Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks

Series: Wrath and Weeping #1
Author: Elisabeth Wheatley
Publisher: Book Goblin Books
Released: February 21, 2025
Received: Own
Find it on Storygraph | More Fantasy

Book Summary:

Brynn of the Istavari is a powerful sorceress with strong family connections. She could have the world if that was what she so desired. But that couldn’t be farther from what this grieving woman wants.

All she wants is a place to love and be loved. A place to call her own. So given the second chance at freedom, a chance to choose her own path, Brynn doesn’t hesitate. Even if that means allowing the king to marry her off to a warrior ruler from the North.

My Review:

I may be a wee bit behind the times on diving into the world(s) of Elisabeth Wheatley. I’ve enjoyed her social media content for quite some time, and have had her books on my TBR for almost as long. Better late than never, right? Naturally, I chose the dog-centric tale to start with, and thus we have Tears of the Wolf, the first novel in the Wrath and Weeping series (yes, I have the second in hand, and cannot wait).

I can already tell that Elisabeth Whealtey has such a way of portraying emotions and stakes. Her tales don’t need to be larger than life to feel all-encompassing, so the addition of loyal canines and magic is really just a (massive) plus. Her characters are rich and complex in the best ways, so it’s easy to root for the (or hate them, depending on how Wheatley wants us to feel).

Brynn and Cenric are the primary focuses of this tale, and their similarities and differences shine through in their perspectives. It was interesting to see how their lives ended up fitting together, to say the least.

The thing I loved the most about Tears of the Wolf is how it took great care to portray different kinds of battles with the same weight. The political, emotional, and physical battles all mattered greatly to the plot, and the story would not have been the same without them all weaving together.

Okay, I also loved the loyal dogs and Cenric’s ability to physically communicate with them. Can I have that ability, pretty please?

Highlights:

• Romantic Fantasy
• Magic & Power
• Viking Lore
• Talking Dogs (Sort of)

Trigger Warnings:

• Animal Death (on page)
• Death of a child (recounted)

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