A Silly Thrill from the #1 Bestselling Novelist

This book’s cover at least has a great design, so if you merely put it on a shelf, it would be a pleasant sight. It’s the image of a wolf’s yellow eyes against the image of a foggy forest, and two people running towards a light. One of my writers recently asked me to add eyes over a black-and-white photograph for a cover design I was doing for him. I tried a lot of different eyes before realizing just how difficult this seemingly simple assignment was. The eyes have to blend in with the background. In this case, the artist blended the color of the wolf’s fur with the forest, and used a similar fur thickness to tree branches in the underlying forest. The artist also added some sprinkles of trees in front of the wolf, where the original photo could not have had any continuing tree-lines. I checked the copyrights page for a credit, but it’s only listed as “by TK”.
Another significant detail on this cover is the double byline. There is a giant credit to the famous “James Patterson” with a small secondary credit to “Emily Raymond”. Patterson does a lot of collaborative writing. Since I’m currently attempting to do some pop collaborative writing myself, it’s a bit tempting to be kinder to Patterson, in case he might want to co-write with me in the future. But then again, if there’s nothing wrong with his current collaborators, why should he work with me? Well, this just indicates I have yet another reason to be biased on this one: for your information. I did a brief review of the authors Patterson has previously collaborated with. One guy apparently spent like three years trying to finish a novel before his agent connected him with Patterson, and they got going in a week. One is a professional ghostwriter: a rare confession from a writer to admit to. The popular belief is that he provides notes to ghostwriters and co-authors that are as long as dozens of pages, and then they build these into novels that he finishes up. This is a factory system, which was used from the dawn of print. The difference is the negative press “ghostwriters” have received recently in parallel with confessing openly to writing as a job for others. Alexander Dumas was outed for running a ghostwriting workshop by Brits, who accused him, while running a workshop of their own. People with money can invest in paying ghostwriters, just as they might invest in building condos. Patterson has only written around 4 novels per year with this workshop: in the 48 years he has released over 200 novels. Writing 4 novels per year is slow for a single ghostwriter… The real achievement is that he has had 114 NYT bestsellers, or half of the books that have had his (and others’) names on them have sold well. What’s the trick? Why are people buying his books over millions of other bylines?
Since Patterson is one of the top best-selling novelists (400 million books in print puts him in the top couple dozen selling authors), I also scanned the pufferies that advertise his work in general in one of the front pages. They drew my attention because they point to the formulaic nature of his work as a positive: “building roller coasters”, “knows how to sell thrills”, “boils a scene down to a single, telling detail, the element that defines a character or moves a plot along…” Hm… the latter point is something I’d like to look into before jumping into the summary. Because most descriptions mention “eyes”, this is the term I searched for to check this claim. Here’s one description from Chapter 1: “She pops open a can of Coke and guzzles it down. Then she bats cookie boxes off the shelves…” This seems to be selling “Coke”, as a product, and then an ad for “Oreos” follows. The paragraph concludes with “jaws chomping on tortilla chips, eyes wide and wild-looking.” Why would this be revelatory about any character? Then, in Chapter 2: “Chester takes a step forward and the girl flinches. She looks about sixteen, with gray eyes set deep in a fine-feature face…” The mention of characters being afraid seems to be the main “thrilling” element. But there is really no masterly character-drawing happening here…
“Two strangers. One small town. And a choice that could change everything. The police respond to the arrival of two teens at the grocery store. They don’t speak English. They don’t speak at all. They’re brother and sister and, for all anybody can tell, they’ve been raised in the forest.” This is a reference to the discovery I mentioned previously at the start of Chapter 2. In addition to the scared girl, they have found a scared younger boy. Though the “roller coaster” is achieved in the opening paragraphs of this chapter. The officers “peel” into a lot, and immediately question if wolves could have caused the observed damage. A chief takes out his pistol, worried it might be a bear. There’s a disaster at an aisle, with things smashed. Then, there’s growling, and the culprit emerges: the two teenage wolf-raised kids. This is better than some of the other novels I’m covering because it’s a straightforward narrative with events that follow a logical timeline. The author also cares about interesting readers in the narrative, and carrying them forward. The vocabulary is simple, and paragraphs are short, but in this case, these elements succeed in making the story approachable. In contrast, some other titles also use simple language, but the story, or ideas jump between unrelated concepts so much that it might be more difficult for a reader to follow than some canonical postmodern novels like James Joyce’s Ulysses.
Wolf stories seem unusual for Patterson’s typical thrillers. So, I looked up “wolf” to see how he handled this subject. One reference notes: “Holo bares his teeth. In wolf language, this means I see you. Get lost.” This is a pretty funny way of translating a simple motion. Another mention appears at the start of Chapter 7, where the narrator switches to first-person, as one of the wolf-raised kids describes how miserable being in jail feels, followed by the question: “What would a wolf do?” There are later ponderings on wolf-being, like that by deciding to talk the narrator can prove “dominance”. I think I understand why this fiction sells a lot of books: people just want an easy, fun read. A sprinkle of new information about the nature of wolves, without much science, or details about what this experience would have realistically have been like. An owner of a bookstore explained that at the end of a long work day, a casual reader does not want to “work” on a novel, but rather just read something easy that flows along. Since this is the winning formula, it’s puzzling why so many rival pop writers in this set of books go for convolution without reaching canonical-level density of verbal structures…
“Two teens appear out of nowhere, ransacking a small-town grocery and attacking the police officers who come to investigate. Their clothes are torn and filthy, their hands and bare feet callused, they have fangs. They’re sister and brother, alone against the world. Where did they come from? Raised by wolves, they say. Kai and Holo are taken in by the police chief and his wife, and begin adjusting to life in a small town, attending school and going on dates. But humans, they find, are the most vicious animals. And the mystery of their upbringing brings dark and powerful forces to Kokanee Creek, tearing the town apart and threatening the lives of everyone they love. How will the wolves survive? How will Kai and Holo?”
The concluding lines are designed to encourage readers to remain with this novel until the end to find a formulaic “change” in these characters. Such change or an escalation of conflicts is required for a standard pop rollercoaster plot. But this seems not to have been executed particularly well here. In one later section, the first-person narrator is joyfully “jumping up and down” with a guy, having “fun”. There is no apparent threat, as the narrative seems to have digressed into the types of general commonalities that cause readability problems in the other novels in this set. The blurb did promise that they try to live normal lives, including dancing to slow music. The narrator breathes in this partner’s smell, and listens to the heartbeat. Thankfully, this digression ends with some guy knocking the narrator to the ground with an insult against “dogs”, and there is a call for a “fight”. This at least works out, as the author has succeeded in remembering that this novel is about wolves, as opposed to just a typical romance novel. In summary, this is a pretty silly novel. It is an unusual sub-genre for Patterson. I don’t think his novels are usually this silly. But I think pop thrillers are more digestible when they are silly, as opposed to when the author seriously tries to scare readers. A serious fright requires far more complex description, and philosophizing. If you look through a sample from this novel, and it sounds like something you usually enjoy reading, you are probably okay to go forward in this book.
—Pennsylvania Literary Journal, Fall 2024: https://anaphoraliterary.com/journals/plj/plj-excerpts/book-reviews-fall-2024

I love getting to know all these new authors through the help of James Patterson. This is a very enjoyable book, with children that truly show how the world reacts to people they see different from them. At times, it is heartbreaking, but also gives hope. You'll find yourself cheering for these children and the adults that try to help. A very good read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for gifting this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

James Patterson and Emily Raymond’s Raised by Wolves is a captivating thriller that blends mystery, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural.

This story begins with a dramatic scene: two teenagers, Kai and Holo, appear out of nowhere, ransacking a small-town grocery store. Their appearance is wild and feral, with torn clothes, callused hands, and even fangs. They claim to have been raised by wolves, a statement that plunges the small town of Kokanee Creek into a whirlwind of intrigue and fear.

Patterson and Raymond excel in creating complex and relatable characters. Kai and Holo are particularly well-drawn, their feral nature juxtaposed with their vulnerability and desire for acceptance. The police chief and his wife provide a grounded, compassionate counterpoint to the siblings’ wildness, highlighting the themes of family and belonging. The supporting characters, from skeptical townsfolk to sinister antagonists, add depth and tension to the narrative.

The authors’ writing is crisp and engaging, with a fast-paced narrative. The descriptive prose vividly brings to life the eerie atmosphere of Kokanee Creek and the mysterious past of Kai and Holo. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, enhancing the authenticity of the characters’ interactions and the unfolding drama.

Raised by Wolves explores themes of identity, survival, and the clash between civilization and nature. It delves into the psychological impact of isolation and the struggle to find one’s place in a world that feels alien. The novel also touches on the darker aspects of human nature, questioning what it truly means to be civilized.

Raised by Wolves is a thrilling (and thought-provoking) read that will appeal to fans of mystery and suspense. James Patterson and Emily Raymond have crafted a story that is heart-pounding and emotionally resonant, with a plot full of unexpected twists and turns. This book is a testament to their storytelling prowess and is highly recommended for anyone looking for a unique and gripping novel.

For readers who enjoy a blend of intense action and psychological depth, Raised by Wolves is a must-read.

This was an interesting story! I really enjoyed the writing although it did not strike me as your normal Patterson book. I really liked and was invested in the characters. Kai and Hallo were very lovable and kept the pages turning. The amount of suspense and mystery seemed perfectly balanced. I would definitely read more from these authors!

Raised by Wolves is an enthralling story that grips you from the very first page. When two wild, mysterious teens Kai and Holo appear in a small town, their animalistic behavior and haunting backstory captivate and unsettle the community. The tension escalates as their presence uncovers dark secrets and unseen dangers, challenging the limits of trust, family, and what it means to be human.

The characters are deeply compelling, particularly Kai and Holo, whose journey from isolation to integration is as heartwarming as it is suspenseful. The contrast between their raw, untamed nature and the small-town world they’re thrust into creates a dynamic narrative that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking.

With vivid descriptions and a storyline that masterfully blends mystery, drama, and action, this book is impossible to put down. It’s a story that makes you question humanity’s own primal instincts while rooting for two outsiders who only want to belong.

A must-read for fans of coming of age stories, supernatural mystery, and emotional depth, Raised by Wolves will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

Any time I get a chance to read a James Patterson book, the answer is always yes! This book was really easy to get lost in and the premise really grabbed my attention:

Two teenagers appear at a grocery store. They are barefoot and wearing torn clothing and they begin to ransack the store. They don’t speak at all and they have fangs…were they actually raises by wolves??

Overall this is a fast paced and interesting story. No spoilers here - I loved the mystery behind Kai and Holo and the twists and turns (there is one twist in particular that I didn’t see coming!)

I liked how we get both Kai and Chief Greene’s POV throughout the story and I loved how witty and sassy Kai was.

There are some deeper topics in this story regarding the human relationship between mother earth and animals and I really enjoyed that aspect. We also see the siblings struggle with conforming to society and “how others think” they should act.

This isn’t a book with an ending that is completely wrapped up, but it felt authentic to the story and will probably leave you thinking!

Raised by Wolves by James Patterson and Emily Raymond is a fast paced book that is hard to put down. This story is unique with a lot of emotions.

James Patterson is one of the authors whose books encouraged me to read more! So I was excited when I received this ARC! The mystery kept me hooked from beginning to end!

Synopsis:

The police respond to the arrival of two teens at the grocery store. They don’t speak English. They don’t speak at all. They’re brother and sister and, for all anybody can tell, they’ve been raised in the forest.

Two teens appear out of nowhere, ransacking a small-town grocery and attacking the police officers who come to investigate. Their clothes are torn and filthy, their hands and bare feet callused, they have fangs. They’re sister and brother, alone against the world. Where did they come from? Raised by wolves, they say.

I recommend this, if you’re looking for a mystery thriller that isn’t predictable!

Raised by Wolves is an action-packed, emotional story about Kai and Holo, two kids who emerge from the woods claiming to have been raised by wolves. This is a book which reads as a YA mystery at times and has the reader redefine the definition of a family. It will make one smile and shed a tear as the ending unfolds. Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. 4 stars.

This story is a bit different from Patterson's usual books. It contains a lot of environmental messages, with wolves and living in the forest close to nature. I did not like the ending, but I understand why the authors chose it. Most readers will probably like this story. Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for providing an ARC.

I didn't know where this book was going. I love when a book can do that. It truly had me enthralled from the beginning. It was an unusual story about 2 kids rumored to be raised by wolves. Throw in a small town, a little mystery and you have a good story.

I had enjoyed the Girl in the Castle by James Patterson and Emily Raymond, so I was excited to read this book. It had that concept that I wanted and enjoyed overall feel of this world. I thought the plot worked really well and was glad I got to get to know these characters. James Patterson and Emily Raymond were a great writing team and hope there is more from them.

James Patterson has done it again with his latest novel, "Raised by Wolves". While this is listed as Fiction, it could easily be labeled as a young adult novel. It doesn't take anything away from the story tho.

Raised by Wolves by James Patterson and Emily Raymond is an intriguing mystery that mixes suspense with a unique twist on teenage life. The story centers on Kai and Holo, two siblings who suddenly appear in the small town of Kokanee Creek, claiming to have been raised by wolves. The townspeople, including Police Chief Chester Greene, are bewildered by these feral teens who seem both wild and unusually wise. Chester takes them into his home as they attempt to adjust to high school life, where they’re treated as outsiders and face challenges from bullies. The story alternates between Chester’s and Kai’s perspectives, adding depth to the plot and keeping readers hooked. Although the FBI’s involvement adds layers of mystery, the novel also explores themes of belonging, survival, and family bonds. With its fast pace and intriguing characters, Raised by Wolves kept me engaged from start to finish—an enjoyable read with a fresh premise.
Very grateful to the publisher for my copy, opinions are my own.

The premise of this book was interesting, though it did feel a bit more like a young adult book. It didn't come across as other books by Patterson. There are a number of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. I did have a harder time connecting to the characters than I expected. I enjoyed the alternating points of view.

Another quick, suspenseful Patterson page turner. The man never disappoints. I loved the crazy twists and turns that kept me guessing all throughout.

Raised by Wolves by James Patterson; Emily Raymond. The premise of the book was intriguing. The story was fast paced with many twists, turns and unanswered questions. Had difficulty relating to the characters and their actions. All in all, an entertaining read.

Thank you to the authors, Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.

Raised by Wolves was not at all what I was expecting.
The story plot sounded so intriguing.
But, I have to say…..I had such a hard time getting into the storyline.
This did not read like previous books I’ve read by James Patterson. Something just felt off……
All in all, it’s a ok story. Just not one for me.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Thank you for the ARC Grand Central Publishing!

If you’re a fan of James Patterson, you won’t be disappointed in this one! It’s got everything you’re looking for with a Patterson book: fast paced, action, suspense and mystery. The characters were intriguing and kept me wanting to stay in this world with them. What a fun and exciting ride Raised by Wolves was!

Raised by Wolves by James Patterson and Emily Raymond is a very highly recommended mystery that will grab your attention from the first page.

In the small town of Kokanee Creek, Idaho, two barefoot and grubby teens are acting feral while ransacking the snack isle at Grizzly Grocery and Bait Shop. Police Chief Chester Greene arrives with a deputy. The two aren't talking, only growling, and when they try to run he has no choice but to handcuff the two and put them in jail. They eventually begin to talk. Chester learns they are sister and brother, Kai and Holo. Kai asserts they have no last name as they were raised by wolves - but she is also well spoken.

Chester and his partner, Lacey, take Kai and Holo into their home while trying to determine who they are. The FBI also turns up and is interested in who they are and where they came from. The two, who claim to be 17 and 14, are enrolled in the local high school, which brings additional problems.

The pace is fast in this well-written, intriguing mystery. The narrative alternates between the point-of-view of Kai and Chester. From Kai we learn that the two know how to survive in the wild and they really do have a family of wolves. There are many mentions of how they must always be alert and watchful for any threat, which serves them well as they negotiate high school. Readers will wonder why the two came into civilization, but that becomes clear later. The FBI remains involved in the story.

The high school scenes prompt the feeling that it could be relatable and suitable for YA readers as the two are clearly outsiders in that culture. However, it held my complete, definitely adult, attention also. Kai and Holo are interesting characters, which certainly helps. The plot becomes increasingly complicated as more players get involved in the narrative and there are a couple twists along the way.

Raised by Wolves is an entertaining, enjoyable mystery that moves at a quick pace and is engaging throughout. Thanks to Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The review will be published on Edelweiss, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.