Wolf Moon

Wolf Moon tells the story of Kern, a werewolf who seeks refuge at a remote inn while fleeing from a vengeful harper who hunts his kind. The harper wields powerful magic through his music and commands a deadly supernatural creature called the feragh. At the Yellow Tinker inn, Kern finds connection with the innkeeper Ainsy and her small community of workers and residents. His past experiences with rejection and persecution make him hesitant to reveal his true nature, even as he builds a new life among them. The story centers on Kern's struggle between his desire to protect those he has grown to care for and the threat posed by his pursuer. The approaching wolf moon - the first full moon of winter - brings tensions to a head. The novel explores themes of belonging, acceptance, and the conflict between one's nature and society's fears. Through Kern's journey, the story examines how prejudice and fear can drive people to violence against those who are different.

Readers note this early de Lint novel differs from his later urban fantasy works, following more traditional werewolf horror conventions. Readers highlighted: - Fast-paced action and suspense - Atmospheric forest settings - Character development of Tara and her grandmother - Integration of Native American mythology Common criticisms: - More straightforward plot compared to de Lint's other books - Some found the werewolf elements predictable - Less of the author's signature magical realism style Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (478 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (12 reviews) From reader reviews: "Good but not great. Missing the depth and intricate worldbuilding of Moonheart." - Goodreads reviewer "A solid horror story that shows glimpses of what would become de Lint's unique style." - Amazon reviewer "The Native American elements feel superficial compared to his later works." - Goodreads reviewer

War for the Oaks by Emma Bull A musician in Minneapolis becomes entangled in a war between light and dark fae, blending urban fantasy with rock and roll culture.

Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint Short stories set in the fictional city of Newford explore the intersection of music, magic, and urban life through interconnected characters.

The Last Hot Time by John M. Ford A paramedic in an alternate Chicago discovers a hidden world where elves and mobsters vie for power in the city streets.

Moonheart by Charles de Lint Ancient Celtic magic emerges in modern-day Ottawa as a house becomes a gateway between worlds.

Little, Big by John Crowley Multiple generations of a family interact with faeries in rural New York while their house serves as a bridge between mundane and magical realms.

🌙 Charles de Lint pioneered the urban fantasy genre in the 1980s, blending contemporary settings with mythic elements before it became a popular genre. 🎵 The author is also a professional folk musician, which often influences the musical elements woven into his storytelling. 🐺 The wolf moon, occurring in January, was named by Native American tribes who would hear wolves howling more frequently during this time as it coincided with their breeding season. 🍺 The tradition of isolated country inns serving as supernatural sanctuaries is deeply rooted in Celtic folklore, where they were considered neutral ground between the mortal and fairy worlds. 🌿 De Lint frequently incorporates Celtic mythology into his works, drawing from traditional Irish and Scottish tales where shapeshifters were often seen as guardians of wild places rather than monsters.