Review Detail

Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

Ladies and gents, we have a hit on our hands.

Penguin thinks so, too. They pulled out all the stops for NIGHTSHADE's marketing campaign. Truly brilliant, and truly deserved.

Andrea Cremer's writing is tight and her worldbuilding is impeccable. She applied her knowledge as a historian to build certain elements of the story, and the strength lies in the things you don't notice. Her take on wolves is fresh rather than familiar. And her witches ... SCARY.

No one will question Calla's power - she's most definitely an alpha. The sexual tension between her and her intended, Ren, leaps off the page. What's different about this book, and truly refreshing, is that Calla owns her sexuality. She acknowledges it. And Ren isn't the only man in Calla's life. Shay is unexpected, but sweet and strong at the same time. I expect this "team" debate to have lots of passionate opinions.

It moves fast. Lots of suspense and uncertainty about who is right and who is wrong will keep the pages turning.

Five stars for certain to this very strong debut, and lots of anxious wishing for the sequel, due in 2011.