What I absolutely LOVE about Embleton’s skill as a writer is that she can run a character – and your heart – through hell and yet you still have a glimmer of hope that she does not stamp out along the way. Too often an emotional tale will drag you so deeply through despair that you’re more exhausted than satisfied by the end of the book. Not so with “Released.” The author knows how to satisfy readers and yet keep them hungry for more. Thankfully there are more books in the series following this one.

Wonderfully written, the author has clearly spent a lot of time on this wolf world she has created. There are rules and politics within the packs, there are taboos and traditions which add a layer of richness to the story and make it credible. Her characters are three-dimensional, and even though they have the ability to change into wolves, they are still relatable and very real. I like the way the focus of Released is on a secondary character from the first book Bound, and that the main characters from the first book took a step back to become secondary in Released. This sharing by the characters of the limelight weaves into a fabulous tapestry of connections and relationships that paints a vivid picture of the landscape they inhabit.

An intriguing and engrossing read with a fast-paced plot that draws the reader in and carries them along with the action. Very enjoyable and well-deserving of five stars.

I loved the chemistry between Michael and Genna. The scene where she witnesses him transform from wolf to human was magnificently written, and I really felt for Genna’s confusion, awe and refusal to believe, especially when she learns she’s his ‘fated mate’. But things don’t go smoothly for this lovely couple, especially when an old adversary re-emerges with revenge in his soul.

As in the first book, I loved the werewolf culture. They’re supportive of one another, have an appreciation of nature and seem to be all round nice people. The story rolls along at a terrific pace and there are twists and turns aplenty, together with some intriguing hints about the next book, including the revelation that one character has an agenda no-one else suspects. The next book in the series, Haunted, is already on my TBR pile, and I’m looking forward to finding out what happens next.