Eight stars
Charmaine Harris presents yet another book in this supernatural series. Harris keeps the series flowing smoothly with insightful story ideas and plot lines. I have learned a great deal about the supernatural world, shape shifters, and the fictional battle for control amongst them, as well as with the general public. Harris is to be applauded for her action and keeping the reader on the edge of their seat.
Sookie Stackhouse is a fighter and has been known to put family first. When a cloud of family problems emerge, Sookie is front and centre to handle them. Her own kin are non-human fairies and telepathic, both requiring to be a part of her chaotic life. From here, her lover, Eric, receives a mysterious visit from his sire, who brings a ‘brother’ along for Eric to meet. This brother is someone well known to Sookie in the annals of history, shocking her more than anyone else. All the while, Sookie has committed to trying to find a family member to her ex, vampire Bill Compton. There is little time for much else, but Sookie squeezes in time to work as well.
Sookie also has a soft spot for the were clan in Shreveport, a group that has caused her a great deal of trauma in the past. Now, she is asked to help with a favour that could turn the tables on everything. Obliging, Sookie helps them, only to realise that her decisions could put a target on her back amongst the general population of Bon Temps, Louisiana. Harris develops this series well and keeps the reader hoked a they forge deeper into the darkness.
As I keep reading these friend recommended books, I find myself surprised and eager to move deeper into the series. Charlaine Harris leaves the reader wondering as things get more intense with each novel. The narrative base proves itself and is supported by well-developed storylines and hearty chapters. Harris knows how to impress readers with her functional characters as well, teasing as their individual and group developments emerge seamlessly.
While the characters are presented effectively, this only serves to accentuate the plot twists and their effectiveness. Harris keeps things meandering between issues, using chapters to tell the tale. Tensions mount and themes from past novels bleed into this story, forcing readers to pay attention. Series fans will find joy in this piece, it paves the way to more action.
Kudos, Madam Harris, for never refusing to keep things off-kilter.
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