That's What I'm Talking About

I was so enamored with Mercy and gang after finishing up Moon Called that I jumped straight into Blood Bound the same day. Ms. Briggs has created an engrossing, energetic world for the Mercy Thompson series, and I find myself calling it an auto-purchase/must-read after only two books!

Taking place roughly six months after the conclusion of the previous book, Mercy finds herself repaying a debt to her vampire friend, Stefan, by acting as an impartial witness when he visits a rogue vampire. However, when it is apparent that there is an evil presence within the vampire and things go horribly wrong, Mercy finds herself in the middle of a messy problem that impacts everyone she cares about. 

I found myself unable to put down my Kindle/headphones right from the start of Blood Bound. The mystery of what is going on and where to find the evil vampire is exciting in its own right, but the story is made all the more engrossing since we see the world through Mercy's view point. I adore that Mercy is mostly a normal woman with usual problems. So she can change into a coyote and sees ghosts... she doesn't have super strength or instant healing. She must use her intelligence and learned skills to see what others are missing. I also like that she gets scared like the rest of us, and doesn't take risks lightly.

However, we do see Mercy's place in town and within the wolf community begin to evolve. She's always stayed clear of the pack and pack business, but now too many lives are on the line and she's decided to stake the claim that Adam (the alpha) has provided for her. Although she's uncomfortable in the knowledge that Adam claimed Mercy as his mate, she doesn't use the power to cause problems. Instead, she finds a way to help the pack without rubbing their faces in it.

The story also addresses Mercy's (for lack of better word) love life. She's living platonically with her first love, dating the local pack alpha who lives next door, and seems to be catching the attention of a few other local preternatural creatures. However, the romance (or lack there of) is NOT a central part of the story. What I like is that the interactions help define Mercy's character, as well as give us insight as to what makes Mercy tick. She's not looking for a relationship, but isn't opposed to one, if she can make it work on her own terms. I appreciate that no one seems to be playing any games, and there isn't a true love triangle by any means!

The narration of the story by Lorelei King is some of the best I've ever heard. Now that I know the players, I feel that every voice is very appropriate for each character. And WOW! does this woman have a gift for voices. It honestly sounds like there is a cast of ten or more narrating the book. From young to old, male to female, soft or loud, Ms. King hits every voice with clarity and consistency. 

My Rating: A, loved it.

Narration: A+ Personal Favorite.