Discover books similar to "A Companion to Wolves"

Sarah Monette

A Companion to Wolves

3.66

"A Companion to Wolves" by Sarah Monette, writing in collaboration with Elizabeth Bear, is a captivating and original work of fantasy that explores the complex relationship between humans and their animal counterparts. Set in a world reminiscent of medieval Scandinavia, the story follows the journey of a young nobleman named Isolfr, who is chosen to become a wolf-friend, a human who shares a deep bond with a shape-shifting wolf. The novel delves into the intricacies of this unique relationship, as Isolfr and his wolf companion, Nagli, must learn to communicate, hunt, and live together in order to protect their village from the threat of trolls and other mythical creatures. The world-building is rich and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the icy landscapes, the daily life of the villagers, and the rituals and traditions of the wolf-friends. One of the strengths of "A Companion to Wolves" is the exploration of the power dynamics between humans and animals, as well as the ways in which gender and sexuality intersect with these relationships. The wolf-friends are all male, and their bond with their wolf companions is both intimate and physically intense, raising questions about the boundaries between human and animal, and the ways in which power and vulnerability are negotiated within these relationships. The prose is elegant and evocative, with a lyrical quality that draws the reader into the world of the story. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of action, introspection, and character development that keeps the reader engaged throughout. Overall, "A Companion to Wolves" is a thought-provoking and engaging work of fantasy that offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between humans and animals. Fans of writers such as Robin McKinley, Patricia A. McKillip, and Ursula K. Le Guin are sure to enjoy this imaginative and beautifully written novel...

List of books similar to "A Companion to Wolves":

N.K. Jemisin

The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms

Fans of 'A Companion to Wolves' will enjoy this fantasy novel's intricate world-building and exploration of power dynamics. The main character, Yeine, is caught in a political struggle between her family and the ruling powers of the kingdom, and must navigate this dangerous world while also coming to terms with her own heritage.

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Katherine Addison

The Goblin Emperor

This book is a great choice for those who enjoyed the political intrigue and complex characters in 'A Companion to Wolves'. The main character, Maia, is a half-goblin prince who becomes emperor after his father and brothers are killed in a suspicious accident. He must navigate the treacherous waters of court politics while also trying to do what is right for his people.

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Mary Doria Russell

The Sparrow

Readers who enjoyed the themes of loyalty and sacrifice in 'A Companion to Wolves' will find much to appreciate in 'The Sparrow'. The novel follows a group of Jesuit priests and scientists as they travel to another planet in search of intelligent life, and must confront their own beliefs and values as they encounter new challenges and hardships.

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Ursula K. Le Guin

The Left Hand of Darkness

Fans of the world-building and exploration of gender and identity in 'A Companion to Wolves' will enjoy this classic science fiction novel. The main character, Genly Ai, is a human envoy to a planet where the inhabitants are ambisexual, and must navigate the complex cultural and political landscape of this alien world.

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Hilari Bell

The Goblin Wood

Readers who enjoyed the themes of loyalty and friendship in 'A Companion to Wolves' will find much to appreciate in 'The Goblin Wood'. The novel follows a young girl named Maddalena as she becomes embroiled in a conflict between humans and goblins, and must navigate this dangerous world while also trying to do what is right.

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Robin McKinley

The Hero and the Crown

Fans of the strong female protagonist and coming-of-age themes in 'A Companion to Wolves' will enjoy this fantasy novel. The main character, Aerin, is a princess who must prove herself as a warrior and hero in order to save her kingdom from a dangerous dragon.

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Rosemary Kirstein

The Steerswoman

Readers who enjoyed the exploration of knowledge and discovery in 'A Companion to Wolves' will find much to appreciate in 'The Steerswoman'. The novel follows a steerswoman named Rowan as she investigates a mysterious artifact and becomes embroiled in a larger conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of her world.

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Joan Vinge

The Snow Queen

This book is a great choice for those who enjoyed the political intrigue and complex characters in 'A Companion to Wolves'. The novel is a science fiction retelling of the classic fairy tale, and follows a woman named Moon as she becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of politics and power.

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Ellen Kushner

The Privilege of the Sword

Fans of the strong female protagonist and exploration of identity and power in 'A Companion to Wolves' will enjoy this fantasy novel. The main character, Katherine, is a young woman who must navigate the treacherous waters of court politics and societal expectations as she learns to wield a sword and defend herself.

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