Eight stars
After a whirlwind series about the supernatural, Charlaine Harris uses this piece to collect some of the short stories that have appeared in various publications. Sookie Stackhouse made a name for herself and these five pieces help fill gaps in the larger story arc and entertain series fans to no end. Harris proves her abilities to pen shorter pieces that pack just as much punch.
Fairy Dust #4.1:
Sookie Stackhouse has been working hard as a cocktail waitress at Merlotte’s, attempting not to read too many patron minds. When Claudine, a fairy friend, comes to seek Sookie’s help, they soon agree to work together. Claudine’s triplet, Claudette, has been murdered, likely by someone who does not agree with the fairy lifestyle. The truth will take some effort, but the end result will be worth it.
Dracula Night #4.7:
While he has come to mean a lot to Sookie, Eric Northman has a busy life outside visiting with the young cocktail waitress. Eric’s vampire bar, Fangtasia, has been preparing for its annual Dracula Night party, where the famous Count is feted. Legend has it that one person attending this type of party somewhere in the world is visited by the Count himself. As Eric’s excitement builds, many watch in wonder if Count Dracula will appear in Shreveport this year and choose Eric.
One Word Answer #5.5:
Sookie has always loved family, though recent tragedies has left her with few remaining members. When news comes that her cousin, Hadley, has been murdered, Sookie is quite upset. Staked by someone, this vampire and handmaid to the vampire Queen of Louisiana, Hadley must have angered someone. Who that is keeps Sookie’s mind racing.
Lucky #7.5:
Sookie has been able to hone her telepathy skills and become good friendswith many shapeshifters. When she and Amelia, a witch, have a local insurance agent approach them for help with a mystery, the amateur sleuths rush to assist. However, no one told them how complex and important the case could be.
Giftwrap #8.5:
Sookie loves family but has decided to spend the holiday season on her own. A naked man’s body appears on her property just before Christmas, causing her panic. This is increased when a visitor darkens her door, forcing Sookie to juggle responsibilities before she can even hang her stocking.
The full-length novels were a treat for me to read, as they pushed me out of my comfort zone. Now, wanting to get the full picture, I have turned to some of the short stories that added flavour to the series and helped Charlaine Harris flesh-out her ideas. The narrative flow differs between stories, but all are buoyed by strong ideas and a forward momentum. With added depth to characters and more perspectives, Harris increases understanding and propels things forward quite well. Toss in a few plot twists and you have a great collection of short stories that are sure to impress series fans. There are more to come, which has me eager to explore.
Kudos, Madam Harris, for cementing some of your stories with more and introducing readers to some new material.
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