**Disclaimer: I was given a free e-book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.**
Title Wolf Gone Wild (Stay a Spell #1)
Author Juliette Cross
Description from Amazon
What’s the worst thing that can happen to a werewolf? Unable to shift for three months, Mateo Cruz knows all too well. His wolf has taken up residence in his head, taunting him night and day with vividly violent and carnal thoughts. Convinced he’s cursed, he needs the help of a powerful witch before he literally goes insane.
Evie Savoie has always obeyed the house rules of her coven–no werewolves. They’re known for being moody and volatile. So, when a distempered, dangerous werewolf strolls into the bar and almost strangles one of her late-night customers, she’s ready to bounce him through the door. But the desperation in his eyes when he begs her to help him softens her heart and convinces her to bend the rules.
What Evie doesn’t know is that Mateo’s wolf has a mind of his own. And now that she’s in his sights, he wants only one thing. Her.
Release Date January 14, 2020
Initial Thoughts
Ok, ok, ok. I fully admit that applying for a new book on NetGalley during crunch time was not my best idea. But this book looked so good! I had to apply. I had no idea that I’d be approved within the hour (but, I’m really glad I was!)
Some Things I Liked
- NOLA. Yes, it’s a somewhat cliché setting for a book about witches, vampires, and werewolves. But, aren’t all clichés born of some truth? NOLA was the perfect setting here and, it wasn’t overbearing. I loved the subtle reminders of the city’s rich history without being IN YOUR FACE with references.
- STAR. WARS. REFERENCES. Seriously, I can’t even. This is a book blog, so I don’t talk much about my deep, deep love of all things Star Wars, but it’s ever present in my life. I absolutely adored how much Evie loved the franchise, and I loved that Mateo found it so endearing.
- Venom vibes. Venom was by no means an Oscar-worthy film. Hell, I probably wouldn’t have seen it if I wasn’t an AMC A-List member (and it was basically free), but, I did enjoy the Venom-style conversations that Mateo had with Alpha. I really enjoyed the banter between Mateo and Alpha as well as both of their interactions with Evie.
Series Value
I loved all of the minor characters in this book, especially Evie’s sisters. I can’t wait to see what’s next for the Savoie family (and I’m secretly hoping that it’s a Jules-centric story). I will absolutely continue with this series.
Final Thoughts
This might be a record for turnaround time on a NetGalley book for me. I was approved for this book this afternoon and it’s already read, reviewed, and submitted on NetGalley. I really loved it and it was such a fun read. I definitely plan on continuing with the series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Recommendations for Further Reading
- The Vine Witch by Luanne G. Smith – if you liked the magic and curses elements in Wolf Gone Wild, give this book a try.
- A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness – if you liked the supernatural elements in this story, witches, demons, etc., give the All Souls trilogy a try.
- Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin – once again, if you liked the witches element, do yourself a favor and read this new release by Shelby Mahurin. It’s seasonal, perfect, and has multiple POVs.
Books Over Everything 