The Wolf's Curse Blog Tour: Review & Giveaway (5 Winners)

It is never easy to deal with the loss of a loved one. The Wolf's Curse, a middle-grade paranormal fantasy by Jessica Vitalis, helps youngsters approach the topic from a new angle. Learn more about this charming book and enter to win a copy!

My Review:

The Wolf's Curse is an action-packed, suspenseful, and artfully written book that left me deep in thought after reading it in one sitting. While it is clear from the onset that everything in the book is fictional, the emotions flowing naturally from the story feel so real and intense. 

Being the only one able to see the mysterious Wolf accused of stealing souls, the 12-year-old boy Gauge is viewed as evil and dangerous by his fellow villagers, who are often scared and disgusted by his presence. His world crumbles when his grandpa, his only protector and caregiver, passes away. Filled with anger and sorrow, Gauge has to run for his life from the relentless hunt launched by Lord Mayor Vulpine. Meanwhile, he enlists the help of Roux, the Blacksmith's daughter, to chase down and kill the Wolf, with hopes of clearing his name.

Besides the gripping story, I'm most fascinated by the way the story is told - by the 700-year-old Wolf from a first person point of view. Unlike a typical first person persona however, the Wolf is an omniscient narrator because of the magic powers she possesses. Yet, she seems to take great pleasure in keeping the reader wondering what she is not willing to let on. Why is she so eager to persuade Gauge to take over her job? What is her story before she turns into the Wolf? Why does Roux unconditionally trust and side with Gauge? What secret does Lord Mayor Vulpine try to bury by blaming Gauge for the loss of his wife? Interestingly, the Wolf not only follows Gauge's adventure, steps in the story when necessary, but also chats with the reader in parentheses. She anticipates the reader's questions and reactions as the story progresses, and offers explanations and comments accordingly. Her somewhat detached, light-hearted tone is curiously contrasted by the threat and danger lurking around Gauge.

My favorite character from the story has to be Roux. She is so kind, brilliant, fearless, and devoted. I'd definitely love to have a friend like her. The experience of the two recently orphaned children leads us through the different stages of grief in a more gentle and subtle manner. It shows the healing power of memories, and the wonders of love, friendship, and sacrifice. The story concludes with a comforting and heartwarming surprise. Despite the distressful nature of its subject matter, the novel is a true delight for the soul.

About the Book:

Ages 8+ | 336 Pages
Publisher: Greenwillow Books | ISBN-13: 9780063067417

Twelve-year-old Gauge’s life has been cursed since the day he witnessed an invisible Great White Wolf steal his grandpapá’s soul, preventing it from reaching the Sea-in-the-Sky and sailing into eternity. When the superstitious residents of Bouge-by-the-Sea accuse the boy of crying wolf, he joins forces with another orphan to prove his innocence. They navigate their shared grief in a journey that ultimately reveals life-changing truths about the wolf—and death. Narrated in a voice reminiscent of The Book Thief, this fast-paced adventure is perfect for fans of fantasy such as The Girl Who Drank the Moon and A Wish in the Dark.

Purchase Links: Amazon | Bookshop.org | HaperCollins

About the Author:

Jessica Vitalis is a full-time writer with a previous career in business and an MBA from Columbia Business School. An American ex-pat, she now lives in Canada with her husband and two daughters.

For more information, visit jessicavitalis.com.

Five lucky winners will each receive a hardcover copy of The Wolf’s Curse!

Giveaway ends 10/21. Open to US only. Please enter using the form below. Good luck!

The Wolf's Curse Giveaway

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and HarperCollins Children’s Books. icefairy's Treasure Chest is not responsible for winner selection or prize fulfillment.