Secret of the Wolf by Susan Krinard is the final book in the historical werewolf trilogy which began with Touch of the Wolf and continued with Once a Wolf. In Secret of the Wolf again a couple of years have passed since the conclusion of Once a Wolf which makes the length of time that Quentin has been missing even longer. Now finally we discover where he has been and why everyone has lost touch with him.

Johanna Schell is the founder of Der Haven a sanctuary built for those suffering from various mental illnesses. Continuing the work of her father, who is no longer able to continue the work himself, she finds her job made harder by not only her controversial hypnotist therapies but also the fact that she is a woman trying to make her living and help her patients in a world dominated by men.

There are few residents at Der Haven but the newest resident is the most unusual Johanna has ever come across in her work. Quentin appeared out of the night and saved Johanna from an unknown assailant. But he is ill himself and Johanna takes him in to help him. Quentin has suffered from spells of amnesia for a number of years and claims that he is a werewolf. Johanna does not believe the werewolf tales but she cannot deny that under hypnosis Quentin becomes a different person, one who frightens her and endangers all around him.

Johanna must use all her skill as a doctor to help Quentin and all her resolve not to fall in love with her intriguing patient.

Added to this are the problems of the local town who want both her and the patients gone from their community. Quentin however could be the answer to some of her problems as when he is himself he is the only strong male figure at Der Haven who can keep the locals in check and prevent a tragedy. But will his darker side bring about another tragedy before Johanna can uncover his past and help him find his place in the world.

Another strong book from Ms Krinard which excellently tackles the controversial subject of mental illness and prejudice against those who are considered "different". There are lessons learnt in Secret of the Wolf that are still relevant today and Ms Krinard is not afraid to tackle these issues head on. Another great book and a fitting conclusion to the trilogy. I only wish that Braden, Rowena and Quentin could perhaps have been reunited in some way through the epilogue, even if just through letters.

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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, Once a Wolf, and Star-Crossed.

Read an Interview with Susan Krinard.

Visit Susan Krinard's website