TJ Klune’s Wolfsong has garnered significant attention, often sparking comparisons – sometimes unfairly – to narratives like Twilight, but with a distinctly werewolf-centric and LGBTQ+ twist. Dismissing it as simply a “gay Twilight with werewolves” does a disservice to the rich tapestry of themes it weaves. Wolfsong is not just a paranormal romance; it’s a compelling exploration of love in its myriad forms, the pain of loss, the strength of friendship, and the unbreakable bonds of family found and forged. It’s a journey into acceptance, loyalty, and the enduring power of hope, all wrapped within the thrilling world of a werewolf pack.
While personal ratings can sometimes feel inadequate to capture the full spectrum of emotions a book evokes, Wolfsong resides in that intriguing space between a solid 3 and a commendable 4 stars. It’s a story that lingers, far from forgettable, and immediately captivating. Yet, minor flaws prevent it from reaching a flawless score. However, its impact is undeniable, particularly for readers who, like many, find themselves drawn to TJ Klune’s storytelling. The initial intimidation of his books’ length – often surpassing 400 pages – quickly fades as you become engrossed in narratives that are both expansive and deeply personal. Wolfsong not only meets expectations but ignites a fervent curiosity to explore Klune’s wider literary universe.
“I love you, too, Ox. You’re my mate. And one day soon, I’m going to show you that.”
Wolfsong introduces us to Ox, a young man marked by early abandonment. At twelve, his father leaves, and a few years later, Ox’s life intersects dramatically with the Bennett pack. This encounter begins with a whirlwind of a ten-year-old boy named Joe, who bursts into Ox’s world, speaking in cryptic pronouncements that initially bewilder him. Ox is drawn into the fold of Joe’s family, a family he soon discovers is a pack of werewolves. Despite his human nature, Ox becomes intrinsically linked to them, forging bonds that deepen into familial love over the years. This found family offers him a sense of belonging he’s never known. However, when tragedy strikes and a seventeen-year-old Joe departs, Ox is left grappling with responsibilities and choices he never anticipated. Three years later, Joe returns, transformed into a man, stirring up a complex storm of emotions in Ox – hurt, betrayal, and lingering love for the boy he remembers.
Navigating the Nuances: Age Gaps, Possessiveness, and the Essence of Love
One of the most debated aspects of Wolfsong is the age difference between Ox and Joe. With a six-year gap, and the dynamic of a young Joe “claiming” a teenage Ox, some readers find the relationship problematic. However, it’s crucial to note that the romantic relationship doesn’t begin until Joe is seventeen and Ox is twenty-three. Joe’s initial possessiveness, often manifested through growls and snarls towards anyone near Ox, can be interpreted in various ways. Yet, in the realm of paranormal romance, particularly within werewolf narratives, possessiveness and a sense of ownership are often intertwined with the primal instincts of pack and mating.
“You confuse me. You aggravate me. You’re amazing and beautiful, and sometimes, I want to put my teeth in you just to watch you bleed. I want to know what you taste like. I want to leave my marks on your skin. I want to cover you until all you smell like is me. I don’t want anyone to touch you ever again. I want you. Every part of you. I want to tell you to break the bond with Gordo because it burns that you are tethered to someone besides me. I want to tell you I can be a good person. I want you to know that I’m not. I want to turn you. I want you to be a wolf so we can run in the trees. I want you to stay human so you never lose that part of yourself. If something were to happen to you, if you were about to die, I would turn you because I can never lose you. I can never let you leave me. I can’t let anything take you from me.”
While some might categorize Wolfsong as a romance novel, it arguably leans more towards a love story. The central theme isn’t solely the romantic relationship between Ox and Joe, which develops at a deliberate pace, truly blossoming only in the latter part of the book. Instead, the narrative foregrounds the intricate dynamics of the pack, the looming threat of a villain, and the overarching plot that binds them all. The romance between Ox and Joe, while significant, feels almost secondary to the broader themes of pack loyalty and found family.
A Relationship Forged in Pack Bonds, Not Romantic Sparks?
Upon reflection, the romantic relationship between Ox and Joe, while pivotal, can feel somewhat underdeveloped. Despite their mate bond, a cornerstone of werewolf lore, their individual connection sometimes lacks depth. The narrative hints at a profound connection destined by fate, yet the exploration of their personal intimacy, beyond the mate bond, feels wanting. Readers might yearn for more nuanced interactions, glimpses into shared hobbies, personal preferences, and quiet moments of mutual discovery, especially after their painful separation.
Their relationship timeline is marked by brevity: a single mini-date cut short by tragedy, followed by three years of separation filled with longing, and then a hesitant re-acquaintance marked by emotional distance and unresolved pain. While their eventual reconciliation is passionate, fueled by confessions and physical intimacy, the foundation of their romantic relationship feels rushed. The narrative excels at depicting their sibling-like bond, particularly Joe’s younger brother dynamic with Ox, which is endearing. However, the spark of romantic chemistry, that crucial element that elevates a bond beyond familial affection, sometimes feels muted. Cute moments are present, but they don’t consistently translate into palpable romantic development. Ox’s initial attraction to Joe seems primarily physical, and Joe’s “courting” rituals, while wolf-like, don’t fully bridge the gap to a deeply felt romantic connection for the reader. The relationship progresses, but the romantic chemistry feels somewhat underdeveloped in comparison to the strong found family dynamics.
Critiques and Caveats: Writing Style and Underwhelming Conflicts
Beyond the central relationship, some aspects of Wolfsong might leave readers wanting. The writing style, initially easy to overlook, can become somewhat repetitive and simplistic as the story progresses. While not detracting entirely from the narrative, a richer, more descriptive prose could have elevated the emotional depth and impact. Furthermore, the antagonist, Richard, despite his build-up as a significant threat, ultimately feels underwhelming. His defeat is swift and anticlimactic, failing to deliver the impactful confrontation anticipated. For a villain with considerable presence and menace, his downfall feels strangely deflated.
The narrative pacing also falters towards the end. The characters, particularly Ox and Joe, emphasize the importance of open communication and trust, yet crucial moments are undermined by a lack of dialogue and transparency. Ox’s decisions and perspectives, at times, might appear inconsistent with his established character, straining credulity. Finally, despite being touted as intensely emotional and heart-wrenching, Wolfsong might not evoke the profound sadness some readers expect. While emotionally resonant, it might not reach the depths of despair suggested by some descriptions.
“Once upon time, there was a lonely boy, a broken boy who didn’t know if he could shift, and it took one person to show him how. And now I’ve done it for you because that’s what we do for each other. That’s what pack is. That’s what this all means.”
The Irresistible Pull of Pack and Found Family
Despite these critiques, Wolfsong possesses an undeniable magnetism. The strength of the narrative lies in its captivating secondary characters and the beautifully rendered found family trope. TJ Klune masterfully keeps the story engaging, with a consistent flow of events that propel the narrative forward. While the central romance might feel less developed, the intricate relationships within the pack and the broader community more than compensate. The unconventional elements, such as humans playing vital roles within the werewolf world, and Ox’s unique position as a human alpha, enhance the story’s charm and originality. The dialogue and banter among the characters are consistently sharp, witty, and genuinely funny, seamlessly blending humor with heartfelt moments.
The found family trope in Wolfsong is executed with exceptional warmth and authenticity. Ox, abandoned by his biological father, finds solace and belonging within the Bennett pack. He is embraced as a son, brother, lover, and an integral part of their lives. The protective nature of the pack and the diverse yet unified relationships within it are deeply compelling. Thomas and Elizabeth become parental figures, Kelly and Carter, brotherly confidantes, Mark, a supportive uncle figure, and Joe, his destined mate. Even his relationship with Gordo, a father figure who steps into the void left by his father, adds layers to Ox’s emotional landscape. The inclusion of Rico, Tanner, and Chris as steadfast friends further enriches Ox’s support system. The pack, comprising humans, werewolves, and even a witch, stands united against adversity, offering unwavering support and acceptance.
“Though sometimes, the songs are meant to sing a pack member home. It’s easy to get lost, Ox, because the world is a wide and scary place. And every now and then, you just have to be reminded of the way home.”
The three-year separation, though frustrating in terms of romantic development, serves to highlight the resilience of the pack and Ox’s significant character growth. He evolves from a boy burdened by his father’s dismissive words into a leader, grappling with self-doubt but rising to the occasion. This period of separation is emotionally charged, revealing Ox’s internal struggles with loyalty, leadership, and his enduring love for Joe. The narrative effectively conveys Ox’s emotional turmoil and his complex journey towards forgiveness and reconciliation when Joe returns. He doesn’t easily forgive Joe, a realistic portrayal of the deep hurt caused by the separation, adding emotional depth and authenticity to his character arc.
Final Verdict: A Howl Worth Hearing
In conclusion, Wolfsong, a book years in the making for many readers, offers a captivating journey into the world of werewolves, love, and found family. While it might not perfectly align with all expectations, it’s a worthwhile read, particularly for those drawn to TJ Klune’s signature blend of humor, heart, and paranormal elements. Wolfsong successfully ignites interest in the subsequent books in the series, leaving readers eager to witness the happily ever afters of the remaining pack members. Despite its imperfections, the resonant themes of belonging and the powerful bonds of chosen family make Wolfsong a compelling and ultimately heartwarming read, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.
