3.5. Mixed feelings about this book. The book itself is well written but there were some issues I had throughout.

TJ Klune's Green Creek series continues with Heartsong, an addition to a series which so far has included a LOT of gay angst and even more found family than I could ever have thought possible (please read both of those statements in an entirely positive light). While this series doesn't have the lighthearted nature of Klune's other works to date they nonetheless tap into the hope and the heart that makes his works incredibly readable and emotionally satisfying.
Heartsong itself tackles themes of lost love, memory loss, and a search for belonging - all things that brought me to tears at various parts of the story. It fits in neatly with the tone and plots of the previous two books but contrasts with them, neatly avoiding the typical pitfall of interconnected romance series where all the books can start to feel the same. I'm impressed by the way in which TJ Klune manages to balance the romantic plotlines of the individual books with the larger overarching plot which feels more like something out of a 'traditional' fantasy/paranormal book. I would also be foolish not to mention the inclusion of Ace representation in this book. I personally don't feel qualified to comment on the quality/accuracy of that representation but I thought it was a very important thing to include in the context of what has been up to now a fairly steamy romance series.
I do think for this book, in particular, I felt that the romantic elements were weighted toward the start of the story while the more broad plot moments were near the end. I don't think that is an inherently bad thing but it did mean the story gained more momentum towards the end of the book and the overall pace isn't steady - but it depends on your reading preferences whether that will be a bother to you or not.
The highest compliment I can give this book is that the very second I was done I *had* to pick up the fourth book because I was so desperate to find out what happened. Wanting to continue on after over 500 pages is a sign to me of a very well written story.
I received a free digital review copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley- all opinions are my own.

This book makes quite a change from many of the heavily romance driven pack stories and is more based on friendship and brotherhood with pack taking the foreground which is very refreshing. However I did find it slow going and it dragged over the first half. The second half is better paced and I was much more invested in the packs success.

"Heartsong" by TJ Klune is a captivating exploration of identity, belonging, and the complexities of love within the vibrant world of wolves and magic. Robbie Fontaine, a character driven by the yearning for a place to belong, takes center stage in this emotionally charged tale.

Robbie's journey unfolds after receiving a summons to the wolf stronghold in Caswell, Maine, a pivotal moment that marks a shift in his transient existence. As the trusted second to Michelle Hughes, the Alpha of all, and a cherished friend to a wise witch, Robbie discovers the true meaning of pack and the sense of home he has always sought.

However, when a mission thrusts Robbie into the field, the narrative takes unexpected turns, challenging his beliefs and forcing him to confront questions about loyalty, betrayal, and his own identity. The whispers of traitorous wolves and wild magic add layers of mystery to the plot, leaving readers on the edge of their seats.

Amidst the intrigue, Robbie's search for answers becomes a central theme, particularly concerning Kelly Bennett, the wolf who may be his mate. TJ Klune skillfully weaves together the threads of romance, mystery, and self-discovery, creating a narrative that keeps readers hooked until the very end.

"Heartsong" is not only a tale of supernatural intrigue but also a deeply emotional exploration of the complexities of relationships. TJ Klune's writing is poignant and evocative, drawing readers into the richly detailed world of Caswell and its inhabitants. The story masterfully balances moments of heartwarming camaraderie with intense and suspenseful revelations.

As the truth unfolds, "Heartsong" delivers a powerful impact, causing a ripple effect that shakes the foundation of Robbie's world. TJ Klune has crafted a compelling narrative that combines elements of fantasy and romance, leaving readers eagerly anticipating each revelation and savoring the emotional depth of the characters' journeys. "Heartsong" is a resonant melody that lingers in the hearts of its readers long after the final page.

This series, this series, I can't cope with how much I love it. The pack, the family, the love.

The Green Creek series is so wonderful and this book was a brilliant edition.

I will say that this book took me longer to get into than the previous two books, without giving spoilers we don't get the 'pack pack pack' vibe for a good 50% of the book which I missed, however I do think this book was beautifully done.

The audio narration was also brilliant, it was so easy to know who was talking and get lost in the story.

I cannot wait for Brothersong, I need it now!!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the free eARC and audio ARC of this book.

The switch in this book truly broke my heart - it took me quite a while to realise that this book hadn't jumped back in time. That sense of confusion works perfectly for this book, drawing you into the characters feelings and allowing you to feel their sense of loss.

This book is really quite different to the previous two. In the first book, we grow to love Ox and Joe together and get to know the Bennett pack. Book two we're with Gordo as he breaks down his barriers and accepts Mark - in both books we see the relationship grow. In Heartsong the relationship is already built, and isn't as much as the focus as previously. This is more about finally getting to know Robbie intimately - he'd always felt like a minor character to me before, but now I understand him a bit more.

There are a few little niggles for me - but they're consistent across the series. The books always feel very long, and sometimes I feel like I'm reading to get through it. But found family is such a big trope of mine, and I adore the world this book is set in so I will stick it out. I think this is why I look forward to the next book in the series, but never rush to pick it up.

All in all, an enjoyable read, back with comforting characters.

I love this series, I love T.J.'s style. Klune, fluent, slow in the right places, the author knows how to balance the need for lyricism well, transforming the usual fantasy story with werewolves into something much more original.

The M/M component is not relegated to a mere sexual background, on the contrary it is made more real and alive.

I'm sorry to disappoint lovers of the erotic Romance genre, as you won't see any sexual scenes, which I really appreciated.

The novel is sad and beautiful at the same time.

Family affections are chosen and are not at all those of blood, but perhaps precisely for this reason, they appear even more real.

Wolfsong remains my absolute favorite, but Ravensong and Heartsong are no different.

In this story we walk on a tightrope, given that the events of the second volume had quite alarmed me. Robert Livingston is alive!

The great and powerful sorcerer, Gordo's father, used black magic to destroy the bonds of the packs and transform the omegas, the loners, into his particular pawns, both to take revenge on the Bennett Pack and to get his beloved son back.

But… let's not talk about Gordo.

If it's not him then who will it be?

Many of you got there at the end of the previous volume, for the others all you have to do is read this and find out for yourself.

It all begins in Caswell, North Carolina, where the young beta wolf Robbie Fountaine lives in close contact with the sorcerer Ezra and performs the tasks of the alpha of all wolves: Michelle Hughes.

The boy is fine but remembers little or nothing about his past, except his mother's sacrifice in keeping him safe from hunters.

He feels proud to be Michelle's second in command and has developed a beautiful relationship with the old warlock. However, there is something strange about him, if he is really so happy, why does he emanate so many blue waves? The color blue is a sign of sadness for wolves, and Robbie feels more and more the need for a family. We suffer loneliness with him, and I swear that a couple of tears fell on me too, along with the headache, since the wolf actually already has a family, he has a pack with two alphas and a companion who he loves, but unfortunately he doesn't remember any of this. Following a delicate assignment, Robbie begins to have doubts since he remembers nothing of that meeting that took place a few days earlier, a total void.

Honestly, I also felt a little dazed, not being able to understand if we were talking about Robbie pre-Bennett or after. Even this thing of not understanding doesn't harm the narrative at all, on the contrary it helps us to read carefully and ask ourselves a thousand questions.

Like Robbie, we doubt Caswell and its inhabitants, until he receives a phone call from a wolf he met during the last meeting, of which he has no memory, so he decides to reach it to solve at least one puzzle. The surprise is great in finding ourselves faced with the Bennett Pack, unfortunately Ezra follows them and, after having canceled the spell that protected him, reveals himself to be Robert Livingstone.

There's no time, the Pack doesn't have enough magic to face Gordo's father, they have to escape, but Robbie doesn't remember anything, not even the beautiful brown-coated creature who claims to be his companion and who, by attacking the sorcerer, is deprived of his his being a wolf and made miserably human.

The showdown is approaching, the pack of Oz and Joe is broken because of what Robbie did and the lack of ties with him, Kelly may never go back to the way he was before.

Hopes, however, die hard. Will our little wolves be able to put an end to this story once and for all?

Getting back to us, personally Robbie has never been one of my favorite characters, nor Kelly in fact, but these two together made me change my mind. At the beginning our protagonist hates everyone and would just like to go back to his old life, but he feels the bond with his partner and the two try again, and everyone tries again with them since the pack is a family and without a member they are all weaker.

It was nice to see the whole group again, especially Mark and Gordo's friends, the changes that occurred more than a year ago are as new to our eyes as they are to Robbie's, together with him we discover them and savor them, letting out a few laughs .

You will like it, a lot. But be prepared to keep some tissues handy, just in case.

Thanks to Netgalley and Tor Books for providing me with this ARC!

What an incredible addition to TJ Klune's Green Creek community wolf pack series, an emotionally tearful and heartbreaking, tested beyond belief, although ultimately joyful ending to Robbie Fontaine and the asexual Kelly Bennett's relationship. I wondered at the beginning what exactly was going on, it does become clearer later in this story of memory, dastardly plots and villains. The lonely Robbie, having lost his mother, is sent by alpha wolf Michelle Hughes to keep an eye on the Bennetts, where he feels at home and a innate sense of belonging, working in Gordo's garage, becoming embedded in the community, with Kelly, and the Bennett family. Everyone is impacted by the repercussions of what happens to Robbie, not just Kelly, but what exactly has happened to him?

Robbie cannot remember, all memories of Kelly have gone, although there is something inside him that knows. Klune does a remarkable job of skilfully exploring with originality, the intricacies, and complexities of the nature of Robbie and Kelly's subtly nuanced love for each other. He does not spare us the bucket loads of pain and challenges the two of them face. The tension and suspense hits sky high, keeping me glued to the novel, turning the pages as fast as I could. I was captivated by the tenderness, sensitivity and irresistible heart of Robbie and Kelly's love, so distinct in comparison to the other love partnerships we have seen. I was particularly interested with the exploration and depiction of asexuality where we see that the intensity and deep connection between the two is off the charts.

You will need to have read the other books in the series to better understand the characters and what is happening in this compulsive tearjerker of an addition to the series. I think fans of the series will love this emotive rollercoaster, just be prepared to be taken to the nail biting edges of an unforgettable love story which is definitely my favourite in the Green Creek series so far. I am looking forward to the next one! Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.

Headlines:
Suddenly I needed this story
One of the best switcheroos ever
Someone please unbreak my heart

So far in the series, Robbie has been one of those characters I think is okay, but he's never been front and centre in my mind. I literally dipped my toe into this book and it glued me to the pages and I whipped through this read faster than normal on a working week.

One of the things that blew my mind was an almighty twist that left me absolutely reeling. Rug was whipped from my feet, down was up, and beloved was hated. This was such a clever plot, Klune brought two characters to the fore and they ruled the pages but the Green Creekers were ever present (after a while) and I'll never not love that.

The battle for Green Creek, freedom for packs, omegas and bonds was front and centre. I finally got my answer on the timber wolf that had really killed me after Ravensong finished. That answer did not disappoint.

Expect heartache. Expect splashes of joy, pack bonds, colours and family. Can I just mention that the way that Klune writes mothers just gets me completely in the feels. Oh to be loved by your mother so unconditionally.

I leave you with these eerie words...
"Will you hear me, dear?"

I say this about all of the Green Creek books, but honestly this, like the rest of the series, was pure perfection.

I absolutely love the way that Klune weaves the story between past and present and how he creates the beautiful landscape of Green Creek. The characters, including the side characters, are so well written and believable - you fall in love with them every time you read the books and when their hearts break, you break with them.

This book was interesting because when I first started I was really confused - it felt like I’d missed a whole chunk of backstory and I even went back to Ravensong to see if I’d just forgotten what had happened, but nope, I was missing a whole space of time. This is intentional and actually really clever, as you realise what is going on as the story progresses.

This book is told from the POV of Robbie Fontaine, who we know and love from Wolfsong and Ravensong, but it’s not the Robbie that we know. Something is different and as the book continues we start to learn what. I am an absolute fan of an unreliable narrator and this book took that to the extremes.

I appreciated that there was humour (usually courtesy of the mechanics gang, Chris, Tanner and Rico with angry outbursts from Gordo) woven throughout, as the main plot line of this book (as with all of them) was pretty bleak. There was also so much love in this book; the majority of it familial. There is a romance element between Robbie and Kelly Bennett, however I genuinely feel like the aim feel of this book was the love within the pack.

I absolutely loved this book and am so excited for Brothersong (the final book in the series). Carter has always been one of my favourites, so I’m looking forward to him having his time in the spotlight 💕 Thankyou to NetGalley and the publisher for a free eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

I enjoy this series a little more with each instalment! This book follows Robbie - one of the newest additions to the Bennett pack after he was first sent to them as a spy back in book 1 (Wolfsong). From the very start of the book things have changed drastically - Robbie is living with a different pack and nothing is quite as it seems. I enjoyed seeing the relationships between the characters develop and deepen, I loved finding out about Robbie's mate story, and the ending of the book gives a lot to work with for book 4 which I'm really looking forward to. There is only one sex scene in this which is very short.

Heartsong by tjklunebooks is the third book in the Green Creek saga, due to be rereleased and published by @panmacmillan on 01/02/2024.

Thank you to Panmacmillan and @netgalley for giving me an early copy to review.

Wolfsong and Ravensong were both five star reads for me and I absolutely flew through them, so I knew that I’d be reading this one as soon as I could get my gets on it!

Told from the point of view of Robbie, we are thrown straight back into the thick of it with no explanations, just plain on straight into the heart of the story. Which I loved. Robbie was a character that I didn’t previously pay huge amounts of attention to, I don’t know why but he wasn’t someone I naturally gravitated towards. However, my opinion changed after reading Heartsong.

This book felt much darker than the first two, and we get to explore what it means to be a ‘packless’ werewolf (not something I’d come across before) as Robbie forms temporary bonds that stop him turning feral. Let’s just say, Robbie has a really hard time and makes some big mistakes.

Klune writes emotion impeccably well and it is what draws me to his work again and again. Heartsong is certainly no exception. Heartsong encapsulates the journey of finding oneself, of belonging and finding home where it’s least expected.

Beautifully told story that explores many complicated themes, one to look out for in the new year. I’ll be waiting patiently for the next.

Heartsong is a wonderful continuation of the Green Creek series.

The third book in the series focuses on Robbie as the main character. At the beginning of the story he has magic induced amnesia and we see his life among the pack he has been kidnapped by. As the story progresses, we rejoin more of the characters we’ve come to know and love, and, just like in Ravensong, it’s interesting to see the pack from a different point of view.

I adore the narrator of these audiobooks, I’ve listened to all three so far and I look forward to the audiobook every time. He really adds another dimension to the story.

Overall, I really enjoyed Heartsong and I can’t wait for the next, and final, book in the Green Creek series.

Although I was confused about what was going on with the timeline at the start, I think this is my fave of the series so far!

Tip – make sure you remember what happened at the end of Ravensong then you won’t be confused!

We met Robbie Fontaine in the 2 previous books and this is the story of how he got where he was and what happens after, a continuation.

Ezra/Robert and Michelle, aka the enemy, are up to it again and the Bennett pack find themselves slap bang in the middle of it!

Kelly and Robbie make my life! ‘For when you’re ready.’ ‘Love, love, love, my heartsong.’

I don’t think this book was darker than the other 2 books but maybe more sinister. I’m so emotionally invested in this series and so addicted!

There’s something about these books, this found family, that makes me want to wander round in a wood and see if I can find them!!!!

OMG I was in awe of this book but I know the next one is going to be explosive!!!!!!

‘Pack pack pack’

Me while reading this book: 🫨😩😭🥹😩😭🥹😍

In other words, "Heartsong" by TJ Klune is a captivating journey of self-discovery and love, woven with Klune's signature blend of humor and heart. The characters are vibrant, and the narrative explores themes of identity and acceptance. The intricate yet easy to follow storytelling shines through, creating a love story that is both emotionally resonant and thoroughly engaging. A must-read for those seeking a beautifully crafted romance with depth and authenticity.

I‘m done. Literally.
This book was so different from what I thought it would be, but I loved it with all my (constantly hurting) heart!
I wasn’t a big fan of Robbie before, but in this book he was acting way more mature and I immediately started to love him after 10 pages.
Also Kelly is such a sweartheart, he needs to be protected at all costs (because he deserves it!).

I was a super big fan of the love story and the plot in general. It was way less action filled then the last books, but super emotional. My poor heart though.
Also I‘m relieved that the humour wasn’t as silly as the last book! Though the humour was still there, it was a bit toned down and I was laughing my ass off about some parts.

That ending though!!!
We need Brothersong NOW.

Beautifully written novel about family, love, loyalty, brotherhood and belonging. Fantasy, queer, and romance were not my favourite genres but TJ Klune has changed that.

I was a little reluctant to start reading this one, but at the same time, I was looking forward to it immensely. When you love a series and its characters so much, you just don’t want to be disappointed. But I shouldn’t have worried because Heartsong is Green Creek’s most beautiful so far!

I love T.J. Klune’s humor, but I’m a sucker for longing and yearning and even more for sadder and harder-hitting stories. With Heartsong, I was served at my beck and call. I sobbed uncontrollably and felt Robbie’s pain like daggers in my heart. And Kelly, sweet Kelly, I loved him so much!

Just one more book and brother to go, and I just can’t wait to read Carter’s story!