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Buffyverse Novels #30
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Prime Evil
When attractive, youthful Crystal Gregory takes a teaching position at Sunnydale High, she also takes what seems to be an instant dislike to Buffy Summers. Buffy's Slayer sense doesn't detect anything unusual about the teacher. But when you're living on a Hellmouth, nothing is what it seems. Crystal isn't above playing favorites, and her pets -- including Willow, Michael, and Anya -- are loyal to her in the extreme. This wouldn't bother Buffy...but for the fact that she has found a fresh burn mark on two of the students' necks. Giles immediately recognizes the symbol as the mark of a powerful witch whose existence predates the Salem Witch Trials.
The primal witch will continue to wreak havoc until she successfully gathers a coven of thirteen people who have magickal ability. Once the group is created, she will perform a moonlit ritual to endow herself with infinite power, at which point all members of her clan -- indeed, all human beings -- will be subject to her will. Buffy's going to need her Wicca girl, Willow, to save the world this time -- but can Willow be persuaded by reason before it's too late
The primal witch will continue to wreak havoc until she successfully gathers a coven of thirteen people who have magickal ability. Once the group is created, she will perform a moonlit ritual to endow herself with infinite power, at which point all members of her clan -- indeed, all human beings -- will be subject to her will. Buffy's going to need her Wicca girl, Willow, to save the world this time -- but can Willow be persuaded by reason before it's too late
272 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 1, 2000
7 people are currently reading
594 people want to read
About the author
Diana G. Gallagher
156 books54 followersDiana G. Gallagher was an American author who wrote books for children and young adults. She also wrote the space opera The Alien Dark (1990), but was best known for her tie-in work for television properties including Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Charmed, Star Trek and The Secret World of Alex Mack, among others.
She was also a prolific filk creator, winning Pegasus Awards in 1986 and ’94. Gallagher won a Hugo Award for Best Fan Artist in 1988 under the name Diana Gallagher Wu. She sometimes also wrote under the name Diana Burke.
Born in 1946, in Paterson, New Jersey, she lived in Florida with her husband, the writer Martin R. Burke, who predeceased her in 2011. Gallagher was married four times; her third marriage was to author William F. Wu (divorced 1990).
Gallagher died December 2, 2021 of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at 75 years of age.
She was also a prolific filk creator, winning Pegasus Awards in 1986 and ’94. Gallagher won a Hugo Award for Best Fan Artist in 1988 under the name Diana Gallagher Wu. She sometimes also wrote under the name Diana Burke.
Born in 1946, in Paterson, New Jersey, she lived in Florida with her husband, the writer Martin R. Burke, who predeceased her in 2011. Gallagher was married four times; her third marriage was to author William F. Wu (divorced 1990).
Gallagher died December 2, 2021 of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at 75 years of age.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 28, 2023
This is a good Buffy adventure set during the third season of the show. Almost all of the main and supporting characters are given a chance to come on stage and do their things, and the Big Bad of the story is a wicked witch masquerading as a young teacher at Sunnydale High. It's pretty well written, with some clever plot twists.
August 4, 2022
admittedly would have been a better reading experience if i had seen more than 2 episodes of buffy
January 29, 2021
Book: Prime Evil
Author: Diana Gallagher
Rating: 3 Out of Stars
I have been rewatching Buffy the Vampire Slayer on Hulu and I picked this book up awhile ago, but just never got around to reading it. That kind of seems to be the trend as of late. I picked up a lot used books last year, but I just never got around to reading.
This is an old school Buffy novel-set during season three, I believe. I love getting to see the gang back in high school and getting to revisit all of those moments with them. I liked getting to see them all back in the early days. However, I did feel like a lot of the characters just didn’t really fit into what we know from the show and from other Buffy novels that I have read. I just felt like they were missing something. It honestly felt like the author was trying to make sure that everyone got their moment in the story and got to have their line. I think that if we had cut down on making sure that everyone was included, then we could have had a better chance to bond with the characters. I just needed more or something is what I am getting at.
The plot was good, but, once again, it just felt like all of the characters were trying to get movement and it really took away from the overall plot. The plot really didn’t also fit the story arc, I guess. Like with the characters, it was just missing something to really bring it home. I never felt like the characters were in danger. I just knew that everything was going to be okay. If you want to really make us feel something, you need to have a way to drive that point home. You need to make us feel like something really could be wrong or that these characters could not actually make it.
A lot of this really comes back on the writing. There was a lot of places that I actually felt myself wincing over the writing. It was like Diana would tell us the characters were going to do something, then she would show us them doing it, and then tell us about it. It was just the author saying the same thing over and over again and just a poor job in my book. I have read other Buffy books and I do think they were put together a little bit better than this.
Overall, I just think that this one really needed something more to really drive it home, I guess is what I am getting at.
Author: Diana Gallagher
Rating: 3 Out of Stars
I have been rewatching Buffy the Vampire Slayer on Hulu and I picked this book up awhile ago, but just never got around to reading it. That kind of seems to be the trend as of late. I picked up a lot used books last year, but I just never got around to reading.
This is an old school Buffy novel-set during season three, I believe. I love getting to see the gang back in high school and getting to revisit all of those moments with them. I liked getting to see them all back in the early days. However, I did feel like a lot of the characters just didn’t really fit into what we know from the show and from other Buffy novels that I have read. I just felt like they were missing something. It honestly felt like the author was trying to make sure that everyone got their moment in the story and got to have their line. I think that if we had cut down on making sure that everyone was included, then we could have had a better chance to bond with the characters. I just needed more or something is what I am getting at.
The plot was good, but, once again, it just felt like all of the characters were trying to get movement and it really took away from the overall plot. The plot really didn’t also fit the story arc, I guess. Like with the characters, it was just missing something to really bring it home. I never felt like the characters were in danger. I just knew that everything was going to be okay. If you want to really make us feel something, you need to have a way to drive that point home. You need to make us feel like something really could be wrong or that these characters could not actually make it.
A lot of this really comes back on the writing. There was a lot of places that I actually felt myself wincing over the writing. It was like Diana would tell us the characters were going to do something, then she would show us them doing it, and then tell us about it. It was just the author saying the same thing over and over again and just a poor job in my book. I have read other Buffy books and I do think they were put together a little bit better than this.
Overall, I just think that this one really needed something more to really drive it home, I guess is what I am getting at.
November 25, 2019
Shugra was quite an interesting character! Loved reading about her life through the ages. I also love seeing Willow growing as a witch, it was something that I loved in the tv series.
January 27, 2010
That's what I get for choosing a book based on Amazon reviews. I should really know by now that I march to the beat of a different drummer...actually it's not a drum at all, it's a bagpipe, and I skip, not march. ;P While I didn't hate the book, it wasn't nearly as good as I was led to believe. The whole feel to the book wasn't quite right, it didn't have that Buffyverse atmosphere. Part of that had to do with the overabundance of Crystal/Shugra's point-of-view, which took away from the other characters. While I didn't mind a bit here and there, the flashbacks were unnecessary, often boring and uninteresting; they really added nothing to the book and were more filler than anything. The characterizations were decent but lacked energy and didn't quite hit the mark. I didn't sense much depth and sometimes, I hate to say it, they were rather bland. There wasn't much humor but it managed to get a few smiles out of me. The ending was the best part and definitely had more of the usual Buffyness than the rest of the book.
What I found amusing is the remark about nothing suspicious happening in Cleveland. Since there happens to be a Hellmouth stationed there, I would think there would be plenty of abnormalities. Demonic activity was actually mentioned in the episode The Wish that came out before this book was written, but maybe I can let that pass since the episode was mainly set in an alternate time-line. Although I still don't get why there wouldn't be a Cleveland Hellmouth in both realities. Gosh, I'm such a BuffyGeek. :D
Still, I enjoyed the book and appreciated the author adding in little things sprinkled throughout for the fans.
What I found amusing is the remark about nothing suspicious happening in Cleveland. Since there happens to be a Hellmouth stationed there, I would think there would be plenty of abnormalities. Demonic activity was actually mentioned in the episode The Wish that came out before this book was written, but maybe I can let that pass since the episode was mainly set in an alternate time-line. Although I still don't get why there wouldn't be a Cleveland Hellmouth in both realities. Gosh, I'm such a BuffyGeek. :D
Still, I enjoyed the book and appreciated the author adding in little things sprinkled throughout for the fans.
September 6, 2024
One of the best ones in this series. I was trepidatious at first because I thought it was gonna be a drawn out Buffy vs Willow thing, but it was not, thankfully.
I thought the villain was pretty good, the backstory was cool as it didn’t bog down the narrative flow (though she wasn’t very good at accomplishing her goals…), but mostly it was the defeat of her that was the best. It didn’t feel rushed or too easy, like it often does in these books. So hats off for that.
The book also includes little bits that show where the series and characters are at
- Cordy has no money and needs extra cash, hence helps Giles out for payment
- Anya has a thing for Xander, Xander is pretty stand offish
- Giles and Joyce are weird around each other, Buffy doesn’t get why
I like this attention to details. Also, it includes Joyce participating in the final battle, which was nice. And pairs up Angel and Xander, which was funny. So yeah, definitely one of the strongest books in the series.
No mention of Faith, but that was to be expected. After reading it I think the English title makes more sense, but the French is more poetic
I thought the villain was pretty good, the backstory was cool as it didn’t bog down the narrative flow (though she wasn’t very good at accomplishing her goals…), but mostly it was the defeat of her that was the best. It didn’t feel rushed or too easy, like it often does in these books. So hats off for that.
The book also includes little bits that show where the series and characters are at
- Cordy has no money and needs extra cash, hence helps Giles out for payment
- Anya has a thing for Xander, Xander is pretty stand offish
- Giles and Joyce are weird around each other, Buffy doesn’t get why
I like this attention to details. Also, it includes Joyce participating in the final battle, which was nice. And pairs up Angel and Xander, which was funny. So yeah, definitely one of the strongest books in the series.
No mention of Faith, but that was to be expected. After reading it I think the English title makes more sense, but the French is more poetic
September 4, 2018
I love the show and I feel like the author stuck to a storyline that fit in perfectly with the show (having characters reminisce over villians they have defeated before). The book had its pros and cons, like most books For starters I found it hard to read at first just from it starting off very slow. As it progresses the book does get quicker. One of the things I really enjoyed about this book is that, as I was reading, I started feeling like I was actually watching an episode of Buffy. The author did not leave out any visuals (which is much appreciated). Its definitely a good read if you are love Buffy, looking to pass the time, and/or want a short read to speed up your possible reading goal!
Read
October 23, 2022DNF at pg 96
Either I was bored or not in the mood. The first thing that bugged me was the teachers last name on the back of the book is Gregory but in the story it’s Gordon.
Maybe I’ll go back to it later.
Either I was bored or not in the mood. The first thing that bugged me was the teachers last name on the back of the book is Gregory but in the story it’s Gordon.
Maybe I’ll go back to it later.
September 18, 2023
A really fun read, it felt like it captured the spirit quite well of the show and its approach to magic.
It was a little weird having Joyce join in with the battle against the villain, but I liked that it was overall a fairly simple witch story going on.
It was a little weird having Joyce join in with the battle against the villain, but I liked that it was overall a fairly simple witch story going on.
February 12, 2019
Read it and loved it
July 3, 2022
It took me a minute to get into this but I'm glad I read it
March 4, 2024
Really enjoyed it, especially the jumps through time and what you learned about those periods.
March 30, 2019
True to the characters very enjoyable
January 9, 2012
by Diana G. Gallagher, published in 2000.
Something nasty has come to Sunnydale and Buffy is wigged about it - of course it’s a new teacher. Yes, this is a Buffy the Vampire Slayer novel and my first foray into the fictional verse of Sunnydale. My immediate impression - not bad, but not great either.
A super witch has come to Sunnydale (home of the hellmouth) and is keen on becoming one with the prime evil powers of nature through witchcraft. She is an almost eternal soul which (sorry bout that) keeps trying to join with nature and become all powerful but throughout history keeps getting foiled. Set shortly after the beginning of Season Three of the TV show we see all the regulars, including Oz, gearing up to do battle with unstoppable evil - again.
Now, I don’t read a lot of spin-off novels from TV shows (Okay, I lie since I’ve read Babylon 5 and some Star Trek) so don’t want to harsh out too much on this novel which reads pretty much just like any episode with a few differences.
Like, the voices and actions of the characters were close, but not quite right. I thought maybe I was hallucinating so I watched a Season Three episode again last night (Helpless) and found I was correct in my assumption - close but not quite. But don’t let that steer you away, this, as far as an episode goes, is pretty entertaining - just don’t expect a top episode and you will be fine.
And I am most likely being too protective of the actual show - but damn it was a fine show and deserves better (he says with his own Star Trek Next Generation Buffy crossover story hanging out here for all to see) but my story is fan fiction and can and should be harshed upon. But this is a published novel with a pretty cover and trademarked logo on the front so I expected more . . .
Anyhow, nothing too shocking in this novel and the story unfolds just like you would expect it too. I’m not sure I would bother reading any more Buffy novels. It’s not that I don’t like the verse, it’s just that if I need my Buffy fix all I need do is pop in a DVD of the show and voila - instant Buffy gratification.
I would tell you to give this one a pass - but that would be too harsh. If you like novelized episodes of Buffy, then go for it. If you want quality Buffy - then watch the TV show episodes again.
Nuff said.
Something nasty has come to Sunnydale and Buffy is wigged about it - of course it’s a new teacher. Yes, this is a Buffy the Vampire Slayer novel and my first foray into the fictional verse of Sunnydale. My immediate impression - not bad, but not great either.
A super witch has come to Sunnydale (home of the hellmouth) and is keen on becoming one with the prime evil powers of nature through witchcraft. She is an almost eternal soul which (sorry bout that) keeps trying to join with nature and become all powerful but throughout history keeps getting foiled. Set shortly after the beginning of Season Three of the TV show we see all the regulars, including Oz, gearing up to do battle with unstoppable evil - again.
Now, I don’t read a lot of spin-off novels from TV shows (Okay, I lie since I’ve read Babylon 5 and some Star Trek) so don’t want to harsh out too much on this novel which reads pretty much just like any episode with a few differences.
Like, the voices and actions of the characters were close, but not quite right. I thought maybe I was hallucinating so I watched a Season Three episode again last night (Helpless) and found I was correct in my assumption - close but not quite. But don’t let that steer you away, this, as far as an episode goes, is pretty entertaining - just don’t expect a top episode and you will be fine.
And I am most likely being too protective of the actual show - but damn it was a fine show and deserves better (he says with his own Star Trek Next Generation Buffy crossover story hanging out here for all to see) but my story is fan fiction and can and should be harshed upon. But this is a published novel with a pretty cover and trademarked logo on the front so I expected more . . .
Anyhow, nothing too shocking in this novel and the story unfolds just like you would expect it too. I’m not sure I would bother reading any more Buffy novels. It’s not that I don’t like the verse, it’s just that if I need my Buffy fix all I need do is pop in a DVD of the show and voila - instant Buffy gratification.
I would tell you to give this one a pass - but that would be too harsh. If you like novelized episodes of Buffy, then go for it. If you want quality Buffy - then watch the TV show episodes again.
Nuff said.
May 14, 2024
4.5 stars really enjoyed this story. I love witches and the characters in this were great. I think it’s supposed to be read after the Gatekeeper Trilogy though?
August 1, 2016
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
January 2, 2008
I enjoyed the book as it was like watching a Buffy Episode on TV. However I found that it is not one of my favourites of the series as others have been written better and with more depth. I do prefer the books written by Christopher Golden when it comes to the Buffy Series.
The book did stick true to the characters and told an interesting tale of an ancient witch with true prime evil magic. Definitely worth a read for any true Buffy fan.
The book did stick true to the characters and told an interesting tale of an ancient witch with true prime evil magic. Definitely worth a read for any true Buffy fan.
June 21, 2011
Another great addition to the Buffy series! This one was dark, creepy, but so, so good! The villain was truly evil, and the flashback scenes were interesting. I was cheering at the end when the Big Bad finally got what she deserved! Buffy fans who enjoy the tie-in novels won't want to miss this one!
August 9, 2009
Started on plane ride home from Istanbul, Buffy book borrowed from Holly. Good one, light and witchy.
July 5, 2010
Had to force myself to finish this. I don't know if it is the writer that kept me bored, or if I just wasn't in the mood to read it. It was an overall good story.
May 9, 2017
Not the best buffy book in the world, but hey its still decent. Takes place during senior year. Even joyce gets in on the action!
February 25, 2019
Can't get enough Buffy stories
November 15, 2012
As a lover of all things Buffy I found absolutely nothing wrong with this book. It had everything I love, vampires, fighting and a chick that kicks ass!
Loved it!
Loved it!
December 11, 2014
Another fun adventure in the Buffy Saga. It's right in the middle of the pack when it comes to Buffy books. It's certainly not a bad book, but it's also not a great buffy story. Enjoy!
July 12, 2015
Characters were spot on! Felt like watching the TV show. Spent to much time on flashbacks for the main villain.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews