June 15, 2023
Every werewolf pup knows the rule--never give a witch your name, or she'll bind you to her spell. Last summer, 13-year-old White girl Riley Callahan defeated the Devouring Wolf with the help of her new prime pack. After the five wolfless pups transformed on the first full moon of winter, Riley thought the other packs would finally accept them, but all the kids resent their "special treatment." When the Winter Pack shares a vision of a young witch pleading for their help, they hesitate to draw more attention to themselves, but the witch and the destiny that chases her threaten the safety of every wolf in the Hackberry Hill Alliance. If they can't help the witch before the spring equinox in two weeks, a violent chapter of history may repeat itself. Picking up a couple months after the conclusion of The Devouring Wolf (2022), this sequel expands on the magic of werewolves and witches through a fast-paced, suspenseful adventure. Alongside the supernatural conflict, Riley confronts the shifting relationships in her family, an emerging crush, prejudice, and how to determine the difference between right and wrong. Although some of the relationship tension has a hasty resolution and the recurring poetic verses don't always flow smoothly, fans of the first book will devour this addition and look forward to more. The cast of characters reflects queerness and racial diversity in the world around Riley. An endearing and page-turning sequel. (Fantasy. 8-12)
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July 1, 2023
Gr 4-7-After the events in The Devouring Wolf, Riley and her friends are looking forward to some normalcy. They can focus on friends, school, and their pack. But when witches from the local coven visit with disturbing news, Riley realizes the adventures aren't over. The Nameless Witch has long been an important figure for witches. She gives up her identity to serve the other witches and is locked away in a tower because of the danger she poses. But the new Nameless Witch doesn't want her role. She's run away, seeking safety in the most unlikely place: with the wolves. Riley and her prime find themselves trying to protect someone who has always been the enemy, wondering if they're making the right choice. This is a solid follow-up, and readers don't need to have read the previous volume to enjoy this one. Riley and her friends are relatable 13-year-olds, learning how to navigate friendships and family relationships as they grow and change. Riley is also grappling with her role as prime leader and figuring out how to be a leader among her friends. The cast is diverse: Riley has two moms, a transgender sister, and a member of her prime uses they/them pronouns. VERDICT While some themes may feel heavy-handed, this is an enjoyable read and will appeal to fans of magical creatures and fantasy.-Kristin Brynsvold
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