Hunted by the Others (H&W Investigations, #1) in SOS: Serious Overload of Series

Jul 19, 2011 Arlene rated it did not like it

Shelves: vampires, shifters-weres, detective-mystery

I'm sorry to say but I just cannot relate to the main character of this book. I even finished reading hoping I'll eventually find some redeeming qualities in the story and like Shiarra and the whole story but sad to say I didn't. She's a bigot who can't really make-up her mind. She broke up with her boyfriend because she cannot stand him being a wolf calling him big, hairy and something out of a B movie but did not admit this rather she said that her Ex's lying was the reason why she broke it wi ...more

Like · see review

Jan 02, 2011 Logan rated it really liked it

Shelves: paranormal, free-ebooks, kindle-books-to-lend, urban-fantasy

First impressions: I never know what to expect with free ebooks, so usually my guard is up and my expectations are down. Here, I was pleasantly surprised. The book opens with a great scene where our reluctant protagonist, Shiarra, is pulled into an investigative job for the Others. I loved the idea that Shiarra really didn't want to get involved with the Others, especially since most books have characters that want to either be them or be in love with them.

Lasting impressions: What a welcome add First impressions: I never know what to expect with free ebooks, so usually my guard is up and my expectations are down. Here, I was pleasantly surprised. The book opens with a great scene where our reluctant protagonist, Shiarra, is pulled into an investigative job for the Others. I loved the idea that Shiarra really didn't want to get involved with the Others, especially since most books have characters that want to either be them or be in love with them.

Lasting impressions: What a welcome addition to the urban fantasy genre! I thought this book was a lot of fun, with some original new contributions that added a lot to my enjoyment. In Shiarra's world, the Others (supernatural types) have to sign contracts in order to have romantic (or blood servant) relationships, in order to avoid litigation should the human meet their death. This is a key plot point and added to the believability of the world.

Conflicting impressions: Given the well-developed supporting characters, I found Shiarra just a bit weak, especially in the beginning. I wish she hadn't needed to take the job because of money troubles. This just made her an unwilling participant and didn't give me much reason to root for her to succeed. I think bigger stakes would have made it more exciting.

Overall impressions: Shiarra and her business partner, Sara, pale a bit in comparison to the fun Others they come across. The vampire Alec Royce is the perfect blend of sexy and scary. What a treat to have a vampire who is actually terrifying! It seems like every other vamp I read about is so in control of his or her blood supply or hunger that they're never really risky to be around. Well, Royce is definitely scary in this one, and I loved every minute of it.

Arnold, a mage, becomes a de facto sidekick when his boss (who hired Shiarra for the job) winds up dead. His development through the book is well handled, at first seeming untrustworthy but by the end winning our full confidence and friendship. He helps outfit Shiarra in some butt-kicking gear that keeps her alive and grants her some extra oomph in her fighting abilities.

The story line is straightforward enough, but Haines delivers a nice surprise at the end. The different Others factions are all vying for the same thing, and Shiarra is just trying to do her job and get out before things get too messy. Shiarra was likeable, but the other characters really take the book to the next level. Haines' interesting take on supernaturals living side by side with humans, each wary of the other, everyone seemingly on edge, was both realistic and compelling. A great read for UF fans. ...more

Like · see review

May 04, 2010 twinfish2 rated it liked it

I liked this one. It was a good solid first in a series. I am interested in finding out what happens to the main heroine and very interested in Royce the head vamp. This is not a blow your socks off book, some parts in the world building need more explanation. But I will definately read the follow up books.

Like · see review