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Wolvers: A Novel
Not yet published
Expected 7 Apr 26From the Southern Book Prize winning author of Rednecks: a thrilling novel of pursuit, survival, and redemption between two species in the American Southwest
Broke, dispossessed, and angry at the government after losing his family’s New Mexico ranch, Trace Temple is looking for revenge. He’s living out of his truck when a shadowy militia movement hires him to take down the legendary she-wolf of the Dark Canyon pack, One-Eleven. But One-Eleven is no ordinary wolf. Cunning, fiercely protective of her young, and seasoned in the ways of men, she leads her pack deep into the forbidding desert peaks and canyons, always one step ahead of pursuit.
After a harrowing brush with death in the backcountry, Trace has a change of heart—only to be replaced by a professional hunter and assassin named Murdoch, who ruthlessly pursues his animal quarry while stalking Trace himself.
To survive, Trace must join forces with a pair of unlikely a survivalist animal protector who deploys feral senses and deep wilderness skills to protect the wolves, and Imogen Cruz, a local rancher, childhood friend, and unrequited love of Trace’s early years. Together, they must fight to protect not only themselves and the Dark Canyon pack, but ultimately, the Gila Wilderness itself—the world’s first designated wilderness area.
In Wolvers, award-winning author Taylor Brown presents a suspenseful, thrillingly-written tale set at the burning edge of today’s Southwest, where once-extinct wolves have returned, the land is tinder-dry and fragile, and desperate men seek to reclaim what they believe is theirs to rule.
Broke, dispossessed, and angry at the government after losing his family’s New Mexico ranch, Trace Temple is looking for revenge. He’s living out of his truck when a shadowy militia movement hires him to take down the legendary she-wolf of the Dark Canyon pack, One-Eleven. But One-Eleven is no ordinary wolf. Cunning, fiercely protective of her young, and seasoned in the ways of men, she leads her pack deep into the forbidding desert peaks and canyons, always one step ahead of pursuit.
After a harrowing brush with death in the backcountry, Trace has a change of heart—only to be replaced by a professional hunter and assassin named Murdoch, who ruthlessly pursues his animal quarry while stalking Trace himself.
To survive, Trace must join forces with a pair of unlikely a survivalist animal protector who deploys feral senses and deep wilderness skills to protect the wolves, and Imogen Cruz, a local rancher, childhood friend, and unrequited love of Trace’s early years. Together, they must fight to protect not only themselves and the Dark Canyon pack, but ultimately, the Gila Wilderness itself—the world’s first designated wilderness area.
In Wolvers, award-winning author Taylor Brown presents a suspenseful, thrillingly-written tale set at the burning edge of today’s Southwest, where once-extinct wolves have returned, the land is tinder-dry and fragile, and desperate men seek to reclaim what they believe is theirs to rule.
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication April 7, 2026
6472 people want to read
About the author
Taylor Brown
12 books751 followersTaylor Brown is the award-winning author of the novels Fallen Land (2016), The River of Kings (2017), Gods of Howl Mountain (2018), Pride of Eden (2020), Wingwalkers (2022), and Rednecks (2024), as well as a short story collection, In the Season of Blood and Gold (2014). He's a recipient of the Montana Prize in Fiction and his first three novels were all finalists for the Southern Book Prize. He lives in Savannah, Georgia, where he is the founder and editor-in-chief of BikeBound, one of the world's leading custom motorcycle publications. His website is taylorbrownfiction.com. You can follow him on Twitter (@taybrown), Instagram (@taylorbrown82) and Facebook (@Taylor.Brown.Fiction).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
August 31, 2025
This was my 7th Taylor Brown novel and I’ve loved his writing and storytelling in each of them. 5 stars for the writing here , too. This the opening of the Prologue : “ Fields black beneath a starless sky. A land feathered riders once rode on painted horses, following inland seas of bison while the bones of mastodon and dire wolf slept beneath their hooves.” I’ve said it in multiple reviews, this guy was born to write so it pains me to say it’s 3 stars for my overall enjoyment .
The portrayal of the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico and the reintroduction of wolves after being killed off is told in this story of hunters and the hunted - both men and wolves . The most fascinating part was Brown’s writing some of the novel from the perspective of One- Eleven, a female wolf. While I understand the importance of maintaining the wilderness and recognize Brown’s message, the gruesome descriptions wolf killing its prey and the feasting on it were too much to take as were the other acts of violence by men. It’s realistic, I’m sure as the book is well researched.
There’s clearly a message here, but without any preaching . Even though this was not my favorite of his, as always I look forward to Taylor Brown’s next book.
I see received a copy if this from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley.
The portrayal of the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico and the reintroduction of wolves after being killed off is told in this story of hunters and the hunted - both men and wolves . The most fascinating part was Brown’s writing some of the novel from the perspective of One- Eleven, a female wolf. While I understand the importance of maintaining the wilderness and recognize Brown’s message, the gruesome descriptions wolf killing its prey and the feasting on it were too much to take as were the other acts of violence by men. It’s realistic, I’m sure as the book is well researched.
There’s clearly a message here, but without any preaching . Even though this was not my favorite of his, as always I look forward to Taylor Brown’s next book.
I see received a copy if this from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley.
August 28, 2025
5 stars Thank you to St Martins Publishing Group for offering me an ARC of this book for an unbiased review. Publishes April 7, 2026
When I find a book like this I just want to savor it for a few days after reading, before I do my review. I don't rate many books a 5 star read, but a few I would give more stars to if they were available - and this book fits that bill. I have always enjoyed Taylor Brown's writing. And he did not disappoint with this, his newest book.
With minimal characters Brown transplants us into the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico. Along with Horn, Murdock and Imogene, Trace is either running from or fighting along side them for literally his life. His life and the life of the main character - One-Eleven - she wolf, leader of the Dark Canyon pack.
This book resonates with nature and the wilderness. Brown has well researched both this land and the reintroduction of the wolf to the Southwest and wove a great story around the two. Once I picked up this book I didn't want to lay it down.
When I find a book like this I just want to savor it for a few days after reading, before I do my review. I don't rate many books a 5 star read, but a few I would give more stars to if they were available - and this book fits that bill. I have always enjoyed Taylor Brown's writing. And he did not disappoint with this, his newest book.
With minimal characters Brown transplants us into the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico. Along with Horn, Murdock and Imogene, Trace is either running from or fighting along side them for literally his life. His life and the life of the main character - One-Eleven - she wolf, leader of the Dark Canyon pack.
This book resonates with nature and the wilderness. Brown has well researched both this land and the reintroduction of the wolf to the Southwest and wove a great story around the two. Once I picked up this book I didn't want to lay it down.
October 20, 2025
Taylor Brown writes meaty fiction that is based in reality. For this reason, he would appeal to readers looking for more than entertainment. Here he goes inside the psyches of several characters, all representing a different aspect of the reintroduction of wolves into the wild, wolves that have been on the brink of extinction. Even to the alpha female herself.
August 3, 2025
I wish to thank St. Martin’s Press for providing me an advance reader copy of this book through GoodReads.
I do not particularly like anthropomorphism as a literary devise, nevertheless, I enjoyed this book. This book has a bit of man against himself, man against man, man against animal (wolf) and man against nature. The story takes place in the remote Gila Wilderness and Gila National Forest of New Mexico, where wolfs have been reintroduced about 100 years after they were eradicated. Trace Temple is a young ranch whose family has lost their ranch after his father illegally shot a wolf. He is hired by The Free West, a paramilitary group, with ugly political motives, to track down and kill One-Eleven, the she-wolf head of the Dark Canyons pack. In his hunt, Trace runs into a feral mountain man and switches to try to save the wolves. The Free West replaces him with Murdoch, a mysterious professional hunter with his own ulterior motives for wanting to kill One-Eleven and also Trace. The story is told in alternating chapters from the viewpoint of Trace, One-Eleven (hence anthropomorphism) and Murdoch. The story describes the remoteness of this area of New Mexico and the special skills need by man and animal to survive in this area. It delves a little into the politics of the wolf reintroduction program and the independent streak of western people, without being too political. A well written, well told story for anyone, but especially those that like the outdoors and animals.
I do not particularly like anthropomorphism as a literary devise, nevertheless, I enjoyed this book. This book has a bit of man against himself, man against man, man against animal (wolf) and man against nature. The story takes place in the remote Gila Wilderness and Gila National Forest of New Mexico, where wolfs have been reintroduced about 100 years after they were eradicated. Trace Temple is a young ranch whose family has lost their ranch after his father illegally shot a wolf. He is hired by The Free West, a paramilitary group, with ugly political motives, to track down and kill One-Eleven, the she-wolf head of the Dark Canyons pack. In his hunt, Trace runs into a feral mountain man and switches to try to save the wolves. The Free West replaces him with Murdoch, a mysterious professional hunter with his own ulterior motives for wanting to kill One-Eleven and also Trace. The story is told in alternating chapters from the viewpoint of Trace, One-Eleven (hence anthropomorphism) and Murdoch. The story describes the remoteness of this area of New Mexico and the special skills need by man and animal to survive in this area. It delves a little into the politics of the wolf reintroduction program and the independent streak of western people, without being too political. A well written, well told story for anyone, but especially those that like the outdoors and animals.
August 12, 2025
“Wolvers” by Taylor Brown was gifted to me by #StMartinsPress as an advanced readers copy. When I was selected on Goodreads I was elated. I’ve read nearly all of Taylor Brown’s previous novels and loved them all. To be perfectly honest I don’t know how he does it. Each book is somehow better than the last and all of them are great. His unique blend of conservation, historical fiction, and characters you truly get to know keeps me coming back book after book. I tore through this book in a hurry. It was hard to put down. One thing I liked was how each short chapter typically came from one of four perspectives. An Alpha female wolf, environmental activist (sort of), a mercenary, and a range riding former rancher. The narratives weave a story of redemption, hope, triumph over tragedy, unlikely aliances, and justice. This book has it all. From folks bent on eco terrorism to conspiracy theorists wishing to bring about a cultural rift. This book will keep you reading and I highly reccomend you get this one when it comes out.
August 22, 2025
Fun read, fast paced, and because it's Brown, beautifully written. Feels like Brown has tapped into something with these characters. Would love to see them again.
October 16, 2025
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the arc!
I thoroughly enjoyed Wolvers! It was extremely well-written (and well-researched!) with beautiful prose that strove to capture the spirit of the wild American Southwest. I also enjoyed the wide array of perspectives: we hear from Trace, our main protagonist, Murdoch, a major antagonist, and One-Eleven, who lives at the center of it all. I enjoyed hearing from each character, and I thought Brown did an especially great job of allowing a glimpse of the world through the eyes of a wolf. There are a few detailed/violent wolf hunts, and while this may not be for every reader, I appreciate that it didn't shy away from what it takes for apex predators to survive. There was also a nice balance of man v. man and man v. nature.
Perhaps most importantly, Wolvers is a beautifully written, action-packed adventure that still manages to effectively highlight the struggle of the Mexican Wolf's brush with extinction due to human-led efforts to eradicate their population. I hope many other readers will be inspired to support and research conservation efforts for all animals and ecosystems after reading a book like this.
My only critique is that I wish readers were allowed to see more of the transformation Trace underwent between Part One and Part Two. It jumped a little too quickly from deep-seated hatred for what the wolves represented to the acceptance of their presence, and I would have liked to see more of those inner thoughts as his long-held beliefs were finally challenged.
I thoroughly enjoyed Wolvers! It was extremely well-written (and well-researched!) with beautiful prose that strove to capture the spirit of the wild American Southwest. I also enjoyed the wide array of perspectives: we hear from Trace, our main protagonist, Murdoch, a major antagonist, and One-Eleven, who lives at the center of it all. I enjoyed hearing from each character, and I thought Brown did an especially great job of allowing a glimpse of the world through the eyes of a wolf. There are a few detailed/violent wolf hunts, and while this may not be for every reader, I appreciate that it didn't shy away from what it takes for apex predators to survive. There was also a nice balance of man v. man and man v. nature.
Perhaps most importantly, Wolvers is a beautifully written, action-packed adventure that still manages to effectively highlight the struggle of the Mexican Wolf's brush with extinction due to human-led efforts to eradicate their population. I hope many other readers will be inspired to support and research conservation efforts for all animals and ecosystems after reading a book like this.
My only critique is that I wish readers were allowed to see more of the transformation Trace underwent between Part One and Part Two. It jumped a little too quickly from deep-seated hatred for what the wolves represented to the acceptance of their presence, and I would have liked to see more of those inner thoughts as his long-held beliefs were finally challenged.
August 4, 2025
This is a very fascinating book. There is great cast of characters, especially the wolves. The description of the land and the terrain where the story takes place makes me want to make a visit there. The variety of the personalities of the characters made the book very interesting. The way that the main character's feelings towards the evolved added much to the story. I especially found the wolf chapters very informative as to their behavior and made me very sympathetic to them. I would highly recommend this book.
September 11, 2025
3.5. Interesting and unique story, but it just didn’t land for me. Felt like this was written to be a short film. Wish it paid more attention to fully developing the characters to care about. Well researched though.
September 7, 2025
Wow! This book is as impressive as it is informative! One-Eleven is an alpha female wolf in the Gila Wilderness--the oldest designated area where nothing mechanized is allowed. Two humans are introduced: Trace and Murdock; each have different motives but neither are afraid of being in the wilderness with wild animals. It's the first--and only--book I've ever read that so carefully personifies a wolf as both a predator and a caring parent. It's both a tear-jerker and an informative text as we see animals--and humans as they co-exist in the wild!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
September 21, 2025
Wolvers isn't a book I would normally pick up and read, but I'm glad I gave it a chance. One-Eleven is a cunning wolf who is as much of a character in this novel as the hunters who are trying to track her down. Trace is a down-on-his-luck rancher who is hired to track her, and he soon teams up with two others to find One-Eleven and her pack. This is a fast-paced thriller with a lot of action that animal lovers will enjoy. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC.
September 3, 2025
Taylor remains a master craftsman of well written and researched fiction. This story sucked me in like so many of his, with an ending that comes with breakneck speed after a detailed and engrossing build up. One-Eleven is the spirit animal we all need. I can’t wait for everyone to read this book!
August 6, 2025
This book in paperback form I won through the Goodreads lottery. The cover is excellent. I may be longer on this review just because they sent me a copy. It's only fair.
Taylor Brown writes better than well and many of his past books I've read to 4 star or even 5 star personal ratings. This one- while a worthy and rather complex plot which did keep my interest; the levels of violence and just plain chewy/ gore features also made me reluctant to return to it.
In reality there was a point about 2/3rds of the way through Part I when I didn't return for about 5 days to the book but started others. THAT is unusual for me, even in harvesting and processing crop season. Then when I finished Part 1, the rest of Wolvers I took up fairly quickly- in about 2 more days. Most books I read, despite great length, in a matter of 3 days total. So this was outlier. WHY? Just the blood/guts factor and also the form of it.
If this tale would have been told in a more chronological or single motion to context of forward progression pace then I think I would have been better embedded. The constant switching and EXTREME amounts of description (BOTH) kept me caught in a ravine or mud slide pit? And Murdoch? Well I did about half understand Trace and Horn. But can I say even without being elderly and old, old (which I am) that there is "eyes" of hunters and hunted and there are only so many ways to preach and teach about them. Murdoch from Russia, or Ukraine, or some Eastern European cabal fiasco place? Trained serial killer by equipment owned/given and past? Hmmm! Hints were made that he is decade set up spy too? OK, but doesn't it get a little cartoonish?
Really- the last Part was improved to my understanding. But the gist of this book is the HUNT. Hunt of/by hunters who become and yet are also hunted. Wolf and Human both killers and victims of/by their very natures. And their primal natures are also set into will and deep suffering too. Both of those, as well.
This was too, too for me. Others, especially the male readers, might like this much more than I did. Yes, I know that is stereotyping. But come on, man. EwWW! You saw as many bone shafts with hanging meat here as much as you saw vast, vast scenaries minutia detail.
Parts of the beginning portions were like listening to PBS lectures. Hubris of "better" opinions reigned- and then in the rest of the book most of that seemed almost disputed. Throughout the entire book, I always liked the wolf sections (Dark Canyon troup/ One-Eleven's brood) ten times more than the human ones. If I had not won this, I might have actually skipped the men hunting each other sections and especially Trace's girlfriend escapade. That didn't even belong or sit well in this, IMHO. Perhaps her opinions? Well, the rest is just too extreme for it to have mattered much. His mother's intersects did hone it more by triffles.
When will this switching, switching, switching chapters of eyes or places or time periods ever end. Can't be soon enough for me.
Taylor Brown writes better than well and many of his past books I've read to 4 star or even 5 star personal ratings. This one- while a worthy and rather complex plot which did keep my interest; the levels of violence and just plain chewy/ gore features also made me reluctant to return to it.
In reality there was a point about 2/3rds of the way through Part I when I didn't return for about 5 days to the book but started others. THAT is unusual for me, even in harvesting and processing crop season. Then when I finished Part 1, the rest of Wolvers I took up fairly quickly- in about 2 more days. Most books I read, despite great length, in a matter of 3 days total. So this was outlier. WHY? Just the blood/guts factor and also the form of it.
If this tale would have been told in a more chronological or single motion to context of forward progression pace then I think I would have been better embedded. The constant switching and EXTREME amounts of description (BOTH) kept me caught in a ravine or mud slide pit? And Murdoch? Well I did about half understand Trace and Horn. But can I say even without being elderly and old, old (which I am) that there is "eyes" of hunters and hunted and there are only so many ways to preach and teach about them. Murdoch from Russia, or Ukraine, or some Eastern European cabal fiasco place? Trained serial killer by equipment owned/given and past? Hmmm! Hints were made that he is decade set up spy too? OK, but doesn't it get a little cartoonish?
Really- the last Part was improved to my understanding. But the gist of this book is the HUNT. Hunt of/by hunters who become and yet are also hunted. Wolf and Human both killers and victims of/by their very natures. And their primal natures are also set into will and deep suffering too. Both of those, as well.
This was too, too for me. Others, especially the male readers, might like this much more than I did. Yes, I know that is stereotyping. But come on, man. EwWW! You saw as many bone shafts with hanging meat here as much as you saw vast, vast scenaries minutia detail.
Parts of the beginning portions were like listening to PBS lectures. Hubris of "better" opinions reigned- and then in the rest of the book most of that seemed almost disputed. Throughout the entire book, I always liked the wolf sections (Dark Canyon troup/ One-Eleven's brood) ten times more than the human ones. If I had not won this, I might have actually skipped the men hunting each other sections and especially Trace's girlfriend escapade. That didn't even belong or sit well in this, IMHO. Perhaps her opinions? Well, the rest is just too extreme for it to have mattered much. His mother's intersects did hone it more by triffles.
When will this switching, switching, switching chapters of eyes or places or time periods ever end. Can't be soon enough for me.
October 27, 2025
Wolvers is a novel with the texture of a modern-day western, consisting of characters and an environment where both are well-worn, gritty, and rough. It is about wolves, of man, and of their duality of existing in nature, including the hunting of each other and pining for each other’s eradication from the Earth.
In reading the novel, it translates as if the reader has been given a handbook on wolves, their behavior, and their existence in the natural world alongside humans. Along with the enjoyable depiction of nature as a backdrop, Brown also includes a large amount of necessary factual and layered detail about wolves, their behavior, and those that hunt them, which is essential to enhance the telling of the story, and it does.
For this reader, providing a specific summary of the several divergent plotlines and descriptions of the variety of characters would entail spoilers and lessen the impact of the overall content of the book.
Mostly, the novel follows hunting guide and tracker Trace Temple, who, due to a family crisis and property issues, has become bitter and angry towards not only the US government, but also wolves in general. Temple and his hunting skills have been hired by a shadowy group of wealthy men fond of wearing cowboy hats with silver underlinings. These same men possess not only the desire, but also the means, in their quest to rule the natural world as they see fit. When Temple is unable to deliver their desired results, a second and even more dangerous and sociopathic wolf hunter is brought in to finish the job and leave no others standing, including both creature and human.
The novel then follows as Temple, along with other well-developed and interesting characters, enters the fray of either trying to kill or protect a prized she-wolf known for her immense cunning and successful protection of her wolf pack.
Brown’s use of the natural world as a backdrop brings forth the imaginary odor of pine trees, forest fires, and an overall feeling of being enveloped by nature as if one were present in the outdoors themselves.
Wolvers is recommended to readers who enjoy backdrops involving the natural world and tales of high pursuit, danger, and brutality.
Netgalley provided an ARC upon the promise of a fair review, with Wolvers set to be released in April 2026.
In reading the novel, it translates as if the reader has been given a handbook on wolves, their behavior, and their existence in the natural world alongside humans. Along with the enjoyable depiction of nature as a backdrop, Brown also includes a large amount of necessary factual and layered detail about wolves, their behavior, and those that hunt them, which is essential to enhance the telling of the story, and it does.
For this reader, providing a specific summary of the several divergent plotlines and descriptions of the variety of characters would entail spoilers and lessen the impact of the overall content of the book.
Mostly, the novel follows hunting guide and tracker Trace Temple, who, due to a family crisis and property issues, has become bitter and angry towards not only the US government, but also wolves in general. Temple and his hunting skills have been hired by a shadowy group of wealthy men fond of wearing cowboy hats with silver underlinings. These same men possess not only the desire, but also the means, in their quest to rule the natural world as they see fit. When Temple is unable to deliver their desired results, a second and even more dangerous and sociopathic wolf hunter is brought in to finish the job and leave no others standing, including both creature and human.
The novel then follows as Temple, along with other well-developed and interesting characters, enters the fray of either trying to kill or protect a prized she-wolf known for her immense cunning and successful protection of her wolf pack.
Brown’s use of the natural world as a backdrop brings forth the imaginary odor of pine trees, forest fires, and an overall feeling of being enveloped by nature as if one were present in the outdoors themselves.
Wolvers is recommended to readers who enjoy backdrops involving the natural world and tales of high pursuit, danger, and brutality.
Netgalley provided an ARC upon the promise of a fair review, with Wolvers set to be released in April 2026.
September 16, 2025
Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley
One-Eleven, she-wolf and leader of the pack, is the queen of the Gila. It is autumn; the pups have grown since they spring birthing and now join the pack . . . and they hunt.
But men also hunt. Wolvers seeking to remove the wolves from the wilderness.
Will One-Eleven fall to their hunting? Will her pups be safe?
Why is it not possible for wolves and men to co-exist in peace?
=========
Set in the American southwest, “Wolvers” examines the men, the ranches, the wolves, and how they co-exist in the Gila. Is it possible for men and wolves to co-exist in peace?
Intriguing, captivating, and disturbing, readers meet both the wolves of the Gila and the men determined to remove them. Trace is easily relatable, as is One-Eleven. The unfolding story is about both redemption and second chances. It is also closely intertwined with survival.
Readers are certain to find themselves intrigued by One-Eleven . . . it is easy to root for her ultimate survival, to fret about the pups and what might happen to them. It is also easy to understand why the ranchers are not happy with the wolves being reintroduced to the area. After years without wolves, the decision to re-introduce them to the Gila makes it extremely difficult for the ranchers. But readers will find themselves asking whether or not both the wolves and the ranchers have the right to exist in the Gila. The answers are complicated and every reader is likely to have a different consideration.
However, this difficult-to-set-aside book is a must-read for nature-lovers and those who enjoy a good action-adventure tale. It is lyrical, fascinating, and thought-inspiring.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#Wolvers #NetGalley
One-Eleven, she-wolf and leader of the pack, is the queen of the Gila. It is autumn; the pups have grown since they spring birthing and now join the pack . . . and they hunt.
But men also hunt. Wolvers seeking to remove the wolves from the wilderness.
Will One-Eleven fall to their hunting? Will her pups be safe?
Why is it not possible for wolves and men to co-exist in peace?
=========
Set in the American southwest, “Wolvers” examines the men, the ranches, the wolves, and how they co-exist in the Gila. Is it possible for men and wolves to co-exist in peace?
Intriguing, captivating, and disturbing, readers meet both the wolves of the Gila and the men determined to remove them. Trace is easily relatable, as is One-Eleven. The unfolding story is about both redemption and second chances. It is also closely intertwined with survival.
Readers are certain to find themselves intrigued by One-Eleven . . . it is easy to root for her ultimate survival, to fret about the pups and what might happen to them. It is also easy to understand why the ranchers are not happy with the wolves being reintroduced to the area. After years without wolves, the decision to re-introduce them to the Gila makes it extremely difficult for the ranchers. But readers will find themselves asking whether or not both the wolves and the ranchers have the right to exist in the Gila. The answers are complicated and every reader is likely to have a different consideration.
However, this difficult-to-set-aside book is a must-read for nature-lovers and those who enjoy a good action-adventure tale. It is lyrical, fascinating, and thought-inspiring.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#Wolvers #NetGalley
September 19, 2025
Taylor Brown’s Wolvers is somewhat like your favorite gritty Western. But with amazing wolves and way more heart. At the center is Trace Temple, a character who’s basically hanging on by a thread. He’s angry, desperate, and making shady deals you just know can’t end well. The real star here is One-Eleven, a she-wolf who’s not just clever, she’s got an almost legendary vibe.
Brown writes the Gila wilderness so vividly you can almost smell the sagebrush and sweat. The place isn’t just there to look pretty. The setting is an actual character that keeps messing with Trace’s plans, making everything harder, angrier, messier. If you’re the type who applauds for wild landscapes and nature fighting back, you’re in luck.
Now, some of the plot beats feel like Brown was ticking off boxes. The story comes complete with Militia dudes, a rival hunter who might as well have “Evil” tattooed on his forehead, and yeah, a rekindled romance with rancher Imogen Cruz. These elements seem like they almost are obligatory to this kind of story. These parts move things along, but they make the main story (Trace figuring out his deal with the wolf) lose some of its bite.
Brown keeps the pace snappy, and he’s not afraid to poke at some real issues like “where do wolves belong?” Why do small towns always have to pick between tradition and saving the planet? "Wolvers" doesn’t give you easy answers, which is refreshing.
When it really clicks, it’s got the energy of a Cormac McCarthy novel but isn’t all doom and gloom. The story will surprise you with moments of quiet beauty, too. If you like action, rugged landscapes, and equally rugged characters, you’ll have a good time with this book. Give it a shot. I promise it doesn’t bite. (Well, except for maybe the wolves.)
A thank you goes out to St. Martin’s Press, who kindly provided me with an advanced reader’s copy of this book.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars)
Brown writes the Gila wilderness so vividly you can almost smell the sagebrush and sweat. The place isn’t just there to look pretty. The setting is an actual character that keeps messing with Trace’s plans, making everything harder, angrier, messier. If you’re the type who applauds for wild landscapes and nature fighting back, you’re in luck.
Now, some of the plot beats feel like Brown was ticking off boxes. The story comes complete with Militia dudes, a rival hunter who might as well have “Evil” tattooed on his forehead, and yeah, a rekindled romance with rancher Imogen Cruz. These elements seem like they almost are obligatory to this kind of story. These parts move things along, but they make the main story (Trace figuring out his deal with the wolf) lose some of its bite.
Brown keeps the pace snappy, and he’s not afraid to poke at some real issues like “where do wolves belong?” Why do small towns always have to pick between tradition and saving the planet? "Wolvers" doesn’t give you easy answers, which is refreshing.
When it really clicks, it’s got the energy of a Cormac McCarthy novel but isn’t all doom and gloom. The story will surprise you with moments of quiet beauty, too. If you like action, rugged landscapes, and equally rugged characters, you’ll have a good time with this book. Give it a shot. I promise it doesn’t bite. (Well, except for maybe the wolves.)
A thank you goes out to St. Martin’s Press, who kindly provided me with an advanced reader’s copy of this book.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars)
August 23, 2025
Alas! This year has been so full of books that I wanted to like and didn't, and now I have another to add to my pile.
An author whose previous work I enjoyed immensely? Check.
A great concept laid out in the blurb? Check.
The actual execution? Chapter fifteen and I still wasn't hooked. (I don't think I had that problem with Rednecks!)
I was hoping to make it the entirety of the chapter to see what turned Trace (besides what had already been mentioned), but I lost it completely when the wannabe militiamen started carrying on about this, that and the other thing, especially when they talked about "guarding" election sites.
To quote a former friend: SPLODEY-BOOM! (*head exploding gesture*)
My author bio doesn't mention it, but I've been working as an election inspector since 2020 and have chaired (or deputy chaired) five elections since February 2024. (I'm possibly headed for my sixth in November...I haven't been asked yet.) Know what would make me screech? Dumbasses with guns outside my precinct!
United States v. Lopez may have neutered the Gun Free School Zones Act, but Michigan Compiled Laws § 750.234d, subsection 3a bans firearms within 100 feet of a school. And guess where my precinct is? A high school!
I could rant more on this issue, but I'll leave it with: GAHHH! Consider my goat gotten!
(And some reviewers need to realize that an author describing wolves sniffing around where humans have been do not make them anthro.)
An author whose previous work I enjoyed immensely? Check.
A great concept laid out in the blurb? Check.
The actual execution? Chapter fifteen and I still wasn't hooked. (I don't think I had that problem with Rednecks!)
I was hoping to make it the entirety of the chapter to see what turned Trace (besides what had already been mentioned), but I lost it completely when the wannabe militiamen started carrying on about this, that and the other thing, especially when they talked about "guarding" election sites.
To quote a former friend: SPLODEY-BOOM! (*head exploding gesture*)
My author bio doesn't mention it, but I've been working as an election inspector since 2020 and have chaired (or deputy chaired) five elections since February 2024. (I'm possibly headed for my sixth in November...I haven't been asked yet.) Know what would make me screech? Dumbasses with guns outside my precinct!
United States v. Lopez may have neutered the Gun Free School Zones Act, but Michigan Compiled Laws § 750.234d, subsection 3a bans firearms within 100 feet of a school. And guess where my precinct is? A high school!
I could rant more on this issue, but I'll leave it with: GAHHH! Consider my goat gotten!
(And some reviewers need to realize that an author describing wolves sniffing around where humans have been do not make them anthro.)
November 20, 2025
Another wonderful book by Taylor Brown. Seriously, people really need to start paying more attention to this man, he is one of the best authors currently writing! I eagerly await every book he puts out, and am never disappointed.
Brown does not have a set formula he follows like so many authors today use. Where most authors write in the same genre, using the same basic setup (see Clancy, Brown, Grisham, etc), every one of Brown's books is different. Different subjects, different characters, different settings, different plots. The man has an amazing imagination!
In Wolvers, Brown comes to the Western United States. The book is about a man who has an intense hatred of wolves. He is basically an assassin, except he doesn't hunt people, he hunts wolves. Partway through the book, he teams up with another person, this one who has completely different feelings about wolves. Together, they fight a mysterious group of men who finance the killing of wolves. Through in an international assassin, and a little bit of romance, and you end up with an incredible book. The way Taylor describes settings, you cannot help but see them in your own mind. He digs deeply into the psyche of the main character, so you would easily recognize him if you met him. And the descriptions of the nature and personalities of the wolves is amazing.
I would say that this is one of my favorite books of the year, but then I say that about all of the author's books! He's just an incredibly talented writer who is putting out some of the best stories around today.
Give him a chance, I guarantee that you will not be disappointed!
Brown does not have a set formula he follows like so many authors today use. Where most authors write in the same genre, using the same basic setup (see Clancy, Brown, Grisham, etc), every one of Brown's books is different. Different subjects, different characters, different settings, different plots. The man has an amazing imagination!
In Wolvers, Brown comes to the Western United States. The book is about a man who has an intense hatred of wolves. He is basically an assassin, except he doesn't hunt people, he hunts wolves. Partway through the book, he teams up with another person, this one who has completely different feelings about wolves. Together, they fight a mysterious group of men who finance the killing of wolves. Through in an international assassin, and a little bit of romance, and you end up with an incredible book. The way Taylor describes settings, you cannot help but see them in your own mind. He digs deeply into the psyche of the main character, so you would easily recognize him if you met him. And the descriptions of the nature and personalities of the wolves is amazing.
I would say that this is one of my favorite books of the year, but then I say that about all of the author's books! He's just an incredibly talented writer who is putting out some of the best stories around today.
Give him a chance, I guarantee that you will not be disappointed!
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
This book pulled me in more than I expected. Wolvers is raw, emotional, and packed with atmosphere. It’s not just about chasing a wolf through the desert. It’s about a man on the edge, trying to make sense of the wreckage left behind in his life.
Trace Temple is one of those characters who gets under your skin. He’s lost his home, his family, and pretty much everything else that made him who he was. When he agrees to hunt down One-Eleven, the infamous she-wolf, it feels like he’s chasing more than just an animal. He’s chasing something inside himself too. What surprised me was how much I ended up caring about the wolf just as much as him. One-Eleven feels wild and sacred and smart in a way that stays with you.
The pacing is a slow burn, but it works. You get time to sit with the characters, the tension, the loneliness. The writing is sharp and descriptive without trying too hard, and the desert setting practically becomes a character of its own. You can feel the heat, the dust, the isolation.
There’s violence, survival, and some seriously intense moments, but there’s also a quiet kind of beauty in how the story unfolds. If you like stories that are a little dark, a little wild, and full of emotion, this one’s worth picking up.
I finished it feeling like I’d been through something. In the best way.
Trace Temple is one of those characters who gets under your skin. He’s lost his home, his family, and pretty much everything else that made him who he was. When he agrees to hunt down One-Eleven, the infamous she-wolf, it feels like he’s chasing more than just an animal. He’s chasing something inside himself too. What surprised me was how much I ended up caring about the wolf just as much as him. One-Eleven feels wild and sacred and smart in a way that stays with you.
The pacing is a slow burn, but it works. You get time to sit with the characters, the tension, the loneliness. The writing is sharp and descriptive without trying too hard, and the desert setting practically becomes a character of its own. You can feel the heat, the dust, the isolation.
There’s violence, survival, and some seriously intense moments, but there’s also a quiet kind of beauty in how the story unfolds. If you like stories that are a little dark, a little wild, and full of emotion, this one’s worth picking up.
I finished it feeling like I’d been through something. In the best way.
September 23, 2025
Wolf One-Eleven knows she’s being tracked by men who want to kill her. Her name comes from the governmental body seeking to protect wolves. However, some people want to eliminate wolves. Trace Temple has a bone to pick: his family lost their ranch —directly or indirectly, depending on how you look at it —because of wolves.
Two other men figure prominently in “Wolvers.” Both want to eliminate the wolf and possibly one another. They hike around the Gila Mountains in the American Southwest, carrying sophisticated weaponry. These mountains are almost like a character themselves. They significantly influence the action due to the danger they pose to those who travel through them.
“Wolvers” is an exciting story and I had no idea how it would end. Would One-Eleven and her pups survive the relentless attacks on their lives? Would Trace and the other wolvers survive?
I wanted to read “Wolvers” because I enjoyed Brown’s “Rednecks” so much. The latter described the 1920-1921 West Virginia Mine Wars, which in part caught my interest because this was the largest armed conflict on American soil since the Civil War.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance reader copy. This is my honest review.
Two other men figure prominently in “Wolvers.” Both want to eliminate the wolf and possibly one another. They hike around the Gila Mountains in the American Southwest, carrying sophisticated weaponry. These mountains are almost like a character themselves. They significantly influence the action due to the danger they pose to those who travel through them.
“Wolvers” is an exciting story and I had no idea how it would end. Would One-Eleven and her pups survive the relentless attacks on their lives? Would Trace and the other wolvers survive?
I wanted to read “Wolvers” because I enjoyed Brown’s “Rednecks” so much. The latter described the 1920-1921 West Virginia Mine Wars, which in part caught my interest because this was the largest armed conflict on American soil since the Civil War.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance reader copy. This is my honest review.
December 9, 2025
Wolvers
By Taylor Brown
This is my first exposure to Taylor Brown's writing – and I must say, I'm impressed. The book takes place in the Gila Wilderness and the Gila National Forest in New Mexico. This is truly an area which pits man against nature.
The plot revolves around the federal government's reintroduction of wolves into an area where they had previously been eradicated by men trying to protect their livestock. The story is told from different perspectives: Trace, the wolf hater turned conservationist; Murdoch, his antagonist, who is trying to kill a she-wolf know as 111; and the wolf herself, the alpha of the Dark Canyons pack. I especially enjoyed the she-wolf's view of her interactions with men.
The writing here is exquisite. While the descriptions of the wolves hunting may be unsettling to the reader, the author provides a true picture of how nature in the wild works. In spite of the gore, this book is well worth the read.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
By Taylor Brown
This is my first exposure to Taylor Brown's writing – and I must say, I'm impressed. The book takes place in the Gila Wilderness and the Gila National Forest in New Mexico. This is truly an area which pits man against nature.
The plot revolves around the federal government's reintroduction of wolves into an area where they had previously been eradicated by men trying to protect their livestock. The story is told from different perspectives: Trace, the wolf hater turned conservationist; Murdoch, his antagonist, who is trying to kill a she-wolf know as 111; and the wolf herself, the alpha of the Dark Canyons pack. I especially enjoyed the she-wolf's view of her interactions with men.
The writing here is exquisite. While the descriptions of the wolves hunting may be unsettling to the reader, the author provides a true picture of how nature in the wild works. In spite of the gore, this book is well worth the read.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Wolvers is a compelling and memorable read that will appeal to readers who enjoy intense, character-driven storytelling. The novel succeeds not only in delivering suspense and action, but also in offering thoughtful commentary on resilience, sacrifice, and the moral choices people are forced to make when pushed to their limits. The emotional weight of the story gives it lasting impact, encouraging readers to reflect on the characters’ journeys even after the book is finished. Wolvers does more than entertain—it challenges the reader to consider what it truly means to survive, to protect others, and to hold onto one’s humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. With its strong pacing, immersive atmosphere, and richly developed characters, this novel stands out as a powerful and rewarding experience. Highly recommended for fans of suspenseful, emotionally resonant fiction that leaves a lasting impression.
November 23, 2025
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading this book... It's like nothing I had ever read before. So this story is about a man who struggles with dealing with his life as it has affected his hunting and trapping lifestyle. He becomes quite bitter especially towards the US government and how he can hunt and survive. But instead of going after his fellow man, he turns towards wolves and starts going after them.
It's a very different kind of story and like I stated at the beginning, like nothing I had ever read before. It's viseral, raw, angry and bitter. Yet also serves as a sort of hunting guide which is an interesting tie in to the story. I'm not sure if I will read it again but it was definitely different.
I would like to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.
It's a very different kind of story and like I stated at the beginning, like nothing I had ever read before. It's viseral, raw, angry and bitter. Yet also serves as a sort of hunting guide which is an interesting tie in to the story. I'm not sure if I will read it again but it was definitely different.
I would like to thank the author, publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC book in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2025
This was not my favorite book by this author and to be honest, there were parts that were difficult to get through. The plot had a good premise and I had high hopes, but it ended up being just okay. I enjoyed the chapters with One-Eleven were honestly my favorite part of this book. I was not thrown off by the gruesome details of the killings as some people were after reading this book. I can't put my finger on what exactly I didn't enjoy overall, but it just fell flat. The story is intriguing and you can tell the author did his homework for this book which is why I rounded this up to three stars. I also like Taylor Brown's other work and will definitely read more.
Thank you NetGalley and St.Martin's Press for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and St.Martin's Press for an ARC in return for an honest review.
August 30, 2025
Wolvers by new to me author Taylor Brown, published by St. Martin's Press, is full length, stand alone, general fiction novel.
I tiptoed around this book for a few days now. Started reading and was intrigued.
Set in the Southwest of America the author manages to uniquely blend characters, storyline and fiction into a riveting novel.
Trace is angry at the world, he lost his ranch, is broke and just got hired to hunt down the she-wolf One-Eleven.
She is the leader of her pack, cunning, outwitting their enemies, but soon both have to depende on each other.
A wonderful story about survival, redemption, second chances, 5 stars.
I tiptoed around this book for a few days now. Started reading and was intrigued.
Set in the Southwest of America the author manages to uniquely blend characters, storyline and fiction into a riveting novel.
Trace is angry at the world, he lost his ranch, is broke and just got hired to hunt down the she-wolf One-Eleven.
She is the leader of her pack, cunning, outwitting their enemies, but soon both have to depende on each other.
A wonderful story about survival, redemption, second chances, 5 stars.
August 3, 2025
I think this is a super interesting subject matter for a thriller, clearly the author has done a lot of research on this field. That being said, I think that Murdoch could have been fleshed out a little more, and frankly, if the book hadn't featured the wolf-centric chapters, it would have been much more of a slog to get through. I think being able to understand the wolves as well as the human characters really adds a lot of valuable atmosphere and characterization to the overall story.
(I received this ARC in a giveaway)
(I received this ARC in a giveaway)
September 11, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the eARC.
This is a difficult read for me to review. I loved the parts about the she-wolf, One-Eleven, but couldn't really get into the human characters. The descriptions of the wilderness are superb and so is the writing. However, the details of the killings was a bit too gruesome for me ...
I know the reintroduction of wolves is a contentious subject, but I love the fact that a species that once roamed the earth and was almost killed off by humans, is slowly recognized as being as much a part of Mother Nature as we are.
This is a difficult read for me to review. I loved the parts about the she-wolf, One-Eleven, but couldn't really get into the human characters. The descriptions of the wilderness are superb and so is the writing. However, the details of the killings was a bit too gruesome for me ...
I know the reintroduction of wolves is a contentious subject, but I love the fact that a species that once roamed the earth and was almost killed off by humans, is slowly recognized as being as much a part of Mother Nature as we are.
December 8, 2025
Great character development! The men, women, and even the wolves become so real as we read about the struggle between man and beast, or is it 'animal and beast'? The re-introduction of the grey wolf into the American wild was controversial, and some decided to take the matter into their own hands--some to kill and some to protect. Our anthropomorphic she-wolf struggles to protect her pack from natural predators well as men with guns. I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an honest review
August 23, 2025
First, thanks to St. Martin’s Press for the ARC!
I really enjoyed this book: the expected pace and action of a thriller - with so much more.
Magnificent prose, beautiful descriptions of nature, well-developed characters and some truly suspenseful scenes round out this book as a great read. Not only is Brown well-researched and talented but also highly passionate; I would absolutely read more of his work.
I really enjoyed this book: the expected pace and action of a thriller - with so much more.
Magnificent prose, beautiful descriptions of nature, well-developed characters and some truly suspenseful scenes round out this book as a great read. Not only is Brown well-researched and talented but also highly passionate; I would absolutely read more of his work.
September 4, 2025
Thank you to Taylor Brown and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
An ecological thriller with a vague shadow political movement thrown in. The plot gets a little murky, but I guess it was for character background.
It was intriguing for the wolf point of view writing but It was also a little tough to read sometimes with the way he wrote how his characters were speaking. while accurate linguistically it was not how I was used to reading dialogue.
An ecological thriller with a vague shadow political movement thrown in. The plot gets a little murky, but I guess it was for character background.
It was intriguing for the wolf point of view writing but It was also a little tough to read sometimes with the way he wrote how his characters were speaking. while accurate linguistically it was not how I was used to reading dialogue.
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