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Mercy Thompson #14
Winter Lost
Mercy Thompson, car mechanic and shapeshifter, must stop a disaster of world-shattering proportions in this exhilarating entry in the #1 New York Times bestselling series.
In the supernatural realms, there are creatures who belong to winter. I am not one of them. But like the coyote I can become at will, I am adaptable.
My name is Mercy Thompson Hauptman, and my mate, Adam, is the werewolf who leads the Columbia Basin Pack, the pack charged with keeping the people who live and work in the Tri-Cities of Washington State safe. It’s a hard job, and it doesn’t leave much room for side quests. Which is why when I needed to travel to Montana to help my brother, I intended to go by myself.
But I’m not alone anymore.
Together, Adam and I find ourselves trapped with strangers in a lodge in the heart of the wilderness, in the teeth of a storm of legendary power, only to discover my brother’s issues are a tiny part of a problem much bigger than we could have imagined. Arcane and ancient magics are at work that could, unless we are very careful, bring about the end of the world. . . .
In the supernatural realms, there are creatures who belong to winter. I am not one of them. But like the coyote I can become at will, I am adaptable.
My name is Mercy Thompson Hauptman, and my mate, Adam, is the werewolf who leads the Columbia Basin Pack, the pack charged with keeping the people who live and work in the Tri-Cities of Washington State safe. It’s a hard job, and it doesn’t leave much room for side quests. Which is why when I needed to travel to Montana to help my brother, I intended to go by myself.
But I’m not alone anymore.
Together, Adam and I find ourselves trapped with strangers in a lodge in the heart of the wilderness, in the teeth of a storm of legendary power, only to discover my brother’s issues are a tiny part of a problem much bigger than we could have imagined. Arcane and ancient magics are at work that could, unless we are very careful, bring about the end of the world. . . .
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2024
1839 people are currently reading
15448 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Briggs
115 books29.8k followersLibrarian 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 natural choice. Patricia graduated from Montana State University with degrees in history and German and she worked for a while as a substitute teacher. Currently, she lives in Montana with her husband, children, and six horses and writes full time, much to the delight of her fans.
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 natural choice. Patricia graduated from Montana State University with degrees in history and German and she worked for a while as a substitute teacher. Currently, she lives in Montana with her husband, children, and six horses and writes full time, much to the delight of her fans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,758 reviews
June 11, 2024
Once again, Patricia Briggs has blended urban fantasy, action, suspense, and a little romance into another fantastic novel.
Winter Lost
is the fourteenth book in the Mercy Thompson (Hauptman) series. Mercy is a car mechanic, coyote shapeshifter, and mate to Adam Hauptman, the leader of the Columbia Basin werewolf pack. Mercy needs to travel to Montana to help her half-brother Gary, but now that she’s not alone, Adam goes with her. In the Montana wilderness, they become trapped with strangers at the Looking Glass Hot Springs lodge. The storm isn’t your average storm and neither is Gary’s problem. Ancient magics abound. Will Mercy and Adam solve the problems and escape unscathed?
Mercy is a strong female lead character. She’s independent, kind, thinks the best of others, and has a sense of humor. She doesn’t get mad, she gets even when crossed and she doesn’t like people to worry about her, so she doesn’t always communicate what she should. Adam is a strong alpha werewolf and is good at walking tight ropes. However, his temper isn’t always his strong suit. They do a great job of supporting each other and are stronger together. The other pack members play minor roles in this story line, but occasional interludes keep readers up-to-date with some of them, but the interludes have a slight adverse effect on the overall flow of the story.
I was quickly drawn into Mercy’s life once again. It was easy to visualize the scenes and be transported to them throughout the story. The author is a wonderful storyteller who kept me turning the pages with a great plot, gripping scenes, and strong characters. The plot is twisty, the pacing is fast, and the mystery unfolds and culminates in a fascinating conclusion.
Overall, this is an excellent urban fantasy novel with great characterization and fantastic world-building. I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here. Those who enjoy urban fantasies, supernatural suspense, and books by this author will likely enjoy this series. Since the story line as well as the characterization builds over the course of the series, I recommend reading it in order.
Berkley Publishing Group – Ace and Patricia Briggs provided a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently expected to be June 18, 2024.
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My 4.77 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
Mercy is a strong female lead character. She’s independent, kind, thinks the best of others, and has a sense of humor. She doesn’t get mad, she gets even when crossed and she doesn’t like people to worry about her, so she doesn’t always communicate what she should. Adam is a strong alpha werewolf and is good at walking tight ropes. However, his temper isn’t always his strong suit. They do a great job of supporting each other and are stronger together. The other pack members play minor roles in this story line, but occasional interludes keep readers up-to-date with some of them, but the interludes have a slight adverse effect on the overall flow of the story.
I was quickly drawn into Mercy’s life once again. It was easy to visualize the scenes and be transported to them throughout the story. The author is a wonderful storyteller who kept me turning the pages with a great plot, gripping scenes, and strong characters. The plot is twisty, the pacing is fast, and the mystery unfolds and culminates in a fascinating conclusion.
Overall, this is an excellent urban fantasy novel with great characterization and fantastic world-building. I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here. Those who enjoy urban fantasies, supernatural suspense, and books by this author will likely enjoy this series. Since the story line as well as the characterization builds over the course of the series, I recommend reading it in order.
Berkley Publishing Group – Ace and Patricia Briggs provided a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently expected to be June 18, 2024.
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My 4.77 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
April 22, 2025
3.5 stars
This is the best Mercy book I've read in a while!
So excited to see some of that old magic back.
I liked that all the sex scenes in this basically faded to black, too.
One, because I'm getting to the point that I've read so many sex scenes over the years that I'm just tired of them taking up page time. And two, because I don't think sex scenes are Briggs' forte to start with.
Last time around, I was really starting to get an ick over Mercy and Adam's cringe relationship, but now they're back to just being a good, solid urban fantasy couple.
The skinny gist of the story is that Mercy's brother, Gary, shows up at their house completely incoherent and unable to understand exactly who everyone is without a bit of help. It's up to Mercy and Adam to backtrack through the past few months of his life and figure out who or what cursed him.
Their search leads them to a lodge in Montana during the middle of a supernatural snowstorm that has them completely cut off from the rest of the world, and a cast of characters that includes the fae, an elemental, a spider, a few goblins, and a vampire and her ghostly husband.
All they have to do is find out which one of them stole a frost giant's magical harp.
Oh, and if they don't figure it out soon, they might just be responsible for Ragnarok.
I love it when Mercy's dad stirs the pot.
I do wish Briggs wouldn't leave so many plot threads and characters dangling. Like, it's fine for one or two things to be mysterious to give us something to look forward to, but it seems like she starts something interesting in one book, forgets about it in the next, mentions it again for a second in another book, and then kind of forgets again. And she does this with multiple characters/plot threads. What's up with Tad and Zee? What the hell with Sherwood?
Where's Stefan and all the vampires from the first few books?! Gabriel is getting married to some girl he just met?! And on and on and on.
Just don't mention it at all if you don't plan on giving us a resolution or explanation in the next book.
Please.
But this was still a far more coherent and fun story than I've been used to from this title in the past few years, so we're going to call this one a win.
Recommended.
This is the best Mercy book I've read in a while!
So excited to see some of that old magic back.
I liked that all the sex scenes in this basically faded to black, too.
One, because I'm getting to the point that I've read so many sex scenes over the years that I'm just tired of them taking up page time. And two, because I don't think sex scenes are Briggs' forte to start with.
Last time around, I was really starting to get an ick over Mercy and Adam's cringe relationship, but now they're back to just being a good, solid urban fantasy couple.
The skinny gist of the story is that Mercy's brother, Gary, shows up at their house completely incoherent and unable to understand exactly who everyone is without a bit of help. It's up to Mercy and Adam to backtrack through the past few months of his life and figure out who or what cursed him.
Their search leads them to a lodge in Montana during the middle of a supernatural snowstorm that has them completely cut off from the rest of the world, and a cast of characters that includes the fae, an elemental, a spider, a few goblins, and a vampire and her ghostly husband.
All they have to do is find out which one of them stole a frost giant's magical harp.
Oh, and if they don't figure it out soon, they might just be responsible for Ragnarok.
I love it when Mercy's dad stirs the pot.
I do wish Briggs wouldn't leave so many plot threads and characters dangling. Like, it's fine for one or two things to be mysterious to give us something to look forward to, but it seems like she starts something interesting in one book, forgets about it in the next, mentions it again for a second in another book, and then kind of forgets again. And she does this with multiple characters/plot threads. What's up with Tad and Zee? What the hell with Sherwood?
Where's Stefan and all the vampires from the first few books?! Gabriel is getting married to some girl he just met?! And on and on and on.
Just don't mention it at all if you don't plan on giving us a resolution or explanation in the next book.
Please.
But this was still a far more coherent and fun story than I've been used to from this title in the past few years, so we're going to call this one a win.
Recommended.
June 22, 2024
3.5 stars
Re-reading books 10 and 13 might be useful before reading this one. I love this author and this series, so I’m biased - but I enjoyed how this book was a bit different. If anything I wished some of the interludes were even longer. However, at the same time there were some things I felt could have been improved ()
Overall I flew through this book and I’m already anxiously awaiting the next book.
Re-reading books 10 and 13 might be useful before reading this one. I love this author and this series, so I’m biased - but I enjoyed how this book was a bit different. If anything I wished some of the interludes were even longer. However, at the same time there were some things I felt could have been improved ()
Overall I flew through this book and I’m already anxiously awaiting the next book.
July 14, 2024
✩ 3.75 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Magic
➼ Supernatural Creatures
➼ Established Paranormal Romance
➼ Who-dunnit Mystery
➼ Urban Fantasy
➼ Single POV with 3rd person interludes
Fourteen books in and I still can’t get enough! With each new installment, Briggs weaves a new layer of complexity into the story and the world she has created. What impresses me most about her work is that it is so incredibly memorable. She often includes very unique creatures and magics and I am somehow able to recall them all in vivid detail. How often do we blame ourselves as readers when we fail to recall the details of a plot? Authors like Patricia Briggs make me wonder if maybe it is the storytellers who are to blame for this phenomena. With only a few gentle reminders of key details from previous books, Briggs was easily able to jog my memory and get me up to speed and ready for this new adventure.
Mysteries can often feel gimmicky and obvious but Briggs somehow manages to make each book feel fresh and unique. I think it has a lot to do with Mercy’s unique ability to solve them that allows Briggs to add in only subtle hints along the way. The average person couldn’t figure it out, but Mercy can and as a reader, I never question that she will be able to do it. Mercy often keeps most of her revelations to herself even from readers and oddly, that formula works. Weirdly, I think being given the ability to solve the puzzle actually hinders my experience as a reader. Better to never have the thought that the plot was obvious I suppose…
Mercy is an extremely lovable and resilient FMC and all of the characters in this world have been very well developed and are highly varied. So many unique creatures and rules to abide by when interacting with them. So many ways Mercy can receive aid. So many enemies who are drawn to Mercy’s unique magic and history. It’s amazing that after so many books, there is still so much story to tell. But really, the possibilities are endless.
When I started this book I asked myself if there was a limit to how many books I would read in this series and I’ve come to the conclusion that the answer is no, the limit does not exist.
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: I wonder if there’s a limit to how many of these I will read…
Apparently my threshold is higher than 14 books. 😁🤣
What to Expect:
➼ Magic
➼ Supernatural Creatures
➼ Established Paranormal Romance
➼ Who-dunnit Mystery
➼ Urban Fantasy
➼ Single POV with 3rd person interludes
Fourteen books in and I still can’t get enough! With each new installment, Briggs weaves a new layer of complexity into the story and the world she has created. What impresses me most about her work is that it is so incredibly memorable. She often includes very unique creatures and magics and I am somehow able to recall them all in vivid detail. How often do we blame ourselves as readers when we fail to recall the details of a plot? Authors like Patricia Briggs make me wonder if maybe it is the storytellers who are to blame for this phenomena. With only a few gentle reminders of key details from previous books, Briggs was easily able to jog my memory and get me up to speed and ready for this new adventure.
Mysteries can often feel gimmicky and obvious but Briggs somehow manages to make each book feel fresh and unique. I think it has a lot to do with Mercy’s unique ability to solve them that allows Briggs to add in only subtle hints along the way. The average person couldn’t figure it out, but Mercy can and as a reader, I never question that she will be able to do it. Mercy often keeps most of her revelations to herself even from readers and oddly, that formula works. Weirdly, I think being given the ability to solve the puzzle actually hinders my experience as a reader. Better to never have the thought that the plot was obvious I suppose…
Mercy is an extremely lovable and resilient FMC and all of the characters in this world have been very well developed and are highly varied. So many unique creatures and rules to abide by when interacting with them. So many ways Mercy can receive aid. So many enemies who are drawn to Mercy’s unique magic and history. It’s amazing that after so many books, there is still so much story to tell. But really, the possibilities are endless.
When I started this book I asked myself if there was a limit to how many books I would read in this series and I’ve come to the conclusion that the answer is no, the limit does not exist.
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: I wonder if there’s a limit to how many of these I will read…
Apparently my threshold is higher than 14 books. 😁🤣
March 17, 2024
Okay, it looks like this is an unpopular opinion at the moment, but this one didn't do much for me. I love this series, and I'm so happy that I got an ARC. This particular installment was disappointing for me. It didn't really pick up until the second half, and there are so many secondary characters, distracting side stories, and time jumps that by the time I *was* invested, I was also confused, and the high stakes fell flat. As always, the cover art is gorgeous. Three stars up from 2.5.
Thank you very much to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
Thank you very much to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
July 2, 2024
4 stars
When Mercy's brother Gary shows up at her house incoherent and affected by magic, Mercy and Adam head to Montana to see if they can break the spell. There they find themselves trapped in a resort in the midst of a snowstorm with other guests of the lodge. But not everything is as it seems and Mercy and Adam must find a magical artifact before even worse things begin to happen.
Let me start this with I am being very kind with my 4 star rating. Any other author or series I probably would have rated much lower, but I absolutely love this series and Mercy. But this book really was not up to the standards of the other books in this series. It was very disjointed with bad pacing and took me a very long time to read. But it's like pizza, even when it's bad, it's good. And I'll always welcome more of these characters and this world into my life. I just hope the next installment in the series is more plot forward than this book. This book felt a lot like a side quest.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley. This did not affect my opinions, thoughts, rating, review.
When Mercy's brother Gary shows up at her house incoherent and affected by magic, Mercy and Adam head to Montana to see if they can break the spell. There they find themselves trapped in a resort in the midst of a snowstorm with other guests of the lodge. But not everything is as it seems and Mercy and Adam must find a magical artifact before even worse things begin to happen.
Let me start this with I am being very kind with my 4 star rating. Any other author or series I probably would have rated much lower, but I absolutely love this series and Mercy. But this book really was not up to the standards of the other books in this series. It was very disjointed with bad pacing and took me a very long time to read. But it's like pizza, even when it's bad, it's good. And I'll always welcome more of these characters and this world into my life. I just hope the next installment in the series is more plot forward than this book. This book felt a lot like a side quest.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley. This did not affect my opinions, thoughts, rating, review.
May 19, 2024
Action-packed winter storm!
For the hard-core readers of this series, this installment doesn't disappoint.
Mercy is still recuperating from the attack she suffered in the last book. She is not doing well. Her mind and her magic were affected by the Soul Taker. No one really knows how to fix her.
Adam knows she is not well but no one he knows can help her.
Then, Mercy's half-brother, Gary shows up. He is unable to talk or comprehend. Something happened to him while he was taking care of a ranch in Montana. Despite her own problems, Mercy knows she has to help him.
Mercy and Adam decide to take a trip to Montana to find the answers. Their trip is not an easy one. The winter storm is a powerful one. Someone is behind it. But why? By whom?
As they arrive at the Lounge, they are met by a wedding party. It's not a typical one. Mercy and Adam come to the realization that more than Gary's life is in danger.
I love Mercy and Adam together. They have learned to trust each other and to let the other be independent when the right occasion arises. My one complaint is that I missed the rest of the pack and I also miss Bran.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Ace via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
For the hard-core readers of this series, this installment doesn't disappoint.
Mercy is still recuperating from the attack she suffered in the last book. She is not doing well. Her mind and her magic were affected by the Soul Taker. No one really knows how to fix her.
Adam knows she is not well but no one he knows can help her.
Then, Mercy's half-brother, Gary shows up. He is unable to talk or comprehend. Something happened to him while he was taking care of a ranch in Montana. Despite her own problems, Mercy knows she has to help him.
Mercy and Adam decide to take a trip to Montana to find the answers. Their trip is not an easy one. The winter storm is a powerful one. Someone is behind it. But why? By whom?
As they arrive at the Lounge, they are met by a wedding party. It's not a typical one. Mercy and Adam come to the realization that more than Gary's life is in danger.
I love Mercy and Adam together. They have learned to trust each other and to let the other be independent when the right occasion arises. My one complaint is that I missed the rest of the pack and I also miss Bran.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Ace via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
June 23, 2024
My first thought regarding this book was “You’ve got to be kidding me.” I’m disappointed that I paid for this audiobook and didn’t rent it through the public library first. The story felt like a series filler, which is disappointing given the printing & production delays. Ugh! Fractured storytelling with way too much jumping around; some don’t add to the overall storyline (fluff). Definitely didn’t have the normal Mercy Thompson feel. On the positive, the narrator did a fantastic job (hence the 3 stars instead of 2).
March 30, 2024
I am beyond grateful to the publisher for an advanced copy of this one, it is probably my favorite and most anticipated advanced reader copy I’ve ever gotten since starting reviewing. Mercy Thompson is one of my favorite characters and series and this has been one of my most anticipated books of 2024 and it did not disappoint at all. This book takes off pretty much where the last one ended. Mercy isn’t the same or going back to normal after what the Soul Taker did to her. She’s stubbornly hiding the worst of the symptoms and her loved ones are sneakily researching how to help heal her. Mercy and Adam have to go to Montana to find out what happened to Gary after he showed up cursed and unable to communicate and of course there are some surprises awaiting them. This is book 14 in Mercy’s series (book 20 in this world) and you definitely should read these ones in order.
July 5, 2024
3.5 stars
I love Mercy Thompson and this series. I’m always so excited when a new book is released. We’re on book 14 now, and I’m still happy to be reading. I love that we got so much Mercy and Adam in this story, but there was a lot that felt… unfinished. We got teased a bit more about Bonarata and then there was a little of Sherwood that also felt out of place. I also wish we would have gotten more pack and of Gary! It had a slower start and then the pacing felt off. As a whole, I enjoyed this one, but I think it would have been better if it had been longer and more conclusive.
I love Mercy Thompson and this series. I’m always so excited when a new book is released. We’re on book 14 now, and I’m still happy to be reading. I love that we got so much Mercy and Adam in this story, but there was a lot that felt… unfinished. We got teased a bit more about Bonarata and then there was a little of Sherwood that also felt out of place. I also wish we would have gotten more pack and of Gary! It had a slower start and then the pacing felt off. As a whole, I enjoyed this one, but I think it would have been better if it had been longer and more conclusive.
Audio book source: Libby
Story Rating:
Narrators: Lorelei King
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal
Length: 11h 15m
June 20, 2024
This will be my last Mercy book
This kept referring to the prior book, had German names that were hard to pronounce, left out the characters that you look forward to reconnecting with and left out the fun and excitement. Even the few returning characters like her brother Gary, they never had a conversation. They had story lines that they mentioned but that was it, Adam's security company had a problem, person dies, that's it, no ending other then it was taken care of. It was like the author had things she wanted to have in the book so she just threw them in there. I found it very disjointed. Go back and reread they early books and save your money.
This kept referring to the prior book, had German names that were hard to pronounce, left out the characters that you look forward to reconnecting with and left out the fun and excitement. Even the few returning characters like her brother Gary, they never had a conversation. They had story lines that they mentioned but that was it, Adam's security company had a problem, person dies, that's it, no ending other then it was taken care of. It was like the author had things she wanted to have in the book so she just threw them in there. I found it very disjointed. Go back and reread they early books and save your money.
March 2, 2025
Reading a Patricia Briggs novel is always a pleasure—every single time.
Winter Lost was an undeniable highlight in an otherwise lackluster reading year for me, and I couldn’t be happier about it. From start to finish, the novel delivered on every front: a compelling story, beloved characters, and an ever-expanding world that keeps me hooked. I devoured it in a single day, completely immersed, and now I’m counting down the days until the next installment.
What truly draws me to these books is the bigger picture—the intricate threads that weave together across the series. I can’t shake the feeling that something incredible is on the horizon, and I might just need a full reread to truly appreciate what’s coming next.
I also loved how Winter Lost felt like a direct continuation of Soul Taken, building momentum toward something monumental. There’s this electric anticipation, a sense that BIG things are ahead.
Simply put, this series is a must-read. If you haven’t started yet, now is the perfect time. And as for me? I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next book.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
Winter Lost was an undeniable highlight in an otherwise lackluster reading year for me, and I couldn’t be happier about it. From start to finish, the novel delivered on every front: a compelling story, beloved characters, and an ever-expanding world that keeps me hooked. I devoured it in a single day, completely immersed, and now I’m counting down the days until the next installment.
What truly draws me to these books is the bigger picture—the intricate threads that weave together across the series. I can’t shake the feeling that something incredible is on the horizon, and I might just need a full reread to truly appreciate what’s coming next.
I also loved how Winter Lost felt like a direct continuation of Soul Taken, building momentum toward something monumental. There’s this electric anticipation, a sense that BIG things are ahead.
Simply put, this series is a must-read. If you haven’t started yet, now is the perfect time. And as for me? I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next book.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
March 9, 2024
As an avid fan of Patricia Briggs' series, each new installment is a highly anticipated event for me. Winter Lost, the latest addition, does not disappoint. Briggs once again demonstrates her mastery of storytelling by weaving a well-crafted plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
In this installment, we find Mercy grappling with the wounds inflicted upon her soul and magic, while her loyal pack and friends stand by her side. When her cursed brother enters the picture, Mercy and Adam embark on a perilous journey to Montana, where they confront not only a killer storm but also a sinister force threatening to unleash chaos upon the world unless its demands are met.
One of the highlights of Winter Lost is the dynamic between Mercy and Adam. Their bond is as strong as ever, and following their adventures is always a delight. Briggs seamlessly blends magic, action, and emotion, creating a narrative that is both captivating and immersive.
While Winter Lost introduces several new characters and storylines, it occasionally suffers from an overabundance of narrators, making it challenging to keep track of who is telling the story. However, once the focus shifts back to Mercy, the pace picks up, and the story becomes unforgettable.
Although Winter Lost serves as a bridge to future adventures, it is a must-read for fans of the series. While there may not be a cliffhanger ending, there are enough unresolved challenges to pique readers' interest and leave them eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Winter Lost is a thrilling tale that offers insight into beloved characters and sets the stage for future developments within the pack.
It' gets a solid 4.5 stars for me and reaffirms Patricia Briggs' status as a master of urban fantasy.
In this installment, we find Mercy grappling with the wounds inflicted upon her soul and magic, while her loyal pack and friends stand by her side. When her cursed brother enters the picture, Mercy and Adam embark on a perilous journey to Montana, where they confront not only a killer storm but also a sinister force threatening to unleash chaos upon the world unless its demands are met.
One of the highlights of Winter Lost is the dynamic between Mercy and Adam. Their bond is as strong as ever, and following their adventures is always a delight. Briggs seamlessly blends magic, action, and emotion, creating a narrative that is both captivating and immersive.
While Winter Lost introduces several new characters and storylines, it occasionally suffers from an overabundance of narrators, making it challenging to keep track of who is telling the story. However, once the focus shifts back to Mercy, the pace picks up, and the story becomes unforgettable.
Although Winter Lost serves as a bridge to future adventures, it is a must-read for fans of the series. While there may not be a cliffhanger ending, there are enough unresolved challenges to pique readers' interest and leave them eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Winter Lost is a thrilling tale that offers insight into beloved characters and sets the stage for future developments within the pack.
It' gets a solid 4.5 stars for me and reaffirms Patricia Briggs' status as a master of urban fantasy.
June 18, 2024
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I devoured this book! I have been looking forward to this book since I finished the last installment so I was eager to get my hands on it. I went into this book with extremely high expectations and am happy to report that it did not disappoint. I loved that we get to see both Mercy’s and some of Adam’s points of view in this book.
One of the things that I love about reading a longer-running series like this one is spending time with familiar characters that almost feel like family. I feel like I have been through a lot with Mercy, Adam, and the rest of the gang. In this installment, Adam and Mercy must navigate a new environment as they work to get to the bottom of what is happening. Mercy is still dealing with the effects of the events in the last installment and I felt really bad for both her and Adam. Even with Mercy not quite at her peak, these two are a formidable pair and I had a feeling that they would figure things out.
I listened to the audiobook and thought that Lorelei King did a phenomenal job with the narration. She does such a good job of bringing this cast of characters to life. I read a copy of this book as soon as I could get my hands on it but didn’t hesitate to pick up a copy of the audiobook for a quick re-read because I knew that this narrator would be able to take the story to the next level. She adds just the right of emotion to her reading and uses very distinctive voices for each of the key characters. I do believe that her performance added to my enjoyment of this story.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This is a series that I would recommend reading in order since the character relationships that are so important to the story have grown and changed throughout the series. I had such a great time with this novel and hope to spend more time with Mercy and Adam very soon.
I received a review copy of this book from Ace and Penguin Random House Audio.
I devoured this book! I have been looking forward to this book since I finished the last installment so I was eager to get my hands on it. I went into this book with extremely high expectations and am happy to report that it did not disappoint. I loved that we get to see both Mercy’s and some of Adam’s points of view in this book.
One of the things that I love about reading a longer-running series like this one is spending time with familiar characters that almost feel like family. I feel like I have been through a lot with Mercy, Adam, and the rest of the gang. In this installment, Adam and Mercy must navigate a new environment as they work to get to the bottom of what is happening. Mercy is still dealing with the effects of the events in the last installment and I felt really bad for both her and Adam. Even with Mercy not quite at her peak, these two are a formidable pair and I had a feeling that they would figure things out.
I listened to the audiobook and thought that Lorelei King did a phenomenal job with the narration. She does such a good job of bringing this cast of characters to life. I read a copy of this book as soon as I could get my hands on it but didn’t hesitate to pick up a copy of the audiobook for a quick re-read because I knew that this narrator would be able to take the story to the next level. She adds just the right of emotion to her reading and uses very distinctive voices for each of the key characters. I do believe that her performance added to my enjoyment of this story.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This is a series that I would recommend reading in order since the character relationships that are so important to the story have grown and changed throughout the series. I had such a great time with this novel and hope to spend more time with Mercy and Adam very soon.
I received a review copy of this book from Ace and Penguin Random House Audio.
February 15, 2025
This is the 14th book in the Mercy Thompson series and I am still into it. My only disappointment in this one was the complete absence of my favourite vampire, Stefan. However, the tale wasn't completely vampire free, as we got Elyna, a lone vamp, unrelated to the Tri-Cities seethe.
I like that Briggs wrote this from multiple points of view. It gives both some additional complexity and the opportunity to dole out more details. This is a Fae-heavy tale and, although I am not as excited about the Fae as I used to be, I still appreciate Briggs' version and her Fae characters who have become familiar. I was pleased to realize that this volume would involve the snow elf who frequents Uncle Mike's bar, aka the frost giant, Ymir, and his brother, Hrimnir. I love when Norse mythology impinges on my urban fantasy. An added plus was the role of my favourite werewolf, Sherwood Post.
If you aren't reading these books as they are published, this might not be the place to jump in. Mercy and Adam are still dealing with fallout from the previous five books, which is a lot. They have assumed responsibility for the safety of everyone within their territory and been turned loose from the official werewolf hierarchy by the Marrock. Mercy has been kidnapped by the baddest vampire in Europe, Bonarata, and brought her Coyote chaos to his plans and life. They have dealt with a coven of invading witches, losing their ally, Elizaveta, who cursed Adam as she died. They have arranged the destruction of an evil artifact, dropped into their community as revenge by Bonarata, who expected it to achieve much more destruction. Mercy, who had been unwillingly linked to this Soul Taker, is still suffering from the wounds that it inflicted on her psyche as this novel opens. Adam is worried after Bonarata made it clear that he is the better brawler of the two of them. As I said, a LOT.
Some things get solved, some things make progress, others get started. I sped through the first reading, then turned to the beginning and enjoyed it with more attention, slowly. This series remains a favourite and I'll be purchasing a paperback copy of this installment for my permanent collection.
I like that Briggs wrote this from multiple points of view. It gives both some additional complexity and the opportunity to dole out more details. This is a Fae-heavy tale and, although I am not as excited about the Fae as I used to be, I still appreciate Briggs' version and her Fae characters who have become familiar. I was pleased to realize that this volume would involve the snow elf who frequents Uncle Mike's bar, aka the frost giant, Ymir, and his brother, Hrimnir. I love when Norse mythology impinges on my urban fantasy. An added plus was the role of my favourite werewolf, Sherwood Post.
If you aren't reading these books as they are published, this might not be the place to jump in. Mercy and Adam are still dealing with fallout from the previous five books, which is a lot. They have assumed responsibility for the safety of everyone within their territory and been turned loose from the official werewolf hierarchy by the Marrock. Mercy has been kidnapped by the baddest vampire in Europe, Bonarata, and brought her Coyote chaos to his plans and life. They have dealt with a coven of invading witches, losing their ally, Elizaveta, who cursed Adam as she died. They have arranged the destruction of an evil artifact, dropped into their community as revenge by Bonarata, who expected it to achieve much more destruction. Mercy, who had been unwillingly linked to this Soul Taker, is still suffering from the wounds that it inflicted on her psyche as this novel opens. Adam is worried after Bonarata made it clear that he is the better brawler of the two of them. As I said, a LOT.
Some things get solved, some things make progress, others get started. I sped through the first reading, then turned to the beginning and enjoyed it with more attention, slowly. This series remains a favourite and I'll be purchasing a paperback copy of this installment for my permanent collection.
July 8, 2024
almost 4 ☆
Oh Mercy, haven't you figured out yet who likes to yank your tail?
Coyote might have said this about one of his children but the underlying sentiment certainly applies to Coyote as well for he's the ultimate trickster. Coyote first appeared to Mercy in River Marked #6 during her ill-fated honeymoon about a year and a half ago (in the timeline of the Mercy-verse). She struggled with the idea but finally accepted that Coyote is her father. With that acknowledgement, Mercy discovered earlier this year a half-brother, Gary Laughingdog, whom she met in Fire Touched #9.
Too true. So when Gary got into trouble and was hexed into incoherence, he ran to his half-sister's home. And now Mercy and Adam are stuck in some mystical lodge in rural Montana and with a mystery to solve in the hope of fixing Gary's affliction.
Winter Lost could have been like one of those classic Agatha Christie closed-house whodunit murder mysteries with a supernatural twist. But alas it was not. There was very little mystery solving for Winter Lost had bigger aspirations such as preventing the end of the world.
The vast majority of the Mercy Thompson novels had been written in Mercy's first person perspective. In this book Briggs augmented her storytelling style. There was also third-person narration to present points of view from Adam and several others. This was effective most, but not all, of the time. Sometimes they were a jarring interruption to the main storyline involving Mercy and Adam. Other times, they felt like snippets that would only become relevant in future books.
For many of the previous novels, I had complained in my reviews that they all seemed like transition novels. This was because seven books - from Night Broken #8 through Winter Lost #14 - were all set within the same calendar year. Just like in real life, many problems, especially those that involve others, take a while to get resolved. So in that vein, this one does have an issue that had been introduced earlier but at least it wasn't the major focus. With this compressed timeline in the overall storytelling, it's challenging to appreciate these novels on an individual basis unless the reader can recall the story arcs and particularly their details. This aspect is made more difficult by the time lapse in between these novels' publication dates. So the last five or six Mercy novels cannot easily be read as stand-alone novels despite all the reminders Briggs incorporated about previous events.
Returning to Winter Lost, overall I liked this more than the preceding novels because of the story's catalyst -- the frost giant. I also always enjoy the stories which involve Coyote and in this case what the readers learn about the gifts Coyote bequeathed to Mercy and her half-brother. This book mentioned two major problems that had originated in earlier novels and only one got fully resolved. Briggs may or may not be laying the groundwork for the resolution of the second issue -- stay tuned to find out as the next Mercy installment probably won't be published until 2026.
All of us trapped on sacred ground by a snowstorm controlled by a frost giant.
We had been brought together deliberately. I wondered who had done that and why.
Oh Mercy, haven't you figured out yet who likes to yank your tail?
Of course he’s an extraordinary idiot. Take any skill and add years of practice and you get extraordinary.
Coyote might have said this about one of his children but the underlying sentiment certainly applies to Coyote as well for he's the ultimate trickster. Coyote first appeared to Mercy in River Marked #6 during her ill-fated honeymoon about a year and a half ago (in the timeline of the Mercy-verse). She struggled with the idea but finally accepted that Coyote is her father. With that acknowledgement, Mercy discovered earlier this year a half-brother, Gary Laughingdog, whom she met in Fire Touched #9.
We weren't friends, Gary and I.
We were fellow prisoners, maybe, both of us serving out the sentence of being our father's children.
Too true. So when Gary got into trouble and was hexed into incoherence, he ran to his half-sister's home. And now Mercy and Adam are stuck in some mystical lodge in rural Montana and with a mystery to solve in the hope of fixing Gary's affliction.
Winter Lost could have been like one of those classic Agatha Christie closed-house whodunit murder mysteries with a supernatural twist. But alas it was not. There was very little mystery solving for Winter Lost had bigger aspirations such as preventing the end of the world.
The vast majority of the Mercy Thompson novels had been written in Mercy's first person perspective. In this book Briggs augmented her storytelling style. There was also third-person narration to present points of view from Adam and several others. This was effective most, but not all, of the time. Sometimes they were a jarring interruption to the main storyline involving Mercy and Adam. Other times, they felt like snippets that would only become relevant in future books.
For many of the previous novels, I had complained in my reviews that they all seemed like transition novels. This was because seven books - from Night Broken #8 through Winter Lost #14 - were all set within the same calendar year. Just like in real life, many problems, especially those that involve others, take a while to get resolved. So in that vein, this one does have an issue that had been introduced earlier but at least it wasn't the major focus. With this compressed timeline in the overall storytelling, it's challenging to appreciate these novels on an individual basis unless the reader can recall the story arcs and particularly their details. This aspect is made more difficult by the time lapse in between these novels' publication dates. So the last five or six Mercy novels cannot easily be read as stand-alone novels despite all the reminders Briggs incorporated about previous events.
Returning to Winter Lost, overall I liked this more than the preceding novels because of the story's catalyst -- the frost giant. I also always enjoy the stories which involve Coyote and in this case what the readers learn about the gifts Coyote bequeathed to Mercy and her half-brother. This book mentioned two major problems that had originated in earlier novels and only one got fully resolved. Briggs may or may not be laying the groundwork for the resolution of the second issue -- stay tuned to find out as the next Mercy installment probably won't be published until 2026.
June 29, 2024
Too many interludes for my liking.
Adam and Mercy are going to Montana to solve a mystery involving Gary, Mercy's brother. Because of that, we get many interlude with the POV of side-characters. Some are related to the mystery but others not. Those could be removed from the book without changing anything from the main story. They may be needed for a future book but we obviously don't know at this moment.
Because of these interludes, it was difficult to stay immersed in the main story. Many times, I found myself putting aside the book after reading only a few pages. I just couldn't stay focused on the book. This was my main problem with Winter Lost.
The other problem I had was Mercy's personality. She completely lost her personality for the majority of the book because of the events in Soul Taken. Combined with the interludes, Winter Lost felt more like a Columbia Basin Pack book than a Mercy Thompson one. While I love all the characters in the pack, I fell in love with this series because of Mercy. Her spark was missing.
Adam and Mercy are going to Montana to solve a mystery involving Gary, Mercy's brother. Because of that, we get many interlude with the POV of side-characters. Some are related to the mystery but others not. Those could be removed from the book without changing anything from the main story. They may be needed for a future book but we obviously don't know at this moment.
Because of these interludes, it was difficult to stay immersed in the main story. Many times, I found myself putting aside the book after reading only a few pages. I just couldn't stay focused on the book. This was my main problem with Winter Lost.
The other problem I had was Mercy's personality. She completely lost her personality for the majority of the book because of the events in Soul Taken. Combined with the interludes, Winter Lost felt more like a Columbia Basin Pack book than a Mercy Thompson one. While I love all the characters in the pack, I fell in love with this series because of Mercy. Her spark was missing.
June 23, 2024
3.5/5.0
To give y’all an idea of just how big a Mercy Thompson fan I am… I have been on the library’s list for this book for months now, but when I saw it had actually published, I couldn’t wait. I ran out and purchased it anyway! *sigh*
SO… was it worth the high price? Well, it is always worth getting back into Mercy and Adam’s world. I love every single moment I get to sit down and enjoy time with the stories the amazing Ms. Briggs creates in this series. There are a few considerations one must acknowledge in this book, however…
Since this book is #14 in the series and the people and over-arching arc continues from book to book, there are a LOT of people and situations to remember! That is usually not a problem, BUT (and it’s a big one) there is a time lag of up to two years or more between books. So, it is a challenge to remember all the characters and their personalities, backgrounds etc. that hit the ground running in this particular conflict. AND, it especially plays into one’s enjoyment of this story since one of the side-characters (the vampire, Bonarata) is from Book #11, which was written a whopping SEVEN YEARS AGO. Now, I consider my memory relatively good but trying to figure out what exactly happened with his character after that many years have passed to affect Mercy and Adam so strongly today… uhmm no.
As to the story, itself, It was good.The first half of the book was a bit slow-going, to the point I wasn’t especially driven to stay with it while reading (and that is really weird for me with this series). The second half picked up considerably but was still kinda confusing. The plot introduces an entire batch of new characters (added to all the old characters) created from old Norse folklore but there were enough of them that we never really got to understand any of them aside from a quick surface gloss-over. Mercy’s brother Gary is a pivotal character in this installment, as well. But after the initial problem was laid out, we heard nothing more about him until the very end, and then only in passing… It was all just a touch odd and frustrating.
Oh, also! Ms. Briggs uses multiple POVs in this book, as well! Some work well, like the few we get from Adam that help us greatly in understanding and deepening our connection to him. Others not so much, though. Most were little blips from characters or situations that really have no impact on the overall plot. *shrugs*
SOPE… why the four stars? Well, there just isn’t an author around any better at creating storylines that are totally unique and can write almost anything into existence and make it real! And, like I mentioned earlier, I will always love just diving into the world and characters I have grown to love so much over the past eighteen (yikes!) years.
To give y’all an idea of just how big a Mercy Thompson fan I am… I have been on the library’s list for this book for months now, but when I saw it had actually published, I couldn’t wait. I ran out and purchased it anyway! *sigh*
SO… was it worth the high price? Well, it is always worth getting back into Mercy and Adam’s world. I love every single moment I get to sit down and enjoy time with the stories the amazing Ms. Briggs creates in this series. There are a few considerations one must acknowledge in this book, however…
Since this book is #14 in the series and the people and over-arching arc continues from book to book, there are a LOT of people and situations to remember! That is usually not a problem, BUT (and it’s a big one) there is a time lag of up to two years or more between books. So, it is a challenge to remember all the characters and their personalities, backgrounds etc. that hit the ground running in this particular conflict. AND, it especially plays into one’s enjoyment of this story since one of the side-characters (the vampire, Bonarata) is from Book #11, which was written a whopping SEVEN YEARS AGO. Now, I consider my memory relatively good but trying to figure out what exactly happened with his character after that many years have passed to affect Mercy and Adam so strongly today… uhmm no.
As to the story, itself, It was good.The first half of the book was a bit slow-going, to the point I wasn’t especially driven to stay with it while reading (and that is really weird for me with this series). The second half picked up considerably but was still kinda confusing. The plot introduces an entire batch of new characters (added to all the old characters) created from old Norse folklore but there were enough of them that we never really got to understand any of them aside from a quick surface gloss-over. Mercy’s brother Gary is a pivotal character in this installment, as well. But after the initial problem was laid out, we heard nothing more about him until the very end, and then only in passing… It was all just a touch odd and frustrating.
Oh, also! Ms. Briggs uses multiple POVs in this book, as well! Some work well, like the few we get from Adam that help us greatly in understanding and deepening our connection to him. Others not so much, though. Most were little blips from characters or situations that really have no impact on the overall plot. *shrugs*
SOPE… why the four stars? Well, there just isn’t an author around any better at creating storylines that are totally unique and can write almost anything into existence and make it real! And, like I mentioned earlier, I will always love just diving into the world and characters I have grown to love so much over the past eighteen (yikes!) years.
July 15, 2024
Mercy Thompson continues to be my all-time favorite UF series, so Winter Lost was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024! This is book 14 in a series that’s best read in order. If you haven’t read this series yet, go grab book one and start reading! The audios are a fantastic way to experience the series!
Winter Lost picks up with Mercy still dealing with the effects of the Soul Taker from the last book. Mercy’s worried, but so are Adam and the Pack, however this is put on the back burner when her brother, Gary shows up in trouble. To find a solution they must travel to Montana in an epic winter storm and find a lost/stolen artifact. They end up at a lodge with a varied group of guests as they search for the artifact before it’s too late for Gary and the world. I’m being vague so as not to spoil anything.
In this installment while Mercy and Adam tackle this immediate problem there seems to be a few brewing in the background: Bonarata being the most troubling one, IMO.
One of the things I love most about this series is the relationship between Mercy and Adam. They continue to be a united, powerful force against all that comes at them. I also love the bits of humor; the friendships and the intricate world of magic and creatures Briggs has created. The story was action-packed, full of danger and riveting! Of course, now I can’t wait for the next one!
A copy was kindly provided by Ace in exchange for an honest review.
Winter Lost picks up with Mercy still dealing with the effects of the Soul Taker from the last book. Mercy’s worried, but so are Adam and the Pack, however this is put on the back burner when her brother, Gary shows up in trouble. To find a solution they must travel to Montana in an epic winter storm and find a lost/stolen artifact. They end up at a lodge with a varied group of guests as they search for the artifact before it’s too late for Gary and the world. I’m being vague so as not to spoil anything.
In this installment while Mercy and Adam tackle this immediate problem there seems to be a few brewing in the background: Bonarata being the most troubling one, IMO.
One of the things I love most about this series is the relationship between Mercy and Adam. They continue to be a united, powerful force against all that comes at them. I also love the bits of humor; the friendships and the intricate world of magic and creatures Briggs has created. The story was action-packed, full of danger and riveting! Of course, now I can’t wait for the next one!
A copy was kindly provided by Ace in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2024
I adore this series. It is just so much fun and even though the creatures aren't original per se, the myths, origins, legends, and the way of the land, absolutely are and make this series a stand-out series that I just can't get enough of.
I love all the characters and am always eagerly awaiting the next release. I love the dynamic between Adam and Mercy and the understanding, love, and respect they have for one another, not to mention all the secondary and side characters and how much they always add to the story as well.
This truly is a wonderful series I am so glad I found and that is still going strong after fourteen books. I can't wait for the next installment!
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
I love all the characters and am always eagerly awaiting the next release. I love the dynamic between Adam and Mercy and the understanding, love, and respect they have for one another, not to mention all the secondary and side characters and how much they always add to the story as well.
This truly is a wonderful series I am so glad I found and that is still going strong after fourteen books. I can't wait for the next installment!
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
July 24, 2024
This installment has been a long time coming. It’s been two years since the previous installment came out. Bonarata has taken to stalking and harassing Mercy for no other reason than it amuses him. Regardless of whether or not she answers her phone when he calls, people die, the only difference is if Mercy doesn’t answer her phone their death is much more horrible and gruesome. Adam and Mercy were almost killed by Bonarata, the Vampire King, who is an ancient being possessing a very powerful magic, but since then, Adam has worked with Zee to become more powerful.
The book summary introduces the two primary storylines of Mercy and Adam going to Montana to ask the Winter Front Giant to release her half-brother (they have different mothers), Gary, who is being held hostage for stealing the Winter Frost Giant’s harp. The Frost Giant is Hrimnir’s brother, who stole one of Adam’s wolves, Mary Jo, and held her hostage until Adam was able to beat Hrimnir’s magic and get Mary Jo back. The other storyline is of Zane and his groomsmen’s attempts to get to his wedding, at the lodge where Mercy and Adam are, during the Frost Giant’s storm. The wedding is a union of two powerful families and Zane is the head of his family.
The story flips back and forth between the story of Mercy and Adam at the lodge trying to find the Frost Giant’s harp and Zane trying to make it to his wedding (the bride is already at the lodge). Interspersed between these two storylines are interludes that alternate between 11 other characters, that sometimes act as sort of a back story to the two primary stories and other times they were just additional info on characters. Personally, I found some of these interludes not integral to the story and kind of just interrupted the flow of the story. The end was kind of anti-climactic, which is kind of rare for Mercy installments. However, I LOVE Mercy’s last phone call with Bonarata! You go Mercy! LOVE MERCY!!! She is such a bad@$$!!!!!
After 14 installments, the Mercy Thompson series has become this epic tale of a world of magic and supernatural and mystical beings, many that call southeastern WA home. While many of them try to get along with each other as much as possible, every installment brings tales of those who want to destroy what Mercy and Adam have built and annihilate those that they protect. For those of us who have traveled this journey with Mercy and Adam from the start, it’s been a wild and crazy ride and an amazing story.
I understand Briggs (as well as her publishers) need to constantly explain stuff that new readers, who may have just picked up this 14th installment, and who know absolutely nothing about the Mercy Thompson world. However, for a devoted fan, the repetitive rehashing of previous installments, people and events can get a little annoying and is kind of a pet peeve. For me, this kind of dragged down the pacing and flow of the story in several areas. JMHO
The character development of the MC’s and many of the Columbia pack members is pretty well fleshed out by now. I liked learning more about Mercy’s brother, Gary, too. I would have liked to learn more about Coyote (Mercy & Gary’s father), and 14 installments in, it’s long past time for a more in-depth character development of Coyote. The storyline was interesting, as they usually are. The writing and pacing were not up to Briggs typical standards for the reasons that I’ve already mentioned. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.8 that I will be rounding up to a 4star rating.
The book summary introduces the two primary storylines of Mercy and Adam going to Montana to ask the Winter Front Giant to release her half-brother (they have different mothers), Gary, who is being held hostage for stealing the Winter Frost Giant’s harp. The Frost Giant is Hrimnir’s brother, who stole one of Adam’s wolves, Mary Jo, and held her hostage until Adam was able to beat Hrimnir’s magic and get Mary Jo back. The other storyline is of Zane and his groomsmen’s attempts to get to his wedding, at the lodge where Mercy and Adam are, during the Frost Giant’s storm. The wedding is a union of two powerful families and Zane is the head of his family.
The story flips back and forth between the story of Mercy and Adam at the lodge trying to find the Frost Giant’s harp and Zane trying to make it to his wedding (the bride is already at the lodge). Interspersed between these two storylines are interludes that alternate between 11 other characters, that sometimes act as sort of a back story to the two primary stories and other times they were just additional info on characters. Personally, I found some of these interludes not integral to the story and kind of just interrupted the flow of the story. The end was kind of anti-climactic, which is kind of rare for Mercy installments. However, I LOVE Mercy’s last phone call with Bonarata! You go Mercy! LOVE MERCY!!! She is such a bad@$$!!!!!
After 14 installments, the Mercy Thompson series has become this epic tale of a world of magic and supernatural and mystical beings, many that call southeastern WA home. While many of them try to get along with each other as much as possible, every installment brings tales of those who want to destroy what Mercy and Adam have built and annihilate those that they protect. For those of us who have traveled this journey with Mercy and Adam from the start, it’s been a wild and crazy ride and an amazing story.
I understand Briggs (as well as her publishers) need to constantly explain stuff that new readers, who may have just picked up this 14th installment, and who know absolutely nothing about the Mercy Thompson world. However, for a devoted fan, the repetitive rehashing of previous installments, people and events can get a little annoying and is kind of a pet peeve. For me, this kind of dragged down the pacing and flow of the story in several areas. JMHO
The character development of the MC’s and many of the Columbia pack members is pretty well fleshed out by now. I liked learning more about Mercy’s brother, Gary, too. I would have liked to learn more about Coyote (Mercy & Gary’s father), and 14 installments in, it’s long past time for a more in-depth character development of Coyote. The storyline was interesting, as they usually are. The writing and pacing were not up to Briggs typical standards for the reasons that I’ve already mentioned. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.8 that I will be rounding up to a 4star rating.
March 11, 2025
I always enjoy these books, but this one was my least favorite in a while. I even skimmed through the previous two installments and they just didn't hold up to my first read enthusiasm. It was then I realized that the most intriguing developments in this universe are happening over in the Alpha & Omega series.
This book features Mercy and Adam on a solo adventure. Their bond is stable and they work well as a team in accomplishing the central objective. I'm not one of those readers who is enthralled with relationship drama so that wasn't the issue. The problem is bringing in Mercy's brother only to sideline him, and then the villain is some random fae I've never heard of in my more extensive than average reading of world fairy tales and myths. We meet a bunch of side characters only for 80% of them not to really matter, and then the central mystery is resolved with a whimper rather than a bang. Oh, and Mercy is once again beat up all to hell but miraculously healed by the end.
At this point, Mercy and Adam are no longer the most interesting characters in their own franchise. I'd love a book focusing solely on the pack members- Warren, Sherwood and Darryl especially. This is the third book in a row where we keep hearing that their order in the pack doesn't match their truck dominance. Either the pack order needs a shake up or Darryl should be made Alpha of his own pack. The vampire Bonarata isn't going away- is he bothering Marsilia too? What's going on with Wulfe and Stefan? Then there's the fae side of things. Why doesn't Underhill like her own people? And what do the Grey Lords think about her essentially camping out in the werewolves' backyard?
It just seems that Mercy and Adam are nearing the end of the road as viable main characters. They've both been kidnapped and beaten several times over and their enemies keep getting more powerful. They've done everything and been through everything short of having a kid, and there's no way Mercy is going to make it through pregnancy and child birth without her and/or the baby getting kidnapped. That's not a plot I'm particularly interested in reading. I just think the focus has to shift a little bit in order for this series to keep going and stay fresh.
This book features Mercy and Adam on a solo adventure. Their bond is stable and they work well as a team in accomplishing the central objective. I'm not one of those readers who is enthralled with relationship drama so that wasn't the issue. The problem is bringing in Mercy's brother only to sideline him, and then the villain is some random fae I've never heard of in my more extensive than average reading of world fairy tales and myths. We meet a bunch of side characters only for 80% of them not to really matter, and then the central mystery is resolved with a whimper rather than a bang. Oh, and Mercy is once again beat up all to hell but miraculously healed by the end.
At this point, Mercy and Adam are no longer the most interesting characters in their own franchise. I'd love a book focusing solely on the pack members- Warren, Sherwood and Darryl especially. This is the third book in a row where we keep hearing that their order in the pack doesn't match their truck dominance. Either the pack order needs a shake up or Darryl should be made Alpha of his own pack. The vampire Bonarata isn't going away- is he bothering Marsilia too? What's going on with Wulfe and Stefan? Then there's the fae side of things. Why doesn't Underhill like her own people? And what do the Grey Lords think about her essentially camping out in the werewolves' backyard?
It just seems that Mercy and Adam are nearing the end of the road as viable main characters. They've both been kidnapped and beaten several times over and their enemies keep getting more powerful. They've done everything and been through everything short of having a kid, and there's no way Mercy is going to make it through pregnancy and child birth without her and/or the baby getting kidnapped. That's not a plot I'm particularly interested in reading. I just think the focus has to shift a little bit in order for this series to keep going and stay fresh.
June 17, 2024
Winter Lost is the fourteenth novel in the Mercy Thompson series and one I look forward to each year. Briggs has created a rich world with flawed, strong and loveable characters that have become like family. Like most urban fantasy series, I recommend reading this series in the order of their release despite the wonderful job the author does of acclimating new readers to each book.
Mercy is still not right after the events of Soul Taken, but when her half-brother Gary shows up on her doorstep unable to communicate, they call in a favor and learn that he is under a spell. All of this leads them to Montana during the snowstorm of all snowstorms. Their quest has them spending time at the Looking Glass Hot Springs lodge, where a wedding party is trapped and something taken must be returned.
Briggs gives us Mercy’s perspective, but also those of Adam and others. While the pack was missing for most of the story, we get brief interludes with familiar characters. The major story, involving Gary, Mercy’s magic issues and the end of days, was well done and kept me reading into the wee hours.
Fans will appreciate the closure, the meddling from Coyote, and the mythology. I am always sad when the story ends and cannot wait for the next book. An addictive tale in this action-packed, character driven series with my favorite pack.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Mercy is still not right after the events of Soul Taken, but when her half-brother Gary shows up on her doorstep unable to communicate, they call in a favor and learn that he is under a spell. All of this leads them to Montana during the snowstorm of all snowstorms. Their quest has them spending time at the Looking Glass Hot Springs lodge, where a wedding party is trapped and something taken must be returned.
Briggs gives us Mercy’s perspective, but also those of Adam and others. While the pack was missing for most of the story, we get brief interludes with familiar characters. The major story, involving Gary, Mercy’s magic issues and the end of days, was well done and kept me reading into the wee hours.
Fans will appreciate the closure, the meddling from Coyote, and the mythology. I am always sad when the story ends and cannot wait for the next book. An addictive tale in this action-packed, character driven series with my favorite pack.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 27, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for the advanced copy. Below you'll find my honest review.
I've been eagerly anticipating the next Mercy novel since the very second I finished the last one. If you remember correctly, the last one left Mercy's spiritual self a little damaged, and this one picks up that story thread. It also brings back the story threads involving her Coyote heritage, including her brother Gary. Throw in some seriously cool (cold joke, see what I did there?) Norse mythology, along with the addition of a new (to the series at least) Native/Indigenous American spirit.
We get a lot of Mercy and Adam's relationship, which is great, but we also get little Interludes that give a little more interaction with some of the other major characters, from the Pack especially, including an absolutely hilarious and awesome moment for Warren and Sherwood.
I loved this one, and now begins the long, long wait until the next Mercyverse novel from Patty Briggs. I believe it's going to be an Alpha & Omega one, too!
I've been eagerly anticipating the next Mercy novel since the very second I finished the last one. If you remember correctly, the last one left Mercy's spiritual self a little damaged, and this one picks up that story thread. It also brings back the story threads involving her Coyote heritage, including her brother Gary. Throw in some seriously cool (cold joke, see what I did there?) Norse mythology, along with the addition of a new (to the series at least) Native/Indigenous American spirit.
We get a lot of Mercy and Adam's relationship, which is great, but we also get little Interludes that give a little more interaction with some of the other major characters, from the Pack especially, including an absolutely hilarious and awesome moment for Warren and Sherwood.
I loved this one, and now begins the long, long wait until the next Mercyverse novel from Patty Briggs. I believe it's going to be an Alpha & Omega one, too!
January 18, 2025
It might be time for me to stop with the series.
This addition, Winter Lost didn’t work for me like previous books did in the Mercy Thompson series.
It took half of the book before I felt invested in the plot besides trying to remember all of the secondary characters.
I think the issue for me is there’s too many characters to keep track of in this series.
Not only do I need to remember all of the werewolves in the Columbia Basin Pack, but I need to remember all of the fae, vampires, witches, shapeshifters and random humans that Patricia Briggs has introduced in 14 books.
It wouldn’t be an issue when she introduces a new character in a plot but does she need to keep this specific character going throughout the whole series and in every single book?
The info dumping in each book wouldn’t be needed unless it’s specific to this new book’s plot.
Besides this issue, Winter Lost did not need the interlude chapters. These chapters weren’t even connected to the main plot and felt like random social media updates to other characters in this series.
If these had been eliminated in my opinion, the book would have been 100 pages less, and the pacing and flow would have worked better.
Okay, I didn’t completely hate this book.
I still finished and I enjoyed the magic, supernatural characters, and Gods from mythology in this.
It just feels like some “spark” is missing for me since Briggs first started writing about Mercy Thompson in 2006.
This addition, Winter Lost didn’t work for me like previous books did in the Mercy Thompson series.
It took half of the book before I felt invested in the plot besides trying to remember all of the secondary characters.
I think the issue for me is there’s too many characters to keep track of in this series.
Not only do I need to remember all of the werewolves in the Columbia Basin Pack, but I need to remember all of the fae, vampires, witches, shapeshifters and random humans that Patricia Briggs has introduced in 14 books.
It wouldn’t be an issue when she introduces a new character in a plot but does she need to keep this specific character going throughout the whole series and in every single book?
The info dumping in each book wouldn’t be needed unless it’s specific to this new book’s plot.
Besides this issue, Winter Lost did not need the interlude chapters. These chapters weren’t even connected to the main plot and felt like random social media updates to other characters in this series.
If these had been eliminated in my opinion, the book would have been 100 pages less, and the pacing and flow would have worked better.
Okay, I didn’t completely hate this book.
I still finished and I enjoyed the magic, supernatural characters, and Gods from mythology in this.
It just feels like some “spark” is missing for me since Briggs first started writing about Mercy Thompson in 2006.
April 13, 2024
If you can count on one thing is that Patricia Briggs is going to write a fast-paced fantastic book. In this volume, Mercy's brother gets into some trouble (shocker!) and Mercy has to go with Adam to figure out what happened. They have graduated to nordic gods which is so much fun because I love nordic mythology. We also get a great new array of new characters and some reoccurring ones. I'm not going to lie, I was a little worried that we were leaving the Tri-Cities because it felt like something Anna and Charles would do but the story totally makes sense. I also really enjoyed switching POVs between different characters. It really allowed you to understand their motivations and made the book feel really fresh even if we are deep in the series. I wish I was as good a writer as Patricia Briggs to truly explain it but it was so so good! Anyone who knows m or follows me knows I love these books so much and I will re-read them constantly so know that I'm being serious when I say that this is one of my favorites and I think it would read great even as a standalone. I highly recommend!
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group, Ace, and Patricia Briggs for giving me the amazing opportunity to review this book as an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group, Ace, and Patricia Briggs for giving me the amazing opportunity to review this book as an ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 29, 2024
Mercy’s half brother shows up unexpectedly and seems to be afflicted by some unknown magic. Adam and Mercy travel to where he was working in Montana, trying to figure out how to help him, since Zee wasn’t able to. They meet the frost giant who needs their help finding something which was stolen from him, and they learn that things could end very badly for everyone unless they figure out how to help. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
November 20, 2024
Published 2023 by Ace
Expected publication January 1, 2024
Expected publication June 18, 2024
Expected publication January 1, 2024
Expected publication June 18, 2024
July 20, 2024
This series has been a firm favorite for a very long time. Mercy and Adam are so great that every book is like getting to visit some of my most dear friends, and the entire secondary cast is wonderful. I especially love when Coyote has something afoot, which is most definitely the case here. It gets twisty and convoluted as the story unfolds, but in the best kinds of ways ... because Coyote plays complicated games, that always fall together beautifully.
I've bailed on the A&O spin-off series, sadly - I know I'm in the vast minority here, but I don't really like Anna. She's just this perfect combo of self-righteous and naive (in a YA-ish way) that just sets my teeth on edge. That plus the retconning happening in that series really just pushed me away, but again, I know I'm in the minority. I'm only mentioning it for the folks wondering if they HAVE to be current on A&O to follow this series. The answer is: no. I'm not current, and there was no place where I felt like I was missing crucial info or events. So the threads where the two series braid together - and I'm sure they're present, they were in the earlier A&O books that I read - were done subtly enough that they don't feel like a big neon sign in these books screaming "IMPORTANT INFO THAT YOU ARE MISSING HERE!" I feel like that's perfect - a fun bit of extra for the folks reading them both, without ruining the story for folks who aren't.
However, there were details from Mercy's series that I could have used a refresh on, and felt like I was floundering around them for a bit. I remember Bonarata from the book where he kidnapped Mercy to Italy, but not any other appearance in books since then (which is weird to me, because he's such a big presence, but apparently my brain didn't agree). I think that's because there are 2-3 years between books, and some of the details just slide away. Briggs gives you enough of a refresh in this book that you can follow the story, but I was kicking myself for not doing a re-read of the series before hitting this book, honestly. I may do that now.
Only other quibble: I know their split from the Marrok is not as real as they try and make it look to the outside world (and I agree with their reasons - a war between the supe communities would be a disaster), but I missed the little interactions with those characters - Bran the father figure, Charles and Samuel as brother figures, and the overall feeling of a dysfunctional family that has been trying to mend the bonds between them. It was nice, in previous books, having them as even somewhat distant secondary characters (though I miss the Samuel of earlier books, who lived in the Tri-Cities too). That said, I'd rather not have them at all than have to deal with the retconning that goes on about them in the A&O series, so it is what it is.
While this book itself is probably 4-4.5 stars, I gotta give it 5 because this series is a long-time favorite.
I've bailed on the A&O spin-off series, sadly - I know I'm in the vast minority here, but I don't really like Anna. She's just this perfect combo of self-righteous and naive (in a YA-ish way) that just sets my teeth on edge. That plus the retconning happening in that series really just pushed me away, but again, I know I'm in the minority. I'm only mentioning it for the folks wondering if they HAVE to be current on A&O to follow this series. The answer is: no. I'm not current, and there was no place where I felt like I was missing crucial info or events. So the threads where the two series braid together - and I'm sure they're present, they were in the earlier A&O books that I read - were done subtly enough that they don't feel like a big neon sign in these books screaming "IMPORTANT INFO THAT YOU ARE MISSING HERE!" I feel like that's perfect - a fun bit of extra for the folks reading them both, without ruining the story for folks who aren't.
However, there were details from Mercy's series that I could have used a refresh on, and felt like I was floundering around them for a bit. I remember Bonarata from the book where he kidnapped Mercy to Italy, but not any other appearance in books since then (which is weird to me, because he's such a big presence, but apparently my brain didn't agree). I think that's because there are 2-3 years between books, and some of the details just slide away. Briggs gives you enough of a refresh in this book that you can follow the story, but I was kicking myself for not doing a re-read of the series before hitting this book, honestly. I may do that now.
Only other quibble: I know their split from the Marrok is not as real as they try and make it look to the outside world (and I agree with their reasons - a war between the supe communities would be a disaster), but I missed the little interactions with those characters - Bran the father figure, Charles and Samuel as brother figures, and the overall feeling of a dysfunctional family that has been trying to mend the bonds between them. It was nice, in previous books, having them as even somewhat distant secondary characters (though I miss the Samuel of earlier books, who lived in the Tri-Cities too). That said, I'd rather not have them at all than have to deal with the retconning that goes on about them in the A&O series, so it is what it is.
While this book itself is probably 4-4.5 stars, I gotta give it 5 because this series is a long-time favorite.
December 9, 2024
I now get why a lot of reviewers complained about how slow this book was. Oh lord it was slow. I think all of the interludes just were unnecessary. I will post a full review later.
Full review: Well. That was a book. I don't even know what to say anymore about the Mercy Thompson series outside of saying, well it's better than the Alpha and Omega series. And I swear at times two different people are writing this series because in this one, we have Mercy being the same as always, but Alpha and Omega went south when they acted like Mercy wanted to be with Bran like a woman and man and not like a daughter. I will not rehash that whole mess. But the readers were in revolt.
In "Winter Lost" we still have Mercy dealing with the effects of the Soul Taker. She's wide open to everything and she is not herself. Those around her worry she's going to eventually lose her mind if they can't block what is being done to her. With the Pack still being the absolutely worst (yeah I said it) Mercy and Adam are thrown when Mercy's brother Gary shows up and he can't speak and tries to attack Adam. When Mercy realizes something has been done to them, here we get some more of the Norse gods/fae (yeah I don't know, I just gave up).
I have to say that I loved the overall plot and if we had just jumped between Mercy and Adam I would have given this 5 stars. But my goodness, the interludes people. The interludes outside of some key players should have been cut. Off the top off my head, Jesse, Tad, Warren, Sherwood, etc. etc. I was like what is going on? This is not remotely interesting. Each time Briggs did that it made the book slow to a crawl. I wanted to stay with Mercy and Adam investigating and being in love. It reminded me of "River Marked" in a good way and I wish we could have stayed with that vibe throughout. Also, just realized that book was 8 book ago (sheesh). I would have saved these interludes for a short story collection because that is where they needed to be.
The setting of this one changes to Montana and once again Norse fae/gods and original spirts of the land. I liked it and was very interested in the cast of characters we get involved with though and would love to hear about them again. It sounded very very messy.
The ending was really good. Look I love Coyote. He's the only one so far that hasn't driven me up the wall. I also find myself bored by a whole threat via the "supreme" vampire and I am just sick of hearing about Bran. He's a terrible father/figure and him popping up in the last book was not appreciated at all. I sadly keep rooting for him to get murdered and be done.
The book still leaves a lot of things unresolved. I just wonder how much longer this series can keep chugging along.
Full review: Well. That was a book. I don't even know what to say anymore about the Mercy Thompson series outside of saying, well it's better than the Alpha and Omega series. And I swear at times two different people are writing this series because in this one, we have Mercy being the same as always, but Alpha and Omega went south when they acted like Mercy wanted to be with Bran like a woman and man and not like a daughter. I will not rehash that whole mess. But the readers were in revolt.
In "Winter Lost" we still have Mercy dealing with the effects of the Soul Taker. She's wide open to everything and she is not herself. Those around her worry she's going to eventually lose her mind if they can't block what is being done to her. With the Pack still being the absolutely worst (yeah I said it) Mercy and Adam are thrown when Mercy's brother Gary shows up and he can't speak and tries to attack Adam. When Mercy realizes something has been done to them, here we get some more of the Norse gods/fae (yeah I don't know, I just gave up).
I have to say that I loved the overall plot and if we had just jumped between Mercy and Adam I would have given this 5 stars. But my goodness, the interludes people. The interludes outside of some key players should have been cut. Off the top off my head, Jesse, Tad, Warren, Sherwood, etc. etc. I was like what is going on? This is not remotely interesting. Each time Briggs did that it made the book slow to a crawl. I wanted to stay with Mercy and Adam investigating and being in love. It reminded me of "River Marked" in a good way and I wish we could have stayed with that vibe throughout. Also, just realized that book was 8 book ago (sheesh). I would have saved these interludes for a short story collection because that is where they needed to be.
The setting of this one changes to Montana and once again Norse fae/gods and original spirts of the land. I liked it and was very interested in the cast of characters we get involved with though and would love to hear about them again. It sounded very very messy.
The ending was really good. Look I love Coyote. He's the only one so far that hasn't driven me up the wall. I also find myself bored by a whole threat via the "supreme" vampire and I am just sick of hearing about Bran. He's a terrible father/figure and him popping up in the last book was not appreciated at all. I sadly keep rooting for him to get murdered and be done.
The book still leaves a lot of things unresolved. I just wonder how much longer this series can keep chugging along.
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