Dark Wolf's Awakening

Alpha Rising, Book 1

By: Ryan Evans

Narrated by: Eric Michael Summerer

It has been thousands of years since beast-kind were united under one banner.

The empire encompasses most of the known world, driving out or enslaving the lesser races without mercy. In a state of constant war and conquest, they have perfected the art of battle.

For commoner wolf-kind Valian, being accepted and trained in a noble house's army was a dream come true. Without wealth or a family, it was his best shot at attaining honor and glory. Until fate intervened.

When, on his graduation day, Valian discovers he's descended from an ancient and long-thought-extinct line, everything changes. Now, he'll have to come to terms with his newfound strength while joining a world he has never known. If the threat of his fellow beast-kind wasn't enough, a new danger has awoken on the empire's eastern border.

If Valian doesn't rise to the occasion, more than just his own life may be lost.

Fans of Throne of Glass and Sword of Truth will enjoy the dynamic combination of magic and action in Evans’ new series, Alpha Rising. Dark Wolf's Awakening is the debut novel in the fast-paced epic fantasy series that introduces listeners to a savage world ruled by shape-shifters and the beast within.

©2020 Ryan Evans (P)2020 Podium Audio

Great Listen!

I enjoyed this story. It was exactly what I was hoping for, a distraction from the real world. The beast-kin, the politics, the conflicts were presented well, and the story's pacing was just right. Overall it was great, but I noticed a few issues that I hope are less evident in the following books. The character development was sparse when it came to those around Valian, which is unfortunate because they could have bolstered the book's emotional impact. Another issue I noticed was that Valian rarely had any significant conflict. What I mean is that there was never a time when Valian was in any situation that felt perilous, except the final boss fight. The Princess's interactions seemed a bit weak since no monarch would have allowed someone to treat them so poorly without consequences. Even the best ruler would have attempted to punish him more directly, rather than order another to sucker stab him during a battle.

All that said, I am looking forward to the next book!

The Ancestors were on my side!

Welcome to an interesting and somewhat unique fantasy tale where in this world, beast-kind are the apex intelligent predator. The story reminds me of the “Legionnaire Chronicles” series by Gilbert Stack, where the Romans are replaced by the beast-kind. Our MC, Valian is a commoner wolf-kind recruit in the Silvanti noble house army. Upon graduation from the Academy, Valian learned that he is the descendant of a long-believed extinct noble line. The story continues, following Valian Farrow as he learns the pros and cons of being a noble, especially having the Farrow name. It’s not a bad story, rather simplistic, but interesting enough to follow through to the end. Three.point.five for potential.

WOW Awesome!

This was so good! I really enjoyed this and am getting book two after finishing this review!

well written and told..

loved this story! can't wait to hear more from this authors worls.. the reader was great good job

Unexpectedly Great !!!

Didn’t think I was going to like this book but I took a chance on it and the storyline is amazing in the world run by beast kind champions always rise!