the new wolfRating: 3.75 stars
Buy Link:
Amazon | iBooks | Amazon UK
Length: Novella


Josh and Connor have moved from the big city to a rural area in Vermont after Connor was beaten nearly to death in a hate crime. Josh’s grandfather was a rural veterinarian, and when he passed away, Josh bought into his practice. Connor takes a job with the sheriff’s department, and he must adjust to life as a small county cop.

When Connor sees there are a large number of cold case files, he wants to investigate, simply to ward off boredom, but the sheriff doesn’t want that. So, of course, Connor is going to start checking them out. One night, while patrolling in the woods, Connor is attacked and very nearly killed. In order to save his life, the leader of the area’s wolf pack gives Connor a healing bite. Now, Connor, Josh, and everyone in Black Creek have to figure out who is killing people in the woods and how to stop him.

Let me start by saying, I liked The New Wolf just fine. I’m all about wolf shifters, and when I read the blurb, I was very excited and I wanted to love it. The concept is great. A man gets turned into a werewolf without asking for it, and he and his husband must learn to deal with the changes in his body and his mind. Also, the mystery of who the rogue wolf is and why he’s killing people is a fantastic idea.

Unfortunately, The New Wolf came across as choppy and rushed. I realize it’s a novella, so there were time constraints, and I understand that. I think that really worked against the story. Another 50 pages, some more world/character building, and a more detailed description of that mystery would have gone a long way to helping this one along.

Connor and Josh start out as an established, married couple. That was very different for me. I’m used to the MCs finding their way to each other and falling in love. I didn’t have an issue with it, but this didn’t make it very easy to feel invested in the couple and their situation. I had a bit of a hard time connecting with them. Their love for each other is obvious, and I rooted for them, but didn’t feel close to them.

I did enjoy the twist about the rogue wolf. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but I will say it was unique and creative. Since this is the first in a series, I’m hoping this subplot will continue and become clearer. Also, I thought the chemistry between Josh and Connor was electric. I realize I said I didn’t really connect with them, but they certainly connected with each other. The sex scenes were both loving and smokin’ hot, and they only got hotter once Connor became a werewolf. They were well written with just the right amount of detail.

I’m going to cautiously recommend The New Wolf, giving it some leeway because, once again, it’s the first in a series, and there are bound to be a few growing pains. I plan to read the next installment as soon as it comes out because I’m curious as to how it’s going to play out.

kenna sig