Sookie Stackhouse #13

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Dead Ever After by Charlaine Harris

And They All Lived Happily ... Well, The Lucky Ones Lived!

She was told there would be consequences for using the cluviel  dor, great magic like that could not be used without consequences. But even with her telepathic abilities she could never have foreseen this outcome. Saving Sam was a decision that she would gladly make again, saving Sam was a choice that made little difference to her life, and yet saving Sam was going to change her life forever.

Being framed for murder is no picnic, neither is sharing a jail cell with Jane Bodehouse the morning after one of her nights on the drink, which for Jane happened to be about every night. But even with little evidence against her there are those who will be glad to see Sookie go down, one way or another. But before this mystery comes to a conclusion there will be more then one revelation and more then one victim dead ever after.

Dead Ever After is one way to describe her past relationships. In this, Sookie's final adventure, old enemies return for a last showdown and final attempt to kill our favourite telepathic barmaid heroine. The last in this series, this story bring to a close all those questions you had about the fate of this fairy blooded southern belle and the small town she calls home. If you have been following this series then this book is a must.

Charlaine Harris Webpage
Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 May 2013
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780575096622
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: The End
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
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Aurora Teagarden Omnibus 2

AURORA TEAGARDEN:
The Aurora Teagarden Mysteries Omnibus 2
by Charlaine Harris

There Is More To Life Then Murder!

Dead Over Heals.

A man falls out of the sky to land squarely in Aurora's, or Roe's, back yard and questions are raised, besides the obvious that is. But Roe is distracted by other matters. Now fully settled into married life the honeymoon is definitely over and Roe has found herself a little bored, restless and to be honest a little lonely, what with all the travel her husband does for business. But others too have noticed her husband's absence and are taking advantage of the situation to declare there own feelings. Of cause all this has nothing to do with the body that fell out the sky to land in her yard. Or does it?

A Fool And His Honey.

Roe was having the worst day of her life and things were only going to get worse. When an unexpected guest drops in leaving an unwelcomed burden on Roe's shoulders, they also leave behind a murder to solve and a missing person to find. But as its family that has landed trouble on Roe's door step she can hardly walk away. So as the lies and deceptions unfold into a twisted family feud, this misadventure will turn out to be the worst Roe will ever have to face. And a murderous plan will only end in blood and tears leaving Roe alone to pick up the pieces.

Last Scene Alive.

It has been almost a year since Roe's world was shattered, and in that time her life has come to a complete stand still. Unable to move on Roe is stuck, living in the past with only her grief for company. That is until she is visited by an old flame from the past. But with him comes a reminder of a dark and murderous past the size of a Hollywood film crew. Although the movie crew is entirely unwelcomed, Roe does find something worthwhile to hold on to, despite her stepsons visit, an actress's murder and the dangerous threats to her own life.

Poppy Done To Death.

It was no secret that Poppy, Roe's stepsister in law, was cheating on her husband, nor was it any great secret that the husband was also stepping out. So Roe, despite her fondness for Poppy, always kind of knew the marriage wouldn't last. What Roe didn't expect, however, was for the marriage to end in murder. But with so many possibilities of scorned lovers and enraged spouses, as many of Poppy's lovers were married, Poppy's murder could only be a result of her cheating ways. Right?

Aurora Teagarden Mysteries Omnibus 2 is an engaging collection of the last four books in this murder mystery series. Aurora, or Roe as she is known, is still a librarian; however she is no longer shy about expressing who she is or what she wants. Shrewd and determined, Roe's interest in murder and mystery is still as strong as ever, as is her perchance for finding herself in awkward and perilous situations. Entertaining as ever, these crafty and intelligent murder mysteries are the perfect way to spend the day.

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

On sale: 01 April 2011
Price (AU): $35.00
ISBN: 9780575096509
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Aurora / Murder
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Sookie Stackhouse #12

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Deadlocked by Charlaine Harris

What I Did, Or Didn't Do, For Love!

Having watched friends and loved ones marry, have children, and lead reasonably normal lives, at least for the most part, Sookie has often wondered what it would be like to have those things for herself. Yes, technically she is married to Eric, but a marriage to a vampire is not exactly legal, nor ideal when you only get to see your husband for a few hours a couple of nights a week. Not too mention the added stress of a vampire Queen out to claim your husband for her own.

But, as always, Sookie has other matters to tend to. Eric has been framed for a murder she is not entirely sure he is innocent off, having caught him feeding from the victim only minutes before her murdered body was found. The fae left behind on this side are becoming increasingly restless and dangerous, not just to each other but the wider population. There are also complications with the weres, or at least one were in particular who would like to see the end of Sookie. Then there is the cluviel dor.

Deadlocked sees Sookie trapped between a rock and a hard place. While it is true the fae cannot lie that does not mean they cannot deceive and being family the betrayal will cut deep. Meanwhile her relationship with Eric is strained at best and while both are looking to the other for an act that will prove their love, neither are willing to act themselves. However the sacrifice Sookie makes for love is not the one anyone would have expected and despite how much she cares, in the end love will break her heart.

Charlaine Harris Webpage
Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 May 2012
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780575096585
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Cluviel Dor
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Aurora Teagarden Omnibus 1

AURORA TEAGARDEN:
The Aurora Teagarden Mysteries Omnibus 1 
by Charlaine Harris

One Real Murder Can Change Your Life!

Real Murders.

The real murderers met once a month to discuss real murders. It's a group made up of people with an interest in murders from the past. It's a place to discuss, investigate and ponder the motives and means behind true crimes. But things begin to take a turn for the worst when Aurora, or Roe as she is known, discovers the victim of a very new real murder and comes to realizes that one of their own really is a real murderer. If she can survive this encounter she may have another situation on her hands with not one but two potential love interests.

A Bone To Pick.

Getting over a broken heart is never easy, especially when having to attend the wedding of the one who broke it. But Roe has other matters to attend too such as dealing with three weddings, a funeral, a break-in, a birth and a very unwanted mystery involving a murder and a headless corpse. The one good thing in Roe's life, a newly gained inheritance that should have been cause for celebration, was beginning to be more trouble then it was worth, and considering the sum of that inheritance that was really saying something.

Three Bedrooms One Corpse.

After giving up her job as a librarian, Roe decides to try her hand as a real estate salesperson; after all it was a business she was expected to inherit from her mother, so she may as well give it a go while she had the time. However after her first experience Roe just knew it wasn't for her. It had nothing to do with strikingly handsome man she was dangerously attracted to, nor had it anything to do with the dead body they discovered within the house. The job just wasn't for her. But in the middle of house hunting, falling in love and fighting for her life she may just manage to solve a murder or two.

The Julius House.

The Julius house was an old mystery, six years old in fact. In one day the Julius family had disappeared from that house, no warning, no clues and no reason behind the disappearance. Now the house was Roe's as was the mystery. Just how had one family disappeared into thin air? It is a mystery she cannot resist, unfortunately there is another mystery Roe must solve, one much more frightening and extremely more important to her personally, that of her fiancés past. But while solving one mystery may be a matter of pure curiosity, the answers from the second mystery will change her life.

Aurora Teagarden Mysteries Omnibus 1 is an intriguing collection of the first four books in this murder mystery series. Aurora, or Roe as she is known, is a shy librarian, a failed real estate salesperson, an extremely curious woman and an intelligent but stubborn lady. With a little too much time on her hands and an interest in real murders, all this equates to a woman who will and has found herself in more then one dangerous and troubling situation. Despite her drawbacks, following Roe through a series of mysterious murders has been as fun and entertaining as it has been thrilling and clever.

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

On sale: 01 December 2010
Price (AU): $35.00
ISBN: 9780575096479
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Aurora / Murder
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Lily Bard Omnibus

LILY BARD:
The Lily Bard Mysteries Omnibus by Charlaine Harris

Life In A Small Town Can Be Murder!

Shakespeare's Landlord.

Lily Bard is trying to keep a low profile, stay invisible, but she soon learns that is an impossibility in a small town. With a shattered past and a fear of discovery, the last thing Lily wanted was to be implicated in a murder, however she reluctantly finds that if she is to prove her innocence she is going to have to solve this murder on her own. But in retrospect the death of Shakespeare's landlord could have been the best thing to ever happen to Lily.

Shakespeare's Champion.

When Lily unwittingly steps in to break it up a public fight, she also puts herself in the middle of the towns growing tensions. Not long after she discovers a murder victim. When all she wanted was to be left in quiet, she is again drawn into the lives of those in this small town discovering she is losing more friends then she realised she ever had. If Lily is to survive this race war with her life she is going to have to get to the bottom of this murder.

Shakespeare's Christmas.

Christmas isn't Christmas without family, food and a murder or two. As Lily heads home for the holidays, and also for her sisters wedding, Lily is facing up to some old demons. However someone has kidnapped a child and is desperate enough to kill any who would dare take that child from them. Unavoidably Lily becomes involved, but this time she is not alone. With Jack by her side Lily will uncover a devastating truth and discover a new side of herself.

Shakespeare's Trollop.

When Lily discovers the body of the town trollop in a compromising position she, as with everyone else in town, must assume that the murderer is one of her lovers. Meaning that just about every man in town is a suspect. However as the clues are gathered Lily must admit that things are not adding up. But in a case where little makes sense and where one death leads to another, discovering the truth will not be easy.

Shakespeare's Counselor.

The time has come for Lily to face her past if she is to embrace her future. Very reluctant to join but determined to do so, Lily begins attending meetings for rape survivors. Unfortunately after only a few weeks someone has decided to send a message to her group in the form of a murdered rape victim. As the bodies pile up in this dangerous game of cat and mouse, Lily experiences great loss, abuse of her trust and ultimately a new future.

Lily Bard Mysteries Omnibus is a great series of Who-Done-It tales centred around a strong, independent, intelligent women with a dark past and no future. Written without any supernatural influence by a skilled author of the genre, these in-depth and well thought out murder mysteries will keep you guessing just as much its well developed and colourful characters will keep you entertained.

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

On sale: 01 January 2011
Price (AU): $35.00
ISBN: 9780575096448
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Lily / Murder
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Sookie Stackhouse - The Sookie Stackhouse Companion

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
The Sookie Stackhouse Companion by Charlaine Harris
  

'A Complete Guide To The Sookie Stackhouse Series'
  

Welcome to Bon Temps, a cosy little town where a freakishly high number of supernatural's call home and where life is anything but easy and laid back. For Sookie, a telepath, life has drastically changed since the vamps came out of the coffin a few years back. More specifically her life changed the night she met her first vampire, Bill, and ever since then she has never looked back.

Several years, and books, later Sookie is still solving, plotting and uncovering murders in her own unique corner of the south. However just because Sookie is a mind reader does not necessarily gain her access to every secret hidden within the minds of those she encounters, such as the private dialogues between Eric and Bill that are now revealed. Nor had she any idea that the Chocolate Cake Caroline Bellefleur is famous for is a scandalously easy recipe to follow.

The Sookie Stackhouse Companion is a comprehensive peak into a small southern town and the people who call it home. While Charlaine Harris sits down to a q&a, Sookie gives up all her knowledge on the supernatural beings that have had a great impact on her once simple life. This is a perfect way to rediscover the books, test your knowledge on the events in Sookie's life and enjoy something new in a bonus short story.

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 September 2011
Price (AU): $32.99
ISBN: 9780575097537
Recommended age: 18
In a word: Sookie Stackhouse
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Sookie Stackhouse #11

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris

If You Had Just One Wish!

Sookie is a girl who over a short period of time has managed to collect many enemies, but while some will go all out to get her or die trying, others are already dead. Living in this state of constant danger, knowing that at any moment someone could strike her down, is taking its toll and as Sookie's enemies move against her and those she loves, Sookie and the gang decide it time to take matters into their own hands.

As a telepath Sookie is used to keeping secrets, many of them not even her own; however she is not so used to having secrets kept from her. Now it seems that all those closest to her, all those whose thoughts she can't hear, are keeping things from her. But meanwhile Sookie is distracted with the discovery of the truth of her past, her realization of her true feelings for her vampire husband and her admitting to herself what she truly wants from her life.

Dead Reckoning is less the murder mystery that we have come to expect from this series and more a murder plot, with the one exception of a spur of the moment killing. There is plenty to sink your teeth into in this book, killers on the loose, vampire politics, treasures revealed, fairy plots and a baby showing to throw. But underneath it all is the continuing story of Sookie that is just as amazing, horrible and addictive as ever. Also look out for an appearance from Charlaine's other heroine Lily Bard.

Charlaine Harris Webpage
Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780575096530
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Secrets
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Sookie Stackhouse #10

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris

Family Matters!

Sookie is coming to terms both physically and emotionally with the outcome of the recent Fairy War. Not only have lives been lost including Claudine's, her cousin and fairy godmother, but others have left her with no prospect of returning. Amelia is returning to New Orleans and Niall and the fairies have left this world for their fairy land never to return.

For a woman with little family remaining Sookie is inundated with family requests. Claude, Sookie's gorgeous and arrogant cousin, asks to move in but he is not the only fairy prowling around Sookie's home. Hunter's father Remy asks for assistance with Hunter's gift and Jason, thankfully, is settling down again spending more quality time with his sister.

But Sookie is not the only one to be affected by family. Bill, still suffering from silver poisoning, pays a family visit and is intern paid a visit by long lost 'family'. And with her recent marriage to Eric, and the blood bond between them, Sookie is feeling the effects of the in-laws more acutely then ever when Eric is plagued by 'family' of his own.

Dead in the Family sees family descend and their problems dictate over the lives of Sookie and her friends as only family can. But when your family feuds involve vampires and fairies someone is likely to end up seriously maimed, if not staked. But you can hardly refuse family, even if they are unwelcome and unwanted. Another Sookie tale that is as addictive and bloody as ever.

Charlaine Harris Webpage
Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 June 2010
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780575089334
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Family
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
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Sookie Stackhouse #9

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris

Here Come The Bride!

As the vampires before them the were-community has now decided it is time to reveal themselves to the world. The second great revelation seems to be going well, at least in Sookie's little town of Bon Temps, that is until a body is discovered, a body of a werepanther and suddenly it seems that people aren't as accepting as they might have seemed.

With Jason once again looking guilty Sookie decides to put her mental powers to the task of proving his innocence, however past actions have come back to haunt Sookie with the authorities hot on her trail, and old friendships will prove to be deadly. Things get even more complicated when old loves clash with new.

Meanwhile Sookie has her hands full at work when Sam is distracted with a personal crisis, however he is still able to find time to berate her when she dose something stupid, even though it just may have been the only thing to save her from a greater evil. But another war is fast on her heals, and for once it has nothing to do with vampires, weres or witches.

Dead and Gone continues Sookie's adventures into an alternate reality where vampires, werewolves and fairies coexist with the humans, even if humans are not always aware of their existence. A truly addictive series that is highly recommended to those looking for a supernatural mystery with bite.

Charlaine Harris Webpage
Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

Sookie Stackhouse

On sale: 01 April 2010
ISBN: 9780575085527
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Fairies
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
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Harper Connelly #4

HARPER CONNELLY:
Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris

The Dead Can Wait For A Long, Long Time!

Harper and Tolliver were heading to Dallas. This was not a business trip, it was personal. A visit to their sisters, and Tolliver's brother. However if making a quick stop off was going to make a very rich Lizzie Joyce very happy and also put some money in their hands then what is the harm in that?

Just as things had started to come together for Harper and Tolliver, their past comes back to haunt them. Although they live with the scares of their past everyday, this time their past has appeared in the form of Matthew, Toliver's father. Matthew is desperate for reconciliation with his sons; he is also stalking his daughters.

However Tolliver has just been shot and others have been murdered, although Harper maybe the real one in danger. And after all these years there is also sudden news of Cameron, Harpers missing sister. Harper is left to figure out what role if any Matthew plays in all this, or is everything that's going wrong all to do with the job they did for Lizzie Joyce?

The fourth and final book in the Harper Connelly series, Grave Secret brings Harper's story to a close tying up all the loose ends in a neat package. Harpers life while not conventional in any sense of the word is a source of mystery and intrigue. A fitting end to a short but ever so intriguing whodunit series.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

 

On sale: 01 November 2009
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780575085541
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Family
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Harper Connelly #3

HARPER CONNELLY:
An Ice Cold Grave by Charlaine Harris

Happiness Amidst Death!

In Memphis Xylda told Harper "In the time of ice, you'll be so happy". At the time Harper had no idea what Xylda was talking about, as is the way with Xylda, but now Harper is about to find out just how happy she can be while chasing a serial killer in the freezing town of Doraville.

Harper and Tolliver have been hired to search for a missing grandson. At the time of the disappearance it was put forward by the then Sheriff that the boy had simply runaway, but many others weren't convinced. As it turns out there were more then a few disappearances of teen boys that were ruled as runaways.

Harper has stumbled upon eight bodies, all boys who were cruelly tortured, abused and left to die. It is the first time she has ever discovered so many bodies at one time. It is her first experience with a serial killer. It is also the first time she has realised that Tolliver maybe keeping a secret from her. Harper and Tolliver are about to come clean with their secrets, and afterwards things will never be the same again.

An Ice Cold Grave mixes the horror and heartache of a small town stalked by a serial killer with the beginnings of a new romance. There is loss and sadness in this story, but even amongst all the panic and fear we are given faith, hope and a story of love. Not everyone may be happy with the events of this story, but it is both well written and intriguing. A must read for any Harper fan.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

 

On sale: 09 October 2008
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9780575083998
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Death
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Harper Connelly #2

HARPER CONNELLY:
Grave Surprise by Charlaine Harris

Its Never To Late ... !

Harper and her stepbrother Tolliver have been invited to Memphis to give a demonstration. Dr Nunley, who teaches an unorthodox class at Bingham College, has it in mind to expose Harper as a fraud. But when Harper makes a surprising discovery at the old cemetery, even Dr Nunley is left speechless.

Harper had finally found Tabitha Morgenstern who had disappeared eighteen months ago in Nashville; only its months later and in the wrong city. Something about all this was not quite right, and when a new body turns up Harper and Tolliver decide its time they did some investigating of their own.

However, Harper finds herself distracted with prophecies, and ghosts and other things... Harper is accused of having more then one suitor. But is it the teenager Victor who is so obviously hiding a secret or two? the black leathered, white haired, pierced all over Manfred who so obviously has feelings for Harper? or is it the last person Harper expected, who will capture her affections?

Harper is gifted, strangely so, but despite her unique talent and association with death she is still very human and very likeable. As a character Harper is attainable and full of personality, her story highly imaginative while still remaining grounded. A thrilling mystery and a great read.

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

On sale: 01 September 2008
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9780575082878
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Mystery
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Harper Connelly #1

HARPER CONNELLY:
Grave Sight by Charlaine Harris

A Gift From God, A Servant Of The Devil,

A Product Of Lightning!

Harper Connelly is not your average girl, she has a 'gift'. She can find the dead. She can't talk to them or see them, only find their bodies after their life has expired. Harper makes her living using the gift god, and a lighting bolt, gave her; and not everyone likes that.

Harper and her stepbrother Tolliver have entered the town of Sarne, or as Harper likes to think of it Hell, for nothing seems to go right from the moment they enter the town. It was supposed to be a simple job, a quick in and a quick out. Unfortunately someone has murder on the mind, and Harper and Tolliver have just been dragged along for the ride.

Even in small towns there are secrets, some more deadly then others and someone will stop at nothing to keep the truth, and a few bodies, buried. Harper's gift has unwittingly brought a whole lot trouble down on the residents of Sarne, and in turn trouble has hit Harper and Tolliver, hard. Harper has sworn that she will never again set foot in Sarne, if only she can live long enough to leave.

Charlaine Harris has created yet another strong, intriguing and unique heroin in Harper Connelly. Grave Surprise is a murder mystery with a twist; where the paranormal meets the everyday. Every character in this story has their own history and quirks making them substantial and instantly familiar. A murder mystery that is exciting, fast paced and full of surprises.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

 

On sale: 01 November 2007
Price (AU): $12.95
ISBN: 9780575079236
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Murder
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Sookie Stackhouse - A Touch Of Dead

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
A Touch Of Dead by Charlaine Harris

Sookie's Quick Bites!

A Touch Of Dead is a collection of five short stories from the Sookie Stackhouse series that has been published here together for the first time.

Fairy Dust. (takes place after Dead To The World)

Claudine enlists Sookie's help to find a murderer. A fairy has been murdered and only Sookie has the skills to discover who murdered the fairy, and why? But will she be able to discover the truth before the fairies decide to take matters into their own hands?

Dracula Night. (takes place before Dead As A Doornail)

Eric is excited, it's his favourite time of the year, and a huge party has been planed for the event. Sookie has received an invitation to a birthday at Fangtasia, but it is not Eric's, its Dracula's, and rumour has it this year he just might show up...

One Word Answer. (takes place after Dead As A Doornail)

News of Sookie's cousin Hadley arrives in the form of a demonic lawyer, and he's not alone; he comes with vampires. Sookie is about to discover what has become of Hadley, she is also set a task that seems almost impossible to her. But is this one offer she can't refuse?

Lucky. (takes place after All Together Dead)

A mystery has landed on Sookie's doorstep in the form of an insurance agent with magical powers. It's a simple case, or so detective Stackhouse and her partner inspector Broadway thought. But even with a telepath and a witch on the case, they are going to have to be more then good to crack this mystery, they are going to have to be lucky.

Gift Wrap. (takes place before Dead And Gone)

Sookie has accepted the fact that this year she is spending Christmas alone; or so she thought. Someone has gone to a great deal of trouble to make this Christmas one Sookie will never forget; but will it be the killer Were on her doorstep, the naked man in her living room, or the surprise guest for dinner that is the most memorable this Christmas?

This book is invaluable to any Sookie Stackhouse fan, and if you're not a fan you should be. So many hidden gems from the Sookie Stackhouse universe are revealed as we learn all those glorious bits of inconsequential snippets of the lives affecting our heroin, Sookie. These are the background stories that enrich the series, a must read.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

Charlaine Harris @ Hachette

On sale: 01 October 2009
Price (AU): $29.99
ISBN: 9780575094437
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Short Bites
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
xx

Sookie Stackhouse - Gift Wrap

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Gift Wrap by Charlaine Harris

The Best Presents Can't Be Wrapped!

Gift Wrap is a short story in the Sookie Stackhouse universe that has been published in the book Wolfsbane And Mistletoe. A book of short stories about the furred persuasion and the Christmas spirit from a number of different authors.

Sookie is about to have one hell of a Christmas. She is not speaking to her brother, her great-grandfather is not exactly the Christmas type, and her house mate Amelia has left her for the holidays to be with her own family. All in all this is shaping up to be one lonely Christmas.

But her brother has planned a surprise for Sookie, one she may not like. Mostly because of the danger it seems to have put her in, but she's not the only one. Another tall, dark and naked man has appeared at Sookies home seeking help, and Sookie can never say no to a person in need.

However, things are not always as they seem, as someone else has plans to surprise the unsuspecting Sookie with a gift of their own. A gift like no other has been arranged for Sookie, and it will come from the most unlikely of sources. Christmas is no time to be alone and lucky for Sookie this year she doesn't have to be.

A lovely story of family, love and yuletide cheer. An intriguing story with a twist that you will never see coming, but with an ending to warm the heart. This story takes place before Dead And Gone, the eight story in the Sookie Stackhouse series.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

On sale: 01 September 2008
ISBN: 9780441016334
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Christmas
Re-read it: possibly
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
xx

Sookie Stackhouse #8

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
From Dead To Worse by Charlaine Harris

Everything Has Changed, But Nothing Is Different!

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the disaster of the Vampire Summit, Sookie Stackhouse had hoped things might finally return to normal; as normal as things can be for a telepath. But many lives, and dead lives, had been lost with many others left wounded. There was a lot to recover from; uncertainty and danger surrounded Sookie as the vampires struggled to protect a weakened Queen, and the werewolves drew ever closer to taking out their own pack.

Sookie, however, has other things on her mind. There was the double wedding to start with, not to mention the total disappearance of her boyfriend Quinn, at least she thinks he is still her boyfriend, but she's not heard from him in so long she and can't be certain of his feelings. Also, someone is gong out of their way to make life difficult for Sookie and those close to her.

Sookie is in for a lot of surprises, a few are even family related and Hadley also manages to deliver a bombshell from the beyond. Eric has a revelation of his own and even Sam has a few tricks up his sleeves, or at least under his clothing. Sookie finds out that even a telepath can be surprised as everyone seems to have something their keeping from her, but the biggest betrayal will come from someone she loves.

This book is chockfull of excitement, events and surprises, right up until the very last page. An enjoyable read to pass the time and a great story in the continuing adventures of Sookie Stackhouse.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

On sale: 01 April 2009
Price (US): $7.99
ISBN: 9780441017010
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Families
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
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Sookie Stackhouse - Lucky

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Lucky by Charlaine Harris

Lucky Rabbits My Foot!

Lucky is a short story in the Sookie Stackhouse universe that has been published in the book Unusual Suspects. A book of short stories about paranormal detectives and supernatural criminals from a number of different authors.

Sookie Stackhouse and her house mate Amelia Broadway were just in the middle of a very important operation when they were interrupted by the door bell. Greg Aubert, Sookie's local insurance agent, has just arrived in time to watch the paint dry on Sookie and Amelia's toenails. But without the need for any claims, Sookie is at a loss as to the why the full time insurance agent, part time witch, has arrived on her door step.

Greg has come to Sookie to beg a favour, with a few threats thrown in for good measure. Someone has broken into his office, someone has rifled through his files, but worst of all someone may have discovered Greg's magical secret. Somehow, Sookie and Amelia have been roped into finding out who is behind it, and why?

As Sookie and Amelia delve deeper into the mystery they find more suspects then they bargained for, and some very surprising culprits. Not to mention some twisted magic, a stray vampire, and more danger then thought possible for a little investigation such as this.

An interesting little story that tells of balance in all things, even magic, and that life is every bit as complicated as people are. Even the mystery of Terry's dogs is revealed during Sookie and Amelia's inquiries. This story takes place after All Together Dead, the seventh story in the Sookie Stackhouse series.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

On sale: 01 December 2008
ISBN: 9780441016372
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Lucky
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: three out of five
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Sookie Stackhouse #7

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris

Better The Vampire You Know!

Sookie Stackhouse is about to attend the long anticipated Vampire Summit on the shores of Lake Michigan. Despite the numerous warnings from friends and ominous feelings of danger, Sookie is going. She says she is looking forward to traveling to a new city and experiencing something new, but in truth Sookie is going mostly for the money. That and if a vampire wants you to attend then you'll attend, especially if that vampire is a Queen.

Sophie-Anne Leclerq, Vampire Queen of Louisiana, has 'requested' Sookie attend the summit. Sophie-Anne is finding herself in a dangerous position heading into the summit; she has suffered a massive financial and personal loss in the wake of the hurricane damage to her powerbase in New Orleans. Also the Queen is to stand trial for the murder of her husband, she stands to lose everything, and Sookie is the only witness to her innocence.

Politics is rife at the summit and it's not unusual for those in attendance to fear assassination. Some will go to extreme lengths to protect themselves as Sookie finds out, and a moment's decision will force Sookie into a bad situation that will inevitably strengthen her bond with Eric. However this is not such a good thing considering Sookie is still in the beginnings of a relationship with the new man in her life, the were-tiger Quinn's. But that is not the only thing putting strain on this relationship, as at the summit Sookie also discovers Quinn's violent past.

At the summit Sookie discovers she is not the only telepath present, Barry the Bellboy whom she met in Dallas is there with the Dallas vampires. But the summit, crawling with vampires and their entourages, has also attracted the attentions of those extremist who's only purpose is to eradicate all vampires. The summit is set to end with a BANG! and not everyone is going to make it out alive.

A load of new characters and new supernatural beings are introduced in this politically themed story, and every moment is packed with action. Fast pased and terribly intriguing.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

 

On sale: 01 April 2008
Price (US): $7.99
ISBN: 9780441015818
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Politics
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
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Sookie Stackhouse - Dancers In The Dark

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Dancers In The Dark by Charlaine Harris

Obsession can be Murder!

Dancers In The Dark is a short story in the Sookie Stackhouse universe that has been published in the book Night's Edge. A book of short stories about horror and romance from three different authors.

Sookie Stackhouse does not feature in this story.
Instead we are introduced to Rue, she is a student struggling to get by and in her desperation for cash she answers a want add for a job dancing. Rue is a good dancer and is happy to make money doing something she loves, however there is one catch. Rue will have to dance with a vampire. She never thought she would see herself associate with a vampire, but worse still at the end of each dance performance that vampire is going to have to bite her. It's all part of the act, she is told.

When Rue joined the dance company it was Sean she was partnered with. Sean is a very old vampire, and has been dancing for many many years. But Sean hasn't survived all these years without knowing a thing or two about those he associates with. And it doesn't take long for Sean to figure out that Rue is not all that she seems. She is hiding something, or is in hiding? Sean hasn't quite figured it out yet, but he will.

Sean and Rue find they are developing feeling for each other, but are they able to find a way to trust each other when they have both given each other reasons not to? And will Rue be able to escape her past, or her fate with death?

It's a lovely, romantic short story with a tragic ending that will leave you with mixed feelings. Well thought out characters and an interesting plot. As long as you have read the first Sookie Stackhouse novel you will have a basic understanding of the background to this story. However this story also provides background for All Together Dead, the seventh story in the Sookie Stackhouse series.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

 

On sale: 01 October 2004
ISBN: 9780373770106
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Romance
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
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Sookie Stackhouse #6

SOOKIE STACKHOUSE:
Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris

It's All In The Blood!

Sookie is once again called away from her little home town of Bon Temps on account of a vampire. Only this time it is to the city of New Orleans, and the vampire is her cousin, Hadley. Actually I should say 'was', for as we found out in the short story One Word Answer, Hadley had been killed, and Sookie is off to New Orleans to clean out Hadley's apartment and close out her estate.

But before Sookie can leave Bon Temps there is plenty to keep her occupied. Her ability is called upon to help a co-worker, and there are new people in Sookie's life. One is a new co-worker that Sookie is suspicious off, one is a new worker at Fangtasia, a vampire, who Sookie takes a liking too, and one is a man that Sookie takes a real liking too.

Once Sookie arives in New Orleans, things don't go as smoothly as Sookie hopes. There are surprises awaiting Sookie in Hadley's apartment. There are friends, and enemies, new and old. Kings and Queens, killers and kidnappers. There are obligations, revelations, allegations, confrontations, confessions, broken hearts, broken bodies and fancy dresses.

Sookie is shown New Orleans in all its forms, from the bright lights of the city, to the grand old Garden District, to the dark and damp swamps and bayous, whether she wanted to see it or not.

Sookie is learning more and more about the supernatural community everyday, and so too are we. Every moment brings new excitement and new challenges, this book will keep you on your toes and keep you guessing. I recommend reading the short story One Word Answer by Charlaine Harris, found in the book Bite, before reading this book as it provides a lot of background for this story, although I should say it is not entirely necessary.

 

Charlaine Harris Webpage

 

On sale: 01 April 2007
Price (US): $7.99
ISBN: 9780441014910
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Heart
Re-read it: probably
Recommend: to those reading the series
Star rating: four out of five
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