Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Fair Game (Alpha & Omega #3)

4.31 of 5 stars 4.31 · rating details · 12,844 ratings · 1,373 reviews

Patricia Briggs, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Mercy Thompson novels, "always enchants her readers." (Lynn Viehl, New York Times bestselling author) Now her Alpha and Omega series-set in a world of shifting shapes, loyalty, and passion- brings werewolves out of the darkness and into a society where fear and prejudice could make the hunters prey...

They sa...more

Hardcover, 293 pages

Published March 6th 2012 by Ace Hardcover

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

The Best Urban Fantasy

329th out of 1,667 books — 6,996 voters

Best Fantasy Books with Strong Women Characters

14th out of 228 books — 83 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 3,000)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Mar 28, 2012 Lisa Kay rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: genre-romance-paranormal, counting-the-days, m-hc-hardcover, ordered-pre-ordered, season-winter, reviewed-by-me, amazing-secondary-characters, genre-mystery, character-fae-fairies, genre-shapeshifters, zzcover-red, zzcover-bronze, 2012-in-2012-group-challenge, buddy-read, its-magic, setting-usa-massachusetts, setting-usa-washington, authors-p, authors-b, all-time-favorites

★★★★★ & a Wow! It took me awhile to write this review; the fabulous Ms. Patricia Briggs had wowed me beyond words. Dare I say this is her best work to date? I guess I can’t, since I haven’t read everything she’s written – yet! But, I’m willing to place that bet.

With the third installment of her Alpha and Omega series, Ms. Briggs has proven she is a master of her craft and draws us completely into her paranormal milieu of werewolves, fae, vampires, ghosts, witches, humans, an occasional zomb...more

like 29 likes · see review

Apr 03, 2012 Mimi Smith rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

10 stars

AWESOME, INCREDIBLE BOOK!

This is, by far, the best in the series for me. I can't even begin to explain how much I enjoyed it. It takes place after River Marked. Anna and Charles have been together for a year or so, and we see Charles's job as an enforcer is getting to him. He has killed too many, too often and is closing himself off, even from his mate. Bran decides it might help if he sends Charles to Boston, to investigate a series of deaths stretching back 30 years. Giving him a chanc...more

like 30 likes · see review

Jan 16, 2013 Aly (Mircea) Basarab rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: action, paranormal, urban-fantasy, best-book-ever, favorites, 2013-group-challenge, re-reading, audiobook

OMFG! I iz speechless here! That Gray Lord Prince was awesome! I so didn't expect that! The ending was EXPLOSIVE!

Exactly what the Fae did to the prejudiced humans, if you ask me

This was a great installment by Patricia Briggs. I loved(never was good a literary stuff so I use bluet-points:D):
-Anna: her growth from the scared wolf from the prequel to this book is a lovely thing to watch. The way her bond with Charles and her confidence in his love for her was a very important part in this book.
-C...more

like 11 likes · see review

Mar 02, 2012 Mandi Schreiner rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: uf

I love this urban fantasy world Patricia Briggs has created. She has expanded it over two series, her Mercy Thompson series and this one, Alpha & Omega. In this series we explore the complex relationship of Charles and Anna. Charles is the only known born werewolf, and son of the Marrock (Alpha of ALL werewolves of North America, Bran). Anna is an Omega, a wolf that can calm the fiercest of tempers and is also strong enough to look the Marrock in the eye. Of course, her human appearance make...more I love this urban fantasy world Patricia Briggs has created. She has expanded it over two series, her Mercy Thompson series and this one, Alpha & Omega. In this series we explore the complex relationship of Charles and Anna. Charles is the only known born werewolf, and son of the Marrock (Alpha of ALL werewolves of North America, Bran). Anna is an Omega, a wolf that can calm the fiercest of tempers and is also strong enough to look the Marrock in the eye. Of course, her human appearance makes her look like a fragile woman, but don’t be fooled.

In Fair Game, book three, Patricia Briggs continues to explore the dynamics between this very alpha, serious and quiet wolf Charles and his stubborn wife. Charles is the Marrok’s punisher for lack of a better word. Recently, werewolves outted themselves to the public and it is all about keeping a positive spin with the public. Patricia Briggs writes her werewolves to be very carnal in nature. While they can assimilate with the general public, they have a very violent edge and it doesn’t take much for them to eat someone. Trying to keep the peace, Bran sends Charles out to kill those wolves who have stepped over their boundaries. Which means Charles is killing many and it is starting to weigh him down. I love how Briggs presents it to the readers as well. You flip-flop by wondering if Bran is using his son to do all his dirty work, or if he really has no one else to send out. Bran can’t send out other alphas, fearing they couldn’t handle it and the older wolves already carry around too much and they would go insane.

Charles has the ghosts of his previous kills lurking around him. They talk to him, scare him, and he is terrified if he acknowledges them too much, they will take control of him an eventually harm his wife. So he keeps this pain and torment hidden from her. Anna knows something is wrong with Charles and after she begs Bran to help, and he stubbornly says no, she is at a loss for what to do.

Brother Wolf, also has a big role in this book. Brother wolf is Charles’s wolf, who has his own personality. There are kind of two people living inside of Charles, Charles and Brother Wolf. They both love Anna, but sometimes they disagree with each other. It is fascinating how Briggs writes it.

Bran does come up with a somewhat temporary solution for him. There have been a string of murders in the Boston area involving werewolves. The FBI are desperate to catch this serial killer, and have given into the fact they might need a werewolf to give them some insight. With Adam Hauptmann home helping Mercy recover (awww!) Bran sends Anna and Charles to Boston. When a powerful Fae’s daughter becomes the next victim, Charles and Anna stick around until they can bring justice.

Fair Game gives us many great things. First we get a super creepy string of murders that must be solved. We are introduced to some new characters like Leslie with the FBI and Isaac, alpha of the Boston wolves, both who I really enjoyed meeting. I think the plot in this one regarding the murders is one of the more stronger ones I have read in this series and in Briggs’ Mercy books.

Besides that drama, we get lots of conflict between Charles and Anna. Charles is so stoic and quiet, and protective over his mate, that he has this huge internal struggle going on. He can’t let go of the ghosts that he has killed, and it is completely wrecking him. Being stubborn, he refuses to let Anna in on what is going on with him, although she knows something is up. They haven’t touched each other for weeks. Anna slowly works her magic but it is a long and serious struggle for Charles.

As I said above, I LOVE how Briggs writes her wolves. They are decent humans, but can be so violent at the snap of your fingers. They are killers first. And I love it. Their political maneuverings are so interesting to me as well. And with Bran in the background pulling the strings, I seriously can’t get enough of this world. So well built.

The end sets up something big. BIG. I’m so excited to read the next book to see where this all goes. Definitely a series that I think should be read in order. If I had to think of a complaint, it would be that I want more Bran. I’m a Bran hussy and I have no shame in it.

Rating: A-(less)

like 33 likes · see review

Mar 21, 2012 Heather C rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: pdoc, paranormal-romance, series, ebook, psychic-abilities, ghosts, fae, read-with-n, shapeshifter, read-2012, read-with-b, witches-wizards-magic

I loved this but it was too easy for me to put down. I wasn't sucked in like I waswith the previous two books of this series. It starts off not long after the end of River Marked. We even get a small phone cameo from Adam and Mercy is mentioned, YAY!!!

Anyway, I liked getting to read about Charles and Anna again and see how much their mate bond has changed over the past few years. In this book,Charles is havinga lotof internal issuesresulting from him being the Marrok's Wolfkiller, so that create...more

like 11 likes · see review

Mar 21, 2012 Ferdy rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: growly-werewolves, paranormal-romance, likeable-heroine, pararnomal-csi-shit, dark-tortured-broody-hero

3.5 stars

Fair Game, the third book in the Alpha & Omega series picks up a few years after Hunting Ground. I was quite thrown off with this because it didn't read like Charles and Anna had been together that long, it was like reading about a couple who were still in the early stages of their relationship. It doesn't help matters that Charles is pushing Anna away and ignoring the mate-bond between them. Charles having been Bran's executioner for years begins to breakdown mentality. To save his...more 3.5 stars

Fair Game, the third book in the Alpha & Omega series picks up a few years after Hunting Ground. I was quite thrown off with this because it didn't read like Charles and Anna had been together that long, it was like reading about a couple who were still in the early stages of their relationship. It doesn't help matters that Charles is pushing Anna away and ignoring the mate-bond between them. Charles having been Bran's executioner for years begins to breakdown mentality. To save his son's sanity, Bran sends Charles and Anna to Boston to aid the FBI with the investigation of a missing girl and the murders of several local werewolves.
This book was more procedural, it did seem less original than the previous books but overall it was still enjoyable. It was quite predictable and it didn't offer anything new to the genre. The humans vs others, the power imbalance between the two and the predujice between humans/supernaturals are all common themes in the UF/PR genre. I wasn't impressed with the use of the same UF/PR tropes but the badass ending made up for it all.
I'm liking Anna more and more with each book - she's more stronger, confident and capable. It was great to see Anna fighting hard for her relationship with Charles, even when he kept pushing her away. I thought Anna would eventually give up, become distant and start to think Charles didn't want her..but Anna doesn't lose faith in their relationship. I've never been enamoured with Charles - he's too arrogant of his own power and he's also a little bland. I did find his protectiveness of Anna sweet and liked how growly he got when anyone got to close to her. I would have been more pleased if his epiphany about carrying out his father's orders vs losing his sanity and thus losing Anna had happened sooner.
I wish there had been more Bran, he's such a complex & layered character and he's far more interesting than Charles. Bran is in a difficult position, he's ultimately destroying his son to protect his pack but it's hard not to sympathize with him. Bran has to balance his duties as a father to that of an alpha. I'd really like this to be explored more in future books because it'd fascinating to see what Bran's limits as an alpha are. I'd also like to see more of the Bran/Leah relationship. I know everyone hates Leah but I don't blame her for being how she is..who wouldn't be bitter, cruel and angry knowing that their partner didn't even like them and never being able to have the one thing they want - a child. I think I'm one of the few that would like to see Leah get a HEA.
One thing I dislike about Patricia Brigg's books are the amount of female characters who end up being raped and abused. I don't think Mercy and Anna's sexual abuse have been handled all that well..with both of them committing to a very serious relationship so soon after their ordeals and then having the rapes/abuse just brushed under the carpet when it's inconveniant to the story.
I also disliked some of the dialogue and writing, it was frustrating to read as it didn't flow very well.
The ending was brilliant. I was so happy to see justice done. I really wasn't expecting that to happen and I'm looking forward to see how the actions at the end will impact Mercy's and Anna's worlds in future books.(less)

like 6 likes · see review

Mar 08, 2012 Shannon C. rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: urban fantasy fans, paranormal romance fans

Shelves: favorites, fae-fey-elves, magic-special-powers, shapeshifters

Just finished Fair Game and it was AWESOME--the best book I've read so far this year. Briggs really outdid herself. Terrific mix of mystery, suspense, action, and romance. Some of the suspenseful moments really had me on the edge of my seat! Towards the end something completely shocking happens, and sets up the next book really well.

One of the things I particularly love about this series are the two lead characters, Charles and Anna. So many UF series use a first person POV of only one lead her...more

like 5 likes · see review

Mar 07, 2012 Anna (Bobs Her Hair) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, urban-fantasy

The first chapter is available. It's incredible. (view spoiler) It has me salivating for the book.

For people who haven't read the series, you must give it a try. It's an urban fantasy with romance, suspense, and mystery. No love triangles or angst. Solid couple. Good mystery. Contemporary setting. Werewolves, vampires, and fae.

http://www.patriciabriggs.com ...more

like 11 likes · see review

Aug 20, 2012 Angie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: belovedbookshelf, girls-who-do-things, urban-fantasy

Originally reviewed here.

So how many of you out there follow Patricia Briggs' Alpha and Omega series as well as her Mercy Thompson one? I'm always curious about how many followers the offshoot series get as compared to the flagship ones. This has been on my mind, especially in light of Ilona Andrews' Gunmetal Magic recently making its debut (more to come on that one soon). I was torn at first with the notion of this series, though. First of all, I love the tiny glimpses of Charles we get in Merc...more Originally reviewed here.

So how many of you out there follow Patricia Briggs' Alpha and Omega series as well as her Mercy Thompson one? I'm always curious about how many followers the offshoot series get as compared to the flagship ones. This has been on my mind, especially in light of Ilona Andrews' Gunmetal Magic recently making its debut (more to come on that one soon). I was torn at first with the notion of this series, though. First of all, I love the tiny glimpses of Charles we get in Mercy's world. And I was insanely curious about the Marrok's hit man son and how he would fare in his own story. At the same time, no Mercy? No Adam? But potentially more Bran . . . THE EMOTIONS! I have them. So back when the introductory novella first came out, I picked it up in a Barnes & Noble and stood there reading the first pages. Just to see. You understand. Well, I ended up finishing it right there. Standing in the bookstore. I immediately purchased it and began counting down the days until the release of Cry Wolf, the first full-length novel in the series. I was not disappointed, and I enjoyed the next book well enough, though Mercy still held a place of honor in my heart. So I guess I had somewhat moderate expectations for the third book in the series. I was expecting good. But, you guys, I got amazing.

Anna hasn't been happy in some time now. She loves her adopted home in Montana. She loves being part of a pack that's positively civilized in comparison to the one she belonged to in Chicago. And she loves her mate. But Charles hasn't been present for months. He's there next to her. He goes through the motions. And he carries out his father's will with an implacable determination. But despite all this, Charles is missing. And Anna has had enough. As an Omega, she alone has the ability to face the Marrok and not cow to his power. But Bran, in all his wisdom, cannot see another way to mete out the necessary justice across the packs of North America without using Charles as his enforcer. Nevertheless, Anna is determined to destroy whatever is haunting Charles and see their bond restored once more. And then Bran sends them on a mission to Boston. Missions are nothing new to Charles. But this one is different. This time Anna is in charge. She will be the face of the Marrok in dealing with the FBI, the fae, and other federal agencies in regards to a string of murders stretching over decades and involving the deaths of wolves, fae, and humans alike. Charles is to be merely the "backup." Both Anna and Bran hope this reprieve will provide some much needed downtime for the Marrok's dreaded Wolfkiller. That, in time, he will begin to heal.

Truthfully? FAIR GAME is utterly fantastic, the best urban fantasy I've read this year by a long shot. I was swept away by the story instantly, and I had honestly sort of reached the point where I thought there might not be much more for me with this series. I was so wrong, the kind of wrong that puts a big fat smile on my face for being proved wrong in the best kind of way. I connected with Anna in book one. I've always liked her. But she blew me away here. She's so smart. She's learned so much and grown incredibly savvy when it comes to werewolf politics and dealing with the Marrok. And she puts her considerable skill and wit to work here in such subtle ways that I simply could not contain my admiration for her. And then there's Charles. It's impossible not to love Charles. If you are at all affected by the strong, silent type then you and Charles will get along just fine. This installment sees him at the end of his rope, if you will. His job as the Marrok's enforcer has taken the kind of toll no other wolf could withstand and remain sane, and Charles himself is on the brink of disaster. A favorite passage:

Charles let his hand linger on Anna's back. She wore a sweater and a light jacket, but he pretended he could feel the heat of her through the clothing that covered her.

Brother Wolf wanted her off this island and somewhere far away from killers who hunted werewolves and left no scent behind for them to discover. But Charles knew better. To try to encase his Anna in Bubble Wrap would be to kill the woman who protected him with her grandmother's marble rolling pin. She was the woman he fell in love with.

Then why are you hiding your ghosts from her? Brother Wolf asked.

Because I am afraid, Charles answered his brother, as he would have answered no one else. He had lived a very long time, and only since he gained Anna had he learned to fear. He'd discovered that he had never been brave before--just indifferent. She had taught him that to be brave, you have to fear losing something. I am afraid I will lose her. That they will take her from me--or that I will drive her away when she sees what I really am.

Beauclaire had addressed that. Charles couldn't remember the fae's exact words, but he felt them. People as old and powerful as he should never be given someone to love.

For Anna he would destroy the world.

The emotional play at work in this book is complex and riveting and every character shone. More than any of Briggs' other works, this one is a police procedural at heart. The investigation is relentless and filled with the darkest of killers. In fact, this is the darkest book in the series by far. But it is also the most sophisticated, the most compelling, the most rife with emotional payoff, development, and excitement. I was shocked at the outcome and almost painfully eager to find out just exactly how Ms. Briggs is going to address the fallout in both the next Alpha and Omega book and the next Mercy Thompson book. I love how the two are intertwined, and I will be knocking on my local bookstore's door the day the next one comes out. Well played, Ms. Briggs. FAIR GAME is going on my Best of 2012 list no question.(less)

like 7 likes · see review

Jan 07, 2013 Kelli rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: audiobooks

Story: B+
Narration: A-

Quick Review:

Go. Now. Listen or Read. Start at the beginning of the series if you haven’t already. To cut to the chase: I love this series. That’s all there is to it.

The Plot:

Charles Cornick has been his father’s enforcer for longer than he can remember. When you’re a werewolf, that can add up to a lot of years. With the werewolf community officially ‘outed’ to the world at large it has become critical to keep the North American packs under tight rein and being the instrume...more

like 5 likes · see review

Apr 01, 2012 Laura (Kyahgirl) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: action-adventure, fae-faery, favorite-authors, magic, paranormal-romance, part-of-a-series, shapeshifters, urban-fantasy

4/5; 4 stars; A-

The Alpha & Omega series has a different feel than the Mercy Thompson series even though the characters are connected. This was a strong addition to the series and it was interesting to see the challenges that Anna and Charles face. When you have one partner who is a few hundred years old, you'd expect a few hiccups on the way to HEA. That being said, the main story wasn't the romance between Charles and Anna but their investigation of nefarious doings in the Boston area. The...more

like 7 likes · see review

Mar 10, 2012 MandyM rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, urban-fantasy

Fabulous new entry in the Alpha & Omega series.

The werewolves have 'come out' to the human world. Charles' work as his father's enforcer has increased and he is being haunted by the ghosts of his kills. He withdraws from Anna and closes their mate bond to protect her. But Anna is determined to fight for her man and challenges Bran (Charles' father and head of all the werewolves) to find a solution. Bran sends them to Boston to help the FBI and other government organisations with a series...more

like 4 likes · see review

Mar 18, 2012 Scarlet369 rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: scarlet-s-favorites

Werewolves have revealed themselves to the human world and they cant afford any bad publicity. So when the Marrock finds out about a rash of serial killings he sends the only people who can take on this challenge, Anna and Charles. They are quick to find out that the killers victims were fae and werewolves alike. The hunt is now on to find these supernatural serial killers before more lives are lost.
Patricia Briggs has once again created a spell binding world of supernatural creatures and the...more

like 4 likes · see review

Mar 05, 2012 Regina rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy-uf, series-to-continue, favorite-authors, favorite-series, favorites, audio-also-listened-to, have-in-audio, shifters, spin-off-series, dark-gritty-urban-fantasy

I freaking loved this book! I loved the mystery, I loved Charles and Anna! I loved the glimpses of Adam and the Mercy Thompson world. Bran was amazing and Briggs gave us a good amount of Bran.

Patricia Briggs has that special something that makes me feel so happy and contented to slip into her world and read any one of her books. The characters may be scary and the subject matter disturbing, but Briggs writes them in such a rich way that I wish I was there. The supernaturals in Briggs’ world are...more I freaking loved this book! I loved the mystery, I loved Charles and Anna! I loved the glimpses of Adam and the Mercy Thompson world. Bran was amazing and Briggs gave us a good amount of Bran.

Patricia Briggs has that special something that makes me feel so happy and contented to slip into her world and read any one of her books. The characters may be scary and the subject matter disturbing, but Briggs writes them in such a rich way that I wish I was there. The supernaturals in Briggs’ world are scary, not just spooky but frightening. They are strong, not entirely in control of their strength and quite a few of her supernaturals operate around a completely different moral compass than humans do. I love this about her books. The vampires are scary, the Fae are an unknown and usually powerful and scream-worthy and the werewolves? They are strong, beautiful, loyal but definitely not human. The Fae are not my favorite characters in Briggs’ books. Some of her past books have dwelt to heavily with Fae characters, in my opinion; Fair Game strikes the perfect balance. There is Fae intrigue but it takes place in the human world and involves human beings, werewolves and sociopaths. The focus of the story never strays from the werewolves and Anna and Charles are front in center.

Fair Game picks up a few years after Hunting Ground and starts right after River Marked. There are references to the resolution of River Marked, readers who have not yet read River Marked and plan to do so, be warned there are spoilers to the ending of River Marked in Fair Game. Based on the timing, Charles and Anna have been together a few years and Anna has been in Montana for awhile. Like any couple, there are issues and Charles and Anna are no exception. Unfortunately, their problems have more to do with Bran and the outside world.

Okay, so what about Charles and Anna? I have a strong preference for urban fantasy and fantasy with creative world building, intricate worlds and rich characters but if you throw in a romance, I will enjoy it. Well, Briggs does more than just throw in a romance, the story of Charles and Anna is not the driving force of these books – the characters, the world and the storyline are – -but Charles and Anna provide the structure and vehicle for telling the story. There would be no story without their relationship. Fans of Charles and Anna will not be disappointed, readers are treated with quite a few very sweet scenes and a few issues the couple has to work through. Maybe I say that too lightly – the issues facing the couple are dark, twisted and well, Briggs came up with a truly unique storyline of what was stressing Charles and Anna. Readers will not be left on a cliff wondering if Charles and Anna can resolve their problems though, Briggs wraps up these issues by the end of the novel.

The ending was fantastic. I loved it. Many writers in this genre put out installment after installment of books that do not push the story arc further or change the game at all. Fair Game is not like that nor is Briggs a writer like that. What Briggs does so well is to continue to develop her world, she doesn’t ever rest on what she has already written – -she pushes her world building and her characters. Readers learn more about the Fae and their crazy world, more about the werewolves — and the characters and the worlds come to a very dramatic ending that leaves off in a way that makes me beyond excited for the next book!

I have two complaints. First, I wish it was longer. Fair Game is a decent length novel, but I wanted more. Briggs definitely did not skimp on storyline or character development, I just am greedy and want more. Second, I fear it will be another 2 years or more until we get the next installment. Mercy Thompson #7 is due out Spring 2013, I guess I will have to be content with re-reading both Mercy and Alpha and hoping for some short stories from Briggs along the way.

Full review at www.badassbookreviews.com and interview with Patricia Briggs at www.badassbookreviews.com on March 6, 2012!(less)

like 24 likes · see review

Apr 15, 2012 Brenda Audiobooks Only rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: audio-i-ve-listened-to, 2-audible-com-books, paranormal-romance

Narrated by Holter Graham - Narration 5*s

A favorite line that could only be thought by someone 200+ years old, as Charles is:

"... Charles stepped in front of the bathroom mirror. It was one of those full-length things that women used to use to make sure their ankles weren't showing below their skirts and now used to make sure, he assumed, that their underwear showed only when they wanted it to." :D

like 3 likes · see review

Mar 27, 2012 Kaje Harper rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, romance-m-f

I'm a big fan of this series. The mix of wolves and fae and vampires and witches makes for a complex supernatural world, and yet it has a very realistic feel. Just what I prefer in my paranormal stories. This is the third installment with Anna and Charles. I liked seeing Anna coming into her own, with a better sense of herself and what she can do. Charles is always great, and in this book, less in control and perfect than before, and thus even more fascinating. The ending opens the door for some...more

like 4 likes · see review

Jun 22, 2012 Marcia rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: briggs-patricia

I have to confess, I've had Fair Game since the day it came out, sitting in my To Be Read basket, unopened. For weeks, I've walked by it and mentally whispered, "Sooooon, My Precious!" (I like to torture myself that way when I have a new book that I KNOW I'm going to love. Kind of like saving the best thing on the dinner plate for last!) Finally, I let myself sink into the pleasure of another visit to the world as created by Patricia Briggs, and I'm so glad I didn't prolong the agony another day...more I have to confess, I've had Fair Game since the day it came out, sitting in my To Be Read basket, unopened. For weeks, I've walked by it and mentally whispered, "Sooooon, My Precious!" (I like to torture myself that way when I have a new book that I KNOW I'm going to love. Kind of like saving the best thing on the dinner plate for last!) Finally, I let myself sink into the pleasure of another visit to the world as created by Patricia Briggs, and I'm so glad I didn't prolong the agony another day!

I've been following the Mercy Thompson books since the first one came out, and of course, I went straight into the Alpha & Omega series as soon as they were released, as well. I had hoped this second series would be just as good, and sure enough! If anything, I like the Alpha & Omega series even better than the Mercy Thompson one. The worlds & characters do overlap, especially in the first A&O book, Cry Wolf. But I have a special fondness for Charles & Anna. Especially Charles, who is a very complex (yet extremely sexy) character. His role in life (and his ensuing issues) is unique, and his stoic personality just tugs at my heartstrings. Not to mention, in spite of his terrifying effect on transgressors, he has a wonderful, dry wit, which only Anna (and we readers) gets to see or understand.

Then there's Anna, herself. Everyone who reads Urban Fantasy knows what an Alpha wolf is. But this series introduced me to the idea of an Omega werewolf, which I've not read about before. Anna is so interesting, and her power so unusual, it really adds a new dimension to a pack tale. She's a lovely character, and her bond with Charles is very special. It's a joy to read about the two together, and it makes me happy that they found...and rescued...each other.

Briggs has a way with developing her worlds that always pleases me, and the politics of the werewolf structure really pull me in to each story, regardless of whether it is about our favorite coyote shifter (Mercy Thompson) or our favorite deadly enforcer and his mate, Charles & Anna. (I'm also very fond of the Marrok, btw!) So while this is a review of Fair Game, it is also a testimonial to both of these great series.

In Fair Game, a rift has developed between Charles and Anna, and that was almost a problem for me. The first few pages made me so sad. I can handle all the trouble the outside world wants to throw at any of my favorite couples, but I really hate to see them having problems that threaten their relationship. But I had to trust that Briggs wouldn't let me down. She never has before, and sure enough, she didn't this time. The book was riveting, and I loved every single second of it, once I quit worrying about Charles & Anna's bond.

I usually save my 5 star rating for books that in addition to wonderful & clever plots, have something magical and lyrical about the author's writing style. I won't say that Briggs writes with the same poetic flow of my most treasured writers (Sarah Addison Allen, Marisa de los Santos, or Maggie Stiefvater, for example), but her writing style is exactly what these stories need. It is very strong, and always totally compelling, and that's enough to make this book a solid 5 stars, in my opinion. (Not to mention that not a single glaring spelling or grammatical error popped out at me, which hasn't been the case with the last 4 or 5 books, I've read recently.)I couldn't put Fair Game down and finished it in 2 sittings (having been interrupted by my own "mate" who needed dinner). I can't wait for the next Alpha & Omega book! And, in the meantime, another Mercy Thompson would be just fine, too.

As an afterthought, if you haven't yet tried these books, what are you waiting for? Run, don't walk, to the nearest bookstore, and get to reading! Be sure to start with Mercy's first book, Moon Called, and read the books in order. They will make more sense that way, and you will be able to watch the complex character relationships develop. Just do it! Great times await you!

Bookin' It

(less)

like 2 likes · see review

Jul 15, 2012 Alkyoni rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: urban-fantasy, the-howling, pan-s-labyrinth, if-i-were-stuck-on-a-desert-island, the-blair-witch-project, the-sixth-sense, say-anything

It is not wise to give something old and powerful something they care about.

And I am very old.

Best book in the series, hands down.

Charles has become the Marrok’s assassin; Anna is worried that his job is making him suffer; Bran doesn’t see what he can do about it; Adam, my one true love, comes up with a solution; The Alpha & Omega couple heads to Baltimore to work with the government on a whodunit serial murder case.

When this series was first introduced, I can’t say that I didn’t like it, bu...more

like 6 likes · see review

Jul 24, 2012 Lady Jaye rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2012, stars-4, authors-patricia-briggs, autobuy, fantasy-urban-fantasy, magic, owned-kindle, part-of-a-series, pb-fae, pb-werewolves-or-shapeshifters, people-law-enforcement, people-magic-users, really-liked-it, romantic-elements, series-by-patricia-briggs

There are 988 reviews of this book currently on GoodReads already. There is nothing I have to say - good or bad - that hasn't been said several times over and much better than I can say it too.

I have had Fair Game since release day, but procrastinated in part because it was gonna be awhile before the next Patty Briggs book, and in part because River Marked, the last Patty Briggs book I read (set in this world) annoyed me.

Well, now, I read it.

I can't fault Ms. Brigg's writing. Her storytelling...more

like 3 likes · see review

Feb 11, 2013 Petra Sýkorová rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: czech, rc-review, romance, werewolves, urban-fantasy

Patricia Briggs se proslavila svou sérií o mechaničce Mercedes Thompson, která si dokázala získat srdce zahraničních i domácích čtenářů. Z toho důvodu také přišla se spin-offem v podobě Alfy a Omegy. K té existuje i komiksová podoba. Sedmý díl Mercedes by v zahraničí měl vyjít v březnu tohoto roku a fanoušci se rozhodně mají na co těšit.

Autorka se narodila v Butte, v Montaně, a vystudovala obor historie a německý jazyk na Montana State University. Chvíli se živila jako zastupující učitelka. Psát...more Patricia Briggs se proslavila svou sérií o mechaničce Mercedes Thompson, která si dokázala získat srdce zahraničních i domácích čtenářů. Z toho důvodu také přišla se spin-offem v podobě Alfy a Omegy. K té existuje i komiksová podoba. Sedmý díl Mercedes by v zahraničí měl vyjít v březnu tohoto roku a fanoušci se rozhodně mají na co těšit.

Autorka se narodila v Butte, v Montaně, a vystudovala obor historie a německý jazyk na Montana State University. Chvíli se živila jako zastupující učitelka. Psát začínala v klasickém žánru fantasy, později přesedlala na její podžánr v podobě urban fantasy (tedy městská fantasy). Její první román, Masques, vyšel v roce 1993 a u čtenářů se nedočkal příliš velkého ohlasu. Patricia to ovšem nevzdala a napsala román Steal the Dragon (Riallina hra). V současné době žije v Montaně spolu se svým manželem, dětmi a šesti koňmi.

Od posledních událostí uběhl nějaký ten čas, vlkodlaci odhalili světu svou existenci a teď musí našlapovat velice opatrně, aby v očích veřejnosti nebyli jen pouhopouhými zvířaty, co je třeba držet v klecí, nebo hůř - rovnou zabíjet. S novou dobou také nastala nová pravidla. U čeho se dříve dalo přimhouřit oko, se dnes tvrdě trestá. Vlkodlaci si nemůžu dovolit chyby.

A tak je Charles vytíženější než dřív. Jezdí z jednoho koutu Států na druhý a řeší problémy, které tamní alfové nehodlají řešit. Což s sebou samozřejmě nese následky. Annu tak začne trápit, že se jí Charles čím dál tím víc vzdaluje a neví, co dělat. Pomoc u svého tchána hledá marně.

Příležitost ke změně přijde ve chvíli, kdy jsou vlkodlaci požádáni o konzultaci při závažném případu sériového vraha. Tomu se totiž podařilo zabít také tři jejich druhu, což by nemělo být tak lehké. Proto se Anna s Charlesem vydávají do Bostonu, aby pomohli s případem a ukázali lidským bezpečnostním složkám, že spolu můžou koexistovat, že nejsou hrozbou. Jenže to netušili, čemu přijdou na kloub...

Díkybohu jsem se ve třetím díle série nedočkala žádného vztyčování štítů a ani ty nekončící zmínky o bratru vlkovi mě tolik netrápily. Mohla jsem si tak pořádně užívat samotný příběh. A že bylo co číst. Za mě tedy tentokrát překlad rozhodně na jedničku. Jen mě krapet omráčila velikost písmka a rozestupy.

Předchozí díl série mě nijak zvlášť neoslnil, proto jsem se mírně obávala toho, co mě bude čekat teď. Bála jsem se úplně zbytečně. Příběh mě totiž naprosto překvapil a neuvěřitelně chytnul. Jako by si sama Patricia uvědomila, že to dříve nebylo to pravé ořechové a najednou nabrala nový dech. A bylo to poznat. Nejen na chování hlavní dvojice, ale také na celkové koncepci knihy. Patricia se rozhodla převzít klasickou detektivku, ale přidat k ní notnou dávku nadpřirozena. A experiment se jí vydařil.

Vztah Anny a Charlese mi konečně přišel reálnější i romantičtější. A to i přes všechny útrapy, jakými si dosud prošli. Na Charlese tvrdě dopadají následky jeho povinností. Vidí tak duchy zemřelých a nehodlá připustit, aby se dostali také k Anně. Proto své pouto uzavírá a snaží se s problémy vypořádat sám. Což se mu nedaří a Anna je ze všeho jen nešťastná. Líbilo se mi, že ačkoliv se oba zabývali případem, stále měli čas jeden na druhého a byli si vzájemnou oporou. Až v tomto díle mi připadali jako partneři a vždycky mě zamrzelo, když se stalo něco špatného. Ostatních postav tam bylo poměrně požehnaně, takže jsem místy ztrácela přehled o tom, kdo je kdo a odkud.

Dvojí spravedlnost je kniha, která vás chytne a hned tak nepustí. Budete stejně jako hrdinové tápat, hledat indície a snažit si vše spojit dohromady. I když se stále pohybujeme na poli světa vlkodlaků, je na příběhu krásně vidět, že jsou to stále lidé, i když se čas od času promění v chlupatou kouli se smrtícími tesáky. I oni se můžou stát obětmi, i oni můžou být uneseni, zbiti, znásilněni, zavražděni.

Četbu jsem si náramně užila a jsem ráda, že mě takto autorka překvapila. Připadalo mi, jako bych byla součástí příběhu a spolu s ostatními se snažila najít nebezpečného vraha. Díky tomu dávám knize velice zasloužených 5 hvězdiček a po tom epickém konci se nemůžu dočkat, co se bude dít dál. Odhalení posledních stránek bude mít bezesporu dopad na celé universum, včetně původní série Mercedes Thompson.

-----------Reakce po dočtení knihy-----------
Klobouk dolů, podstatně lepší než předchozí díly a ten konec byl prostě epický.(less)

like 2 likes · see review

Mar 25, 2013 Angela rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, challenge-2012, challenge-2013, challenge-2013-sequels, favorties

People as old and powerful as he should never be given someone to love. For Anna he would destroy the world.

This has easily become one of my favorite series, period. The relationship that Patricia Briggs builds, between all the characters, but especially between Charles and Anna, is stunning.

Fair Game starts right on the heels of the end of River Marked, so the time-lines are finally matching up. The werewolves have come out the public, and with that the rules for werewolves have become much mor...more People as old and powerful as he should never be given someone to love. For Anna he would destroy the world.

This has easily become one of my favorite series, period. The relationship that Patricia Briggs builds, between all the characters, but especially between Charles and Anna, is stunning.

Fair Game starts right on the heels of the end of River Marked, so the time-lines are finally matching up. The werewolves have come out the public, and with that the rules for werewolves have become much more strict. With more and more wolves needing to be pulled into line, Charles is busier than ever, and it's starting to wear on him.

Anna's worried about him, and takes it to Bran - who doesn't know what to do. After Adam comes up with a possible solution, Anna and Charles are headed to Boston to help the FBI.

As I said above, Charles and Anna's relationship is the true draw of this series for me. The fact that their relationship requires work on both their parts makes it very real. It's been a few years since Charles and Anna met, in Chicago and had an instant connection. Ever since then they've had to work at their relationship and with each other. Sometimes fighting for their relationship, others fighting against the protective instincts of their mate. The love, trust, and respect that underlies all of this is what draws me in and makes me invested in this couple.

Charles spends a good amount of time trying to protect Anna from the things that are affecting him in Fair Game. And she rails against that, knowing that she can help if only he'll let her. It's an interesting dynamic to watch - Charles, the dominant, can't really help the need to protect. Anna, an Omega who loves her mate above all, can not stop the driving need to help. They butt heads a few times; there are consequences for their actions - something that I've always loved in this world - and in the end they come out stronger. I never doubt that they'll make it work, because they truthfully never doubt they will.

The mystery plot that drives the book is interesting, and different. We're out in the world, seeing the wolves interact with federal agencies, trying to stop a serial killer for them - instead of the secretive world of the supernatural community. After seeing how many people had been attacked by this killer, so many of them children, I was anxious to see Charles and Anna bring him to justice. I was able to figure out who the mystery bad-guy was before the end, but it didn't detract from the story at all.

The major event at the end though, Blew.My.Mind. I did not see it coming, and can not wait to see the wider implications throughout the world. Immediately after finishing the book I had to go back and re-read this part again because I was sure I'd mis-read it originally. Surely something will turn up in Frost Burned, the next Mercy Thompson book - due out March 2013.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat, reading late into the night to finish it, and satisfied on all levels. Patricia Briggs keeps getting better and better, and I can't wait to see what she comes out with next.

2013: I just read this book again, and love it as much. In fact as soon as I finished I wanted to start it again.(less)

like 3 likes · see review

Mar 09, 2012 BamaGal rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: pnr-uf

I just love this series. As far as I'm concerned, it's one of the best UF series being written today. I liked everything about this book; it was a it was a suspenseful mystery/thriller, and I loved being back in Charles and Anna's world.

Readers of the Mercy Thompson series already know who Charles Cornick is. He met the starved, abused werewolf Anna in the ss Alpha and Omega. It was one of the sweetest love stories I ever read. After the mating of their wolves and marriage as humans, they began...more I just love this series. As far as I'm concerned, it's one of the best UF series being written today. I liked everything about this book; it was a it was a suspenseful mystery/thriller, and I loved being back in Charles and Anna's world.

Readers of the Mercy Thompson series already know who Charles Cornick is. He met the starved, abused werewolf Anna in the ss Alpha and Omega. It was one of the sweetest love stories I ever read. After the mating of their wolves and marriage as humans, they began a series of adventures together. As this book begins, Charles has grown weary of being his father Bran's pack enforcer. Since the werewolves have 'come out' to the human world, Bran has had to crack down on offenses in the various packs. A transgression by a werewolf that might at one time be given another chance is having to be dealt with more harshly to appease the humans. This has made Charles little more than an assassin for his father, and he is not dealing with it well. Ghosts of werewolves he has had to take down are haunting him, causing him to close down his mate bond with Anna. The tension between them has put a strain on their marriage. Anna is fighting for her husband and her marriage, even if it means she has to take on Bran (loved that scene).

Bran sends Anna and Charles to Boston to look into a series of murders that has come to include werewolves. They must work with various government types, the FBI and the supernatural division. Their investigation pulls them into the world of the Fae. The murders are grisly, and have been going on for many years. The story is excellent, suspenseful and chilling. Best of all, we get to see two people who are truly in love struggling to keep their marriage together against the stacked odds; all while investigating a string of gruesome murders. Charles and Anna have such a strong bond, and a love that transcends most of the other stories I've read.

I wish Briggs would write these stories faster. Two years between books is just too long a wait. Excellent story in an excellent series. I recommend it highly. Start this series with the ss Alpha & Omega: A Companion Novella to Cry Wolf, where Charles and Anna first meet.(less)

like 8 likes · see review

Mar 13, 2013 Sandra rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, shifter-stuff, favorite-authors, favorite-series, spin-off-series, faerie-stuff

Oh. My. God.

So I was thinking this was a solid 4 star throughout. Anyone who's up to book three in this series and has probably also read the Mercy Thompson series, knows what I know. The writing is great. The characters and complex. Briggs knows what the fuck she's doing.

I'm always nervous near the end of her books because the climax is usually in the second to last chapter, so I'm worried things with feel abrupt and not get wrapped up. I'm always wrong. The last chapter was EFFEN PHENOMENAL an...more

like 5 likes · see review

Mar 08, 2012 AH rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: were, alpha-males, babr-reviews, fae, read-mar-2012, urban-fantasy, witches

Wow! What a ride! Patricia Briggs proves once again that she is a master story-teller. The world she creates has me actually believing that there are werewolves, witches, fae, and the like living amongst us. I love how she incorporates magic and the spirit world into her books.

The third book in her Alpha and Omega series, Fair Game was well worth the wait. In this book, Anna worries about Charles. She’s afraid that his enforcer role is causing him to burn out. Anna is no longer the meek, skitti...more Wow! What a ride! Patricia Briggs proves once again that she is a master story-teller. The world she creates has me actually believing that there are werewolves, witches, fae, and the like living amongst us. I love how she incorporates magic and the spirit world into her books.

The third book in her Alpha and Omega series, Fair Game was well worth the wait. In this book, Anna worries about Charles. She’s afraid that his enforcer role is causing him to burn out. Anna is no longer the meek, skittish wolf of the previous books. She has confidence and poise. When Anna approaches Bran the Marrok with her concerns, she is dismissed. Through the intercession of Asil and Adam, Bran decides to send Anna and Charles to Boston to act as consultants to an FBI task force.

The FBI task force is searching for a serial killer in Boston who has been hunting werewolves and fae. Several new characters are added to the Alpha and Omega world and I hope that they will be making appearances in later books. Leslie Fisher is the lead FBI agent and the liaison between Anna and Charles and the rest of the task force. Isaac is the Boston area Alpha. Alistair Beauclaire is a fae and the father of one of the missing. If you thought that Charles was scary, don’t mess with Beauclaire.

As a representative for all the werewolves, Anna shines. P.R. work is perfect for her as Anna does not look threatening. She is born into the role, using her calming influence, and her diplomatic skills explaining how to behave around a dominant werewolf like Charles.

Charles – Where do I start? I was kind of frustrated with Charles. I really wished he would have communicated more with Anna. Instead, he shut down and allowed Brother Wolf to take over. This is where Briggs excels in her writing: Charles, the man and the wolf are almost seamless. They are fully integrated. I also love how his Salish Indian spiritual side is incorporated into his character.

There is some sex in this book. Yay! It’s just at a weird and unexpected point in the plot. That’s all I’ll say.

The ending! The ending just blew me away! It was perfect. It was spectacular. Please don’t make us wait so long for the next book, Ms. Briggs!

Team Badass' review here.
Interview with Patricia Briggs here.

Favorite Quotes -

Leslie learned two valuable things about the fae that day. They were powerful and charming-and they ate children and puppies.

I can't believe you just called me a white eye. Better than pale-face, I suppose, but it is just so Bonanza.

(less)

like 9 likes · see review

Mar 21, 2012 Ctanner rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, paranormal-romance, urban-fantasy

Briggs can do no wrong IMO. She takes gory subject matter and a couple in crises and thoughtfully makes the reader feel all the emotions. Charles and Anna still love one another but their marriage is in trouble, Charles's job is causing him to pull away and Anna feels helpless. Not a good feeling for an Omega wolf. Finally recognizing that sending Charles to kill other werewolves is hurting Charles emotionally, Bran sends Charles and Anna to Boston in order to help the FBI consult on a serial ki...more

like 6 likes · see review

Apr 19, 2013 Susana rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013, favorites, patricia-briggs-alpha-omega, urban-fantasy

What an amazing story!!
Dark, intense and romantic, for me, this tale once again shows the author talent, in developing its characters and its plot.
The characters as always were perfect in their strenght and in their flaws. I especially liked seeing a stronger, confident Anna. She's a long way from the helpless and scared woman of the first books.
By the contrary, in this book the author shows us that Charles is not a man of steel. And that what he does is having too much weight on him.
This chang...more

like 2 likes · see review

Mar 07, 2012 Michelle, the Bookshelf Stalker rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Check out this awesome Interview With Patricia Briggs at BadAss Book Reviews AND our group book review of Fair Game

like 6 likes · see review

Jan 29, 2013 Axia rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 3-česky, paranormal, 5-review-dn, 1-mixed-supernatural-world, 1-were-animals, 4-own-in-3d, 5-rc-received

Review in czech language

Od událostí v románu Loviště uplynul necelý rok. Vlkodlaci odhalili světu svou existenci a nyní jsou nuceni žít pod nesrovnatelně přísnějšími pravidly. Dříve odpustitelné prohřešky jsou trestány smrtí a Charles tak odjíždí coby Branův zabiják vykonávat spravedlnost častěji než kdy dřív. Bran vidí, že se jeho syn brzy zlomí. Příležitost, při které by si Charles odpočinul od svých povinností marokova vykonavatele, přichází z Bostonu. Anna je pozvána jako konzultantka v příp...more Review in czech language

Od událostí v románu Loviště uplynul necelý rok. Vlkodlaci odhalili světu svou existenci a nyní jsou nuceni žít pod nesrovnatelně přísnějšími pravidly. Dříve odpustitelné prohřešky jsou trestány smrtí a Charles tak odjíždí coby Branův zabiják vykonávat spravedlnost častěji než kdy dřív. Bran vidí, že se jeho syn brzy zlomí. Příležitost, při které by si Charles odpočinul od svých povinností marokova vykonavatele, přichází z Bostonu. Anna je pozvána jako konzultantka v případu tamního zabijáka vlkodlaků a Charles jede s ní jako její osobní strážce. Jeho vztah s Annou nabral za poslední měsice vážných trhlin a Anna doufá, že nyní budou mít možnost svůj svazek upevnit.

Na Charlese jeho povinnosti doléhají, je stíhán duchy těch, které zabil, byť dříve by jim jejich činy byly odpuštěny. Cítí vinnu za smrt dle něj nespravedlivě odsouzených a to se podepisuje na jeho psychice. Obává se, že ho duchové oslabí natolik, že před nimi nedokáže uchránit ani svou družku Annu, a rozhodne se ji chránit jediným způsobem, který zná: odcizí se jí, uzavře pouto, jež je svazuje a své místo přenechá svému bratru vlkovi. Annu jeho přístup bolí, stále se vidí jako oběť nehodna tak silného a ušlechtilého muže, jakým Charles je. Obává se, že svého muže ztrácí a že vztah, který nalomily Charlesovy povinnosti a jeho následné útěky do divočiny, už nelze napravit.

Dvojí spravedlnost výjimečným způsobem kombinuje akční sekvence i romantické chvíle. Ústředním motivem příběhu sice má být pátrání po nebezpečném sériovém vrahovi, Alfa a omega je ale v prvé řadě romantická série, kdy sledujeme postupně se vyvíjející a upevňující se vztah dvou naprosto odlišných jedinců, z nichž každý je stíhán duchy minulosti, svými nejistotami a strachem či neschopností o svých obavách hovořit.

Z nalomeného vztahu, v jakém se Anna s Charlesem ocitli, prýští zoufalství. Oba se hluboce milují, po dlouhé době, jakou spolu prožili, jsou si již jistí, že vztah, který mezi sebou mají, není pevný jen díky nezlomitelnému poutu, jež mezi sebou mají jejich vlci, ale také vzájemnou náklonností, úctou a láskou, jež si mezi sebou vybudovali oni sami.

Stejně jako v předchozích dílech této série je i Dvojí spravedlnost psána v er-formě z úhlu pohledu několika postav a to včetně Charlesova bratra vlka, čtenář tak má možnost lépe sledovat pohnutky a smýšlení jednotlivých hrdinů. Akční scény sice plynou poněkud pomalejším tempem, než autorka nejspíše zamýšlela, postupy vyšetřování případu, milostné scény, myšlenkové pochody Charlese i jeho "bratra vlka" a emocemi narvané chvíle předkládá Patricia Briggs čtenářům svým osobitým a velmi čtivým stylem a pro čtenáře je pak těžké se od příběhu odtrhnout.

Dvojí spravedlnost je z mého úhlu pohledu bezkonkurenčně nejlepším dílem trilogie a důstojným (a snad prozatímním) završením příběhu Anny a Charlese. Patricia Briggs nabízí v poměrně útlé knize s přenádhernou obálkou z palety Daniela Dos Santose příběh plný lásky, zoufalství, naděje, ale také akce, strachu a překvapení.

-------
Dojmy po dočtení:
Bez debat nejlepší díl trilogie. Byť mi bylo řečeno, že díl sama Anna neutáhne, mně je jako postava mnohem sympatičtější než Mercy, a navíc, sama nebyla. Charles sice v některých okamžicích působil jen jako její doprovod a berlička, nicméně v tandemu fungují tihle dva velmi dobře. Akční sekvence sice Briggsové nejdou, to vím už od Mercy, postup vyšetřování, milostné scény, myšlenkové pochody Charlese i jeho "bratra vlka" a emocemi narvané chvíle zvládla Briggs na jedničku.
Plná recenze později.(less)

like 1 like · see review

Mar 08, 2012 Jen (Red Hot Books) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Oh Anna and Charles, I love you so much. From the very first Alpha and Omega novella, Patricia Briggs has given this hero and heroine such depth of character, that I feel like I know them. They are flawed, brave, loyal, insecure, and violent. But above and beyond all that, they always love one other.

This book may be my favorite yet in the series. I was surprised at the onset to see how much time had passed since the events of Hunting Ground. While it's not spelled out precisely, it's been a few...more Oh Anna and Charles, I love you so much. From the very first Alpha and Omega novella, Patricia Briggs has given this hero and heroine such depth of character, that I feel like I know them. They are flawed, brave, loyal, insecure, and violent. But above and beyond all that, they always love one other.

This book may be my favorite yet in the series. I was surprised at the onset to see how much time had passed since the events of Hunting Ground. While it's not spelled out precisely, it's been a few years. (Events from River Marked are referenced and we know the first two books take place roughly around the same time as Moon Called.) But what's interesting is that Charles and Anna have changed very little with the passage of time. I would have expected that with a love like theirs, a few years would find these two in the happiest place they've ever been. But things are harder than ever.

Charles has always been his father's sword of justice. But now that the werewolves are "out" to human society, it's vital to keep a lid on werewolf violence. So Bran's sending Charles out to kill their misbehaving brethren in record numbers. It's wearing on Charles; breaking his spirit; and driving him to cut himself off from Anna. He's haunted by the ghosts of his prey. To give him a reprieve, Bran sends Charles and Anna to Boston to help human investigators solve a serial killer case.

The killer has been torturing and murdering victims for decades. And in recent years, he's moved onto Fae and werewolf targets. Details of the killer's depravity were disturbing at times, but it was really a captivating case. The mystery introduces us to new characters, like Leslie, a tough human FBI agent; Isaac, the Alpha of the Boston pack; and Beauclaire, a fascinating Fae whose daughter was among the abducted. I won't spoil all the amazing twists and turns, but I can say that it was unpredictable and kept me on the edge of my seat.

The world-building is flawless and merges seamlessly with the Mercy Thompson series. I love the effortless way I can sink back into these books. But most of all, I love unfailing way that Charles and Anna love each other. It baffles me that either one can still manage to question their worth to the other, when it's so obvious how deep their love runs. But it's gratifying to see them prove that love over and over again.

I give the book extra points for giving me a little peek inside Bran's head. And double bonus points for a spectacular ending, guaranteed to bring repercussions into future books in this series and the Mercy Thompson one. I can't wait to see what happens next. 4 1/2 stars.

*ARC Provided by Penguin(less)

like 13 likes · see review

Mar 10, 2012 Katie(babs) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

The only other book I read by Patricia Briggs was Cry Wolf (Alpha and Omega #1) featuring Anna, a damaged and abused woman who was forcibly made into a werewolf, and her savior and eventual mate, Charles Cornick. For some reason I failed to read Hunting Ground, the second book in this series, but when Ace sent me the third book, Fair Game, I started reading, and WOW! Fair Games totes of awesome. Patricia is one of the few authors who can write a great married couple. Anna and Charles rate very h...more The only other book I read by Patricia Briggs was Cry Wolf (Alpha and Omega #1) featuring Anna, a damaged and abused woman who was forcibly made into a werewolf, and her savior and eventual mate, Charles Cornick. For some reason I failed to read Hunting Ground, the second book in this series, but when Ace sent me the third book, Fair Game, I started reading, and WOW! Fair Games totes of awesome. Patricia is one of the few authors who can write a great married couple. Anna and Charles rate very highly for me for best married couple in a series like Roarke and Eve (In Death series) and Cat and Bones (Night Huntress series). Also if you’re a fan of Ilona Andrews, you must read Patricia’s Alpha and Omega series.

Fair Game is about Charles and Anna working with the FBI to track an elusive serial killer who may or may not be a werewolf or may or may not be some other supernatural creature like a Fae. Charles is going through a rough time because as enforcer for his father Bran, who I adore immensely, expects his son to give out punishment which usually ends up with Charles killing the guilty parties. Charles is haunted by these deaths and ghosts are literally haunting him, expecting him to embrace his dark side. Because of this he has cut off his bond with Anna, who wants to help him, but doesn’t know how to reach him. Anna has really healed and become well adjusted after the horrors she has endured because of Charles and Bran’s love and devotion to her.

While in Boston helping the FBI, Anna and Charles try to reconnect by doing touristy things and allowing Charles’s wolf, to protect him from his demons. But then the killer or killers strike again and the victim is part fae, whose father is very powerful and could bring down a firestorm of destruction if his daughter is murdered. It’s up to Charles and Anna to find the woman before it’s too late.

Fair Game hits high marks for me as a reader. It has a bit of everything from humor, to jaw dropping action, to a few sweet moments, including one hot lovemaking scene between Charles and Anna after Anna tells Charles she’s not good enough for him. Charles’ reaction is not only priceless but shows how an alpha male reacts when his mate is close to rejecting him. Charles reaction is swoon worthy, dominate but also very tender:

"His mouth closed over hers, hot and hungry, warming her mouth as his body warmed her body.

"Me," Charles said, his voice dark and gravelly as if it had traveled up from the bottom of the earth, his eyes a bright gold. "You need me."

He kissed her again, his hands roaming from her jaw down her neck and s up until his shoulders. His hips pressed forward, and he released her mouth as he slid his body up and his sex pressed forward, hard and full, against hers. She jerked involuntary, and he laughed in the same deep way that he had spoken. She growled at him, wolf to wolf.

"There you are, there you are," he said. "Are you just going to let me do this alone?"

Anna doesn't let Charles do it alone. ;)

I also love the relationship Charles and Bran have together. Both father and son love each other deeply. And Bran is quite the cook with his special shaped pancakes he makes for his family.

Fair Game is a total winner and I look forward to more with Anna and Charles in the future.(less)

like 3 likes · see review

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 99 100 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

topics	posts	views	last activity
Reviews for the L...: April 2013 - And the winner is....	2	12	Apr 23, 2013 12:23pm
Patricia Briggs Fans: Fair Game (Book 3)	74	111	Mar 28, 2013 05:53pm
The Ending	47	280	Feb 05, 2013 06:09am
Who's Your Author?: Fair Game (Alpha & Omega #3) by Patricia Briggs - Start Date January 14th	66	96	Jan 17, 2013 08:11pm
Urban Fantasy: November Book of the Month - Fair Game	31	75	Dec 06, 2012 02:06pm

combine
Other Editions (10)

More editions...

Genres

Fantasy > Urban Fantasy

756 users

Fantasy > Paranormal

376 users

Fantasy

356 users

Romance > Paranormal Romance

196 users

Shapeshifters > Werewolves

196 users

Romance

176 users

Paranormal > Shapeshifters

91 users

Fantasy > Magic

77 users

Mystery

68 users

Adult

57 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Patricia Briggs

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.

Patricia Briggs was born in Butte, Montana to a children’s librarian who passed on to her kids a love of reading and books. Patricia grew up reading fairy tales and books about horses, and later developed an interest in folklore and history. When she decided to write a book of her own, a fantasy book seemed a na...more

More about Patricia Briggs...

Books by Patricia Briggs

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About Fair Game

59 trivia questions

More quizzes & trivia...

Quotes from Fair Game

“Then he snarled at her. “You are not leaving me.”

It was an order, and she didn’t have to follow anyone’s orders. That was part of being Omega instead of a regular werewolf – who might have had a snowball’s chance in hell of being a proper mate.

“You need someone stronger,” Anna told him again. “So you wouldn’t have to hide when you’re hurt. So you could trust your mate to take care of herself and help, damn it, instead of having to protect me from whatever you are hiding.” She hated crying. Tears were weaknesses that could be exploited and they never solved a damned thing. Sobs gathered in her chest like a rushing tide and she needed to get away from him before she broke.

Instead of fighting his grip, she tried to slide out of it. “I need to go,” she said to his chest. “I need – “

His mouth closed over hers, hot and hungry, warming her mouth as his body warmed her body.

“Me,” Charles said, his voice dark and gravelly as if it had traveled up from the bottom of the earth, his eyes a bright gold. “You need me.” — 50 people liked it

“Leslie had learned two valuable things about the fae that day. They were powerful and charming -- and they ate children and puppies.” — 43 people liked it

More quotes…

title link	preview: Fair Game
avg rating	preview: Fair Game Goodreads rating: 4.31 (12844 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11480917-fair-game?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1309650058l/11480917.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11480917-fair-game?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]Fair Game by Patricia Briggs[/url]

Fair Game (Alpha & Omega #3)

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website