Warriors of the Red Wolf by Nicholas Varner is a stunning book that delves deeply into the mysticism, magic, and lore that is such an integral part of Indigenous populations worldwide. The Warriors of the Hilltop are fierce and proud people who want to live in peace and grow their families in a land where good triumphs over evil. Forced from their homeland, Mia and her tribe seek a new land in which to settle. Guided by her wind chimes and the tribe’s courage and determination, they face many dangers and evil creatures on their epic journey but they also encounter new friends and allies and reconnect with many of their past family and friends. Tasked with ridding the world of an evil that threatens humanity, Mia and her comrades must make sacrifices and lose family members in an epic battle for control of the Blue Pearl that is Earth. 

Warriors of the Red Wolf is a sequel novel to Seasons of the Blue Pearl but it is definitely a standalone story. Author Nicholas Varner does a superb job of dropping gems of background information into the narrative to ensure that readers are kept apprised of the plot and its origins. What I particularly appreciated was the highly descriptive, thoughtful, and contemplative nature of much of the narrative, especially as Mia and others spent time communing with their spirit animals, ancestors, and the Sacred Wind that guides her decision-making. I could see the allegorical nature of the tribe’s desire for peace, prosperity, and family contrasted with the evil power’s desire for control and possession. I found myself constantly comparing the tribe’s battles to those of the Native Americans as they sought to preserve their culture and way of life against the relentless thrust of the European settlers for land, control, and dominance. Although the novel is deep, thoughtful, and contemplative, there is no shortage of action, fighting, and loss for all participants in this journey. This is a well-balanced, carefully structured, and enthralling novel that will captivate the hearts and minds of readers. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

Nicholas Varner's Warriors of the Red Wolf tells the tale of a nomadic desert clan forced to abandon their land because of a malevolent force that corrupted the hearts of their people. Under the guidance of Mia, their young leader, the remaining untainted Warriors left their desert home, traversed dangerous terrains, and braved harsh seasons in search of a new land to call their own. Mia is gifted with the ability to understand the whispered messages of their deity, the Sacred Wind. Along their journey, the Warriors face and overcome many challenges, forge new friendships, and unify with old allies. The Warriors must help defeat two siblings charged with tormenting another clan while claiming to be gods. Moreover, they must vanquish an evil Shapeshifter wreaking havoc on them all. Can Mia and her family save their clan and guide them to the new promised land?

Enchanted regions, mystical creatures, unknown dangers, and an invigorating quest are all elements that make this novel a captivating read. The narrative skillfully incorporates magic and adventure to create a story that is bold, unique, and inviting. Readers will be whisked away to an unfamiliar and exciting realm designed to capture the imagination. Each character provides readers with a compelling journey into the brutal and mysterious world blossoming before them. Mia, her family, and their close family dynamics add an element of comfort and intrigue to the storyline. Overall, Nicholas Varner's Warriors of the Red Wolf is an enthralling read, awash with unexpected twists and turns, devised to keep you fully engaged. If you're looking for an exceptional YA fantasy adventure this month, be prepared to fall in love with this incredible story.