For the Wolf Book Review

For the Wolf is the first book in the Wilderwood series by Hannah Whitten.

Content Warnings

• self-harm for magic use (cutting)
• parental neglect/emotional abuse
• mentions of physical symptoms that might be triggering to those with emetophobia
• anxiety/panic attacks
• parental death
• gore
• mild audio/visual hallucinations
• religious abuse
• medium-heat romance (non-explicit)

BLURB

As the only Second Daughter born in centuries, Red has one purpose-to be sacrificed to the Wolf in the Wood in the hope he’ll return the world’s captured gods.

Red is almost relieved to go. Plagued by a dangerous power she can’t control, at least she knows that in the Wilderwood, she can’t hurt those she loves. Again.

But the legends lie. The Wolf is a man, not a monster. Her magic is a calling, not a curse. And if she doesn’t learn how to use it, the monsters the gods have become will swallow the Wilderwood-and her world-whole

REVIEW

For the Wolf is a dark fantasy novel that is medium paced which draws on elements from multiple fairy tales- Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast and Snow White. I was captivated by the premise from the start and the writing is descriptive, making the story extremely atmospheric. I could imagine all of the locations and characters. There are strong family themes which was highlighted by the sisters and their unconditional love for each other. Other themes include include love and sacrifice which was perfectly balanced.

Red is the type of protagonist I love- brave, determined, strong, love of reading and a caring individual who wants to do what’s right. Eammon is such a great partner for Red. There was the perfect amount of romance with a super-slow and natural build between Red and Eammon.

Throughout the book we also see what’s happenings with Neve and how she never gives up on getting Red back, which leads to such an interesting plot twist. When see what was happening with Neve, you were able to see how it affected the Wilderwood and the truth of what happened in the past is revealed.

Whitten pulls you into this world of danger and romance and doesn’t let you go. After the cliffhanger, I can’t wait for the next book.

5/5 stars