.
Mijn excuses.
Alles eraan stoorde me. Wat Torak allemaal doet, wat Renn heeft gedaan, een hoop gebeurtenissen in het algemeen.
Ondertussen ben ik gaan inzien dat dit echt een magnifiek boek is, eigenlijk.
Wat het meeste opvalt, bij het begin, is misschien wel dat dit bijna een direct vervolg is op Boek 3. Dat eindigde, als enige in de reeks, op een soort semi-cliffhanger. En daarmee waren de pionnen voor Verstoten ook meteen klaargezet. Daarnaast worden er in Boek 4 meteen een paar hints gegeven die Boek 5 inleiden.
Het is een prachtverhaal. Ik wordt er bij momenten nog steeds depressief van - kun je nagaan hoe erg dit verhaal erin hakt, hoe levendig het is. Op bladzijde 199 - meer daarover zo meteen - voel ik elke keer weer rillingen over mijn rug lopen. Ik krijg het er echt koud van.
De plot is geniaal bedacht en uitgewerkt. Misschien nog meer dan de andere boeken gaat dit verhaal in op hoe mensen in die periode leefden. Het biedt bovendien ook inzicht in de leefwereld van Torak en Renn in het bijzonder: ze weten veel meer over de Zieleneters en alles wat met hen gepaard gaat dan de rest. Ze zijn, om het zo te stellen, vrijwel ingewijden, en dat zet hen af tegenover de rest in de wereld.
Bovendien wordt ook in dit boek duidelijk dat ze allebei volwassen aan het worden zijn. Tuurlijk, Toraks stem wordt zwaarder en Renn krijgt haar eerste maanbloeding, maar hun manier van doen is ook anders, al wat meer doordachter en dergelijke dan vroeger. Een mooie ontwikkeling!
Torak ondergaat een verschrikkelijk lot, je voelt heel erg met hem mee. Begaat hij vergissingen? Ja, absoluut, maar uiteindelijk kom je weer met hem in het reine. Hoe dan ook ligt de focus wat mij betreft niet bij hem in dit verhaal, maar bij iemand anders.
Renn. Renn steelt hier absoluut de show. Tot nu toe hebben we al wel heel wat geleerd over Toraks achtergrond, maar eigenlijk wisten we nog maar weinig van Renn vóór het verhaal begon in Torak en Wolf. Daar komt nu verandering - en hoe! Paver werkt maar weinig met échte plotwendingen, maar hemeltjelief, op bladzijde 199 van dit boek zit er een. En wat voor een! Het zit geniaal in elkaar. Als je de reeks herleest, dan zul je merken dat er doorheen de boeken al wel gehint wordt naar hoe de vork in de steel zit. Vooral in Boek 3 wordt dat duidelijk, en in Boek 4 bouwt het helemaal erg op. De alinea's voor de effectieve onthulling vormen één lange, knappe aanloop. Meesterlijk gedaan.
Wat me vreselijk tegenstaat is Toraks reactie, natuurlijk, maar goed, hij draait gelukkig wel weer bij, zoals altijd. En nu ze ouder worden, begint stilaan duidelijk te worden dat hier meer gaande is dan gewoon vriendschap. Op sommige momenten wordt het zelfs al redelijk expliciet gemaakt. En ja, ik ben een absolute shipper van hen, dus natuurlijk ben ik daar zo enthousiast over.
Knappe vertaling van Uiterweer ook, zoals we gewend zijn. Er steken altijd een paar een beetje rare kronkels tussen, maar ik vind eigenlijk dat die bijdragen aan de sfeer. Daarnaast staan er wel een paar typfouten in, dicht bij het einde staat onder andere twee keer 'Ren' in plaats van 'Renn', maar goed, het is te doen.
Nagenoeg perfect, dit.
9,8/10
Ik moet iets toegeven, en het is iets waar ik niet trots op ben: ik vond dit vroeger een rotboek.
Mijn excuses.
Alles eraan stoorde me. Wat Torak allemaal doet, wat Renn heeft gedaan, een hoop gebeurtenissen in het algemeen.
Ondertussen ben ik gaan inzien dat dit echt een magnifiek boek is, eigenlijk.
Wat het meeste opvalt, bij het begin, is misschien wel dat dit bijna een direct vervolg is op Boek 3. Dat eindigde, als enige in de reeks, op een soort semi-cliffhanger. En daarmee waren de pionnen voor Verstoten ook meteen klaargezet. Daarnaast worden er in Boek 4 meteen een paar hints gegeven die Boek 5 inleiden.
Het is een prachtverhaal. Ik wordt er bij momenten nog steeds depressief van - kun je nagaan hoe erg dit verhaal erin hakt, hoe levendig het is. Op bladzijde 199 - meer daarover zo meteen - voel ik elke keer weer rillingen over mijn rug lopen. Ik krijg het er echt koud van.
De plot is geniaal bedacht en uitgewerkt. Misschien nog meer dan de andere boeken gaat dit verhaal in op hoe mensen in die periode leefden. Het biedt bovendien ook inzicht in de leefwereld van Torak en Renn in het bijzonder: ze weten veel meer over de Zieleneters en alles wat met hen gepaard gaat dan de rest. Ze zijn, om het zo te stellen, vrijwel ingewijden, en dat zet hen af tegenover de rest in de wereld.
Bovendien wordt ook in dit boek duidelijk dat ze allebei volwassen aan het worden zijn. Tuurlijk, Toraks stem wordt zwaarder en Renn krijgt haar eerste maanbloeding, maar hun manier van doen is ook anders, al wat meer doordachter en dergelijke dan vroeger. Een mooie ontwikkeling!
Torak ondergaat een verschrikkelijk lot, je voelt heel erg met hem mee. Begaat hij vergissingen? Ja, absoluut, maar uiteindelijk kom je weer met hem in het reine. Hoe dan ook ligt de focus wat mij betreft niet bij hem in dit verhaal, maar bij iemand anders.
Renn. Renn steelt hier absoluut de show. Tot nu toe hebben we al wel heel wat geleerd over Toraks achtergrond, maar eigenlijk wisten we nog maar weinig van Renn vóór het verhaal begon in Torak en Wolf. Daar komt nu verandering - en hoe! Paver werkt maar weinig met échte plotwendingen, maar hemeltjelief, op bladzijde 199 van dit boek zit er een. En wat voor een! Het zit geniaal in elkaar. Als je de reeks herleest, dan zul je merken dat er doorheen de boeken al wel gehint wordt naar hoe de vork in de steel zit. Vooral in Boek 3 wordt dat duidelijk, en in Boek 4 bouwt het helemaal erg op. De alinea's voor de effectieve onthulling vormen één lange, knappe aanloop. Meesterlijk gedaan.
Wat me vreselijk tegenstaat is Toraks reactie, natuurlijk, maar goed, hij draait gelukkig wel weer bij, zoals altijd. En nu ze ouder worden, begint stilaan duidelijk te worden dat hier meer gaande is dan gewoon vriendschap. Op sommige momenten wordt het zelfs al redelijk expliciet gemaakt. En ja, ik ben een absolute shipper van hen, dus natuurlijk ben ik daar zo enthousiast over.
Knappe vertaling van Uiterweer ook, zoals we gewend zijn. Er steken altijd een paar een beetje rare kronkels tussen, maar ik vind eigenlijk dat die bijdragen aan de sfeer. Daarnaast staan er wel een paar typfouten in, dicht bij het einde staat onder andere twee keer 'Ren' in plaats van 'Renn', maar goed, het is te doen.
Nagenoeg perfect, dit.
9,8/10
February 7, 2017
I feel like I should be enjoying this series more than I actually am. Everyone raves about the series, but I'm always slogging through the pages, trying to figure out why I'm not more invested in the story. Exciting things are happening, but I can't get myself to care. Maybe it's because of the nonstop barrage of suffering heaped on Torak. He never gets a break, but his misfortunes don't make me sympathize with him, they just feel excessive.
With each book that goes by, Torak annoys me more and more, and it's hard to pin down why exactly. Maybe he bothers me because he's another "chosen one" on his "hero's journey". Maybe it's because he's such a loner. Maybe it's the way he treats Renn, my favorite character in the series. I hate how he keeps pushing her away when she's trying to help him. The whole "trying to keep her safe" thing just irks me. Renn has proved time and time again that she is brave, smart, loyal, and competent. Honestly, I wish Renn was our protagonist instead. I'm always far more interested in what she is up to. She's main reason I'm sticking with the series. Really hoping Renn and Torak don't get together in the end, but it seems like that's where the series is heading.
There are things I like about this series, namely the depictions of a time long long ago. I'm fascinated by the in-depth descriptions of animals, different tribes, hunting and gathering. Michelle Paver has definitely done her research. I also love the way she weaves magic into her stories, seamlessly and naturally. The suspense is also well-handled, and I want to read on to discover more about the Soul-Eaters and their secrets.
With each book that goes by, Torak annoys me more and more, and it's hard to pin down why exactly. Maybe he bothers me because he's another "chosen one" on his "hero's journey". Maybe it's because he's such a loner. Maybe it's the way he treats Renn, my favorite character in the series. I hate how he keeps pushing her away when she's trying to help him. The whole "trying to keep her safe" thing just irks me. Renn has proved time and time again that she is brave, smart, loyal, and competent. Honestly, I wish Renn was our protagonist instead. I'm always far more interested in what she is up to. She's main reason I'm sticking with the series. Really hoping Renn and Torak don't get together in the end, but it seems like that's where the series is heading.
There are things I like about this series, namely the depictions of a time long long ago. I'm fascinated by the in-depth descriptions of animals, different tribes, hunting and gathering. Michelle Paver has definitely done her research. I also love the way she weaves magic into her stories, seamlessly and naturally. The suspense is also well-handled, and I want to read on to discover more about the Soul-Eaters and their secrets.
October 3, 2021
I recently reread this series for the first time in a few years, and it's one of the ones from my childhood that truly holds up the most. The worldbuilding is incredible and also respectful of the native people from this time period, and though the books are written in a way kids can understand, they're at times also deeply unsettling in ways I haven't even experienced from YA or adult literature.
Note: every book in the series is 5 stars for me, but this is my absolute favorite.
Note: every book in the series is 5 stars for me, but this is my absolute favorite.
January 10, 2014
So here is the summary:
The characters in the story were the wolf pack themselves, Torak, Renn, and Wolf. The wolves had black hair cut to shoulder legnth, a fringe, tusks at their necks, and a stiff mantle. The other pack, The Willows had strips sewn in spirals in jenkins, black leaved tatoos, and a permanent frown. During to story, in the forest, there was Torak, who was separated from his best friend, Renn. They were both separated through the the agonizing journey of finding each other, and their group of wolves. The wolves were enemies against each wolf pack yet they found their way. Near the end, they are reunited and the 2 other wolfpacks are once again happy.
Overall, I'd give this book 5 stars because of the amount of adventures (which I like). I'd reccomend it to everyone who likes adventure (with a little touch of emotion).
The characters in the story were the wolf pack themselves, Torak, Renn, and Wolf. The wolves had black hair cut to shoulder legnth, a fringe, tusks at their necks, and a stiff mantle. The other pack, The Willows had strips sewn in spirals in jenkins, black leaved tatoos, and a permanent frown. During to story, in the forest, there was Torak, who was separated from his best friend, Renn. They were both separated through the the agonizing journey of finding each other, and their group of wolves. The wolves were enemies against each wolf pack yet they found their way. Near the end, they are reunited and the 2 other wolfpacks are once again happy.
Overall, I'd give this book 5 stars because of the amount of adventures (which I like). I'd reccomend it to everyone who likes adventure (with a little touch of emotion).
January 4, 2015
Good, beautiful. Had me captivated with a good mix of characters and combinations.
June 17, 2025
I am speechless. This book had me in its CLUTCHES. It consumed me. I couldn't sleep. I couldn't focus. I couldn't breath. It was so riveting and suspenseful and exhilarating.
So much happened in this book.
So. Much.
I love how Michelle wastes no time picking up the plot. For every one of her books so far, we're thrown straight into the fray. This volume was intensely thrilling and eerie, venturing into the haunted lake of the Otter Clan.
I was worried that this book would be boring with Torak being outcast and therefore on his own. A whole book with just that little punk? Not ideal. But I should've known that Renn would immediately be hatching a plan to help.
Renn. Oh my gosh. She's wholeheartedly won me over at this point. This girl is so wise and brave beyond her years. She's lost so many people close to her and been through so much but she's let that strengthen her resilience and drive. She's not afraid to stand up for herself. She's fiercely loyal and compassionate and Torak is completely undeserving. I literally applauded when And alright I'm just gonna say it - I ship her with Bale.
Listen. Bale is such a real one. He RESPECTS Renn (except for that whole thing about women not doing any of the work on the islands? But he got over it). He acknowledges her skills and encourages her abilities. He spent this entire book trying to rescue Torak while also looking out for and comforting Renn. He LISTENS to her. He ADMIRES her. Plus an ocean clan and forest clan couple would just be cute. But most of all
Yeah. Bale definitely won the best character award in this book. His partnership and eventual friendship with Renn was so precious, especially since he's only her second (human) friend ever. He's just so kind to her. She deserves a kind friend (looking at you, Torak. You need to treat your friends better). I'm kinda perturbed that Bale and Renn never talked at the end about the looming elephant in the room, but hopefully they'll touch on it in the next book.
Dude, I did NOT see coming AT ALL. I was literally thinking, "Huh, I guess the Viper Mage must have a daughter at some point since that one book is called 'Viper's Daughter'," but just never made the connection. It seems like it was probably obvious and I'm just oblivious. Either way, I was floored.
Then
I cried at
One complaint I have is the Soul Eaters feel SO one-dimensional. Excuse my wording, but they just feel so soulless. Just another average villain doing evil villainous things. I wish they had just a shred of humanity to them. Anything to make me as a reader think, "Huh, I get why they're doing these evil things." But instead it just comes across as madness.
I rewatched the How to Train Your Dragon movies while reading this volume and the last and I think I realized these books are reminiscent of them in a way, especially the relationship between Torak and Wolf. Then of course there's Renn, who can totally hold a flame to our badass queen Astrid.
I'm about to start the next book and the description is SCARING me. Someone close to Torak is going to DIE?!? I've been trying to theorize...
Lastly, some quotes I loved:
"Where do I go now? he thought. Where do I belong?
"Another gust, and the willows replied. 'You belong here. In the Forest.'"
"'But if I'm not Wolf Clan,' he said, 'what am I?'
"She drew a breath. 'You're Wolf's pack-brother. You're my friend. And that's never going to change.'"
So much happened in this book.
So. Much.
I love how Michelle wastes no time picking up the plot. For every one of her books so far, we're thrown straight into the fray. This volume was intensely thrilling and eerie, venturing into the haunted lake of the Otter Clan.
I was worried that this book would be boring with Torak being outcast and therefore on his own. A whole book with just that little punk? Not ideal. But I should've known that Renn would immediately be hatching a plan to help.
Renn. Oh my gosh. She's wholeheartedly won me over at this point. This girl is so wise and brave beyond her years. She's lost so many people close to her and been through so much but she's let that strengthen her resilience and drive. She's not afraid to stand up for herself. She's fiercely loyal and compassionate and Torak is completely undeserving. I literally applauded when And alright I'm just gonna say it - I ship her with Bale.
Listen. Bale is such a real one. He RESPECTS Renn (except for that whole thing about women not doing any of the work on the islands? But he got over it). He acknowledges her skills and encourages her abilities. He spent this entire book trying to rescue Torak while also looking out for and comforting Renn. He LISTENS to her. He ADMIRES her. Plus an ocean clan and forest clan couple would just be cute. But most of all
Yeah. Bale definitely won the best character award in this book. His partnership and eventual friendship with Renn was so precious, especially since he's only her second (human) friend ever. He's just so kind to her. She deserves a kind friend (looking at you, Torak. You need to treat your friends better). I'm kinda perturbed that Bale and Renn never talked at the end about the looming elephant in the room, but hopefully they'll touch on it in the next book.
Dude, I did NOT see coming AT ALL. I was literally thinking, "Huh, I guess the Viper Mage must have a daughter at some point since that one book is called 'Viper's Daughter'," but just never made the connection. It seems like it was probably obvious and I'm just oblivious. Either way, I was floored.
Then
I cried at
One complaint I have is the Soul Eaters feel SO one-dimensional. Excuse my wording, but they just feel so soulless. Just another average villain doing evil villainous things. I wish they had just a shred of humanity to them. Anything to make me as a reader think, "Huh, I get why they're doing these evil things." But instead it just comes across as madness.
I rewatched the How to Train Your Dragon movies while reading this volume and the last and I think I realized these books are reminiscent of them in a way, especially the relationship between Torak and Wolf. Then of course there's Renn, who can totally hold a flame to our badass queen Astrid.
I'm about to start the next book and the description is SCARING me. Someone close to Torak is going to DIE?!? I've been trying to theorize...
Lastly, some quotes I loved:
"Where do I go now? he thought. Where do I belong?
"Another gust, and the willows replied. 'You belong here. In the Forest.'"
"'But if I'm not Wolf Clan,' he said, 'what am I?'
"She drew a breath. 'You're Wolf's pack-brother. You're my friend. And that's never going to change.'"
June 17, 2017
I think this was the most emotional book of the series so far. I might have shed a tear a few times.
The story's still as captivating and doesn't let down. Everything falls into place, and it's one of those series where you feel like the author knew where it was going from the beginning and you wonder how they knew to leave these little details that would come in handy later.
It's full of plot twists too! Renn's secret? I think that was the most shocking twist so far.
Renn's character keeps being more defined and gaining depth, and she's become one of my favourite book heroines. She's so tough! Bale is back too and it's so nice to see him again.
Torak's character definitely gains more depth too. He goes through so much! His relationship with Wolf is tested as well and I might have shed a few tears. His relationship with Fin-Kedinn steps us and it's one of the highlights of the book!
4 books into this series and it hasn't let me down once, I can't believe there's only 2 books left. :(
The story's still as captivating and doesn't let down. Everything falls into place, and it's one of those series where you feel like the author knew where it was going from the beginning and you wonder how they knew to leave these little details that would come in handy later.
It's full of plot twists too! Renn's secret? I think that was the most shocking twist so far.
Renn's character keeps being more defined and gaining depth, and she's become one of my favourite book heroines. She's so tough! Bale is back too and it's so nice to see him again.
Torak's character definitely gains more depth too. He goes through so much! His relationship with Wolf is tested as well and I might have shed a few tears. His relationship with Fin-Kedinn steps us and it's one of the highlights of the book!
4 books into this series and it hasn't let me down once, I can't believe there's only 2 books left. :(
January 5, 2021
What makes this series so great to read is the pace at which the plot moves. There are no frivolous chapters, no slow parts, no nonsense. It’s nonstop action, movement, and change. They are so enjoyable! And it was fun in this specific story to learn more about Renn and her past.
I also just love the historical details about how these ancient people survived and their reverence for the Earth and all she provides. What a lovely way to live in harmony with nature.
Rate Procedure:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I loved the book so much I would reread it again and would recommend to a friend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Thoroughly enjoyed the book, could not put it down, would recommend to a friend, but do not need to read again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Probably a good book that I enjoyed but there was something about it I did not love (e.g. The writing style, the POV, etc.). I would only recommend to a friend if it was their "type" of book.
⭐️⭐️ - A book I have below average feelings for and it would not come with a recommendation from me but I would mention it in conversation if related to the book topic at issue.
⭐️ - I finished the book but I hated every second of it.
I also just love the historical details about how these ancient people survived and their reverence for the Earth and all she provides. What a lovely way to live in harmony with nature.
Rate Procedure:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I loved the book so much I would reread it again and would recommend to a friend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Thoroughly enjoyed the book, could not put it down, would recommend to a friend, but do not need to read again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Probably a good book that I enjoyed but there was something about it I did not love (e.g. The writing style, the POV, etc.). I would only recommend to a friend if it was their "type" of book.
⭐️⭐️ - A book I have below average feelings for and it would not come with a recommendation from me but I would mention it in conversation if related to the book topic at issue.
⭐️ - I finished the book but I hated every second of it.
March 8, 2023
A first time read! 😁 I had previously read the first 3 books in 'The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness' series when I was a child, but finally got around to reading book 4 - 'Outcast' - finally! 😊
In the story Torak's secret of bearing the Soul-Eaters mark is revealed and as a result is cast out of the clan. This means that he must live alone and without communication to anyone, as well as anyone who sees him must kill him 😱 How will he survive?! And can he find some way of being welcomed back into the Raven Clan?! 😱
I found 'Outcast' was not quite as strong a novel as the first 3 books in the series, but still captures that exciting nature and as always, it's difficult to pause for the night when you just want to read on!!! 😖😁
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5 /5
In the story Torak's secret of bearing the Soul-Eaters mark is revealed and as a result is cast out of the clan. This means that he must live alone and without communication to anyone, as well as anyone who sees him must kill him 😱 How will he survive?! And can he find some way of being welcomed back into the Raven Clan?! 😱
I found 'Outcast' was not quite as strong a novel as the first 3 books in the series, but still captures that exciting nature and as always, it's difficult to pause for the night when you just want to read on!!! 😖😁
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5 /5
July 1, 2025
In this book, Paver doubles down on the tension, on the jeopardy and on the obstacles Torak must face. I did feel it felt a bit unbalanced at the height of the disequilibrium and perhaps went on a chapter or two too long. With that said, I did enjoy the extension of the lore surrounding the Soul Eaters and Renn, though I wished there was a little bit more description and detail in the magic; sometimes i've found this to be delivered incredibly bluntly as if the most normal thing in the world.
Overall, I do feel this is the weakest of the series so far, but as the characters develop and the greater story arc continues I do feel it adds to the series as a whole rather than detracting.
Overall, I do feel this is the weakest of the series so far, but as the characters develop and the greater story arc continues I do feel it adds to the series as a whole rather than detracting.
July 28, 2020
3.5/5
Really cute and exciting!
Really cute and exciting!
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