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Fantasy. Fiction. Science Fiction. Thriller. HTML:Louisiana, 2065. A lot has changed in the 43rd year of the Kurian Order. Possessed of an unnatural and legendary hunger, the bloodthirsty Reapers have come to Earth to establish a New Order built on the harvesting of enslaved human souls. They rule the planet. They thrive on the scent of fear. And if it is night, as sure as darkness, they will come.On this pitiless world, the indomitable spirit of mankind still breathes in Lieutenant show more David Valentine. Brought into the special forces of The Wolves—an elite guerilla force sworn to win back Earth—this is Valentine’s first command in the Kurian Zone. Driven by the losses of his past and the hope of a future, Valentine is in it to win. No matter how long it takes. No matter what doom of fate awaits him beyond his wildest nightmares.
Fight. Kill. Survive.
This is the way of The Wolves.
“If The Red Badge of Courage had been written by H.P. Lovecraft.”—Paul Witcover, author of Waking Beauty. show less
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Member Reviews
Liked the world-building in this one, and the take on vampires.
Less thrilled with how most of the female characters who do get some screen time show a rather distressing patternof all ending up endangered and/or dying horribly as hero motivational fuel .
Less thrilled with how most of the female characters who do get some screen time show a rather distressing pattern
This was pretty interesting - it has tons of elements that I love, inlcuding vampires (though they're a bit...strange), survivors of the "end of the world," underdogs fighting their oppressors, tough as hell characters...
The main character, David Valentine, is that sort of guy who only exists in fiction: orphaned in a horrible manner, and not only survives, but becomes all the more focused as a result. He's raised by a priest/teacher, and therefore becomes very educated and learns to question and to think *deeply*. He also thinks out of the box (for lack of a better term), and has an uncanny talent for sensing vampires. But that comes later...
The format of the book is a bit annoying: every charpter begins with an italicized "let's sum show more up where we are now!" introduction, and while I understand what the aim of this was, I still could have done without it. The same sort of thing (flashing forward in thime past stuff that really doesn't need focusing on) is done much better (though without the supernatural elements) in Stirling's apocalypse series beginning with Dies the Fire.
Despite my jokes and pickiness, I did enjoy this. The slightly different take on vampirism, added to the apocalypse/humans-as-underdogs, is very compelling, and despite Valentine's handsome, smart, deadly, yet sensitive, completely unrealistic character, I do like him. He's a total stud, and were I in this book, I'd stick to him like glue, and be assured of my survival... I will definitely be following Valentine's exploits in more of this series' books! show less
The main character, David Valentine, is that sort of guy who only exists in fiction: orphaned in a horrible manner, and not only survives, but becomes all the more focused as a result. He's raised by a priest/teacher, and therefore becomes very educated and learns to question and to think *deeply*. He also thinks out of the box (for lack of a better term), and has an uncanny talent for sensing vampires. But that comes later...
The format of the book is a bit annoying: every charpter begins with an italicized "let's sum show more up where we are now!" introduction, and while I understand what the aim of this was, I still could have done without it. The same sort of thing (flashing forward in thime past stuff that really doesn't need focusing on) is done much better (though without the supernatural elements) in Stirling's apocalypse series beginning with Dies the Fire.
Despite my jokes and pickiness, I did enjoy this. The slightly different take on vampirism, added to the apocalypse/humans-as-underdogs, is very compelling, and despite Valentine's handsome, smart, deadly, yet sensitive, completely unrealistic character, I do like him. He's a total stud, and were I in this book, I'd stick to him like glue, and be assured of my survival... I will definitely be following Valentine's exploits in more of this series' books! show less
This was an excellent read, but I read it when it first came out a decade ago or so. Since then I've kept up with the series & enjoyed it, but it was very nice to go back to it in audio format. Excellent reader & Knight does his own little foreword - very short, sweet, & to the point.
This is the beginning of a journey in a really neat, very realistic world. The 'vampires' & other monsters are not the normal UF or PNR fare at all, but more of an SF take on it. Our civilization has been shattered & the way people are coping is awesome. No super heroes, although there are plenty of heroic & despicable deeds, but the people are very real. There are no angels, but devils abound while most are somewhere in between. They're regular people in show more hard situations doing the best they can. Sometimes they don't measure up or die trying.
There is a strong military thread in the book, some light romance, & plenty of adventure. For all the wonderful detail, it's a fairly quick read. I can't recommend this series highly enough in both written & audio format. show less
This is the beginning of a journey in a really neat, very realistic world. The 'vampires' & other monsters are not the normal UF or PNR fare at all, but more of an SF take on it. Our civilization has been shattered & the way people are coping is awesome. No super heroes, although there are plenty of heroic & despicable deeds, but the people are very real. There are no angels, but devils abound while most are somewhere in between. They're regular people in show more hard situations doing the best they can. Sometimes they don't measure up or die trying.
There is a strong military thread in the book, some light romance, & plenty of adventure. For all the wonderful detail, it's a fairly quick read. I can't recommend this series highly enough in both written & audio format. show less
I hadn't expected much - this genre tends to be stereotyped and cheesy - and was pleasantly surprised.
I really like how this future was woven into our "real" existence - the story is linked to events that occurred milennia ago and is acceptably believable that events could occur this way.
Near the middle it got a tad bit "lecturey" on political subjects (war, racial politics, international politics, etc) but not nearly as bad as most apocalyptic stories which usually blame the apocalypse on [insert rival political party/government here]
For the most part, the story is told from the point of view of the main character (Valentine) but from time to time it seems to switch to an independent "narrator" who presents some history/explanation of show more the geography/politics/new world order... it's not particularly annoying, but seems to change the tone of the story and eliminates some of the tension/suspense as to whether or not Valentine will make out okay.
There isn't a cliffhanger, but it's clear that this book is intended to be part of a longer series - one which I'll be reading because I want to find out how we make out against the bad aliens! show less
I really like how this future was woven into our "real" existence - the story is linked to events that occurred milennia ago and is acceptably believable that events could occur this way.
Near the middle it got a tad bit "lecturey" on political subjects (war, racial politics, international politics, etc) but not nearly as bad as most apocalyptic stories which usually blame the apocalypse on [insert rival political party/government here]
For the most part, the story is told from the point of view of the main character (Valentine) but from time to time it seems to switch to an independent "narrator" who presents some history/explanation of show more the geography/politics/new world order... it's not particularly annoying, but seems to change the tone of the story and eliminates some of the tension/suspense as to whether or not Valentine will make out okay.
There isn't a cliffhanger, but it's clear that this book is intended to be part of a longer series - one which I'll be reading because I want to find out how we make out against the bad aliens! show less
The format in which this book is done is interesting. I haven’t come across this until now. For a good part of the novel, you get what looks like short stories of Valentine’s life before the actual plot begins. I understand how some readers thought this wasn’t the most perfect way to introduce the story. However I thought it was not only different but a good way to introduce the main character, and his background, with background information about the setting in this way. You follow Valentine throughout his youth, then you follow him through the period on where he first starts training to become a “Wolf” (a special elite unit). It’s not until a good later part of the book is where the actual plot begins. I liked this kind of show more introduction. It made getting to know Valentine easier. It gave Valentine a three dimensional form and it chronicles his development in good detail.
The setting is also interesting, however it took me a while to finally get the hang of it (without consulting the glossary at the back). The vampires here are ruthless and evil, so you will definitely not find the romantic stereotype anywhere in this book. There’s a blend of post apocalyptic characteristics, with dark fantasy, and science fiction elements. So really you have a good mixture of just about everything in here. Personally, I like the dark fantasy and post apocalyptic parts. Earth really is a bleak place to be and the descriptions, and characters enhance the setting.
Valentine is all right as a character. He does seem like your most awesome hero and at times it could get a little annoying. I wish he could have a bit of a darker edge to him (ie: he could be a jerk once in a while) but he seems to be your average good guy with a troubled past. I suppose that’s not too bad although it could be considered cliche and overdone by other readers.
What I did enjoy most about the novel is the overall plot. The pace was good although certain areas did experience a bit of a bump here and there. However all I will ask is for the author to not do any more romantic scenes and I’m shuddering to think if there will be more romance in the other books to follow. I read a particular romance moment and I just about nearly choked. Really? a man would do what Valentine did?? that’s just gross! after having a fit for about a few minutes I resumed with the story (Apologies for not being specific. It is detailed and explicit so I won’t go further than that). After finishing the book I still found that particular passage to be still unnerving. That’s the only part that I strongly dislike in the book. Seriously, just take the romance out of this. It wasn’t necessary and the plot was fine without it!
This was a nice interesting start to what looks like an action packed series. I’m definitely going to follow this series for sure. If you like dark fantasy with sci fi elements in a post apocalyptic world try this. Plus, the vampires aren’t sparkling. You might just like it! show less
The setting is also interesting, however it took me a while to finally get the hang of it (without consulting the glossary at the back). The vampires here are ruthless and evil, so you will definitely not find the romantic stereotype anywhere in this book. There’s a blend of post apocalyptic characteristics, with dark fantasy, and science fiction elements. So really you have a good mixture of just about everything in here. Personally, I like the dark fantasy and post apocalyptic parts. Earth really is a bleak place to be and the descriptions, and characters enhance the setting.
Valentine is all right as a character. He does seem like your most awesome hero and at times it could get a little annoying. I wish he could have a bit of a darker edge to him (ie: he could be a jerk once in a while) but he seems to be your average good guy with a troubled past. I suppose that’s not too bad although it could be considered cliche and overdone by other readers.
What I did enjoy most about the novel is the overall plot. The pace was good although certain areas did experience a bit of a bump here and there. However all I will ask is for the author to not do any more romantic scenes and I’m shuddering to think if there will be more romance in the other books to follow. I read a particular romance moment and I just about nearly choked. Really? a man would do what Valentine did?? that’s just gross! after having a fit for about a few minutes I resumed with the story (Apologies for not being specific. It is detailed and explicit so I won’t go further than that). After finishing the book I still found that particular passage to be still unnerving. That’s the only part that I strongly dislike in the book. Seriously, just take the romance out of this. It wasn’t necessary and the plot was fine without it!
This was a nice interesting start to what looks like an action packed series. I’m definitely going to follow this series for sure. If you like dark fantasy with sci fi elements in a post apocalyptic world try this. Plus, the vampires aren’t sparkling. You might just like it! show less
When I first began this book, it reminded me of Stargate Atlantis.
Mysterious doors that connect distant planets (stargates).
Vampiric beings from these other places using humans as cattle (wraith).
This resemblance was only on the surface. The setting of this book is actually in the US Midwest and part of the US South. The descriptions of the places, people, animals, plants were all wonderfully written. There are so many nice little touches, for example:
"One of the barking dogs decided nothing interesting was going to happen and flopped on its side with a sudden motion, almost as if it had been shot."
If you've had pets or been around animals much, you'll enjoy the descriptions of their different personalities and behaviors, which give a show more nice flavor to the story.
I also really enjoyed the descriptions of the locations. They seemed very genuine and realistic. Maybe the fact that I've been in most of these places helps.
The feeling of history and culture comes through quite often, and it's a nice change to see a fantasy story with the US heartland and South as a backdrop. I don't mean in the big cities, but in the country, the mountains, the farmlands.
The action is good. The descriptions of battles, fighting, and weapons all feel realistic.
The story itself is a dark tale where humans are basically cattle, hunted by creatures called Reapers. The earth is apparently in disarray, and the conquering forces (Kurians) use the Reapers to rule through fear. The Reapers are the vampires of the story.
There are another set of aliens known collectively as Grogs. These appear to be used as foot soldiers for larger battles.
Between the Kurians, Reapers and Grogs, apparently most of earth has been conquered.
There are humans known as quislings that aid the Kurians in their ruling of the earth. It seems some of them do so in hopes of obtaining a token that is basically a "Don't Eat Me" ultimate badge of survival.
There are other humans who have not caved in to the Kurians. There are hints of several such places, but we learn of one in the Ozarks. They are basically the resistance.
A third type of human are people who live in the sort of contested area's between the KZ and the free territories. These are battled over by both sides.
There is a fourth special subset of humans, known as Hunters. These are people who are in a special forces type of military group. They are in at least three varieties that I am aware of, Wolves, Cats, and Bears. These great warriors are used to strike, raid, or spy in the KZ.
One humorous comment from a Wolf:
"Ever drunk water out of a hoof print to wash down a couple handfuls of ground up ants?"
If you like adventure tinged with horror, chances are you'll enjoy Way of the Wolf. show less
Mysterious doors that connect distant planets (stargates).
Vampiric beings from these other places using humans as cattle (wraith).
This resemblance was only on the surface. The setting of this book is actually in the US Midwest and part of the US South. The descriptions of the places, people, animals, plants were all wonderfully written. There are so many nice little touches, for example:
"One of the barking dogs decided nothing interesting was going to happen and flopped on its side with a sudden motion, almost as if it had been shot."
If you've had pets or been around animals much, you'll enjoy the descriptions of their different personalities and behaviors, which give a show more nice flavor to the story.
I also really enjoyed the descriptions of the locations. They seemed very genuine and realistic. Maybe the fact that I've been in most of these places helps.
The feeling of history and culture comes through quite often, and it's a nice change to see a fantasy story with the US heartland and South as a backdrop. I don't mean in the big cities, but in the country, the mountains, the farmlands.
The action is good. The descriptions of battles, fighting, and weapons all feel realistic.
The story itself is a dark tale where humans are basically cattle, hunted by creatures called Reapers. The earth is apparently in disarray, and the conquering forces (Kurians) use the Reapers to rule through fear. The Reapers are the vampires of the story.
There are another set of aliens known collectively as Grogs. These appear to be used as foot soldiers for larger battles.
Between the Kurians, Reapers and Grogs, apparently most of earth has been conquered.
There are humans known as quislings that aid the Kurians in their ruling of the earth. It seems some of them do so in hopes of obtaining a token that is basically a "Don't Eat Me" ultimate badge of survival.
There are other humans who have not caved in to the Kurians. There are hints of several such places, but we learn of one in the Ozarks. They are basically the resistance.
A third type of human are people who live in the sort of contested area's between the KZ and the free territories. These are battled over by both sides.
There is a fourth special subset of humans, known as Hunters. These are people who are in a special forces type of military group. They are in at least three varieties that I am aware of, Wolves, Cats, and Bears. These great warriors are used to strike, raid, or spy in the KZ.
One humorous comment from a Wolf:
"Ever drunk water out of a hoof print to wash down a couple handfuls of ground up ants?"
If you like adventure tinged with horror, chances are you'll enjoy Way of the Wolf. show less
In the 39th year of the Kurian New Order, Minnesotan David Stuart Valentine was accepted as a Wolf trainee. By the 49th year, he has become a Lieutenant in Southern Command's resistance against the alien Kur invaders. When the inhabitants of the planet Kur learned to open portals leading to various worlds, the opportunity for immortality created a political and societal schism between the vampiric Kurians and the Lifeweavers who reject the draining of sentient life forms. The greatest threat to humans comes from the reapers who drain their victims of blood to nourish themselves while channeling the victim's life force to nourish their Kurian lord. The greatest hope for humanity comes from the Lifeweaver modified humans forming the Wolf, show more Cat, and Bear clans -- and David Valentine gradually becomes one of the deadliest tools in Southern Command's arsenal. Local author Knight has created a grand space opera in a post-apocalyptic world arising from a largely successful alien invasion of Earth. The Kurians and their human collaborators stand on one side of the conflict against the scarce Lifeweaver rebels aiding those humans surviving in various resistance zones. The vivid world building and action rich military and espionage elements will quickly addict readers to the entire Vampire Earth series. show less
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36+ Works 6,979 Members
Science fiction and fantasy writer E. E. Knight was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin on March 7, 1965. He writes the Vampire Earth series and the Age of Fire series. He also teaches genre fiction writing at Harper College. (Bowker Author Biography)
E. E. Knight is a LibraryThing Author, an author who lists their personal library on LibraryThing.
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Common Knowledge
- Canonical title
- Way of the Wolf
- Original publication date
- 2003
- Important places*
- Louisiane, Etats Unis
- Epigraph
- Have you ever dealt with people who have lost everything in just an hour? In the morning you leave the house where your wife, your children, your parents live. You return and you find a smoking pit. Then something happens t... (show all)o you -- to a certain extent you stop being human. You do not need any glory, money anymore; revenge becomes your only joy. And because you no longer cling to life, death avoids you, the bullets fly pasat, You become a wolf.
--Russian General Aleksander Lebed, veteran of Afghanistan - Dedication
- To Mom and Dad, who believed
- First words
- Northern Louisiana, March, the forty-third year of the Kurian Order: The green expanse once known as the Kisatchie Forest slowly digests the works of man.
- Last words
- (Click to show. Warning: May contain spoilers.)David Valentine turned to watch the dawn, Molly's hand in his.
One.
*Some information comes from Common Knowledge in other languages. Click "Edit" for more information.
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