The Wolf

This is a gritty book that manages to be gritty without grimdark. It's all about war and the succession of kings, but it's a damn good story with nice world building.

The big question to me, is whether or not you want to bother with another epic story from the Nordic regions.

A bit of warning for some readers: This is closer to some sort of fake historical novel that what you may think of history. While the series may change, at this point there is no magic. Fake countries and races are all the fantastic elements.

Transposed over a somewhat familiar geographic locale with denominations to set the tone and theme, The Wolf by Leo Carew is an epic fantasy and clash of cultures/races.

The Anakim and Sutherners are ancient enemies whose peace has now been broken.
The power struggles are both within and without as each side face their own internal strife.

Brutally depicted warfare and predominantly male oriented with just a few minor female characters that I wish would have been more developed. The style and pacing of the tale varies from long vivid descriptions to abrupt changes, but overall works very well. Looking forward to the next installment in the series.

I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Orbit Books in exchange for an honest review.