Once a Wolf by Susan Krinard is the second novel in her historical werewolf trilogy that began with Touch of the Wolf. At the back of Touch of the Wolf the story is referred to as Passion of the Wolf but it would appear that between publication of the first book and the second a change of title was made.

Touch of the Wolf saw the disappearance of both Rowena and Quentin Forster. Here we find what became of Braden’s sister Rowena as she set out in the world alone.

Rowena has always denied her werewolf blood, only changing when necessary and then never truly embracing her werewolf nature.

Several years have passed since Rowena fled from England and she now resides in New York City where she is engaged to Cole MacLean. Rowena does not love Cole but like her he is a werewolf who has assured her that he has denied his werewolf blood and has made a fortune for himself through his businesses. Cole knows Rowena’s shameful secret of werewolf blood and Rowena believes that marrying him is the best choice she can make. She can live in the style she is used to without having to hide her werewolf blood.

What Rowena does not know is that Cole has made his fortune through use of his werewolf gifts. Although he does not change into wolf form he is adept at using mind control powers over others. Although Rowena is aware of this power and her family in England had previously used his power over the servants on their Estate, she has denied her own gifts for so long she cannot tell when Cole is lying to her about using his own.

Rowena’s life seems to be perfectly set out before her until she receives a message that her other brother, Quentin, is in trouble. Fleeing to her brother’s aid she finds herself the victim of a ruse and the prisoner of Tomás Alejandro Randall, also known as El Lobo and the sworn enemy of Cole MacLean.

Like Rowena and Cole, Tomás is also of a strong werewolf bloodline, but he has embraced his heritage and is also a man of honour. His only fault is that he is thirsty for revenge against Cole and is prepared to seduce Rowena who is known as "Lady Ice" to get his revenge on the man who has destroyed his family.

But thrown together with Rowena Tomás finds himself falling for her and as Cole closes in on them they realise that they time together may be far shorter than they expected and that their lives may be forfeit.

Like her previous novels Ms Krinard has her story well plotted and there are no two dimensional characters on these pages. Another masterpiece of storytelling and a fitting sequel to Touch of the Wolf.

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Also by Susan Krinard:   Twice a Hero, Saving Sirena, Body & Soul, Prince of Wolves, Prince of Shadows, Prince of Dreams, Touch of the Wolf, Secret of the Wolf and Star-Crossed.

Read an Interview with Susan Krinard.

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