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Wrath and Weeping #1
Tears of the Wolf
After the murder of her child, Brynn of the Istovari wants nothing more than to escape the shackles of her birthright. As a sorceress and the last of a once-great bloodline, many still seek to use her for their own schemes. Brynn will do anything for the chance at freedom, even if it means marrying an upstart warrior from the far north.
Cenric needs a wife—but not just any wife—a sorceress. Having recently reclaimed his inheritance after a youth spent across the sea, a sorceress will bring security and legitimacy in his estranged homeland.
A marriage gives both Brynn and Cenric what they want—for now.
In the far northern reaches lies a land ruled by pride and strict codes of honor. As Brynn and Cenric struggle to navigate the aftermath of their hasty union, they soon realize that rival factions within the kingdom are on the verge of war once again.
Alone, they will be destroyed by the coming storm. Together, they might stand a chance.
Cenric needs a wife—but not just any wife—a sorceress. Having recently reclaimed his inheritance after a youth spent across the sea, a sorceress will bring security and legitimacy in his estranged homeland.
A marriage gives both Brynn and Cenric what they want—for now.
In the far northern reaches lies a land ruled by pride and strict codes of honor. As Brynn and Cenric struggle to navigate the aftermath of their hasty union, they soon realize that rival factions within the kingdom are on the verge of war once again.
Alone, they will be destroyed by the coming storm. Together, they might stand a chance.
316 pages, ebook
First published February 21, 2025
201 people are currently reading
6157 people want to read
About the author
Elisabeth Wheatley
33 books4,277 followersElisabeth Wheatley is a fantasy author because warrior princess wasn’t an option. She loves tea and asking questions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 401 reviews
February 19, 2025
I entered online for an ARC of this and absolutely wasn't expecting to get a copy in the mail...
I think I'm an Elisabeth Wheatley stan now, though! This was a fantastic marriage of convenience Nordic-themed fantasy romance. I was NOT expecting to enjoy this as much as I did or to zip through it as fast as I did?
If you liked A Fate Inked in Blood series - you're going to love this one!
- Slow burn - Open door romance! (Only one scene and not overwhelming!)
**Thank you to Elisabeth Wheatley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🦋 || Check out the new Southern Lady Reads YouTube channel!!
I think I'm an Elisabeth Wheatley stan now, though! This was a fantastic marriage of convenience Nordic-themed fantasy romance. I was NOT expecting to enjoy this as much as I did or to zip through it as fast as I did?
If you liked A Fate Inked in Blood series - you're going to love this one!
- Slow burn - Open door romance! (Only one scene and not overwhelming!)
**Thank you to Elisabeth Wheatley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🦋 || Check out the new Southern Lady Reads YouTube channel!!
February 16, 2025
First, it has been a WHILE since I've encountered a book couple that made me actually kick my feet and audibly go "Oowwwhhh!" ala a live studio audience when the characters kiss. I love Brynn and Cenric, both as individuals, and together. On their own, they are whole and interesting people with their own web of relationships with other characters. Together? I swoon. I simply swoon.
Second, I really like the world that Elisabeth Wheatley has built for us here. Viking-inspired? Love it. It kinda gives me Winterfell or Stark vibes from the ASOIAF series, if that makes sense? Northern people who are warriors at heart but have strong and loyal bonds? ALSO DOGS. DEAR SWEET DOGS.
Third, the book was well-paced. I feel there was enough time for me to get to know the characters through their actions, not just being told "Oh, so-and-so is so powerful and and cool and smart, trust me." The book actually SHOWS our characters being powerful and clever. (Most of the time, there were a few moments I did facepalm at something Cenric said and he knew it too.)
This was a great start to the series. Nicely done!
Second, I really like the world that Elisabeth Wheatley has built for us here. Viking-inspired? Love it. It kinda gives me Winterfell or Stark vibes from the ASOIAF series, if that makes sense? Northern people who are warriors at heart but have strong and loyal bonds? ALSO DOGS. DEAR SWEET DOGS.
Third, the book was well-paced. I feel there was enough time for me to get to know the characters through their actions, not just being told "Oh, so-and-so is so powerful and and cool and smart, trust me." The book actually SHOWS our characters being powerful and clever. (Most of the time, there were a few moments I did facepalm at something Cenric said and he knew it too.)
This was a great start to the series. Nicely done!
February 15, 2025
I tore this one up in a night. Absolutely loved it. Brynn and Cedric were awesome, and I might legit be in love with Snapper. Selene can rot, though.
Looking forward to the sequel!
Looking forward to the sequel!
April 13, 2025
this book gives me some hope that the romance genre is not just a bunch of instalust/instalove stories disguised as romance.
February 21, 2025
This may sound silly for a fantasy review, but what I love most about Elisabeth's characters are that they're so believable. Very (very) often in fantasy romance, the characters and their relationships seem like caricatures of personality tropes instead of real believable people. The characters in Tears of the Wolf are nuanced in a way that makes them seem like they could have been real people with real motivations. The historical elements are very well researched, the story was sweet, and I absolutely cannot wait to read more of Brynn and Cenric's story.
August 26, 2025
Kurdun Gözyaşları 🥹 🥹 🥹
Redditten beni gaza getirdiler yine bitmemiş seriye başladım ama pişman değilim, 2 kitap Ekimde çıkıyormuş 🙂↔️ Yani bi fantastik yazsam karakter ilişkilerinin aynen böyle olmasını isterdim o kadar mükemmel ki, ne bir eksik ne bir fazla zevkten eriye eriye okudum, bazı yerleri başa aldım tekrar okudum ayyyyy çok güzel..
Kitap daha ilk cümlesiyle zaten belli etti. Elimden bırakamadım; bırakmak istemedim. Çok akıcıydı.
**
Evlilik, bir kadından kurtulmanın en hızlı ikinci yoluydu ve kral Brynn'den kurtulmak için oldukça hevesliydi. 😭
**
Zorlu bir Viking ortamında geçen romantasy diyelim buna, hem fantastik hem romantik 🌟
Bir büyücü olan Byrnne (23) başına gelen trajediden kaçmak için evlenmek zorunda, Cenric (30?) ' in de büyücü bir eşe ihtiyacı var. Tam marriage of convenience yapıyorlar ve olaylar gelişir.
En başta her ikisinin de ilişkiye temkinli yaklaşması ve sonrasında ikimiz dünyaya karşı olayı aşırı hoşuma gidiyor. Çift bakış açısı ve olaylar akıyor.. Fantastik kadın karakterlerin aşırı sassy olduğu ve öğrenme sürecinin anlatıldığı zibilyon tane kitap okuduktan sonra bu şekilde olayların psikolojisine inen bu hikaye 😍
Bir tadımlık da aşağıya gelsin:
"Öldürmekten nefret ediyorum. Nefret ediyorum." Brynn, elinde tuttuğu diz çökmüş yağmacıya baktı. "Ama bu konuda iyiyim." 😞
Yazar seriyi 7 kitap yapacakmış isterse 17 yapsın böyle yazsın okurum. 🫠🫠🫠 Ve köpekler?! Ah en harika şekilde dahil edilmişlerdi. Bir köpek iç sesi ancak bu kadar doğru yansıtılabilir (okuyan anlar).
Byrnn’ in acısını onunla yaşadım, onunla üzüldüm ve anlayışına (insight) hayran kaldım. buna benzer bir okuma deneyimini en son The Blade Itself de yaşamıştım (ona da 5 🌟 buarada).
Kitabın özeti: Kuzey hatırlar.
Redditten beni gaza getirdiler yine bitmemiş seriye başladım ama pişman değilim, 2 kitap Ekimde çıkıyormuş 🙂↔️ Yani bi fantastik yazsam karakter ilişkilerinin aynen böyle olmasını isterdim o kadar mükemmel ki, ne bir eksik ne bir fazla zevkten eriye eriye okudum, bazı yerleri başa aldım tekrar okudum ayyyyy çok güzel..
Kitap daha ilk cümlesiyle zaten belli etti. Elimden bırakamadım; bırakmak istemedim. Çok akıcıydı.
**
Evlilik, bir kadından kurtulmanın en hızlı ikinci yoluydu ve kral Brynn'den kurtulmak için oldukça hevesliydi. 😭
**
Zorlu bir Viking ortamında geçen romantasy diyelim buna, hem fantastik hem romantik 🌟
Bir büyücü olan Byrnne (23) başına gelen trajediden kaçmak için evlenmek zorunda, Cenric (30?) ' in de büyücü bir eşe ihtiyacı var. Tam marriage of convenience yapıyorlar ve olaylar gelişir.
En başta her ikisinin de ilişkiye temkinli yaklaşması ve sonrasında ikimiz dünyaya karşı olayı aşırı hoşuma gidiyor. Çift bakış açısı ve olaylar akıyor.. Fantastik kadın karakterlerin aşırı sassy olduğu ve öğrenme sürecinin anlatıldığı zibilyon tane kitap okuduktan sonra bu şekilde olayların psikolojisine inen bu hikaye 😍
Bir tadımlık da aşağıya gelsin:
"Öldürmekten nefret ediyorum. Nefret ediyorum." Brynn, elinde tuttuğu diz çökmüş yağmacıya baktı. "Ama bu konuda iyiyim." 😞
Yazar seriyi 7 kitap yapacakmış isterse 17 yapsın böyle yazsın okurum. 🫠🫠🫠 Ve köpekler?! Ah en harika şekilde dahil edilmişlerdi. Bir köpek iç sesi ancak bu kadar doğru yansıtılabilir (okuyan anlar).
Byrnn’ in acısını onunla yaşadım, onunla üzüldüm ve anlayışına (insight) hayran kaldım. buna benzer bir okuma deneyimini en son The Blade Itself de yaşamıştım (ona da 5 🌟 buarada).
Kitabın özeti: Kuzey hatırlar.
May 14, 2025
Alas, a supportive, insta-love arranged marriage full of healthy communication doesn't really make for a particularly interesting romantic plot
June 22, 2025
Revenge was for those with power and patience. Brynn had long ago recognized she did not have enough of either.
Tears of the Wolf es el primer libro en la serie Wrath & Weeping de la autora Elisabeth Wheatley. Inspirado enormemente en los anglosajones y los vikingos, se sitúa en el mismo universo de su serie Daindreth's Assassin pero 430 años en el pasado. La autora ha dicho que ninguna de las series spoilea la otra y que puede leerse cualquiera de las dos antes.
Nuestra protagonista es Brynn, una joven princesa de 23 años, sobrina del rey actual quien le ha pedido a su tío que le garantice el divorcio de su actual esposo, Paega, cuya negligencia y abandono provocó el homicidio de su bebé de 1 año. Brynn no es una mujer cualquiera, es una hechicera y es veterana de guerra, luchó a lado de su hermana mayor, Aelfwynn la Valiente, en una guerra civil en el bando de su tío, el rey actual. Aelfwynn lamentablemente murió en batalla y desde entonces Brynn necesitaba de un matrimonio para estar protegida políticamente, al ser la hija del rey pasado, sobrina del rey actual y hermana de una heroína de guerra.
La madre de Brynn aprovecha esto y la obliga a casarse con Paega, un viudo 40 años mayor que ella quien perdió a sus 5 hijos en la guerra. A Paega no le importaba ser amable con Brynn, se veía obligado por la influencia de la madre de Brynn, él sólo esperaba que eventualmente llegara su muerte para reencontrarse con su primera esposa y sus hijos, y se desquitaba con Brynn.
Es por eso que cuando Brynn le pide ayuda a su tío el rey para divorciarse, él inmediatamente arregla un segundo matrimonio arreglado para ella. En esta ocasión es con Cenric, es el nuevo gobernante (por así decirlo) de una región al norte del reino en el que no hay ninguna hechicera y necesitan a una desesperadamente, por lo que el día de su divorcio, es el día de su matrimonio con Cenric.
“Every decision we make is one between safety and freedom, in one way or another.” Brynn blinked quickly. “I traded the latter for the former far too quickly last time. In the end, it was for nothing.”
Cenric es un personaje especial, se podría decir que es el arquetipo de personaje que vivió toda su vida en tierras lejanas y reclamó su derecho sobre sus tierras en la adultez y en este libro nos toca ver el qué ocurre después. Asimismo, Cenric tiene una afinidad con una diosa la cual le permite comunicarse telepáticamente con una raza de perros, y desde el inicio conocemos a Snapper, el fiel perro de Cenric que lo acompaña a todas partes e inmediatamente quiere hacerse amigo de Brynn.
En mi opinión personal, es un libro muy bueno. Elisabeth logra compaginar la fantasía y la historia de romance entre nuestros personajes con un worldbuilding muy bien construido e informado. El sistema de magia no es muy complicado y siento que su obra retrata bastante bien el tema de la pérdida. Brynn es alguien que ha sufrido mucho a su corta edad, y empaticé mucho con ella ya que ambas tenemos la misma edad, no podía imaginarme lo que era estar en sus zapatos, que cada persona que ella amaba terminara muerta.
Alone. She was alone. It was just for the night, perhaps, but it felt deeper than that. Her father was gone, her sister was gone, Aunt Ulstrid was gone, and so was Osbeorn.
Me gustó mucho que finalmente tuviera a alguien que la valorara en Cenric, y aunque fuese un matrimonio arreglado, ambos buscaban hacer funcionar su relación y se trataban con respeto mutuo, y a pesar de ello, Brynn no se permitía depender emocionalmente de Cenric. Su mundo no rodeaba alrededor de él ni viceversa, algo que tristemente no he visto en muchas otras novelas similares.
Si les gustan las novelas de fantasía con una fuerte carga romántica y que están inspiradas en épocas históricas reales, deben leer Tears of the Wolf, aunque es el primero de la serie, la autora ha confirmado que el segundo sale en Octubre y el final no es un cliffhanger, por lo que deja abierta la puerta para más pero da un cierre a varios de los conflictos planteados en esta primera parte.
Tomen en cuenta las advertencias de contenido:
• Violencia gráfica
• Gore
• Sangre
• Muerte de infantes
• Muerte de animales
• Sexo explícito
• Menciones de guerra
• Menciones de violencia sexual
• Menciones de aborto espontáneo
Por cierto, me gustó tanto este libro que le hice una playlist (aún en proceso), si quieren leerla aquí está el link: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/11L...
Pre-reseña:
Qué gran libro
Estoy muy cansada para hacer una reseña hoy pero mañana subo mis reseñas de Pétalos de Papel y de Tears of the Wolf
February 16, 2025
To say I devoured this book is an understatement. This is my first Elisabeth Wheatley book and I cannot wait to dive in to her backlist of books while I await the next installment in her Wrath and Weeping series!
Also, as a mother who has lost children, I went into this book with hesitation because of Brynn dealing with the murder of her infant son. However, Brynn’s pain and grief over the loss of her son was handled beautifully and resonated with me on so many levels. And the way Cenric helps her heal?! *Chefs kiss* Child loss is a hard topic to approach respectfully and Elisabeth Wheatley does an amazing job of showing a grieving mother trying to heal in a world that often doesn’t know how to accept and handle the emotions that come along with it. Not only does Brynn kick ass, but she is a symbol of hope that life doesn’t have to be dark in the midst of grief. And if you also have experienced the pain of childloss, I hope you have a Cenric in your life who will sit in your pain with you and fight for your happiness.
Also, as a mother who has lost children, I went into this book with hesitation because of Brynn dealing with the murder of her infant son. However, Brynn’s pain and grief over the loss of her son was handled beautifully and resonated with me on so many levels. And the way Cenric helps her heal?! *Chefs kiss* Child loss is a hard topic to approach respectfully and Elisabeth Wheatley does an amazing job of showing a grieving mother trying to heal in a world that often doesn’t know how to accept and handle the emotions that come along with it. Not only does Brynn kick ass, but she is a symbol of hope that life doesn’t have to be dark in the midst of grief. And if you also have experienced the pain of childloss, I hope you have a Cenric in your life who will sit in your pain with you and fight for your happiness.
March 28, 2025
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Summary:
Fast-paced, overall enjoyable, but needs some polish. This book has a ton of potential and great elements, but I ended up giving 3.5 stars bc while there’s some fantastic frameworks, I think this book could benefit from really good editing (esp with dialogue, showing ideas rather than telling, and character building).
This is a Fantasy Romance. There is one VERY long and explicit scene. I skimmed one paragraph and then skipped the rest entirely (what I could see was very graphic- no light romance here!) and I don’t feel like I missed major story elements.
Highlights/Pros:
*World building. Author did a fantastic job combining very well researched elements of Viking/Anglo-Saxon history and fantasy to make an environment that piqued my interest and leaves lots of room for further development.
*Telepathic dogs. I expected this to be clunky but it was mostly natural and believable in the built world. Loved this idea.
*Character elements. Each character had a clear back story and motivations for their actions (with the exception of a way too fast moving romance-see below). Female character focuses on helping those around her and being loyal and faithful to her family and people- refreshing in today’s times.
*Pace of the book, overall story content, and length of the book were great. I was left content with what I had read but wanting more of the story.
Cons:
*Romance between main characters was way too fast, especially given Brynn’s PTSD.
*Dialogue is a bit unpolished/clunky in some areas; verbiage is not consistent. Characters sometimes slip in to a very casual/modern way of talking, but the rest of the book and other dialogue have a richer, more complex sentence style (which I prefer and think matches the high fantasy genre better).
*Many elements/character feelings are unnecessarily written out/explained. In many of these situations, what is being said has already been shown in the story (or should be).
*I don’t generally read romance genre so I’m not sure
what is standard, but the lovemaking scene seemed very long in comparison with descriptions and experiences in other scenes.
Summary:
Fast-paced, overall enjoyable, but needs some polish. This book has a ton of potential and great elements, but I ended up giving 3.5 stars bc while there’s some fantastic frameworks, I think this book could benefit from really good editing (esp with dialogue, showing ideas rather than telling, and character building).
This is a Fantasy Romance. There is one VERY long and explicit scene. I skimmed one paragraph and then skipped the rest entirely (what I could see was very graphic- no light romance here!) and I don’t feel like I missed major story elements.
Highlights/Pros:
*World building. Author did a fantastic job combining very well researched elements of Viking/Anglo-Saxon history and fantasy to make an environment that piqued my interest and leaves lots of room for further development.
*Telepathic dogs. I expected this to be clunky but it was mostly natural and believable in the built world. Loved this idea.
*Character elements. Each character had a clear back story and motivations for their actions (with the exception of a way too fast moving romance-see below). Female character focuses on helping those around her and being loyal and faithful to her family and people- refreshing in today’s times.
*Pace of the book, overall story content, and length of the book were great. I was left content with what I had read but wanting more of the story.
Cons:
*Romance between main characters was way too fast, especially given Brynn’s PTSD.
*Dialogue is a bit unpolished/clunky in some areas; verbiage is not consistent. Characters sometimes slip in to a very casual/modern way of talking, but the rest of the book and other dialogue have a richer, more complex sentence style (which I prefer and think matches the high fantasy genre better).
*Many elements/character feelings are unnecessarily written out/explained. In many of these situations, what is being said has already been shown in the story (or should be).
*I don’t generally read romance genre so I’m not sure
what is standard, but the lovemaking scene seemed very long in comparison with descriptions and experiences in other scenes.
August 7, 2025
I enjoyed this first book in a new romantasy series, and am looking forward to the next one.
The setup is basically the medieval Saxon kingdom, and the book generally tries to stay pretty true to that period, but with a fantasy twist - there are sorceresses in this world. This also brings the core flaw to the series, imo, but I'll get to that below.
Brynn and Cenric have agreed to the arranged marriage the king wants them to make, and the book opens with that. Brynn is the daughter of the previous king (current king's brother), and so is somewhat of a threat to the throne given that current king is sickly and only has a toddler son. Happily, the current king does seem to be decent - he wants Brynn to be happy, given how much grief she's had in her life so far. He is granting her petition for divorce (the marriage was not one he arranged, so he didn't put her in the shitty situation, her mother did), and has approved her request to marry the far northern lord who had requested a sorceress wife. Brynn wants that position because she wants out of politics, out of sorceress machinations, and away from the wreck her life has become. Her sister was murdered in the succession war when her father died, she was married off to an old asshole (40 years older than her) by her political shark sorceress mother, and he treated her with disgust for the 6 years of her marriage. But she did her duty, had a son...and he was murdered at 1 year old by raiders. She is done. The world has given her nothing but heartbreak, and she wants to retreat to a simpler country life, being a sorceress in a place where she can help people and be far, far from court.
Cenric thinks this may all be too good to be true - a powerful sorceress, the king's daughter, wants to marry him? But he'll take it. He's also young, and a new-ish lord (just reclaimed his family lands 2 years ago), and is looking for a sorceress to help defend it against raiders (being in the far north, they're the most frequent target) and generally just help make his people's lives better (healing, etc). He's a little wary at first, but quickly sees that Brynn is not a trap, she's broken - a devastated woman who is looking to retreat into a quiet life. He respects that, respects her, and treats her with utter kindness. Their relationship is lovely, and the high point of the book.
Parts of it can be tough - Brynn is in the darkest depths of grief (I believe her son was murdered just 2 months before the book starts). But she's not an asshole about it, just hurting. Her first husband, who was an absolute piece of shit, became that way because his first wife and sons died in the war, and he was basically waiting to die. He was cold, expressed unhappiness at Brynn trying to (and failing, as he told her repeatedly) step into his wife's place. He spent their wedding night at his family's grave, rather than with Brynn. Having seen that, having lived through how destructive that is, Brynn knows she doesn't want to become that. So she is grieving, but trying to live. Getting out of the posh, southern part of the realm is part of that.
Alright, so the core flaw of the book. For me, it is that the series is trying to cling to the structure of the Saxon time, while neglecting how having motherfucking sorceresses would have changed that society. Women are still bartered as property, in this heavily patriarchal society - they seem to have the same super limited rights that women did in that time period of actual history. I have a really hard time imagining that sorceresses would have allowed that. Granted, not all women are sorceresses, but most of the main women in this series are, and they just accept that they're under the dictates of those men above them. What? Why?
Mostly, though, I'm excited for the next book. Brynn and Cenric seem to have taken a giant stride forward in their relationship. And Brynn has shaken off the decades of abuse that has made her smaller, and embraced her own power in a really badass way. I can't wait to see where they go from here.
The setup is basically the medieval Saxon kingdom, and the book generally tries to stay pretty true to that period, but with a fantasy twist - there are sorceresses in this world. This also brings the core flaw to the series, imo, but I'll get to that below.
Brynn and Cenric have agreed to the arranged marriage the king wants them to make, and the book opens with that. Brynn is the daughter of the previous king (current king's brother), and so is somewhat of a threat to the throne given that current king is sickly and only has a toddler son. Happily, the current king does seem to be decent - he wants Brynn to be happy, given how much grief she's had in her life so far. He is granting her petition for divorce (the marriage was not one he arranged, so he didn't put her in the shitty situation, her mother did), and has approved her request to marry the far northern lord who had requested a sorceress wife. Brynn wants that position because she wants out of politics, out of sorceress machinations, and away from the wreck her life has become. Her sister was murdered in the succession war when her father died, she was married off to an old asshole (40 years older than her) by her political shark sorceress mother, and he treated her with disgust for the 6 years of her marriage. But she did her duty, had a son...and he was murdered at 1 year old by raiders. She is done. The world has given her nothing but heartbreak, and she wants to retreat to a simpler country life, being a sorceress in a place where she can help people and be far, far from court.
Cenric thinks this may all be too good to be true - a powerful sorceress, the king's daughter, wants to marry him? But he'll take it. He's also young, and a new-ish lord (just reclaimed his family lands 2 years ago), and is looking for a sorceress to help defend it against raiders (being in the far north, they're the most frequent target) and generally just help make his people's lives better (healing, etc). He's a little wary at first, but quickly sees that Brynn is not a trap, she's broken - a devastated woman who is looking to retreat into a quiet life. He respects that, respects her, and treats her with utter kindness. Their relationship is lovely, and the high point of the book.
Parts of it can be tough - Brynn is in the darkest depths of grief (I believe her son was murdered just 2 months before the book starts). But she's not an asshole about it, just hurting. Her first husband, who was an absolute piece of shit, became that way because his first wife and sons died in the war, and he was basically waiting to die. He was cold, expressed unhappiness at Brynn trying to (and failing, as he told her repeatedly) step into his wife's place. He spent their wedding night at his family's grave, rather than with Brynn. Having seen that, having lived through how destructive that is, Brynn knows she doesn't want to become that. So she is grieving, but trying to live. Getting out of the posh, southern part of the realm is part of that.
Alright, so the core flaw of the book. For me, it is that the series is trying to cling to the structure of the Saxon time, while neglecting how having motherfucking sorceresses would have changed that society. Women are still bartered as property, in this heavily patriarchal society - they seem to have the same super limited rights that women did in that time period of actual history. I have a really hard time imagining that sorceresses would have allowed that. Granted, not all women are sorceresses, but most of the main women in this series are, and they just accept that they're under the dictates of those men above them. What? Why?
Mostly, though, I'm excited for the next book. Brynn and Cenric seem to have taken a giant stride forward in their relationship. And Brynn has shaken off the decades of abuse that has made her smaller, and embraced her own power in a really badass way. I can't wait to see where they go from here.
unfinished
March 12, 2025DNF 50 %
přehlídkové molo, po kterém se prochází jedno velký špatný za druhým
přehlídkové molo, po kterém se prochází jedno velký špatný za druhým
August 31, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ Pretty much, it’s a historical romance with political intrigue and a hint of magic. The MMC is an unbelievable green flag of a broody Viking, while the FMC is naive but strong. And the bonded dogs who talk like children are just so adorable!
March 21, 2025
I found out about Elisabeth Wheatley (and her books) by way of YouTube shorts. It took a while, but her shorts convinced me I should give her books a try. I think I now need to read all her other books because this was such a great time! She writes realistic, relatable characters and her worldbuilding intertwines well with storybeats and character relationships (something I can't say about every fantasy romance-type book I've read). Overall a great read and I'm looking forward to reading more of her work!
May 20, 2025
A pretty decent historical fantasy romance book. It needed a little bit of editing, but it is one of the better self-published books I've read. Love me some dangerous women! I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment.
June 9, 2025
3.6⭐️
I entered an online opportunity to receive and ARC of this and absolutely lost my shit when a copy actually showed up in my mailbox! 😭😭😭
I flew through this! This book made me feel so many emotions!
Sadness- For Brynn and Osbeorn… and for Nettles.
Smitten- Actually “awwwwwing” at Brynn and Cenric’s first kiss. Watching their love blossom. The vulnerability and rawness of their love.
Rage- Selene can choke on a huge bag of dicks… Honestly so can Paega.
Happiness- The dyrehunds. Period. “Friend?” “Snapper good boy!”
Sidenotes: I loved Edric and Gaitha… their banter made me chuckle.
I definitely recommend this Nordic fantasy romance to anyone and everyone. You won’t be disappointed!
***Thank you Elisabeth Wheatley for the advanced reader copy! I received this book for free but these are my own thoughts and opinions! -Kortni 🖤
I entered an online opportunity to receive and ARC of this and absolutely lost my shit when a copy actually showed up in my mailbox! 😭😭😭
I flew through this! This book made me feel so many emotions!
Sadness- For Brynn and Osbeorn… and for Nettles.
Smitten- Actually “awwwwwing” at Brynn and Cenric’s first kiss. Watching their love blossom. The vulnerability and rawness of their love.
Rage- Selene can choke on a huge bag of dicks… Honestly so can Paega.
Happiness- The dyrehunds. Period. “Friend?” “Snapper good boy!”
Sidenotes: I loved Edric and Gaitha… their banter made me chuckle.
I definitely recommend this Nordic fantasy romance to anyone and everyone. You won’t be disappointed!
***Thank you Elisabeth Wheatley for the advanced reader copy! I received this book for free but these are my own thoughts and opinions! -Kortni 🖤
May 17, 2025
this book was fast paced, romantic, and had a good plot and amazing writing.
March 5, 2025
This was my first book by Elisabeth Wheatley and I read it in one sitting. It was very engaging and all-around excellent.
Brynn is a powerful sorceress who's had a very difficult life, a result of being a pawn in her mother's schemes. Immediately after granting Brynn divorce from her cruel and abusive husband, her king has her marry Cedric, an upstart lord from the North, which goes against the mother's political plans. Brynn's transformation is very nicely done, from a woman broken by grief over the loss of her child and by her ex-husband's abuse to one who finds her place and purpose with her new husband and his people, and who will do anything to protect them. Cedric's arc is less dramatic, but through getting to know and admire Brynn, he also learns to control his pride and temper, and to act more humbly and more diplomatically as a leader. Their falling in love feels natural, with a gradual lowering of barriers and development of trust. Without spoiling the plot, I will just say that the final magic showdown is awesome and very satisfying. In terms of spice, there are a handful of kissing scenes and one emotion-filled open-door sex scene. And as a cherry on top, there is a whole pack of adorable telepathic dogs!
Great book in every way, and I look forward to reading more by the author.
Brynn is a powerful sorceress who's had a very difficult life, a result of being a pawn in her mother's schemes. Immediately after granting Brynn divorce from her cruel and abusive husband, her king has her marry Cedric, an upstart lord from the North, which goes against the mother's political plans. Brynn's transformation is very nicely done, from a woman broken by grief over the loss of her child and by her ex-husband's abuse to one who finds her place and purpose with her new husband and his people, and who will do anything to protect them. Cedric's arc is less dramatic, but through getting to know and admire Brynn, he also learns to control his pride and temper, and to act more humbly and more diplomatically as a leader. Their falling in love feels natural, with a gradual lowering of barriers and development of trust. Without spoiling the plot, I will just say that the final magic showdown is awesome and very satisfying. In terms of spice, there are a handful of kissing scenes and one emotion-filled open-door sex scene. And as a cherry on top, there is a whole pack of adorable telepathic dogs!
Great book in every way, and I look forward to reading more by the author.
June 4, 2025
I don’t wish to be unkind because I really have enjoyed most of Wheatley’s content on social media. But I’m afraid this falls flat. There is so much telling instead of showing.
Brynn and Cenric are in love by the end but why? What has caused them to fall in love? Cenric is proud but we only know that because Brynn *tells* us. We see nothing shown that he is a proud man. What are his shortcomings? What are hers? The characters are extremely basic and not fully developed.
The intimacy/spicy scene had me just saying “no.” A lot. “I’m so proud of you.” “Good girl.” Gave me such an ick.
Brynn is a powerful sorceress but she’s also not?
Ka is the magic system but it’s not described in any way and we are told what it is but not shown.
Telepathic dogs seems…convenient. It just felt unnecessary.
I’m finding that self-published and self-editing authors are doing disservice to themselves by doing so. This feel very first draft, I’m sorry to say. I wanted to love it and there is potential!
Brynn and Cenric are in love by the end but why? What has caused them to fall in love? Cenric is proud but we only know that because Brynn *tells* us. We see nothing shown that he is a proud man. What are his shortcomings? What are hers? The characters are extremely basic and not fully developed.
The intimacy/spicy scene had me just saying “no.” A lot. “I’m so proud of you.” “Good girl.” Gave me such an ick.
Brynn is a powerful sorceress but she’s also not?
Ka is the magic system but it’s not described in any way and we are told what it is but not shown.
Telepathic dogs seems…convenient. It just felt unnecessary.
I’m finding that self-published and self-editing authors are doing disservice to themselves by doing so. This feel very first draft, I’m sorry to say. I wanted to love it and there is potential!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2025
I really liked this one. You can see how much effort the author put into the historical accuracy and details—for the world-building and characters.
Also, I really liked that, unlike in the Daindreth's Assassin series, Brynn is a trained sorceress and knows how to use her magic (I didn't finish the series yet; Amira will have a lot of progress, I'm sure). The difficulties between Brynn and Cedric felt realistic, in regard to their culture differences and the fact that they didn't know each other until the wedding. I liked that both of them made mistakes, talked about them, discussed when they had different opinions, and tried to change their habits for the other person. It didn't feel like one character was already perfect and the other had to adjust.
In addition, in comparison to her older series, the author's writing style improved again a lot.
Greetings from Germany 💛
Also, I really liked that, unlike in the Daindreth's Assassin series, Brynn is a trained sorceress and knows how to use her magic (I didn't finish the series yet; Amira will have a lot of progress, I'm sure). The difficulties between Brynn and Cedric felt realistic, in regard to their culture differences and the fact that they didn't know each other until the wedding. I liked that both of them made mistakes, talked about them, discussed when they had different opinions, and tried to change their habits for the other person. It didn't feel like one character was already perfect and the other had to adjust.
In addition, in comparison to her older series, the author's writing style improved again a lot.
Greetings from Germany 💛
April 10, 2025
Picked this book up because of my experience reading a book by Wheatley in the past. In Tears of the Wolf, royal niece Brynn has just divorced her much-older husband for neglect that led to the death of her infant son. But in order remain free of her ambitious mother's plotting, Brynn must have a husband, so she has the king hastily arrange her marriage with minor lord Cenric...
I've read Wheatley's Daindreth Assassin, but I decided not to continue the series. I enjoyed the concept, but found the execution and the worldbuilding lacking. But I was willing to give her work another chance for the political arranged marriage concept of Tears of the Wolf, which is my particular trope catnip. I can't be objective about my trope catnip, but I think this book executed the romance trope well. There's enough other plot going on to carry the narrative, between a manipulative mother, investigating a untimely attack, and the pressures of taking over running a household.
Brynn is in a bit of a different situation from other political arranged marriage ladies. She's already done the marrying for power and glory thing, and it was catastrophic, from the much older husband who despised her to the murder of her baby in a raid. But Brynn's not the sort to tie up her high ponytail and rebel against marriage and managing a household entirely. She's practical. She knows that her bloodline makes her a dangerous loose end if she's unmarried, so she deliberately throws herself away on a northern lord she's never met, willfully flinging herself into obscurity. Enter Cenric, a rough but honorable lord who's half Viking-analogue and needs a respectable wife to shore up his lordship...
A book for me personally, honestly. Recommended for historical romance and romantasy fans who enjoy the arranged marriage trope. I'll be reading the sequel when it comes out.
I've read Wheatley's Daindreth Assassin, but I decided not to continue the series. I enjoyed the concept, but found the execution and the worldbuilding lacking. But I was willing to give her work another chance for the political arranged marriage concept of Tears of the Wolf, which is my particular trope catnip. I can't be objective about my trope catnip, but I think this book executed the romance trope well. There's enough other plot going on to carry the narrative, between a manipulative mother, investigating a untimely attack, and the pressures of taking over running a household.
Brynn is in a bit of a different situation from other political arranged marriage ladies. She's already done the marrying for power and glory thing, and it was catastrophic, from the much older husband who despised her to the murder of her baby in a raid. But Brynn's not the sort to tie up her high ponytail and rebel against marriage and managing a household entirely. She's practical. She knows that her bloodline makes her a dangerous loose end if she's unmarried, so she deliberately throws herself away on a northern lord she's never met, willfully flinging herself into obscurity. Enter Cenric, a rough but honorable lord who's half Viking-analogue and needs a respectable wife to shore up his lordship...
A book for me personally, honestly. Recommended for historical romance and romantasy fans who enjoy the arranged marriage trope. I'll be reading the sequel when it comes out.
June 1, 2025
Very enjoyable. "Healing hurting characters" is one of my most favorite tropes, and this did not disappoint! Great characters, both likeable and well-rounded, in believable scenarios. This is primarily a romantic fantasy, so Brynn & Cenric's relationship is the main focus of the story, but there were plenty of other additional plot points, and they left enough open ends that I am curious what else will happen in this world.
Content: I don't remember any strong language. A couple fight scenes, not graphic or gory. Plenty of steam/pining, some kissing, and one open door intimate scene that's relevant to the plot (just skip to next chapter if you want to miss it).
Content: I don't remember any strong language. A couple fight scenes, not graphic or gory. Plenty of steam/pining, some kissing, and one open door intimate scene that's relevant to the plot (just skip to next chapter if you want to miss it).
August 5, 2025
I love reading character-focused stories where I can spend some time watching people develop and grow. If there's romance, I prefer it to be slow and for the book to be about more than the two people falling in love. Action and plot are great, but not always necessary. That's why I enjoyed this book, though I would have loved a longer book, with more taking place and some twists and turns. But I had a great time with what is here. The fantasy is very low-key, which is fine with me, and I enjoyed the Viking style world. 3.5 stars rounded up.
June 24, 2025
This was really good, and a reminder to not sleep on indie authors. Elisabeth Wheatley writes in a way that’s smart and compassionate, creating a fully formed world that doesn’t shy away from the concept of genuine hope.
June 25, 2025
♾️⭐
perfection. 100/10 would recommend. Brynn has my whole heart I want nothing but the best for her forever.
perfection. 100/10 would recommend. Brynn has my whole heart I want nothing but the best for her forever.
September 5, 2025
Eh, okay
Read
June 24, 2025DNF at 16% because there are better out there.
February 23, 2025
I’ve read a fair number of Ms. Wheatley’s work by now. And I’ve always enjoyed it. But as much as I have appreciated her as an author, this work made me appreciate her as a fellow human being. She handled some very difficult topics here with a care and grace that just oozes off of every page. The respect and honestly, just sheer humanity displayed have impressed me beyond belief. All I can say is bravo, and I am hungry for more!
February 16, 2025
I DEVOURED this book. It does have some dark themes, but I found the ways Wheatly handles the heavier topics to be respectful and not patronizing.
While I haven't experienced exactly what the main character has, child loss is something near and dear to my heart. I was worried this book would be too much for me to handle, but I honestly have never felt more seen. The women in this book who are working through and grieving their children are given room feel their grief, while still understanding there is a world out there that still needs them.
Also the dyrehounds were amazing. Snapper had me wrapped around his little finger from his introduction.
I'm likely biased due to how close to home some of the theming is, but 10/10, will read again. I believe I have found my new favorite book/series.
While I haven't experienced exactly what the main character has, child loss is something near and dear to my heart. I was worried this book would be too much for me to handle, but I honestly have never felt more seen. The women in this book who are working through and grieving their children are given room feel their grief, while still understanding there is a world out there that still needs them.
Also the dyrehounds were amazing. Snapper had me wrapped around his little finger from his introduction.
I'm likely biased due to how close to home some of the theming is, but 10/10, will read again. I believe I have found my new favorite book/series.
May 2, 2025
I wanted to love this, I really did. I adore Elisabeth Wheatley, I think she's a treasure and her videos make me happy every time I come across one... But this book just fell flat.
My biggest thing is that I will maintain this just isn't the right category. Yes, there are small fantasy elementer, but to me, they're tiny and just don't justify calling this a fantasy book. This is just a romance book - and unfortunately, when it comes to romance, this just felt cliche and overdone. One hunky, walking green flag of a male protagonist, and one insecure female protagonist, who has no idea what love is and doesn't trust anyone. We can all see what happens from here.
The writing itself felt very immature and somehow very formal. It didn't really find the flow I was hoping for, and I found myself spacing out while reading and having to go back over sentences I ended up skimming.
I can tell Elisabeth did a ton of reading on the old Norse society, and this part is done so well. Very, very believable - and I was hoping that maybe this would play in, the old Norse mythology stories come to life, but they didn't. I don't even know that I really understand where the title of the book comes from.
So, unfortunately, this one will not be a re-read from me, and I don't know that I'll read the next one. But I will follow Elisabeth on all social media's, because she's amazing.
My biggest thing is that I will maintain this just isn't the right category. Yes, there are small fantasy elementer, but to me, they're tiny and just don't justify calling this a fantasy book. This is just a romance book - and unfortunately, when it comes to romance, this just felt cliche and overdone. One hunky, walking green flag of a male protagonist, and one insecure female protagonist, who has no idea what love is and doesn't trust anyone. We can all see what happens from here.
The writing itself felt very immature and somehow very formal. It didn't really find the flow I was hoping for, and I found myself spacing out while reading and having to go back over sentences I ended up skimming.
I can tell Elisabeth did a ton of reading on the old Norse society, and this part is done so well. Very, very believable - and I was hoping that maybe this would play in, the old Norse mythology stories come to life, but they didn't. I don't even know that I really understand where the title of the book comes from.
So, unfortunately, this one will not be a re-read from me, and I don't know that I'll read the next one. But I will follow Elisabeth on all social media's, because she's amazing.
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