Synopsis:

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.

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What To Expect:

Readers can expect a dark, fantasy novel with elements of Little Red Riding Hood and Beauty & the Beast. You can expect world-building, creatures (including evil ones), mythical religion, gore, adventure, and a relationship-of-convenience/one bed trope turned love.

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Content Warnings:

Language: Moderate – Language includes the S word and D word most prominently and a couple instances of the F word. The novel also uses the words “kings” and “shadows” in place of cuss words.

Sexual Content: Closed Door/Fade to Black – This novel includes references to sex without any explicit scenes of it. There are two instances of heavy kissing, and a couple of light kissing.

Violence: Moderate – The novel has gore and blood throughout. There is a heavy description of blood frequently, but only moderate descriptions of actual violence, such as cutting a throat but without the full details. Trigger warnings for this category could include: self-harm, murder, kidnapping, panic

Substance Use: Mild – There are only a few mentions of drinking wine. One instance of underage drinking in past tense

Prejudices: None

Religious Themes: This novel has its own religion, which is based on 5 kings from centuries ago. There are High Priestesses, sacrifice, prayer in a shrine with candles, and use of “kings” as a swear word. Many characters mention being religious or not religious. There is a version of the underworld known as the “Shadowland.”

Other Topics: There are descriptions of evil characters, sudden high-stress situations, fighting with blades & magical powers, and feelings of loss throughout. There are several discussions of parental death and characters working through their past traumas.

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Please keep in mind that some things may be missed in content warning reviews and this is meant to be a general overview without spoilers. Use your own discretion with the information provided to make the right choice for you! View our guideline here.