Author: Amanda Connolly
Genre: YA Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Romance
Publisher: Sarah Barley Books/Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Book Release Date: July 7, 2026
Pages: 464
Source: This book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: On the mist-shrouded Isle of Eireann, buying magic comes with a price.
But when her beloved older sister is gravely injured, Maeve risks everything to buy the forbidden magic that might save her. In exchange, Maeve trades her life to a ruthless and dangerously alluring rebel leader. Bound to do his bidding, Maeve finds herself thrown into a deadly competition to become the next queen and stand beside a prince rumored to be more brutal than his tyrannical father.
With the isle on the brink of war, trust and survival come at a terrible cost—one that will tear Maeve’s world, and her heart, in two.
What would you sacrifice to survive?
My Review: The Lure of Wolves and Whispers is a historical fantasy set in a fantastical version of medieval Ireland. Maeve is a young peasant. One day, her beloved sister, Finn, is gravely injured and dying. Desperate to save her, she makes a bargain with the rebel group, known as the Whisperers. As part of the bargain, Maeve has to kill the High King of Eireann. The only way to get close to the king is to enter into a deadly competition to become the next High Queen of Eireann where only one must survive. Will Maeve be able to accomplish the mission and save her sister?
I found Maeve to be a very fascinating heroine! I like that she has a caring heart. She is unwilling to hurt others. However, she knows that she has to in order to survive. I like Maeve. She is truly disgusted with endless bloodshed. She wants to live a peaceful life, but the events that happened in her life led it to become chaos. I also loved Maeve’s bond with her sister. She is willing to do anything for her including sacrificing herself. Maeve is also very tough and is a great fighter! Therefore, I was totally invested in Maeve’s story and wanted to know what happened to her.
Overall, this book is about sisterhood, secrets, and love. I thought that all of the characters were interesting. Most of them are not who they appear to be at first! I also liked the fantasy setting of medieval Ireland, and I like how it is heavily inspired by Irish mythology! I did think that this is not a young adult novel. This book is more suited to adults because it has some explicit scenes. There were also some gruesome and disturbing scenes that are also not suited for young adults. Nevertheless, it was a very emotional and compelling read! The story was very fast-paced and action-paced! The Lure of Wolves and Whispers is full of political and courtly intrigue, mystery, and romance to keep the reader turning the pages! It also ended on a cliffhanger! Therefore, I’m excited to read the sequel! I can’t wait to see what upcoming adventures are in store for Maeve! I recommend this book for fans of Shadowfell, Deception’s Princess, and Queen Among the Dead!
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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