Christmas Cookies: Yule Wolf
By Kate Hill
While in the icy North, Professor Roth Lawrence, an expert in Viking history, is separated from his expedition and is sure he will die alone in the dangerous, frozen mountains. Injured and suffering from exposure, he comes upon a brightly lit cave and meets an enormous wolf, a magnificent creature whose kiss can save or take life.
The last of his kind, Fenris has spent centuries on the outskirts of modern society -- a werewolf alone and longing for companionship. Finding a wounded mortal in his lair is a temptation he cannot resist, but the man is near death. Saving him means they will be bound forever.
On this dark, cold Yuletide Eve, man and beast exchange blood and share love deeper than they’d ever dreamed as Fenris offers Roth the most priceless holiday gift imaginable.
Yule Wolf offers a surprising bit of heartfelt emotion in such a short story. I was able to discern enough of Fenris' pain and loneliness to believe in his choice of actions.
Roth endured a different type of loneliness in his life, but no less poignant - although not as developed as Fenris'.
I couldn't escape my brain telling me that Roth accepted his new partner in every way a little too easily -- because in no way did I get the sense he was into man-love prior to meeting Fenris. Except for that little head scratch, I cannot fault this story in any way. It was sweet and also provided more than enough sensual heat to thrill. The writing was tight and the dialogue flowed at a good pace.
Actually, I'd like to revisit this little world, because Fenris cannot be the LAST of his kind, can he? And what of the others Kate mentioned? Yule Wolf has me interested enough to wonder. Pretty impressive for such a brief visit.
Rating:

Reviewed by Xeranth