2 Book Lovers Reviews
The Wolves of Winter
By Tyrell Johnson
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I’m always on the lookout for a new and exciting book in the post-apocalyptic genre. The Wolves of Winter jumped out at me; the cover screamed Nordic noir, another favorite genre, while the synopsis is all post-apocalyptic. I was ready to saddle up and head north with Tyrell Johnson.
This is a genre that is fraught with challenges. With all of the books available right now, the scenario needs to be fresh, unique and a wee bit possible. On top of that, should the author go with a strong, young female protagonist, she has to hold her own; the last thing I want to read about is another Katniss Everdeen wannabe.
So, how did Johnson do?
The world has been ravaged by war and a man-made plague (disease). Yes, we have seen this before. I think that Johnson won me over with the build-up to his apocalypse. The possibility of it seems too close for comfort. I thought that this scenario could actually happen.
The next thing that Johnson did that worked for me was the setting. It made sense, when the shit hits the fan – head for the hills. The McBride family did exactly as one should, they isolated themselves. Johnson illuminated the daily life of a family striving to get by and the realities of their existence.
No great story is complete without great characters. While the bow-wielding Lynn McBride did seem vaguely familiar, she holds her own within the genre. Jax, I really couldn’t connect with, however, his faithful companion, Wolf, was a favorite of mine. Among the supporting cast, Lynn’s uncle, Jeryl, stole the show and kept me connected to the story.
The Wolves of Winter is a great first outing for Tyrell Johnson. I had a couple of minor issues (don’t eat snow to hydrate!), but all in all I connected with the characters and felt involved in the story. If Lynn and Jax have any more adventures, I would like to tag along.
*4 Stars