Rise of the Wolf (Wereworld #1)

Feb 23, 2013 Kristalia rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Kristalia by: Raven.mikhail

Shelves: me-likey-mucho, dark, reviewed, recommended-to-me, mature-young-adult, young-adult

Final rating: ★★★★/★★★★★

Now, this was an interesting book. I missed reading high fantasy and i liked this one. Though i must say that it was pretty much dark, and i have no idea how goodreads classified this to be children's book, because it certainly didn't feel like one. I feel that the world building was a bit different than what i was used to - there were many shapeshifters of all kinds and i loved that. No, seriously, it's an interesting world. Oh, and i heard that the sequels were even b...more

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Nov 13, 2011 Gwenyth Love rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I honestly don't have a bad word to say about this book. It was amazing. Honestly, this will most likely be more of a gush that a review...but hey...it's my blog right?

I don't think I realized this about myself before, but after reading Wereworld I discovered that I love me a character who can get his ass thoroughly kicked, and either run away or luckily win a fight because someone who cared about them helped them out...not just because they are the main character, and they are uber, and have su...more I honestly don't have a bad word to say about this book. It was amazing. Honestly, this will most likely be more of a gush that a review...but hey...it's my blog right?

I don't think I realized this about myself before, but after reading Wereworld I discovered that I love me a character who can get his ass thoroughly kicked, and either run away or luckily win a fight because someone who cared about them helped them out...not just because they are the main character, and they are uber, and have super powers and are God-like. I seriously hate when a main character wins just because they are the main character and so you know they must. It takes the suspense right out of it for me. But with Drew, the main character of Wereworld, you never lose that suspense. That poor boy sure does take his beatings, and takes the time to heal from them afterwards. He doesn't just jump up, all better, and save the world. I respect that.

I also respect the fact that Drew is a true chivalrous character. He does what is right, because it truly bothers him when people are doing wrong. He doesn't want fame and fortune, he would much prefer to hide back at his family's farm herding sheep, but fate won't let him. Half the time he doesn't even mean to be all chivalrous and heroic. When his temper gets him all riled up he steps in to block the punch on the little guy just as quickly as most other men lose their tempers and swing out at whatever is near them. It just comes naturally to Drew to protect and stand up for the people who cannot stand up for themselves. Have I mentioned how much I adore Drew?

A large portion of the characters in this book are what I refer to as shifters, in some form or another. It was quite entertaining to see all the types of shifters, known as Werelords, in the book. The shifting process seemed quite involved and I found myself squirming as characters shifted completely, and sometimes just parts of their bodies. I loved how Werelords broke out their shifted paws, jaws and claws whenever it came time to do battle.

I have to admit that as much as I love werewolves, in this book the wereshark won me over completely. Count Vega of the Cluster Isles was like a Captain Jack Sparrow meets Captain James Hook meets Jaws. He was awesome.

The world building was phenomenal. Everything was so realistic and lively. It reacted to the characters and the characters reacted back in turn. It wasn't just a colorful scene painted in the background merely just to be there. The swamps, the woods, the seas, everything was just so alive! It was easy to immerse oneself deeply into the world around them as they journeyed right there beside Drew every step of the way.

And the story, let's not forget about the story itself! Although not overly unique, the Jobling did such a wonderful job with the story-telling it's almost as fresh as a newly written, never heard before story.

I can't wait for the second one to come out! Rage of the Lions...yup...you know what is coming...and it has to be good!(less)

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Nov 20, 2012 Chris rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adventure, fantasy, guys-read, j, ya, not-graphic

This one was recommended to me by an enthusiastic young male reader, and I can see why. Werewolves for young adults, yes, but none of that romance stuff or competition with vampires or anything at all like the horde of Twilight spawns. It's a high fantasy, where the lords, ladies, and nobility are all werecreatures of one sort or another.

Drew, our young protagonist, is a simple farm lad. Until the day a creature of some sort crashes through the window and kills his mom and he instinctively trans...more

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Jan 09, 2011 Claire (Cem) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ya, great-reads

4.5/5 Review originally published at Cem's Book Hideout.

I must confess that I wasn't sure how much I'd enjoy this book. I thought it sounded good, and that I'd likely consider it a decent read, just maybe not for me. Turned out, I loved it! I'm a huge urban fantasy fan, but rarely a fantasy one. But Drew had me won over in a very short space of time.

Drew is a strong character, but events early in the book take a tole on his confidence and leave him seeming more vulnerable and a little younger th...more 4.5/5 Review originally published at Cem's Book Hideout.

I must confess that I wasn't sure how much I'd enjoy this book. I thought it sounded good, and that I'd likely consider it a decent read, just maybe not for me. Turned out, I loved it! I'm a huge urban fantasy fan, but rarely a fantasy one. But Drew had me won over in a very short space of time.

Drew is a strong character, but events early in the book take a tole on his confidence and leave him seeming more vulnerable and a little younger than he actually is. Yet despite this, he proves himself over and over to be tough, capable and loyal. I loved watching him grow and change as the book went on and see him really find his feet again. There is a very good supporting cast of characters as well, be they the good guys or bad, they all have their specific characteristics that really jump off the page at you.

There is some impressive world building here as well. It's a vivid story, one that has as much horror to it as fantasy, with plenty of action. And pretty much every scene jumps off the page at you. I could see almost the whole story playing out like a movie in my head as I was reading it, right down to camera angles some times! Very unusual for me to see a book played out so clearly, normally characters are my focus, but the scene was just as easy to picture. I love the set up with the various were creatures and all the mythology involved with it. It's a book rich in description of events past and present but never at the cost of the pacing of the book. I found it very hard to put down and just kept turning the pages because I had to find out what happened next.

The first half of he book has a steady pace, not slow by any means as plenty happens, but it does take a real up turn at the halfway point where the tension and danger increases rapidly. And so does the horror aspect I have to say! It's not excessivly graphic but it still gives enough to cause some chills. Not that that's a bad thing. I really enjoyed the dark gritty nature to Rise of the Wolf. Despite the painful events Drew, and the others he meets along his journey face, there is a definite lack of angst. Plenty of emotion to make the characters seem real but never over done either. Which makes it all the more of a pleasure to read!

This is a fantastic start to a new series! It's written in third person and for once that's something I loved. Rise of the Wolf is such a well rounded story, both in plot and with the characters. I loved the world building and could happily have stayed lost in Drew's world for much longer! It's got an actioned packed and intense ending, and despite it not having a true cliff hanger, I was left wishing book 2 was out already. Great read and one I highly recommend!!(less)

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Jan 23, 2011 Sammee (I Want to Read That) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: for-review-read

I don't know why I find myself hesitant to read fantasy books because when I do I seem to really enjoy them. This is a prime example! I found myself completely lost in the story and characters.

The story begins with Drew and his family. When his father and brother leave for the day, Drew and his mother are brutally attacked by a monster. But things take an unexpected turn when Drew himself turns ... and realises not all is as it seems. Forced to run from his family he takes refuge in Dyrewood for...more

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Mar 25, 2011 Book Angel Emma rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The first thing that caught my attention with this book was unbelievably the index. The story is set out in different sections which had my imagination questioning the reasoning for this before I even started reading - Would there be mini-stories? Would it be different points in time? Would it be different characters focalization? Remember this is all before I even started reading the book - the power of the index [ : D ]

Another thing I have to mention about the book before I started reading it,...more The first thing that caught my attention with this book was unbelievably the index. The story is set out in different sections which had my imagination questioning the reasoning for this before I even started reading - Would there be mini-stories? Would it be different points in time? Would it be different characters focalization? Remember this is all before I even started reading the book - the power of the index [ : D ]

Another thing I have to mention about the book before I started reading it, is the beautiful illustrations throughout that are not only eye-catching, detailed and generally gorgeous but really added another dimension to the the story. The chapter heading were visually arresting drawing you into the story even before the words had a chance to.

Written in third person narrative but focalized from Drew's perspective. The use of the third person narrator allows plot hints to be placed surreptitiously into the narrative, different story threads to be created while not distracting from the main theme. The writing is wonderfully descriptive making it easy to imagine the world of Lyssia, for me Curtis Jobling has created an entire mythical world on a par to Middle Earth (well to be completely truthful I found Lyssia actually easier to picture than Middle Earth).

A number of different genres seem to be molded together to create the overall story, the use of fantasy/horror and Gothic imagery provide a powerful and compelling storyline. The imagery is very realistic and relatable. Unfortunately (for me) this also involved a giant serpent - the stuff of my nightmares - thank you so much Curtis *sarcasm*.

The tension builds quickly and doesn't let up for a moment, I was kept flipping the pages with a voracious appetite to know what was going to happen next. After the first few chapters I really felt as if I had bonded with Drew. Such a wonderful character to create within the imagination. You feel for his plight dealing with his unique 'illness'. I practically felt his pain via the vivid description of his transformation and subsequent emotional consequences. The whole ideal that it is what is on the inside that counts really seemed apt applied to Drew. He is charismatic, caring, kind, loyal; what you would class as an all round 'nice guy' even if he is a werewolf. I did keep comparing Drew to Robin Hood, obviously not with the robbery but with the aiding of the oppressed against a tyrannical ruler. Drew's strength of character is amazing and only gets enhanced with the trials and tribulations he has to face. Elements of nature versus nurture enter the story with regards especially to Drew's 'siblings' [ ; D ] Bringing to mind Kane and Abel - brother against brother in the pursuit of power.

All the characters are well-rounded and individually interesting not only for the way in which they interact with Drew. It made me want to know more about their individual stories/history. I wonder if we will in future books????

I have to mention that the inclusion of silver in its traditional context against werecreatures had been given a whole new element in this story.

Without giving away any spoilers I will say the ending was wonderful, maybe I should say new beginning rather than the ending. All the plot threads were artfully woven together providing an engaging conclusion. I am already imagining the movies/video games/action figures/werworld conventions.

I just have to mention that I took the book into the library to read during a free lesson, 3 of the pupils that spotted the book on my desk have already requested to have it reserved for them when it goes onto the computer system, based solely on the cover and the synopsis [ : D ]

Don't forget to check back tomorrow for Trailer Tuesday featuring the WereWorld Trailer and also this weeks Saturday Spotlight a guest post by Curtis Jobling on reading inspirations. (less)

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Apr 15, 2013 Tah Trickster rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: lycanthropic-library, autographed-copies

I wasn't sure what to expect - like many of my werewolf books, it was bought on a whim, based on a long list of titles of werewolf books I saw online, and the title happened to catch my interest. "Wereworld" - the implications are obvious: an entire world filled with, what I assumed, were werewolves.
I was mistaken.
It was, instead, a world filled with werecreatures, only one of which were werewolves: werelions, wererats, wereserpents, werefoxes, werebears, wereboars, and the like.
Rise of the Wolf...more

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May 28, 2013 Greg Turnquist rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A boy named Drew has an ordinary farming life until one night, while his father and brother are out at the market, a beast breaks into their house and kills his mother. Drew is defenseless until he painfully transforms into a wolf. The animal is scared away when Drew's father and brother return. Drew is found turning back into a boy holding his dead mother in his hands. He is chased out of his home and he has to survive in the woods. He finds out that he is a very special boy. He is the last of...more

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Apr 20, 2013 Franziska rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

When I found out that Curtis Jobling was the production designer of Bob the Builder, I laughed out loud. Seriously, I can't imagine anything more different from Wereworld. Who would have thought that someone responsible for a kids' show could turn out such a brilliant fantasy-horror as this?

I find it difficult to pick out real flaws with this book. Sure, okay, the plot may be a little cliched: farm boy discovers that he is the rightful heir to the throne, and must try to overthrow the current ev...more When I found out that Curtis Jobling was the production designer of Bob the Builder, I laughed out loud. Seriously, I can't imagine anything more different from Wereworld. Who would have thought that someone responsible for a kids' show could turn out such a brilliant fantasy-horror as this?

I find it difficult to pick out real flaws with this book. Sure, okay, the plot may be a little cliched: farm boy discovers that he is the rightful heir to the throne, and must try to overthrow the current evil king though he'd rather anyone else do it. But, please, don't get put off by that, because there is so much awesomeness in this book that it quite overshadows that small detail.

Let's start with the world. This is epic fantasy; you can expect dark and vicious forests, forbidding mountains, perilous oceans, and murky swamps. You can expect pirate ships, castle dungeons and executions. And from the cover, you can expect a werewolf. But could you foresee an entire universe made up of shifters, from boar to serpent to shark to lion? These people are werelords (and wereladies), and they govern the Seven Realms of Lyssia. Each one of them can partially transform into an animal, thereby gaining all the natural weapons of that creature, and they have just one vulnerability: silver.

We as readers are used to werewolves, and even people with wings. It is therefore so refreshing to be presented with such variety as this! And not every character is a werelord - I had fun guessing if they were, and if so, which creature? Oh, and in a spark of originality, for once the lion is the villain! The transforming process is well thought out: it isn't as if there is a blinding flash of light and suddenly he has fangs, nor does he turn completely into a wolf. It takes time and practice to gain mastery of the beast within, and that's something I appreciate.

And now, let's move on to the characters. Drew is a gem of a protagonist. He is neither annoyingly arrogant nor irritatingly good - he is a well-crafted (non)human. He is a mother's boy to begin with, thoughtful and hardworking, but as the story progresses we see him emerge slowly as a hero whose born instinct it is to protect. He doesn't particularly care for his heritage - in fact he is dismayed to find himself the son of the late King Wergar - and he doesn't want to challenge the tyrant King Leopold, but he will fight tooth and claw to defend innocent people. If something is wrong, he will speak up; if he has done wrong, he will apologize in a courteous fashion; he does not have a patient temper, but he never blusters - instead, he asserts his opinion firmly and somewhat threateningly. He thinks quickly, is rarely lost for words and, all in all, is awesome.

Two other character I think are particularly worthy of note are Gretchen and Count Vega. Gretchen first appears as an incredibly proud, incredibly annoying werefox whose only role it seems is to pick fights with Drew. Actually, their arguments make for great entertainment. However, she gradually changes so that by the end of the book she is hardly recognizable. Her good qualities are brought to the fore as she learns to care for Drew, and I found myself regarding her favourably in spite of myself. Now for Count Vega. As awesome as Drew is, he has nothing on the Pirate Prince of the Cluster Isles. Two-faced, greedy, selfish, confident and something of a flirt, Vega does have a few noble qualities. He must do, since he's my favourite character.

Well, anyway, while I try to find some good traits in him, I'll say a few words about the story itself. It's exciting. From start to finish Drew is in trouble - either he's running from his enemies, or he's enduring punishment at the hands of those enemies. He rarely gets a break, poor guy. There are plenty of fights, sword against sword, beast versus beast, or beast against sword. There is blood (in fact, watch out for the blood - it is a horror fantasy, after all), there are tears, and a good deal of cold sweat on behalf of the reader as the net closes in around our heroes.

There is so much to recommend about this book. An original world, brilliant characters, and a fast-moving, exciting plot, mark it as one of my favourites. Read it! You won't regret it! And I leave it to you to find anything noble in Count Vega, the wereshark. (less)

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Apr 10, 2011 Monster added it · review of another edition

Curtis Jobling is the creator of the children’s television show “Bob the Builder”, but with his young adult novel Wereworld, he’s gone in an entirely different direction. Wereworld introduces us to Drew, who turns into a werewolf after he is attacked by one. The beast kills his mother, and his father, stumbling onto the scene, thinks Drew did it and stabs him (non-fatally, of course, or there would be no book). Drew finds his way to Hogan, a boy about his age, and his skeptical father. On his tr...more

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Apr 09, 2011 Caroline rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, fantasy, young-adult

I am going to unleash the fan girl within me and say I LOVE THIS BOOK *squealing*!

Drew is a farm boy living with his family in a remoted part of Lyssia. He doesn't fit in and, when compared with his twin brother, feels that he can't do much. One night, something terrible happens to him and before he knows it, he finds himself on the run and having to survive in hostile environments full of werecreatures. His journey though is only beginning and he will go through more than he could ever imagine....more I am going to unleash the fan girl within me and say I LOVE THIS BOOK *squealing*!

Drew is a farm boy living with his family in a remoted part of Lyssia. He doesn't fit in and, when compared with his twin brother, feels that he can't do much. One night, something terrible happens to him and before he knows it, he finds himself on the run and having to survive in hostile environments full of werecreatures. His journey though is only beginning and he will go through more than he could ever imagine.

This book is fantastic and everyone should read it! I was hooked from the first page (literally) and couldn't let go of it. And now all I want is to reread it until I can get my hands on the sequel!

The mythology created by Curtis Jobling is truly fascinating. The world of Lyssia and its mysterious inhabitants and customs blew me away. When we start the story we don't exactly know what is going on and the further we discover this world through Drew's eyes, the more we realise there is to learn. Drew lived in a remoted place and his vision of Lyssia is not the same as someone living in the populated areas. Lyssia is ruled by a ruthless tyrant and all the inhabitants are afraid. We also realise that Drew doesn't exactly believe in the myth of werecreatures but he will soon enough realise that they do exist.
I won't say more on this because if you pick up this book you will love discovering everything and everyone through the story, but I honestly can't get over the amazingness of Lyssia and its inhabitants.

The characters, and Drew in particular, are all thoroughly well-described and multi-dimensional. I absolutely loved Hector, Gretchen and Whitley! Gretchen is the ultimate snotty girl who keeps bringing Drew down, but there is more to her than her haughty attitude. Whitley's character is just amazing and I just loved this character's involvement in the story! The relationship and dynamics between characters made me want to read more and learn more about the story. And you need to read this book in order to meet Count Verga! He is just wow! I loved every single moments of the book with him!

The story-telling is brilliant! It is a third-person point of view but following Drew. Not only will you be hooked from the beginning, but you will let yourself guide through the story by Drew's voice. I always have the nasty habit of guessing the end of a book before it happens and even though I knew where the story was going, I kept being surprised at all the characters coming up along the story and the different plot points. It has been one wonderful ride and I won't be forgetting this adventure anytime soon. To tell you the truth, I read this book three weeks ago and have read a dozen in-between and all I can think about are werecreatures. I have a love for shape-shifters in general, but I have really fallen for this story.

I can't tell you enough how wonderful this book is and what an amazing addition to the fantasy genre! I am more than thrilled that Curtis Jobling started writing and I will be keeping an eye on his future books from now on.

Info: The book is perfect for both boys and girls. It contains some violent scenes so better suited for 11/12+ age range.
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Jan 14, 2011 ALPHAreader rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

‘Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf’ is the first Young Adult paranormal book from Curtis Jobling. Jobling is already a renowned British illustrator and animator, best known for his work on the TV show ‘Bob the Builder’.

The Seven Realms is a mythical world where territories and borders are divided according to Lycanthropic rule. These ‘rulers’ are not only the traditional shapeshifting Werewolves, but a plethora of were animals known as ‘Werelords’. There are Wererats and Werefoxes stretching from The...more

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Jan 01, 2011 Darren Hartwell rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, werewolf

Imagine a fantasy world on par with that created by Tolkien for his Lord of the Rings books, and then take away the orcs, elves, dwarves, etc. and throw in a werewolf. And some werelions. Oh yes, and whilst you're at it wererats, werefoxes, wereboar and even a wereshark. Add to this a huge amount of writing talent and the end product is Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf by Curtis Jobling, the most exciting fantasy story I have read for years.

I imagine that many readers will make the same incorrect ass...more Imagine a fantasy world on par with that created by Tolkien for his Lord of the Rings books, and then take away the orcs, elves, dwarves, etc. and throw in a werewolf. And some werelions. Oh yes, and whilst you're at it wererats, werefoxes, wereboar and even a wereshark. Add to this a huge amount of writing talent and the end product is Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf by Curtis Jobling, the most exciting fantasy story I have read for years.

I imagine that many readers will make the same incorrect assumption about this book that I made: i.e. it is about a werewolf so therefore it must be a horror story. I couldn't have been more wrong - yes, there are some pretty nasty moments throughout the book, but this is truly a traditional fantasy story, although the kind I feel would still have great appeal to horror fans who claim that they "don't do fantasy". The main title, Wereworld, is the big clue to this books genre, for that is exactly what Curtis Jobling as created - a whole new world where the ruling elite are the werelords, all of them shapeshifters, and all able to turn into their own particular animal. Some of these werelords belong to long and magnificent dynasties, others have fallen from grace and now serve the more powerful shapeshifters in some way or another.

Like all great fantasy writers Curtis Jobling has not just created a world for his story, but in Rise of the Wolf has has also created a back history, elements of which he reveals teasingly as the story progresses. This left me completely torn in two as a reader - dying to know how the events of the story would unfold, but also desperate for the action to be put on hold so that I could find out more about this incredibly original fantasy world. This made for perfect reading in my opinion - the pages kept turning and the chapters flew by long into the night as I became totally immersed in the story. This man really knows how to tell a story!

As you can probably guess from my praise so far, the world building is one of the huge strengths of this book, but a well-built fantasy world does not on its own make a great story - for that you need believable characters who readers will grow to love and hate, and Rise of the Wolf is certainly not short of these. First up, there is Drew, a farm boy who lives a simple life with his parents and brother. He is most definitely a mummy's boy, his father very obviously favouring his brother, with whom Drew has very little in common. But he is happy. However, one night something happens that finds Drew on the run, wrongly suspected of a heinous crime committed by a hideous beast, the like of which Drew has never before seen, and so begins Drew's epic journey of discovery. For he is the only remaining werewolf, last in a long line of an ancient royal line, but also a threat to the power of the land's ruler - the evil and merciless werelion King Leopold.

For many authors it can be quite a challenge just to create one or main characters that will pull the reader into their world. However, along with world-building the other gift that Curtis Jobling has as a writer is that of character creation as his fictional world of Lyssia is populated with myriad colourful characters that somehow all manage to stick in the memory of the reader, whether they have appeared in chapter after chapter, or have only made a fleeting appearance in a couple of key scenes. Some of them will make your laugh, some of them may make you cry. Some of them will most definitely pop up in a nightmare at some point in the future, I am sure. The beautiful thing about the whole werelord concept is that as readers we have pre-conceived notions of the personalities that various animals might have, and then when reading about the werelords in their human forms we automatically associate those traits with them. This helped me create very vivid pictures in my mind of what these various characters looked like, thus making them all the more memorable. Sometimes when reading large scale fantasy stories populated with vast numbers of characters I find myself having to stop and remind myself who some of the main characters are; in Wereworld this did not happen even once.

This really is the kind of story that could get reluctant readers hooked on books, although a degree of confidence when reading is needed. I know a good number of academically able boys whose parents despair because they supposedly find book boring, and would rather be playing on their X-Boxes, PS3s, and so on. Having just equipped myself with an iphone 4, and wasted a great deal of time playing with games and apps, I wonder whether I would have read as much if all these fab gadgets had been around back then. What I do know is that Wereworld is one of those books that would have pulled me away from those other distractions and had me enthralled from the first page until the very last, leaving me hungry for the next instalment.(less)

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Sep 02, 2011 Ranting Dragon rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: stephan

http://www.rantingdragon.com/wereworl...

Curtis Jobling, the author of Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf, is also the brains behind Bob the Builder. A book combining Bob the Builder with such a title might not sound very promising to you. In fact, you might note that the very title Wereworld: Rise of the Wolf sounds as corny as you always imagined Bob the Builder to be. Well, if that’s the case, you are spot on.

Much epicness in this one
The first thirty pages introduce us to Drew, a sheepherder who live...more

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Dec 11, 2012 Brenda rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy

I will be the first to admit that I haven't delved into the werewolf/shape shifting genre. I really wasn't sure how a book like this would turn out to be for younger readers. Needless to say, I was really drawn in by the wonderful realm Curtis Jobling created. Not only that, Drew is such a likeable character. He strives to do the right thing above all. The supporting characters also help add dimension to the story providing for the action that is to follow.

The story begins with Drew living in a...more I will be the first to admit that I haven't delved into the werewolf/shape shifting genre. I really wasn't sure how a book like this would turn out to be for younger readers. Needless to say, I was really drawn in by the wonderful realm Curtis Jobling created. Not only that, Drew is such a likeable character. He strives to do the right thing above all. The supporting characters also help add dimension to the story providing for the action that is to follow.

The story begins with Drew living in a small farm town as a shepherd's son. This small town falls under the Seven Realms which are controlled by King Leopold the Lion a mean and ruthless leader. Hints that Drew is somehow different begin to emerge when the farm animals begin to get skittish around him and then he appears to be suffering from some ailment. Things drastically change when a black creature breaks into the home attacking his mother. Drew is forced into transforming into a Werewolf. Despite his efforts, Drew's mother is killed and upon his father's return, he is labelled her murder. Drew flees into the forest when his father attempts to kill him. Drew then roams the forest until he is captured by the Bearlords men. It is then he learns of his parentage and how he is sought after by non other than the King of Lyssia. There is way more to the story but I don't want to give to much away in my review.

Drew's story is a mythical tale involving Kings and Lords, Princes who transform from a human form into their Werelord counterpart, be it a bear, boar, fox or even shark. The detail with which the transformations for Drew are described can seem somewhat graphic (what with bones cracking and faces shifting) but intriguing and not to disturbing. Not a book for the faint of heart, yet it is also a story of allegiances and a boy who is true at heart. A delightful fantasy for a slightly older audience or someone who appreciates fantasy horror with plenty of action. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will be looking for the next in the series as I want to see how the story progresses plus which Werelord will make an appearance next. Overall a 4 out of 5 book for me. An interesting side note, author Curtis Jobling designed "Bob The Builder." He has also posted a missing chapter from the book on his blog this past Halloween. http://badablingthing.blogspot.com/20...

Just for the record, copy of the book provided by Penguin publishing and won at Charlotteslibrary.blogspot. A big thank you to both.

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Dec 22, 2010 Mia rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal, reviews, for-review, young-adult

Every werewolf book has its perks, needless to say, WEREWORLD: Rise of the Wolf is unquestionably a book which stands out from the rest. With its super attractive cover, I got consumed within a world of adventure, action and speck of romance.

The protagonist, Drew, is a character that’s empowered with strength, power and a whole lot of ability. There are many qualities I love however, the main thing I really love how he is extremely determined to do anything.

It was heartbreaking to witness Drew b...more

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Oct 06, 2012 Amanda rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Geared towards younger readers (although perfectly suitable for older readers), Rise of the Wolf tells the tale of Drew, a 16-year-old who discovers that not only is he a werewolf, but he is rightful heir to the murdered Wolf King’s throne. Set in a medieval fantasy world ruled by Werelords, men and women who can shift at will into animals, Drew must use his wits and newfound powers to survive in a land suddenly full of enemies. Drew’s the only one who can unite the kingdom in a massive uprising...more

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Feb 27, 2012 Darth Sparhawk rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

"Rise of the Wolf" is an astonishing fantasy debut and a book, for which I have waited many, many years. For too long the subgenre of the epic fantasy was dying in the vicelike grip of slow-moving, low tension and neverending series of massive proportion and no sense of wonder and adventure at all. With "Rise of the Wolf" Curtis Jobling brings the genre back to its roots and creates an original world, in which he unleashes his imagination to create a fast paced adventure, which could easily be p...more "Rise of the Wolf" is an astonishing fantasy debut and a book, for which I have waited many, many years. For too long the subgenre of the epic fantasy was dying in the vicelike grip of slow-moving, low tension and neverending series of massive proportion and no sense of wonder and adventure at all. With "Rise of the Wolf" Curtis Jobling brings the genre back to its roots and creates an original world, in which he unleashes his imagination to create a fast paced adventure, which could easily be put next to the best works of Terry Brooks, Margaret Weis or David Eddings.
Drew is an ordinary farmboy, who lives with his family and helps them with the cattle. He is courageous and agile, but he is no hero or so he thinks. Things begin to rapidly worsen when his mother is suddenly killed by a mysterious black monster and Drew himself answers to this becoming a monstrous creature too. When his father returns, he finds only his transformed son, blames him for the dead of his beloved wife and attacks him. Terrified, Drew runs for his life, thus becoming a fugitive and losing everything in a few horrifying ours. In the next few months, he lives like an animal in the creepy Dyrewood, being slowly consumed by the wolfish being, which is part of his nature. When he is captured by scouts however, Drew returns to his human self and soon discovers astonishing secrets - that he is a shapeshifter and all nobles in the world are creatures like him. Even more interesting is that he is the last werewolf - and thus is a sworn enemy of the Lion, who has usurped the throne of the king of all Werelords and is determined to wipe out the wolfish kind...
From there to the end, amazing adventures follow. Drew meets other werecreatures, some of them friendly, most of the them not, fights desperate battles against monstrous enemies and never loses the spark that makes him a true wolf - to fight for the weak and oppressed and never to back down when he sees injustices. In a world dominated by cynicism, this is always a welcome message and in a genre, full with pretentious series with obnoxious characters, this is a major comeback, which shows that the covenant, left by JRR Tolkien is still alive. Thank you, Curtis Jobling!(less)

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May 10, 2011 Amy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Tragedy, romance, flying fur, and sharpened, pointy teeth tearing through flesh...to top it all off werewolves were not the only things shifting in this book.

This is the realm of the Werelords. The noble families are all of different were descent. Fox, wolf, bear, and even boar are all represented in the land of Lyssia. Drew and his brother, Trent grew up on a farm with their mother and father, not unlike many other poor farming families in the kingdom. One night, as Drew and his mother awaited...more Tragedy, romance, flying fur, and sharpened, pointy teeth tearing through flesh...to top it all off werewolves were not the only things shifting in this book.

This is the realm of the Werelords. The noble families are all of different were descent. Fox, wolf, bear, and even boar are all represented in the land of Lyssia. Drew and his brother, Trent grew up on a farm with their mother and father, not unlike many other poor farming families in the kingdom. One night, as Drew and his mother awaited the remainder of the family to come back from town, a storm blew in the window of their home along with it the hopes of any normal future Drew had. A hulking monster attacked Drew, slays his mother, and flees after Drew manages to injure the terrifying beast. Upon Mark's (Drew's father) return, he attacks Drew thinking he is responsible for his beautiful wife's murder.
After running Drew through with his sword, the most extraordinary thing happened. Drew not only managed to keep his footing, but he was able to flee.

From here Drew seems to alter the lives of everyone he comes into contact with. Prophecies have been written about a change soon to come. Could Drew be the one foretold in the ancient prophecies? This young lad, who isn't even quite sure what he is, has the innate ability to reach out and help those in their most dire hour. The kingdom is being controlled by the werelion, who has used his power to keep the people downtrodden and looking for a brighter future. Drew may be their only shining hope.

I devoured this novel. I had to force myself on several occasions to put this book down so I could not only work, but get my school work in as well. The scenes were described in great detail, but not to where it bored the reader and stopping the flow and action in the story. I have a tendency to "tune out" when the descriptions are too narrative and puts a halt to the adventures of the characters. The descriptions were done mainly through the viewpoints of the characters, which I always find more interesting than a page narrative about the environment.

The characters are enchanting. Some you love, some you are weary of, some you admire. By the end of the story, I remembered each of their names(which is an accomplishment for me), and am actually invested in their futures. this is not a short story, and we have plenty of time to get to know them intimately.

Some of the parts were predictable in the story, but I think that was still one of the charms of the book. We always know in these stories that we will have the one character, at least, that we will get to see grow, mature, change, and become the person we knew he or she could be. That provided me with the familiar comfort that I long for in certain stories. But there was enough action and twists in the story that I was always wanting to turn the page to see where our heroes and antagonists would take us next. Heroes and enemies popped up where we least expected, and death was not saved for the villains.

This books is set to be published in September of this year. Please, reserve your copy of this book, and put it on your to-read-list. It was an amazing adventure, and it was one I was reluctant to leave behind. Five stars to Wereworld and Curtis Jobling. (less)

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Jan 18, 2011 Michelle (Clover Hill Book Reviews) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: brit-author-challenge-2011

Drew loves the outdoors and being with nature, and from the start you know he's gifted with a unique sense of what is within his world through his senses. This sixth sense is accepted easily by his brother, Trent. Drew has always felt slightly at odds with his father, it's almost as if he has done something to not make the mark with him.

The storyline is vivid and well built, I felt as if I was in there with Drew, especially when he first transforms. His transformation sees the beginning of a new...more Drew loves the outdoors and being with nature, and from the start you know he's gifted with a unique sense of what is within his world through his senses. This sixth sense is accepted easily by his brother, Trent. Drew has always felt slightly at odds with his father, it's almost as if he has done something to not make the mark with him.

The storyline is vivid and well built, I felt as if I was in there with Drew, especially when he first transforms. His transformation sees the beginning of a new way of life, and a harsh reality check for Drew. His life as he knows it unravels, and I really wanted to cry for the innocence lost within the first few chapters. Whilst I wouldn't say this is a horror book, there are grisly scenes in it, some of it is brutal...but still very much a page turner for me.

It wasn't until near the very end I realised with astonishment I'd made the same assumption that Drew had about a character, so that was an eye opener!! I even went so far as to go back to where the characters met to see what happened, but it was very well done and is a very clever part of the book. There was also a fantastic emotional twist towards the end, which completely floored me and came out of nowhere.

I loved the variety of characters in Wereworld. Lady Gretchen got on my nerves from the outset, the snotty madam - I really wanted to slap her in some points :p I enjoyed the developing and changing relationship between her and Drew as they spent time together. I can't but help wonder what's in store for them in future books.

Wereworld is a book of discovery. I must admit that some of it felt preordained, although it was interesting to see how it played out and it was very fast paced. The outcome of who Drew is wasn't a great surprise, but the lead up to it was fantastic. I enjoyed the scenery and vivid world that I felt part of. In almost every chapter a new type of character and threat is exposed, which kept me glued to the pages and wondering what was going to happen next. I found the battle scenes in this to be really satisfying, and the development of Drew and his role in the future of The Seven Realms is something I'm looking forward to reading more about in the next installment. Another author added to my permanent author list.(less)

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Dec 23, 2010 Kirsty (overflowing library) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: review-books, uk-author

I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I don't read an awful lot of fantasy books because I find I don't always get one with them that well but I really did like this.

The story follows the journey of Drew a young man who has just had his world turned upsid down. He has founf out he is a were, his parents weren't his parents and he has been forced to go on the run after an attach that killed the woman he thought was his mother (and whose death he has been blamed for). The first thing I thought...more

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Aug 06, 2012 Lori Galaske rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I tend to stay away from books about werewolves, vampires, and giant cockroaches (Gregory the Outlander by Suzanne Collins), but I met the woman who edited this series and was curious. Drew and his mother are home alone one night when a creature breaks in. Drew's anger rages against the creature, and Drew transforms into a wolf for the first time. When Drew's father and brother come home, they find Drew (in his human form) holding his dead mother. Drew's father, who's always known what Drew is,...more

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May 17, 2011 Beverly rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Imagine a world ruled by Werelords--men and women who can shift at will into bears, lions, and serpents. When Drew suddenly discovers he's not only a werewolf but the long-lost heir to the murdered Wolf King's throne, he must use his wits and newfound powers to survive in a land suddenly full of enemies. Drew's the only one who can unite the kingdom in a massive uprising against its tyrant ruler, Leopold the Lion. But the king is hot on Drew's tail and won't rest until he's got the rebel Wolf's...more

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Feb 28, 2012 Erik rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ya-fantasy-sci-fi, read-in-en

3,5/5
Well, what to say about this book. When I started reading it I found myself inbetween the world of Eragon and The Name of the Wind. I have to say that thats my cup of tea, but I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book.

'You're the last of the werewolves son. Don't fight it...Conquer it' I just hoped it is not going to be another story like The Wolf of the Mercy Falls story. And it sure was not!
The first sixty or so pages are rather boring, we meet our hero Drew, a charming farmboy, the...more

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Jan 10, 2013 Fernanda Assis rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Esta resenha foi postada no blog Viagem Literária, li a edição em português e posto aqui parte da resenha porque eu adorei o livro e vi que não é muito conhecido.

Comecei este livro pensando que era mais uma fantasia juvenil, mas ao fim do terceiro capítulo já estava viciada na história e em tudo que acontecia; e o autor consegue manter um ritmo alucinante e cheio de reviravoltas até o final.

Drew é tudo que um protagonista deve ser: um garoto pobre da fazenda que se vê acusado injustamente pelo a...more Esta resenha foi postada no blog Viagem Literária, li a edição em português e posto aqui parte da resenha porque eu adorei o livro e vi que não é muito conhecido.

Comecei este livro pensando que era mais uma fantasia juvenil, mas ao fim do terceiro capítulo já estava viciada na história e em tudo que acontecia; e o autor consegue manter um ritmo alucinante e cheio de reviravoltas até o final.

Drew é tudo que um protagonista deve ser: um garoto pobre da fazenda que se vê acusado injustamente pelo assassinato da própria mãe e foge para a segurança da floresta; um rapaz que tem dentro de sim um monstro que ele ainda não aprendeu a controlar; um garoto assustado que não quer para si todas as responsabilidade de ser o último herdeiro dos lobos. Acima de tudo um rapaz honesto, lutador, que não admite injustiça e que não irá tolerar os desmandos do Rei Leopold.

Nosso personagem é enclausurado, espancado, torturado. Nós agonizamos junto com Drew a cada página, lutamos junto com ele a cada reviravolta e torcemos em alto som pela sua vitória em uma batalha quase perdida.

Eu me apaixonei pelo protagonista, junto com Harry Potter, Percy Jackson e Will ele entra para o ranking dos meus personagens masculinos de YA preferidos. Além de Drew os melhores personagens são seu amigo Hector um Boarlord e curandeiro, e a insuportável e divertida – na mesma medida – Gretchen a Werefox. Não falei muito dos personagens lá no texto acima para não contar demais sobre o livro e deixar a surpresa para vocês.

Eu gostei muito do trabalho de capa e da edição em geral, tem pequenas ilustrações no início de cada capítulo e uma ótima diagramação. Encontrei alguns erros de digitação, mas nada que pudesse incomodar na avaliação geral da obra.

Este livro está longe de agradar só o público juvenil, é uma história bem ambientada, com uma mitologia fantástica e uma evolução sensacional. Eu devorei o livro e já estou louca pela continuação. Espero de verdade que a saga fique bem conhecida por aqui e entre no gosto das massas rs. (less)

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Feb 17, 2011 Dwayne rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-reads, for-review

Reviewed @ Girls Without a Bookshelf.

Of the few epic books that I have come across to read, the general trend appears to be that they are all, in fact, unequivocally jaw dropping. I'm glad I found another to add to the list in Curtis Jobling's Werewold, for this is one brilliant start to what I'm sure will be a great epic fantasy series.

As epics encompass a plot set in a grand scale, it is usually my imagination that benefits most from such readings. I must say that Wereworld is an engaging book...more

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Dec 28, 2010 Mahesh Subramaniam rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I’d say the best way to describe this book is Pirates of the Caribbean meets Lord of the rings. Curtis Joblings introduces us to a completely unique and exciting world full of unpredictability and adventure.
But don’t be fooled by Curtis Joblings graceful writing style, he doesn’t pull any punches. The amount of horrible things that happen to the main characters especially Drew really makes you wonder exactly how much pain can a reader endure.

The first half of the book develops at a calm steady...more

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Oct 05, 2011 Gwenyth Love rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: from-publisher, owned, penguin-usa, arc, signed, duplicates, bea2012, will-trade

I honestly don't have a bad word to say about this book. It was amazing. Honestly, this will most likely be more of a gush that a review...but hey...it's my blog right?

I don't think I realized this about myself before, but after reading Wereworld I discovered that I love me a character who can get his ass thoroughly kicked, and either run away or luckily win a fight because someone who cared about them helped them out...not just because they are the main character, and they are uber, and have su...more I honestly don't have a bad word to say about this book. It was amazing. Honestly, this will most likely be more of a gush that a review...but hey...it's my blog right?

I don't think I realized this about myself before, but after reading Wereworld I discovered that I love me a character who can get his ass thoroughly kicked, and either run away or luckily win a fight because someone who cared about them helped them out...not just because they are the main character, and they are uber, and have super powers and are God-like. I seriously hate when a main character wins just because they are the main character and so you know they must. It takes the suspense right out of it for me. But with Drew, the main character of Wereworld, you never lose that suspense. That poor boy sure does take his beatings, and takes the time to heal from them afterwards. He doesn't just jump up, all better, and save the world. I respect that.

I also respect the fact that Drew is a true chivalrous character. He does what is right, because it truly bothers him when people are doing wrong. He doesn't want fame and fortune, he would much prefer to hide back at his family's farm herding sheep, but fate won't let him. Half the time he doesn't even mean to be all chivalrous and heroic. When his temper gets him all riled up he steps in to block the punch on the little guy just as quickly as most other men lose their tempers and swing out at whatever is near them. It just comes naturally to Drew to protect and stand up for the people who cannot stand up for themselves. Have I mentioned how much I adore Drew?

A large portion of the characters in this book are what I refer to as shifters, in some form or another. It was quite entertaining to see all the types of shifters, known as Werelords, in the book. The shifting process seemed quite involved and I found myself squirming as characters shifted completely, and sometimes just parts of their bodies. I loved how Werelords broke out their shifted paws, jaws and claws whenever it came time to do battle.

I have to admit that as much as I love werewolves, in this book the wereshark won me over completely. Count Vega of the Cluster Isles was like a Captain Jack Sparrow meets Captain James Hook meets Jaws. He was awesome.

The world building was phenomenal. Everything was so realistic and lively. It reacted to the characters and the characters reacted back in turn. It wasn't just a colorful scene painted in the background merely just to be there. The swamps, the woods, the seas, everything was just so alive! It was easy to immerse oneself deeply into the world around them as they journeyed right there beside Drew every step of the way.

And the story, let's not forget about the story itself! Although not overly unique, the Jobling did such a wonderful job with the story-telling it's almost as fresh as a newly written, never heard before story.

I can't wait for the second one to come out! Rage of the Lions...yup...you know what is coming...and it has to be good!(less)

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Jan 20, 2011 Justin rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, own

Drew Ferran was raised on a rural farmstead in an area called the Cold Coast. Drew lived the simple life with his family until tragedy struck one night while his father and brother were away at market. A monster invades their home. While terrified, Drew unleashes a beast from within himself that he never knew existed. His father and brother return to a gruesome scene of Drew huddled over his bloodied mother. Confusion and rage ensue as the blame quickly falls on Drew. He is forced to flee his ow...more Drew Ferran was raised on a rural farmstead in an area called the Cold Coast. Drew lived the simple life with his family until tragedy struck one night while his father and brother were away at market. A monster invades their home. While terrified, Drew unleashes a beast from within himself that he never knew existed. His father and brother return to a gruesome scene of Drew huddled over his bloodied mother. Confusion and rage ensue as the blame quickly falls on Drew. He is forced to flee his own home to the forests where he has to survive on his own. Isolated and alone, Drew must come to terms with his demons and his destiny.

It has been awhile since I’ve read something in the young adult category. I’d forgotten how much I enjoy the simple way these stories are told. The drawback of its simplicity is that the plot is quite transparent — I knew what was ultimately going to happen by the end of the second or third chapter. Even so, it was still a very enjoyable journey. Despite my initial reservations about the simple plot, I found myself excited to come home from work and buzz through a few chapters before bed.

The characters are likable in Rise of the Wolf, even if they are the typical Rurals, Royalty, and Renegades (my three R’s of fantasy characters) you see in most medieval fantasy. It’s also the Werecreateures themselves. The Weres retain most of their cognitive ability when transformed; They can even talk. Weres are also the royalty of this world. They pass down the transforming abilities genetically. Families of Werebears, boars, lions, and others are the nobles that control the various lands that make up the kingdom of Lyssia.

I changed my star rating for Rise of the Wolf three times. Bouncing from 3 to 3.5 before settling on the higher score of 4 stars. I was torn because I actually liked the book a great deal, but could not shake the feeling that such a cool idea for a world was wasted on another “farm boy finds his destiny” story line. I then came to the conclusion that I’m not your typical 13 year old. I am in fact 30, and have read more fantasy than your average young adult. If I had stumbled across Rise of the Wolf at an earlier age, it might very well be listed as one my favorite books and I’d think back on it fondly. Kind of like books you read a long time ago which might not now speak to you as they once did. The classic concepts used in Rise of the Wolf would have been new to me when I was the age this book was intended for. I figured it wasn’t quite fair to hold it to the same standards as the books I typically read.

Rise of the Wolf is the start of a new series by Curtis Jobling. Jobling has vast experience in communicating to a young audience. He is after all, the creator of Bob the Builder. If you are familiar with Jobling then you need to rid yourself of any preconceptions immediately. Rise of the Wolf is very much young adult complete with lots of blood, torture, and general mayhem. Nothing too graphic for 12 or 13 year olds, but I hesitate to recommend it for anyone younger than that. Parents should definitely give it a read first. Overall I found the characters to be charming, and the story engaging and fun — exactly what a YA book should be. The ending left no question that the intention is to release more WEREWORLD books, and I truly hope they do. —Justin for fantasyliterature.com(less)

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Jan 03, 2011 Karen rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I wasn't really sure I'd enjoy Rise of the Wolf as it's aimed more at boys aged 11+, but once I started reading I found it very hard to put down.

I really liked Drew, the 16 year old main character. He had not been forewarned about the dramatic transformation that would change his life forever and I really felt for him, especially during the first few chapters. This poor young man is put through more torture, life trials and battles than I would have thought possible in one book!

Rise of the Wolf...more

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Rise of the Wolf (Wereworld #1)

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