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The Wolf Wars #1
Moon Burned
Shift, Fight, Survive.
Those are the rules of The Ring. Two wolves enter, one wolf leaves.
Rukiya Moonborn is a slave, a werewolf whose master forces her and many others to fight to the death for the entertainment of the wealthy. Named 'Dogs' after the lesser beasts, wolves like Rook live short, violent lives. The masters dangle the illusion of hope in front of the Dogs by insisting any wolf who survives 100 fights in The Ring can win his or her freedom.
Rook is on her eighteenth fight against the West Coast Champion—the biggest she-wolf anyone has ever seen. As if this weren't enough, Rook finds a wolf pup who is destined for slavery as a Dog, and helps the child escape the master's clutches—a crime easily punishable by death.
When Ryker—the master's handsome right-hand—catches her in the act, Rook embarks on a journey that will be the ultimate test of her courage and strength.
Those are the rules of The Ring. Two wolves enter, one wolf leaves.
Rukiya Moonborn is a slave, a werewolf whose master forces her and many others to fight to the death for the entertainment of the wealthy. Named 'Dogs' after the lesser beasts, wolves like Rook live short, violent lives. The masters dangle the illusion of hope in front of the Dogs by insisting any wolf who survives 100 fights in The Ring can win his or her freedom.
Rook is on her eighteenth fight against the West Coast Champion—the biggest she-wolf anyone has ever seen. As if this weren't enough, Rook finds a wolf pup who is destined for slavery as a Dog, and helps the child escape the master's clutches—a crime easily punishable by death.
When Ryker—the master's handsome right-hand—catches her in the act, Rook embarks on a journey that will be the ultimate test of her courage and strength.
272 pages, Paperback
First published July 22, 2017
485 people are currently reading
470 people want to read
About the author
H.D. Gordon
46 books622 followersH. D. Gordon is the author of several fantasy series with strong female leads.
She is the mother of two amazing daughters, and a lover of nature. She believes our actions have ripple effects, and in the interconnectedness of all things.
H. D. spends her time with family, eating desserts, and taking strolls through the forests of New Jersey.
Please visit hdgordonbooks.com for more details.
She is the mother of two amazing daughters, and a lover of nature. She believes our actions have ripple effects, and in the interconnectedness of all things.
H. D. spends her time with family, eating desserts, and taking strolls through the forests of New Jersey.
Please visit hdgordonbooks.com for more details.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
April 21, 2018
This one was a nice surprise for me. I don’t usually go in for the Werewolf shifter books but something about the blurb in this one drew me in, and I wasn’t disappointed! So if you do like shifter PNR then this is a definite win
The best way I can describe it a cross between “12 years a slave” and “Gladiator”
Rukiya or Rook is as strong as she looks on the cover. Fierce and loyal the main love story here for me was the love between Rook and her BFF Goldie who is a slave used for pleasure. Split up and bought by different Masters Rook doesn’t forget about Goldie and wants to be reunited.
(a dog named Golide I know )
if you don’t want any more info than the blurb gives then don’t read on
The main story begins with Rooks next fight against the champion of another Aphas territory. During which she helps a young girl escape slavery, she gets the attention of a Hound called Ryker who is basically the beta of the visiting Alpha. After winning the match Rook is then bought to replace the champion in the upcoming arena games. The journey really begins here where she is moved to a new land and must compete in the games. She still has the attention of Ryker who is now her trainer and we get a sort of love interest here (Mild heat level).
In the background to all this we have pups getting stolen before they can be collared for slavery, Rook must make decisions which could affect all the Dogs in a bid for freedom.
It was really enjoyable read with plenty of action. Rook is only 18 but reads as a character much older, because of all the hardships she’s gone through in slavery. She defiantly doesn’t let any male dominate her even in the bedroom. The ending left me downloading the next book in a hurry!
Available on KU
The best way I can describe it a cross between “12 years a slave” and “Gladiator”
Rukiya or Rook is as strong as she looks on the cover. Fierce and loyal the main love story here for me was the love between Rook and her BFF Goldie who is a slave used for pleasure. Split up and bought by different Masters Rook doesn’t forget about Goldie and wants to be reunited.
(a dog named Golide I know )
if you don’t want any more info than the blurb gives then don’t read on
The main story begins with Rooks next fight against the champion of another Aphas territory. During which she helps a young girl escape slavery, she gets the attention of a Hound called Ryker who is basically the beta of the visiting Alpha. After winning the match Rook is then bought to replace the champion in the upcoming arena games. The journey really begins here where she is moved to a new land and must compete in the games. She still has the attention of Ryker who is now her trainer and we get a sort of love interest here (Mild heat level).
In the background to all this we have pups getting stolen before they can be collared for slavery, Rook must make decisions which could affect all the Dogs in a bid for freedom.
It was really enjoyable read with plenty of action. Rook is only 18 but reads as a character much older, because of all the hardships she’s gone through in slavery. She defiantly doesn’t let any male dominate her even in the bedroom. The ending left me downloading the next book in a hurry!
Available on KU
February 7, 2019
Two fortunate things: nobody labelled this book as YA (I'd have probably skipped it) and I haven't read any reviews beforehand (the 'this book is a cross between this hyped thing and that hyped thing' reviews only serve as a warning to me not to start reading it; unless it's a Monty Pythonesque type of a story; or lovecraftian).
Having been spared all the above, I started reading Moon Burned with zero expectations. It's good.
The protagonist is a young woman living in a world where Pack Masters own slaves. Rukiya is a Dog, a wolf slave used in fights to the death. Other wolves are used for sex, some for other things. The society she grew up in is horrendous. The slaves have magical collars around their necks so they can't run away easily. The Hounds (a couple of steps above the Dogs) would hunt them down. The thing about Rukiya, though, is that her spirit is far far from broken.
Still, this is a really good first book in a series.
I'd like to think that certain characters are eligible for redemption, but the author didn't even give a hint of that. There's only my hope as a reader that one of the characters () in this book will be redeemed. I'd check the spoilers to see, but other readers didn't give much away as far as the instalments are concerned. I love redemption stories, so I'm not happy about that.
Having been spared all the above, I started reading Moon Burned with zero expectations. It's good.
The protagonist is a young woman living in a world where Pack Masters own slaves. Rukiya is a Dog, a wolf slave used in fights to the death. Other wolves are used for sex, some for other things. The society she grew up in is horrendous. The slaves have magical collars around their necks so they can't run away easily. The Hounds (a couple of steps above the Dogs) would hunt them down. The thing about Rukiya, though, is that her spirit is far far from broken.
Still, this is a really good first book in a series.
I'd like to think that certain characters are eligible for redemption, but the author didn't even give a hint of that. There's only my hope as a reader that one of the characters () in this book will be redeemed. I'd check the spoilers to see, but other readers didn't give much away as far as the instalments are concerned. I love redemption stories, so I'm not happy about that.
October 3, 2023
Drįsčiau teigti, kad net visai nebloga knyga, žinoma tik pabaiga tokia, kad norisi griebti antrą dalį ir žinoti kas ir kaip toliau🙈 patiko, kad Rukiya nebuvo iš tų “silpnų” veikėjų. Ji kovojo už išgyvenimą, už save. Gal kartais atrodė “akla” kai kuriems dalykams. Pavyzdžiui Ryker’iui🙈 laikau 🤞 kad “atmerktų” akis šiuo klausimu toliau, nes jis man patinka🤭
Aiir tikriausiai pamiršau paminėti, kad knyga fantastinė😅 apie vilkolakius🤭
Aiir tikriausiai pamiršau paminėti, kad knyga fantastinė😅 apie vilkolakius🤭
February 9, 2018
I had zero hesitation giving this five stars despite some weird hiccups along the way.
This is my first book by this author and I can't say I'm disappointed. Rook is a hardass with a long list of moments where life has seriously fucked her over. I liked how this world of shifters was brutal in a whole new way. It gave zero fucks and zero mercy for everyone. More than often I found Rook's situations to be compelling as we all become horrified at the lengths she will go to survive. I don't even blame her for waffling between heartfelt conviction and utter dispassion.
Now what I could have done without... was well, the main relationship arc between Ryker and Rook. It wasn't convincing and felt unfinished, though I think I'll attribute that to it being the first book. There was a promise for something more in his secrets and her hate (which was repeatedly stated) but it's just... I guess I'll just have to wait and see.
This is my first book by this author and I can't say I'm disappointed. Rook is a hardass with a long list of moments where life has seriously fucked her over. I liked how this world of shifters was brutal in a whole new way. It gave zero fucks and zero mercy for everyone. More than often I found Rook's situations to be compelling as we all become horrified at the lengths she will go to survive. I don't even blame her for waffling between heartfelt conviction and utter dispassion.
Now what I could have done without... was well, the main relationship arc between Ryker and Rook. It wasn't convincing and felt unfinished, though I think I'll attribute that to it being the first book. There was a promise for something more in his secrets and her hate (which was repeatedly stated) but it's just... I guess I'll just have to wait and see.
July 10, 2024
Re-listened July 10, 2024.
This was a solid 5-star read 🤩
Holy shit..!!!
This is a book that makes you check the battery level on your Kindle to be sure you can keep reading 👀
It also makes you jump straight to the next book in the series because .... holy hell..! .... I just can't wait to continue..!
The world, the characters, the originality, the violence, the blood, the kindness, the struggles, the unfairness, the fucking everything..!! Soooo good..!
Do I recommend?
Hell YEAH..!!
(-and I only curse when pissed off or really excited 😉)
******
Reread 7/10-22
🎧📚
Narrated by Rachel Dulude
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Still AWESOME! 💯❤️
This was a solid 5-star read 🤩
Holy shit..!!!
This is a book that makes you check the battery level on your Kindle to be sure you can keep reading 👀
It also makes you jump straight to the next book in the series because .... holy hell..! .... I just can't wait to continue..!
The world, the characters, the originality, the violence, the blood, the kindness, the struggles, the unfairness, the fucking everything..!! Soooo good..!
Do I recommend?
Hell YEAH..!!
(-and I only curse when pissed off or really excited 😉)
******
Reread 7/10-22
🎧📚
Narrated by Rachel Dulude
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Still AWESOME! 💯❤️
September 19, 2020
DNF at 57%
The entire book our MC is so angry and rude and just an out right bitch to the love interest. and through out the book he just keeps being nice to her, he just keeps proving he is looking out for her and trying to do the right thing when ever possible and she is STILL just so angry at him constantly. Here's everything Ryker does for Rook
1. Stops a bar fight she caused when she was bout to get her ass kicked
2. Sees her smuggling a child out of the compound and he doesn't alert his men
3. Rescues her from being jumped by three wolves and NURSES HER BACK TO HEALTH (With expensive spelled meds)
4. convinces a (slightly)better owner to buy her from a shitter one.
5. Stops a hound from beating her after she almost kills another dog in front of the entire pack
6. Shows her a cave that she can use as housing so she doesn't have to scavenge materials to build her own
7. Brings her large amounts of almost gourmet quality meats and cheeses EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. for 40 odd days
and through out all this he never once asks her for anything other than her company. HELLO?!?! Why do you hate this man? I'm 57% in and they are just about to hate fuck and I'm so not into that. Like what the hell?
The entire book our MC is so angry and rude and just an out right bitch to the love interest. and through out the book he just keeps being nice to her, he just keeps proving he is looking out for her and trying to do the right thing when ever possible and she is STILL just so angry at him constantly. Here's everything Ryker does for Rook
1. Stops a bar fight she caused when she was bout to get her ass kicked
2. Sees her smuggling a child out of the compound and he doesn't alert his men
3. Rescues her from being jumped by three wolves and NURSES HER BACK TO HEALTH (With expensive spelled meds)
4. convinces a (slightly)better owner to buy her from a shitter one.
5. Stops a hound from beating her after she almost kills another dog in front of the entire pack
6. Shows her a cave that she can use as housing so she doesn't have to scavenge materials to build her own
7. Brings her large amounts of almost gourmet quality meats and cheeses EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. for 40 odd days
and through out all this he never once asks her for anything other than her company. HELLO?!?! Why do you hate this man? I'm 57% in and they are just about to hate fuck and I'm so not into that. Like what the hell?
April 9, 2018
This book is amazing! Complete stunner of writing and characters.
Just finished the first book and I’m going to dive right in to book 2 as fast as possible. This book and series deserves some major attention. The story, the characters, the plot tension and sexual tension are all 5 stars. 🤩
Rukiya and her H are such an interesting couple. The world is unique and seems loosely based on a Roman gladiator idea. Action just flows along and you the reader are swept right with it, but the emotional feelings of being a slave, trapped into a life and forced to do so many things for your survival are also rendered in words so well that I was, well, spellbound, is a good word for what this book did to me.
P.s. Rukiya is a badass. She’s definitely one of my very favorite characters. She’s tough, loyal, and doesn’t back down (but not in a fakey annoying way) but also has the smallest side of vulnerability. I loved her!
Just finished the first book and I’m going to dive right in to book 2 as fast as possible. This book and series deserves some major attention. The story, the characters, the plot tension and sexual tension are all 5 stars. 🤩
Rukiya and her H are such an interesting couple. The world is unique and seems loosely based on a Roman gladiator idea. Action just flows along and you the reader are swept right with it, but the emotional feelings of being a slave, trapped into a life and forced to do so many things for your survival are also rendered in words so well that I was, well, spellbound, is a good word for what this book did to me.
P.s. Rukiya is a badass. She’s definitely one of my very favorite characters. She’s tough, loyal, and doesn’t back down (but not in a fakey annoying way) but also has the smallest side of vulnerability. I loved her!
December 30, 2017
more like 4.5
I really enjoyed this one. This is wolf shifters, but not as you know them. The world is unique and a little bit dark with the wolves separated into classes ranging from the masters who control different parts of the land down to the slaves who either end up prize fighters or prostitutes for the entertainment of the wealthy. Rook is a pretty badass heroine, a successful prize fighter who has unexpectedly survived and flourished in the ring despite her small size and who isn't distracted her morals by a hot guy.
I won't spoil the story by saying too much more, but I had no real idea what I was getting into and I couldn't put it down
I really enjoyed this one. This is wolf shifters, but not as you know them. The world is unique and a little bit dark with the wolves separated into classes ranging from the masters who control different parts of the land down to the slaves who either end up prize fighters or prostitutes for the entertainment of the wealthy. Rook is a pretty badass heroine, a successful prize fighter who has unexpectedly survived and flourished in the ring despite her small size and who isn't distracted her morals by a hot guy.
I won't spoil the story by saying too much more, but I had no real idea what I was getting into and I couldn't put it down
August 11, 2017
Waiting for November
Ok, this book was written by one of my favorite authors. She always gives me my tough as nails, give better than the get tough heroine. I thought I saw the budding romance going one way to be super surprised and a little pleased how it left off. I read this in ebook form but now I'm going to Amazon to add in paper form now. No hesitation - 5 star read. Wish it was November now.❤️💕💕💕👌🏻🎁 P.S. the first few pages I blew by to get to the good stuff
Ok, this book was written by one of my favorite authors. She always gives me my tough as nails, give better than the get tough heroine. I thought I saw the budding romance going one way to be super surprised and a little pleased how it left off. I read this in ebook form but now I'm going to Amazon to add in paper form now. No hesitation - 5 star read. Wish it was November now.❤️💕💕💕👌🏻🎁 P.S. the first few pages I blew by to get to the good stuff
August 26, 2021
Free Kindle Read.
3.75 Stars
I went in to this with zero expectations. I had no idea what it was about, and I'm sort of glad about that.
It's not a happy tale. It's a shifter slave story like Gladiator. The characters are easy to sympathize with, and by the end, I had a LOT of feelings about them.
It doesn't end on a cliffhanger, but this is very obviously the first installment in a bigger story. I will continue with it once I get Kindle Unlimited again.
I really enjoyed the writing, and will look up other things by this author.
3.75 Stars
I went in to this with zero expectations. I had no idea what it was about, and I'm sort of glad about that.
It's not a happy tale. It's a shifter slave story like Gladiator. The characters are easy to sympathize with, and by the end, I had a LOT of feelings about them.
It doesn't end on a cliffhanger, but this is very obviously the first installment in a bigger story. I will continue with it once I get Kindle Unlimited again.
I really enjoyed the writing, and will look up other things by this author.
September 7, 2021
This series sadly doesn't keep the promises made by the premise.
The initial impression you get is a strong and smart fmc trying to survive impossible and degrading life circumstances while fighting against hopelessness.
Strong start, interesting initial conditions, and a kick-ass heroine. Sounds great.
Sadly the MC degenerates into a weak caricature of herself because the author wants her to also be a pining damsel at the same time which are two concepts that just don't mix. Sadly this exact flaw is rather common with kickass fmcs. You can't eat the cake and have it too. There is only one possible direction that makes any sense. From less badass to more badass.
A very similar thing happens with her worldview. While we start out with a heroine that already got over the whole scruple bs to a point where she understands that she has to kill or be killed she reverts to this pathetic indecisive thing and starts with all the endlessly frustrating bs like letting your enemies live so they can stab you in the back later on and wasting invaluable time to fret over the ethics of decisions mid-fight and all that annoying shit.
Basically, it starts out as an adult book but gets progressively more YA.
Furthermore, this series has an obsession with scant clothing and nudity that came across as really weird to me. Especially the first book has sections that just consist of various fabricated reasons for the mc to be as naked as possible chained together.
Speaking of which, a much more clichcéed issue is how the MC constantly lusts after men. You can tell how important a male character is going to be just by how much the MC lusts after him. It's so bad that I get the feeling this might be a reverse harem in disguise. There just is this typical kind of interaction you see in basically all PnR that marks the male love interest but with multiple guys (just like in typical RH). I really hope it doesn't end up being a stupid love triangle or something.
If you take a closer look at the world-building you can tell quite quickly that the author didn't.
A lot of the stuff that is apparently the case in this world makes no logical sense but I am sadly used to this at this point. Especially from a societal standpoint, it's incredibly black and white and the power dynamics make absolutely no sense. The entire society is this absurd tyrannical hierarchy in which everyone is oppressed and a tyrant at the same time.
The initial impression you get is a strong and smart fmc trying to survive impossible and degrading life circumstances while fighting against hopelessness.
Strong start, interesting initial conditions, and a kick-ass heroine. Sounds great.
Sadly the MC degenerates into a weak caricature of herself because the author wants her to also be a pining damsel at the same time which are two concepts that just don't mix. Sadly this exact flaw is rather common with kickass fmcs. You can't eat the cake and have it too. There is only one possible direction that makes any sense. From less badass to more badass.
A very similar thing happens with her worldview. While we start out with a heroine that already got over the whole scruple bs to a point where she understands that she has to kill or be killed she reverts to this pathetic indecisive thing and starts with all the endlessly frustrating bs like letting your enemies live so they can stab you in the back later on and wasting invaluable time to fret over the ethics of decisions mid-fight and all that annoying shit.
Basically, it starts out as an adult book but gets progressively more YA.
Furthermore, this series has an obsession with scant clothing and nudity that came across as really weird to me. Especially the first book has sections that just consist of various fabricated reasons for the mc to be as naked as possible chained together.
Speaking of which, a much more clichcéed issue is how the MC constantly lusts after men. You can tell how important a male character is going to be just by how much the MC lusts after him. It's so bad that I get the feeling this might be a reverse harem in disguise. There just is this typical kind of interaction you see in basically all PnR that marks the male love interest but with multiple guys (just like in typical RH). I really hope it doesn't end up being a stupid love triangle or something.
If you take a closer look at the world-building you can tell quite quickly that the author didn't.
A lot of the stuff that is apparently the case in this world makes no logical sense but I am sadly used to this at this point. Especially from a societal standpoint, it's incredibly black and white and the power dynamics make absolutely no sense. The entire society is this absurd tyrannical hierarchy in which everyone is oppressed and a tyrant at the same time.
June 16, 2019
I absolutely loved everything about this book! The worldbuilding was smart and intriguing, the main character was flawed, entertaining, and extremely likable, and the romantic aspect was sexy and steamy without being the focus of the plot.
The idea of werewolves having a brutal heirarchy with slaves/gladiators at the bottom, forced to fight in death matches for entertainment, was absolutely ingenius and enthralling. Such a unique world and the picture painted with depth to make it come alive with all of its cruelty and grittiness. The stakes were always incredibly high, the build-up to fights was perfect for the amount of tension I felt for the main character, and everything she risked each time.
Rook is immediately admirable for her cold, badass attitude. At the beginning, she's jaded and hopeless yet that doesn't put a damper on her ferocity; giving literally "no fucks" doesn't prevent her from lashing out and protecting her pride or standing up for herself, and I cheered her on at her most apathetic, fiercely bitter moments. She's a fricking rockstar. But then, as the book goes on and she is drawn out of herself, awakening to how messed up her life is, finding small things to live for, even something as simple as dignity and her right to live, my admiration only grew. What an awesome character. She makes mistakes, she's rash and bold, but very entertaining and relatable as a result.
I also was absolutely tickled by the romantic inclusions. So many sexy potentials are introduced, even for brief moments of charming banter, these men who are amused by Rook's prickly nature, and who I desperately wish to see again. The main relationship is with the Head Hound, Ryker, and yeah, that's as icky as it sounds, the prison guard romantically pursuing the slave who's existence is literally in the palm of his hand. The sexual tension was great and I laughed in childish glee for all the times Rook rebuffs him, even as my heart cringed, wishing she might just give in. It was a lovely teasing dance between her better judgement and the hope Ryker inspires; we know he's bad for her, but at times, he looks so good too. In any case, it felt real to me, the back and forth, keeping things interesting, the development of it moving right along with Rook's growth as a character.
Definitely a new favorite author and another series to fall in love with.
The idea of werewolves having a brutal heirarchy with slaves/gladiators at the bottom, forced to fight in death matches for entertainment, was absolutely ingenius and enthralling. Such a unique world and the picture painted with depth to make it come alive with all of its cruelty and grittiness. The stakes were always incredibly high, the build-up to fights was perfect for the amount of tension I felt for the main character, and everything she risked each time.
Rook is immediately admirable for her cold, badass attitude. At the beginning, she's jaded and hopeless yet that doesn't put a damper on her ferocity; giving literally "no fucks" doesn't prevent her from lashing out and protecting her pride or standing up for herself, and I cheered her on at her most apathetic, fiercely bitter moments. She's a fricking rockstar. But then, as the book goes on and she is drawn out of herself, awakening to how messed up her life is, finding small things to live for, even something as simple as dignity and her right to live, my admiration only grew. What an awesome character. She makes mistakes, she's rash and bold, but very entertaining and relatable as a result.
I also was absolutely tickled by the romantic inclusions. So many sexy potentials are introduced, even for brief moments of charming banter, these men who are amused by Rook's prickly nature, and who I desperately wish to see again. The main relationship is with the Head Hound, Ryker, and yeah, that's as icky as it sounds, the prison guard romantically pursuing the slave who's existence is literally in the palm of his hand. The sexual tension was great and I laughed in childish glee for all the times Rook rebuffs him, even as my heart cringed, wishing she might just give in. It was a lovely teasing dance between her better judgement and the hope Ryker inspires; we know he's bad for her, but at times, he looks so good too. In any case, it felt real to me, the back and forth, keeping things interesting, the development of it moving right along with Rook's growth as a character.
Definitely a new favorite author and another series to fall in love with.
January 23, 2018
The wolf wars series by H.D Gordon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Favourite Line: “Too busy blaming the world to notice my own share of the blame”
⏳
Well where to start 🤦🏾♀️ I devoured these two books in the space of a week! ⏳
Not a typical wolf story, these books are set in a world where every wolf has its place! Masters, Hounds & slaves. We follow Rukiya ‘Rook’ a slave who is referred to as a ‘dog’. Our main protagonist is a prize fighter who is forced to fight for her life in a ring for the entrainment of her masters, hounds and other supernaturals.
⏳
Due to a series of unfortunate or fortunate events Rooks life is forever changed. Can she change the status quo of her life or will she be forever doomed to live by the mantra “shift fight survive” ⏳
Without giving too much away, book two starts straight off where book one left off. We watch Rook deal with the aftermath of the events in the previous book. During this book we saw Rook’s personality grow and watched as she tackles her ingrained prejudices and misconceptions. ⏳
I would definitely recommend these books, they are a refreshing take on the wolf genre & I couldn’t put them down. Rook’s kick ass resilient personality had me cheering for her throughout! The love interest in the books were cleverly interwoven that I didn’t feel like they over shadowed the actual story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Favourite Line: “Too busy blaming the world to notice my own share of the blame”
⏳
Well where to start 🤦🏾♀️ I devoured these two books in the space of a week! ⏳
Not a typical wolf story, these books are set in a world where every wolf has its place! Masters, Hounds & slaves. We follow Rukiya ‘Rook’ a slave who is referred to as a ‘dog’. Our main protagonist is a prize fighter who is forced to fight for her life in a ring for the entrainment of her masters, hounds and other supernaturals.
⏳
Due to a series of unfortunate or fortunate events Rooks life is forever changed. Can she change the status quo of her life or will she be forever doomed to live by the mantra “shift fight survive” ⏳
Without giving too much away, book two starts straight off where book one left off. We watch Rook deal with the aftermath of the events in the previous book. During this book we saw Rook’s personality grow and watched as she tackles her ingrained prejudices and misconceptions. ⏳
I would definitely recommend these books, they are a refreshing take on the wolf genre & I couldn’t put them down. Rook’s kick ass resilient personality had me cheering for her throughout! The love interest in the books were cleverly interwoven that I didn’t feel like they over shadowed the actual story.
September 25, 2022
Lots of twists and turns and good characters.
Key words: self as a slave, fight to the death, trained to fight, shifters, rebels, fae, action, love triangle, bad ass female character,
Plot:
She has been a slave since a child, to fight to the death
- she helps a pup escape and the lead hound caught her but didn’t say anything
- the hound likes her , but she pushed him away beside she hates founds
- she then helps a far free s bunch of pips,
- she kills the “bear” and is bought by the rival commander
- she goes there and Trains with the other dogs
- the hound try’s and try’s to woo her
- she gets caught trying to steal a book from her commander and is beaten almost to death
- she is saved by the fae and taken to a safe place
Lots of funny moments with kelen another girl dog and Orion another guy dog
She is a total badass
Romance- very little
Action- tons of action and fight scenes
Humor- good amount
Narrator- pretty good.
Key words: self as a slave, fight to the death, trained to fight, shifters, rebels, fae, action, love triangle, bad ass female character,
Plot:
She has been a slave since a child, to fight to the death
- she helps a pup escape and the lead hound caught her but didn’t say anything
- the hound likes her , but she pushed him away beside she hates founds
- she then helps a far free s bunch of pips,
- she kills the “bear” and is bought by the rival commander
- she goes there and Trains with the other dogs
- the hound try’s and try’s to woo her
- she gets caught trying to steal a book from her commander and is beaten almost to death
- she is saved by the fae and taken to a safe place
Lots of funny moments with kelen another girl dog and Orion another guy dog
She is a total badass
Romance- very little
Action- tons of action and fight scenes
Humor- good amount
Narrator- pretty good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2018
This is my first HD Gordon and I am kicking myself for not reading her earlier. She has created a fantastic new world with a fresh take on the werewolves genre. Rukiya is just the best kind of heroine anyone can ask for. She is at the lowest rung of the society yet brave enough to risk her life for others. Loyal, kickass, non-whiny and most importantly not always blaming herself for every bad thing that happens around her. Her sense of self is strong. So is her sexuality and she does not fall for the first hot man and then moans the entire series about him. Too many urban fantasy books create heroines who suffer from all/some of the above and it gets extremely annoying.
The story line is tight and moves at a fast pace across the books. I am waiting for the conclusion and hope the author does not drag the series. Have started reading more of her books as well.
The story line is tight and moves at a fast pace across the books. I am waiting for the conclusion and hope the author does not drag the series. Have started reading more of her books as well.
December 4, 2019
Good!!!
While some might call this an urban fantasy, it lodges strictly in the fantasy genre for me - a different world, different realms, the while nine yards. It was quite well done and rather engrossing, presenting a kick @ss heroine that is really just trying to survive.
First person, single POV, soft Cliff, UF
Rating - R (someone on GR said it’s a YA novel... uhhh... no)
Romantic dynamic - M/F, but not the push of the tale.
Character age range - 18+
Pros:
- Well written.
- Strong lead.
- World building is interesting.
- Hero’s journey.
Cons:
- You’ve read this story before, in different fashions with different settings. Slave rises to freedom, finds her/his destiny, needs to free her/his people..... still worth reading though.
While some might call this an urban fantasy, it lodges strictly in the fantasy genre for me - a different world, different realms, the while nine yards. It was quite well done and rather engrossing, presenting a kick @ss heroine that is really just trying to survive.
First person, single POV, soft Cliff, UF
Rating - R (someone on GR said it’s a YA novel... uhhh... no)
Romantic dynamic - M/F, but not the push of the tale.
Character age range - 18+
Pros:
- Well written.
- Strong lead.
- World building is interesting.
- Hero’s journey.
Cons:
- You’ve read this story before, in different fashions with different settings. Slave rises to freedom, finds her/his destiny, needs to free her/his people..... still worth reading though.
April 8, 2022
Wow!!!!
What a book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! What a story. I don't even know where to start. Paranormal beings only talked about in stories come to life in this book. Dragons, wolves, slaves and creatures that go bump in the night make this book one of the most fantastical stories I have ever read. And a woman named Rook in the middle of it all. It is a cliff hanger, but, my gosh it is so good you won't care. I am in awe of the author's ability to write such a phenomenal story. I can't wait to read the next installment. You will definitely want this for your next read.
What a book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! What a story. I don't even know where to start. Paranormal beings only talked about in stories come to life in this book. Dragons, wolves, slaves and creatures that go bump in the night make this book one of the most fantastical stories I have ever read. And a woman named Rook in the middle of it all. It is a cliff hanger, but, my gosh it is so good you won't care. I am in awe of the author's ability to write such a phenomenal story. I can't wait to read the next installment. You will definitely want this for your next read.
September 26, 2017
Oh! You gotta read this one!!
In this metaphor for humanity, Gordon separates the classes of the world of wolves, from the wealthiest ruling class to the lowest of the enslaved. It is a timeless truth of our society smoothly written into a world wherein the reader need not be disturbed with their truths .
The print needs a little clean-up and the 1st chapter did not download without errors, but beyond I found a thought provoking story, a heroine that was the most humane. The cadence of writing is at times almost literally poetic, as is the justice.
In this metaphor for humanity, Gordon separates the classes of the world of wolves, from the wealthiest ruling class to the lowest of the enslaved. It is a timeless truth of our society smoothly written into a world wherein the reader need not be disturbed with their truths .
The print needs a little clean-up and the 1st chapter did not download without errors, but beyond I found a thought provoking story, a heroine that was the most humane. The cadence of writing is at times almost literally poetic, as is the justice.
March 6, 2018
I have to say the cover is what caught my attention. The cover portrays a strong female, but usually the story falls short. Well I was pleasantly surprised. This is the first time reading this authors work and I gobbled it up in one sitting. Just the rig
ht amount of back story and world building. I was captivated by this unique story, it kept me guessing to the end. I can't wait to read more of this series.
ht amount of back story and world building. I was captivated by this unique story, it kept me guessing to the end. I can't wait to read more of this series.
December 30, 2017
Wow. Kickass.
I always love a badass heroine but Rook takes the cake. She’s a little Kate Daniels with Mercy Thompson mixed in for good measure, but somehow, still her own character. I loved the cliffhanger and am ready to start the next book that will lead late into the night I’m sure! A definite yes for me :)
I always love a badass heroine but Rook takes the cake. She’s a little Kate Daniels with Mercy Thompson mixed in for good measure, but somehow, still her own character. I loved the cliffhanger and am ready to start the next book that will lead late into the night I’m sure! A definite yes for me :)
December 4, 2021
Yes, yet another book I forgot to review right after finishing. Let's see, what do I remember? Well, I remember being annoyed at myself for starting a book that is in Kindle Unlimited. I'm always looking for wide books so all my readers can read them, not just Amazon readers, but I accidentally picked this one up and then I accidentally really liked it.
It was very gritty if I remember correctly, and the MC was super badass. There was a romance but it felt a bit secondary. Oh, and the secondary characters were good. The fights were good. The story overall was good.
I'd read the next book if it wasn't in KU, but I'm going to search for more good wide books to share. :-)
It was very gritty if I remember correctly, and the MC was super badass. There was a romance but it felt a bit secondary. Oh, and the secondary characters were good. The fights were good. The story overall was good.
I'd read the next book if it wasn't in KU, but I'm going to search for more good wide books to share. :-)
June 26, 2022
Took me a long time to finish this one only because it was on my phone Kindle app which I only use when I’m in waiting rooms and such.
This looks to be the opening in a pretty cool series. Most of the shifter books I’ve read have had a male shifter and a female human. And always it’s hidden shifters among humans. This is unique in that it’s written in a fantasy world where there are only shifters and vampires, no humans at all.
All in all if you like the badass women trope this is probably for you. Major TW’s for slavery and all that goes with that. This book takes the “dog” roles to an extreme, and the bottom of the back wolves are made to fight to the death for the alphas’ entertainment. The MC is one of those gladiators.
This looks to be the opening in a pretty cool series. Most of the shifter books I’ve read have had a male shifter and a female human. And always it’s hidden shifters among humans. This is unique in that it’s written in a fantasy world where there are only shifters and vampires, no humans at all.
All in all if you like the badass women trope this is probably for you. Major TW’s for slavery and all that goes with that. This book takes the “dog” roles to an extreme, and the bottom of the back wolves are made to fight to the death for the alphas’ entertainment. The MC is one of those gladiators.
November 30, 2018
Good start in the series
Good introduction to this world, now needs more world building. Interesting main characters and situations, now need more complexity along with plot. The MC is a strong female with impulse control problems but is mature, no cliches or otherwise immature dialogue, angst or similar pitfalls that spell doom for a book with me. I rooted for her. Although I didnt want a deux ex machina, I did want her to be powerful and have more story to tell. I will keep going. The action keeps the story moving along like a well oiled machine.
Good introduction to this world, now needs more world building. Interesting main characters and situations, now need more complexity along with plot. The MC is a strong female with impulse control problems but is mature, no cliches or otherwise immature dialogue, angst or similar pitfalls that spell doom for a book with me. I rooted for her. Although I didnt want a deux ex machina, I did want her to be powerful and have more story to tell. I will keep going. The action keeps the story moving along like a well oiled machine.
August 14, 2017
Ferocious
This was such a good read and the next will be an automatic buy for me. Rook is amazing, despite a tough world and horrible life she still has compassion, kindness and bravery. I love the fact that she never rolled over and that she had such a keen sense of self that a hot man couldn't sway her. Take a chance and read this! I saw an ad on FB and so glad I decided to try it.
This was such a good read and the next will be an automatic buy for me. Rook is amazing, despite a tough world and horrible life she still has compassion, kindness and bravery. I love the fact that she never rolled over and that she had such a keen sense of self that a hot man couldn't sway her. Take a chance and read this! I saw an ad on FB and so glad I decided to try it.
March 15, 2018
An indie author that I just found. Great world building with unique twist on werewolves and their society. Very violent but I thought fit the world she was in. The heroine was a little over the top but she made mistakes too. I wasn’t sure where she was going with this series but man it got better with each one. The middle book was not my favorite but the series as a whole was great. More urban fantasy than paranormal even though there was love and sexy times.
June 20, 2021
Good book
Fun but brutal. The only thing I wasn't a big fan of was the constant for telling of the future doom. The foreshadowing. It kept pulling me out of the story. Other than that, I enjoyed every twisted messed up part about it. The darkness inside my soul ate it up. There wasn't too many sexual triggering moments which was nice because slave books can get bad. Well done on keeping it enjoyable yet cringe worthy.
Fun but brutal. The only thing I wasn't a big fan of was the constant for telling of the future doom. The foreshadowing. It kept pulling me out of the story. Other than that, I enjoyed every twisted messed up part about it. The darkness inside my soul ate it up. There wasn't too many sexual triggering moments which was nice because slave books can get bad. Well done on keeping it enjoyable yet cringe worthy.
August 2, 2017
Yes!
Rook is one badass female! This is not a typical shifter romance you may not even call it a romance which makes it even more amazing! I could not put it down and I know if I tried explaining the book I would spoil it completely. Just buy it or k.u it you will not be disappointed I promise!! I can't wait for the second installment!
Rook is one badass female! This is not a typical shifter romance you may not even call it a romance which makes it even more amazing! I could not put it down and I know if I tried explaining the book I would spoil it completely. Just buy it or k.u it you will not be disappointed I promise!! I can't wait for the second installment!
March 21, 2018
Very interesting
This book was good and entertaining. I loved Rook she was badass and never annoying which is hard to come by these days! Ryker...... I have no words for that SOB. If you're looking for a good wolf read this is the story for you. It was so different from other wolf books I have read and I was not disappointed.
This book was good and entertaining. I loved Rook she was badass and never annoying which is hard to come by these days! Ryker...... I have no words for that SOB. If you're looking for a good wolf read this is the story for you. It was so different from other wolf books I have read and I was not disappointed.
April 12, 2018
Totally engrossed in this series
This book grabs you by the hair and drags you through the hell that took is going through right by her side. So different to any wolf shifter book I have ever read it mixes the paranormal with the Roman games and slaves .. Genius pure genius need the next in the series now
This book grabs you by the hair and drags you through the hell that took is going through right by her side. So different to any wolf shifter book I have ever read it mixes the paranormal with the Roman games and slaves .. Genius pure genius need the next in the series now
May 18, 2021
Enslaved.
A world so very different from the normal shifter books i read.
Our main character is a slave, in a broken world. Where a conductor is helping smuggle them out.
Some trigger warning. It was very well written, well thought out plot& storyline. The characters are beautifully developed and captivating.
Will be reading book 2.
A world so very different from the normal shifter books i read.
Our main character is a slave, in a broken world. Where a conductor is helping smuggle them out.
Some trigger warning. It was very well written, well thought out plot& storyline. The characters are beautifully developed and captivating.
Will be reading book 2.
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