Big Bad Wolf

Laurie Gilmore’s Big Bad Wolf is a witty, modern twist on the classic fairy tale. It has equal parts charm, chaos, and slow-burn romance. Small town vibes and haunted woods with wolves - who could ask for more? The story follows Ruby, a fiercely independent woman whose quiet life collides with the brooding, misunderstood “wolf” next door, Rafe. Burning passion from the get go, and pasts that hold them back - brings a whole new meaning to the slow burn romantic trope. Gilmore’s writing shines with humor, darkness and the tendency for deepness. Her writing feels natural and sharp, and the chemistry between Ruby and Rafe is electric without ever feeling forced. Beneath the banter lies a deeper emotional current, about learning to see beyond fear of the truth of someone’s character. The small-town setting adds warmth and texture, making every side character feel like part of a living and breathing community.

If you loved Laurie Gilmore’s Dream Harbour series but wanted a little more werewolves and a little less sweetness - the small town of Maple Hollow has you covered. A Red Riding Hood (loosely) inspired romance about a woodsmen who is good with his hands, lives deep in the forest, and can’t seem to stay away from Ruby. I thought the tension was well paced, the mystery was fun, but most of all it just delivered on the promise from its beautiful cover and that was exactly what I wanted. I love that Laurie Gilmore took an old novel she had written and has redone it, using what she’s learned in the years since and creating something fresh.