A review by mackreads324
Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy

4.0

So much of this book was a hit for me: the topic of re-wilding and focus on conservation, the power of her writing, the characterization of the wolves. This book explores wildness -in nature and in ourselves. It offers a deep look into “good and evil” and what constitutes a monster (spoiler alert: the true monsters in this book walk on two legs). McConaghys ability to personify nature, and give breath and soul to flora and fauna, to me was the highlight of the book. And its commentary on human nature and “goodness” was poignant.  

Overall, this book will still stand out as one of my favorites this year. But at times I did ask if there was “too much going on” for me to like this book more. Not only does the author cover wolf rewilding, but also a murder mystery, a love story, and a discussion on mental health and trauma/abuse. Some of the plot points seemed far-fetched.  At points it gave the feeling that the book was trying to do too much. 

But man, did I love the wolves, the forest, and the wildness we found in both the people and the pack.