Pg. 69: Dorothy Hearst's "Promise of the Wolves"

The current feature at the Page 69 Test: Dorothy Hearst's Promise of the Wolves.

About the book, from the author's website.

Never consort with humans. Never kill a human unprovoked. Never allow a mixed-blood wolf to live.

At least that’s what the wolves of the Wide Valley believe. Until a young wolf dares to break the rules—and forever alters the relationship between wolves and the humans who share their world.

Born of a forbidden mixed-blood litter and an outcast after her mother is banished, Kaala is determined to earn a place in the Swift River pack. But her world is turned upside down when she saves a human girl from drowning. Risking expulsion from their pack and banishment from the Wide Valley, Kaala and her young packmates begin to hunt with the humans and thus discover the long-hidden bond between the two clans. But when war between wolves and humans threatens, Kaala learns the lies behind the wolf’s promise. Lies that force her to choose between safety for herself and her friends and the survival of her pack—and perhaps of all wolf- and humankind.

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Set 14,000 years ago, Promise of the Wolves takes you to a land where time is counted in phases of the moon, distance is measured in wolflengths, and direction by the scent of the nearest trail. Join Kaala and her pack in a spellbinding adventure set in a fantastical world filled with lore.

Among the early praise for Promise of the Wolves:

"...a vivid, enchanting tale of friendship, trust and adventure, good Tolkien-esque ingredients..."
--Kirkus

"If you liked Watership Down, you should not miss Promise of the Wolves."
--Jean Auel, author of Clan of the Cave Bear

"The story of Kaala and her pack takes readers on a journey into a rich and fascinating world. A remarkable look into the mind of another kind of being."
--Temple Grandin, author of Animals in Translation

"For anyone who ever wanted to run with the wolves, this debut novel...opens a window into life in the pack."
--Library Journal

"Hearst's knowledge of wolf lore and behavior is evident...fascinating... A vividly conceived creation myth."
--Booklist

Read an excerpt from Promise of the Wolves, and learn more about the book and author at Dorothy Hearst's website and her blog.

The Page 69 Test: Promise of the Wolves.

--Marshal Zeringue