Like Wolves is an episodic novel set in the nineteenth century, a tumultuous time when Texas fought for independence, war broke out between the United States and Mexico, and the Comanche Empire brought westward expansion to a grinding halt. Under pale blue skies; soldiers marched, rangers patrolled, and settlements burned. In the vast expanse beyond the Texas frontier, men lived and died for power, fealty, cultural hatred and revenge. In this maelstrom of conflict, Piamupitz the Owl, ancient and wicked, a destroyer, a devourer, a taker of children and eater of the lost—sees in the dark, her eyes fixed and focused on the movements of men and the beasts of the field. On a cold Spring night, with patches of snow still gleaming in the moonlight, Piamupitz hears the pain of a young man’s heart and visits the grieving warrior, making strong medicine, granting the man’s lust for destruction and spiritual power as she guides him on a course to raid across Texas and Mexico, forever changing the lives of all he encounters. Devastated by the loss of his wife and child, Storm Crow makes a pact with Piamupitz, who promises him power if he marks himself in white mud adorned with black symbols, and takes the war trail south. Lost in grief, consumed by rage, his mind and soul slipping into a new, grim reality, Storm Crow takes his vengeance out on the world around him. Fearless and blessed by dark powers, he amasses a following of young men eager to accompany him on raids and gain wealth and prestige in their exploits, forming a large war party that sweeps the Texas frontier, penetrating Mexico, burning a trail of destruction in their wake.

Goodreads Synopsis

Overall Rating

5/5

Spooky Rating

3/5

Quick Take

Like Wolves: Como Lobos by D.A. Vega is a brutal horror Western that is impeccably researched. I do not often give books five out of five stars, but this novel completely captivated me and left me in awe. It is perfect for horror fans who like their horror paired with Western themes and intense history. Please, go and pick up this book right now. You will not regret it! Whether you are a Western fan or not, this novel will take hold of you.

Tell Me More

The conflict between Texas and Mexico in the nineteenth century is an important piece of history that is bloody and vicious – making it a great topic for a horror novel. Like Wolves: Como Lobos by D.A. vega covers this piece of history with a heavy touch, and incorporates Spanish and indigenous languages to immerse the reader in the story.

I have been a fan of Western novels for a few years now, and this novel is the best that I have read to date. While it is cold-blooded and dark, it captures the time period and cultural elements beautifully. Like Wolves: Como Lobos is an episodic novel, or, in other words, a novel that is told in short stories, which makes it a quick read. But it is not a novel that digests easily.

Fans of historical horror and the brutality of the west will devour the novel, just as I have. While it is short, each chapter is intentional and filled with just enough details to disturb the reader and pull them into the story. I am still haunted by what I have read, but in the best way.

Like Wolves: Como Lobos by D.A. Vega is essential reading for those who enjoy Western/historical horror with heavy Spanish cultural elements. It does not compare to any other horror or Western novel I have read in quite some time, and I find myself unable to stop talking or thinking about it. Do yourself a favor and get lost in this novel. The escapism it provides might just be what you need!