Book review: My Wolf's Bane by Veronica Blade

My Wolf's Bane by Veronica Blade

YA paranormal*Print and ebook, 365 pages 

Publisher: Crush Publishing, Inc (publication date - February 1st, 2013)

NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER: As with any Veronica Blade book, this is a ROMANCE NOVEL, meaning it's romance FIRST and everything else is secondary. Rated PG-13 for sexual situations and mild profanity.

Different species. Mortal enemies. It'll never work, but they'll die trying.

Autumn Rossi thought she was a normal teenager. Suddenly, she can outrun every critter in the forest, making her wonder if she’s even human.

When the new guy at school, Zack de Luca, witnesses a questionable scene, he unfairly pins her as stuck-up. He acts like he hates her, yet he keeps bailing her out of trouble. Not only is Zack both insufferable and irresistible, he seems to sniff her anytime he gets close.

As passion flares between them, Autumn isn’t sure which is more dangerous: her psycho ex-boyfriend, or falling for Zack — who’s risking his life just by being near her.

I can honestly say I decided to pick this book up after reading the note from the Crush Publishing regarding this book. A YA novel which proudly declares it is a romance first and foremost? I had to check it out after reading some of the instant love stories I've read recently.

Yes, My Wolf's Bane is very romantic and unabashedly so. I did not mind the romance since it was progressive, made sense, and was part of the story. Autumn thinks she's a normal soon-to-be eighteen year old with clinging parents who text her frequently throughout her school day as a means of keeping tabs on her. Her boyfriend, Daniel, is also stifling her so much she sees a break-up on the horizon. Bumping into the new guy, Zack, she's taken by his good looks but turned off by his quick dismissal of her. Still, Autumn keeps her eye on Zack and throughout  the days he seems to always be there when she needs help. Car trouble, boyfriend trouble, he's there, assisting then leaving her flat. When her body begins exhibiting strange signs of changing--cuts which heal before her eyes, bruises which never form--Autumn suspects something strange is happening to her. But what?

Zack may have the answers she seeks if only he would treat her accordingly. Misunderstood, Autumn tries to reach out, and soon Zack begins to respond when he realizes he judged her incorrectly. Secrets are shared, revelations are revealed, and Autumn and Zack are thrown together constantly. Zack wants to protect her while learning more about what she is and all Autumn wants is for him to notice her. When the truth is discovered, they see their love is forbidden but can laws stop true love?

My Wolf's Bane grabbed me in quickly. Autumn is like a normal teen in every aspect except for her increasing strength. A lot of the story takes place at the high school with interactions between friends and drama-filled lunches. Autumn's parents finally give her breathing room as danger threatens to attack her with the threat of slavery looming over her very existence. And a hot guy with a good heart named Zack is there to protect her with his own life if needed. This story is very romantic and it's the type of romance I like--shown through looks, touches, wispy kisses, and playful talk. Autumn and Zack's relationship develops along with everything else in a believable manner, gradually over time. Both characters understand their quick jumps at judging the other was wrong the longer they spend together. I did have a hard time believing Autumn's over-protective parents could suddenly release their grip and leave her alone for so long. I do wonder if their behavior will come into play in the next book.

I read My Wolf's Bane is one evening sitting, my eyes never straying from the pages. Veronica Blade has created an interesting lore of werewolves with a violent history, a domineering king, scouts searching to grab werewolves to join packs, and a lower class of creatures, shifters, despised and enslaved. Zack could be killed for being with Autumn but the threat of death doesn't faze him. As their true feelings are revealed through their selfless actions, a lovely romance is born. I likd both characters. Zack and Autumn are strong individuals standing up for their beliefs. He becomes her mentor of sorts as they delve into the history of the weres and of a secretive organization which may be able to help them.

Forbidden love, paranormal creatures, the fight for survival and a true, realistic love lies at the heart of My Wolf's Bane. This is the way romance should be written and enjoyed. So recommended! I can't wait to read more of this series. Do we get to read about the prom (please!!!) and graduation? Give me more!

Rating: 4

Cover comment:

I think this cover works. I find it striking.

Book source:

I received a promotional copy in return for my honest review.