Wereworld

Rise of the Wolf follows Drew, a shepherd's son who discovers he's a werewolf after his mother's brutal murder. Set in the Seven Realms of Lyssia, Drew learns he's the last of the werewolves and rightful heir to the throne stolen by King Leopold the Lion. The dark fantasy explores his journey of self-acceptance while fleeing tyranny in a world ruled by shape-shifting Werelords including werebears, wereboars, and werefoxes.

Curtis Jobling is a British author, animator, and illustrator born February 14, 1972. He's the designer of the BAFTA-winning children's show Bob the Builder and creator of Frankenstein's Cat. His debut novel Rise of the Wolf launched the Wereworld series in 2011 and was shortlisted for the Waterstones' Book Prize. Jobling is also patron of the Manchester Children's Book Festival and actively campaigns for school libraries.

Rise of the Wolf appeals to young adult readers who enjoy dark fantasy with psychological depth. It's ideal for fans of shapeshifter mythology, political intrigue, and emotionally charged coming-of-age stories. Readers who appreciate rich world-building with diverse fantasy races and complex themes of trauma, identity, and self-acceptance will find this compelling. The book suits those seeking adventure balanced with deeper exploration of loyalty and betrayal.

Rise of the Wolf offers compelling psychological exploration of trauma and identity through Drew's internal conflict between human and wolf. Curtis Jobling crafts a vibrant world of Lyssia with diverse Werelord races, each with unique cultures and political dynamics. The novel balances action-packed adventure with complex themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. However, some readers note it relies heavily on familiar fantasy tropes and predictable plot points.

Werelords are powerful shape-shifters who dominate the society of Lyssia, able to transform into specific animal forms. The world features diverse Werelord races including Werebears, Wereboars, Werefoxes, Wererats, Weresharks, Werestags, and Werewolves. Each race reflects inherent traits and social standing, creating a hierarchical system rife with political conflicts and shifting allegiances. Ancient laws govern their conduct, including prohibitions against Werelords killing each other outside of battle.

Drew's first transformation occurs during a full moon when a monstrous creature attacks his home and kills his mother. Unable to save her, Drew transforms into a werewolf and fights the attacker. His adoptive father Mack Ferran then attacks Drew, believing he murdered his mother. This traumatic betrayal shatters Drew's innocence and forces him to flee, replacing his quiet farm life with profound guilt and abandonment.

The Seven Realms of Lyssia is the continent setting for Rise of the Wolf, currently under the tyrannical rule of King Leopold the Lion. Leopold seized power by overthrowing and allegedly killing the previous monarch, Wergar the Wolf, creating deep political instability. This fractured political landscape is dominated by Werelord hierarchies with internal conflicts and ancient laws. The realms incorporate elements of prophecy and ancient magicks guided by Brenn, the Great Maker.

Drew forms crucial alliances with Hector, a Boarlord healer who defies his masters to free Drew during a Wylderman attack. He also befriends Gretchen, a werefox betrothed to the cruel Prince Lucas, whom Drew initially takes hostage but gradually befriends. Duke Bergan, a werebear, captures Drew initially but represents potential alliance. These relationships explore themes of loyalty, courage, and redemption as characters break from expected allegiances to support Drew's cause.

The central conflict pits Drew against King Leopold the Lion, who usurped the throne from Drew's father Wergar the Wolf. Drew must accept his identity as the last living werewolf while evading capture by Prince Lucas and other loyalists. Internally, Drew struggles with trauma from his mother's death and his adoptive father's betrayal, battling to control his monstrous wolf form. The conflict encompasses both personal identity acceptance and political rebellion against tyranny.

Rise of the Wolf explores trauma and self-acceptance through Drew's struggle to reconcile his human self with his monstrous wolf nature. The novel examines betrayal and loyalty, particularly through Drew's relationships with his adoptive father and unexpected allies. Identity and destiny emerge as Drew discovers his royal lineage and prophesied role. The story also addresses themes of political corruption, resistance against tyranny, and the possibility of redemption for flawed characters.

Drew's journey culminates in his defiant confrontation with King Leopold during his own execution attempt. He publicly declares, "I am the son of Wergar, the son of Amelie, last in the line of the Werewolves of Lyssia, and the Lion is a thief and a murderer!". This proclamation signifies Drew's full acceptance of his identity and lineage, transforming him from reluctant victim into a symbol of resistance. His defiance inspires both allies and common people, setting the stage for the broader Wereworld series conflict.

Rise of the Wolf is the first book in Curtis Jobling's six-book Wereworld series. The series continues with Rage of Lions, Shadow of the Hawk, Nest of Serpents, Storm of Sharks, and concludes with War of the Werelords, all published between 2011-2013. Netflix announced an animated adaptation in development with Lime Pictures in 2022, with Jobling involved in production. The complete series follows Drew's journey from farm boy to leader of the resistance against King Leopold's tyranny.