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The Iron Druid Chronicles #9.4
Canines and Cocktails
Snuggle up with three delightful tales of dogs and drinks from the minds of New York Times bestselling authors Delilah S. Dawson, Kevin Hearne, and Chuck Wendig.
Oberon the Irish wolfhound and his Boston terrier buddy, Starbuck, not only witness humans waste perfectly good sausage, but also a sneaky murder committed right before their eyes in THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE by Kevin Hearne. Justice demands that someone pay for both crimes, and together with their Druid, Atticus O'Sullivan, and D.I. Rose Badgely of the Launceston police, they'll show the dastardly villain they messed with the wrong good dogs.
THE BARTENDER AND THE BEAST introduces the enchanting world of Arcadia Falls, the setting for Delilah S. Dawson's return to Paranormal Romance. When no-nonsense bartender Cassia King returns to her sleepy hometown in the Georgia mountains to help her sister, she can’t help falling for well-dressed wildlife rehabilitator Riley. But as Cash learns, Arcadia Falls has a secret, and so does the bar's rescue pit bull, Peach Pit...
In WHISKEY SOUR by Chuck Wendig, It was the end of the world and Harry Campbell wanted a drink. He's one of the few who remained in Ouray, Colorado, after everything went to hell -- and has decided to willfully fall off the wagon and find a way to make a cocktail he once loved, the whiskey sour. His quest to make a drink will take him beyond the borders of Ouray and into the world fallen under the shadow of the now-gone White Mask disease. But, he won't do it alone -- Shepherd Marcy Reyes lends him the courage and pluck of the golden retriever known as Gumball to help him stay alive and stay sane in the process. But Harry's journey holds a greater, more secret purpose -- he has questions that remain unanswered about what the rogue AI called Black Swan did to them all, and he intends to have those answers, even if they change him, and perhaps the world, forever.
Oberon the Irish wolfhound and his Boston terrier buddy, Starbuck, not only witness humans waste perfectly good sausage, but also a sneaky murder committed right before their eyes in THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE by Kevin Hearne. Justice demands that someone pay for both crimes, and together with their Druid, Atticus O'Sullivan, and D.I. Rose Badgely of the Launceston police, they'll show the dastardly villain they messed with the wrong good dogs.
THE BARTENDER AND THE BEAST introduces the enchanting world of Arcadia Falls, the setting for Delilah S. Dawson's return to Paranormal Romance. When no-nonsense bartender Cassia King returns to her sleepy hometown in the Georgia mountains to help her sister, she can’t help falling for well-dressed wildlife rehabilitator Riley. But as Cash learns, Arcadia Falls has a secret, and so does the bar's rescue pit bull, Peach Pit...
In WHISKEY SOUR by Chuck Wendig, It was the end of the world and Harry Campbell wanted a drink. He's one of the few who remained in Ouray, Colorado, after everything went to hell -- and has decided to willfully fall off the wagon and find a way to make a cocktail he once loved, the whiskey sour. His quest to make a drink will take him beyond the borders of Ouray and into the world fallen under the shadow of the now-gone White Mask disease. But, he won't do it alone -- Shepherd Marcy Reyes lends him the courage and pluck of the golden retriever known as Gumball to help him stay alive and stay sane in the process. But Harry's journey holds a greater, more secret purpose -- he has questions that remain unanswered about what the rogue AI called Black Swan did to them all, and he intends to have those answers, even if they change him, and perhaps the world, forever.
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Published March 25, 2024
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About the author
Kevin Hearne
75 books12.8k followersKevin is the NYT bestselling author of the Iron Druid Chronicles, as well as The Seven Kennings, an epic fantasy trilogy, and the Tales of Pell, a humorous fantasy series co-authored with Delilah S. Dawson. INK & SIGIL, a new urban fantasy series set in the Iron Druid universe, will be out in 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 6, 2024
Canines and Cocktails is a fun three-story anthology from Kevin Hearne, Delilah S. Dawson, and Chuck Wendig.
THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE is an Oberon Meaty mystery, with the story shared from the POV of Irish wolfhound, Oberon. Chronologically, the story takes place some time after the conclusion of the IDC series, and running parallel to the Ink & Sigil series. It is fun to catch up with Atticus and the gang, learning about their lives as they settle down free from the worry of Ragnarok and being hunted by various gods. Best for fans of the series. Luke Daniels, the voice of the IDC, brings the story to life and gives his usual A+ performance.
THE BARTENDER AND THE BEAST is an enjoyable story about Cassia King and her return home to her small town after a five-year absence. She’s grown up; the high school bullies have not. I believe this is the start of a new series, and I’m excited to find out more. The world is interesting, with a touch of magic, and the characters are well-developed. The story is filled with vivid details and exciting beginnings. Shana Pennington-Baird is a great fit for MC Cash, but her males aren’t overly masculine sounding, and I often confused the bullies and supporting females.
WHISKEY SOUR is a somber, post-apocalyptic tale featuring sober bartender Harry, who has decided he wants a special drink. The story jumps in time to give listeners an idea of Harry’s past and glimpses as to what happened to the world. The story is about Harry coming to terms with his life’s choices and his alcoholism. It was interesting but not engaging. And it was more like a slice of life than a full story. Adam Verner’s cadence and intonation are perfect for this slow, meandering story.
Overall, I enjoyed the Canines and Cocktails anthology. I bought it just for the Hearne story which was lovely and a fitting farewell to the series (although the characters make an appearance in his upcoming book). I also enjoyed Dawson’s story, and I am interested in reading more. The Wendig story was a bit slow and maudlin but still a decent listen.
Ratings:
Stories: B
Narration: A-
THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE is an Oberon Meaty mystery, with the story shared from the POV of Irish wolfhound, Oberon. Chronologically, the story takes place some time after the conclusion of the IDC series, and running parallel to the Ink & Sigil series. It is fun to catch up with Atticus and the gang, learning about their lives as they settle down free from the worry of Ragnarok and being hunted by various gods. Best for fans of the series. Luke Daniels, the voice of the IDC, brings the story to life and gives his usual A+ performance.
THE BARTENDER AND THE BEAST is an enjoyable story about Cassia King and her return home to her small town after a five-year absence. She’s grown up; the high school bullies have not. I believe this is the start of a new series, and I’m excited to find out more. The world is interesting, with a touch of magic, and the characters are well-developed. The story is filled with vivid details and exciting beginnings. Shana Pennington-Baird is a great fit for MC Cash, but her males aren’t overly masculine sounding, and I often confused the bullies and supporting females.
WHISKEY SOUR is a somber, post-apocalyptic tale featuring sober bartender Harry, who has decided he wants a special drink. The story jumps in time to give listeners an idea of Harry’s past and glimpses as to what happened to the world. The story is about Harry coming to terms with his life’s choices and his alcoholism. It was interesting but not engaging. And it was more like a slice of life than a full story. Adam Verner’s cadence and intonation are perfect for this slow, meandering story.
Overall, I enjoyed the Canines and Cocktails anthology. I bought it just for the Hearne story which was lovely and a fitting farewell to the series (although the characters make an appearance in his upcoming book). I also enjoyed Dawson’s story, and I am interested in reading more. The Wendig story was a bit slow and maudlin but still a decent listen.
Ratings:
Stories: B
Narration: A-
April 3, 2024
Woot! I love a good anthology, especially if it's from authors I regularly listen to. All three authors are outstanding and I've devoured their novels & series. Oberon's Meaty Mysteries is a subseries to the Iron Druid Chronicles by Hearne. I love these adventures filled with sausage, gravy and sometimes murder. Look out for squirrels! Dawson's book is a peek into her new paranormal romance series and I am excited for more. Wendig takes us to dark places and his story is set in the world of the Wanderers, a dystopian science fiction that I high recommend.
THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE by Kevin Hearne, narrated by Luke Daniels- Fantastic story! When the gang is out for drinks and treats and by treats, I mean tasty sausages on a chartreuse board, things go topsy-turvy with not one but two murders. D.I. Rose Badgely is investigating. When Oberon observes something, it leads Atticus to reveal his own secrets. I had a blast with this one from beginning to end. We even got to see some old friends and catch up. Daniels does a stellar job of capturing Oberon's enthusiasm, as well as delivering the voices of these beloved characters. 5 cups of coffee.
THE BARTENDER AND THE BEAST by Delilah S. Dawson narrated by Shana Pennington-Baird. In this paranormal story, Dawson introduces listeners to Arcadia Falls where we meet bartender, Cassia King, her sister and wildlife rehabilitator Riley. We also met the adorable rescue pug, Peach Pit, who spends her evenings on a cushy chair at the bar. Dead bodies and trouble from Cassia's past made for an intriguing introduction. I am excited to return to this small Georgia town. Pennington-Baird captured Cassia's spunk and the voice of the other characters making listening my first choice. 4.5 cups of coffee.
WHISKEY SOUR by Chuck Wendig narrated by Adam Verner. This story takes place in the Wanderers world. We go back to Ouray, Colorado and the events in this story take place after book two, Wayward. Harry Campbell, a recovering alcoholic and the town's bartender, decides he is going to have a drink and not just any. He wants a Whiskey Sour, but to do that, he'll need to go beyond the borders of their town and seek the fruit man. This was an interesting story as Harry travels with Gumball, a golden retriever provide by Shepard. As he travels, Harry is also in search of answers about Black Swan and what he did to humanity. This was a dark, thoughtful tale that I enjoyed. Verner did a great job bringing voice to Harry as he contemplated his existence. 4 cups of coffee.
Canines & Cocktails was a fun anthology collection from three of my must read authors. Fans of urban fantasy, paranormal romance and Dystopian science fiction will want to grab their earbuds and listen.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
January 24, 2025
The Chartreuse Chanteuse is another Oberon Meaty mystery (part of the Iron Druid series) and I just love these stories in the POV of the fabulous Irish Wolfhound, Oberon. And of course there's his adorable sidekick Starbuck, an adorable Frenchie.
Oberon's wit and love of sausage makes me laugh. Oberon and Starbuck are the 2 goodest dogs solving a mystery... and there better be some nice sausage as a reward!
I tried the other 2 stories but they were not for me. In Dawson's story I didn't like any of the characters and gave up halfway. For Wendig's story 3 chapters was more than enough for me.
My rating is for Kevin Hearne's story only. Usually I'll calculate the average rating of all stories I've read to rate an anthology but because I love Hearne's story so much I didn't want to give this anthology less than 5 stars.
Oberon's wit and love of sausage makes me laugh. Oberon and Starbuck are the 2 goodest dogs solving a mystery... and there better be some nice sausage as a reward!
I tried the other 2 stories but they were not for me. In Dawson's story I didn't like any of the characters and gave up halfway. For Wendig's story 3 chapters was more than enough for me.
My rating is for Kevin Hearne's story only. Usually I'll calculate the average rating of all stories I've read to rate an anthology but because I love Hearne's story so much I didn't want to give this anthology less than 5 stars.
August 31, 2025
Hearne - 4.25*
Dawson - 3.75*
Wendig- DNF This one felt like it was part of a series where I haven't read the other books. I might try it again some other time.
Dawson - 3.75*
Wendig- DNF This one felt like it was part of a series where I haven't read the other books. I might try it again some other time.
November 17, 2025
This was an anthology that I didn't even know about. That is....until I was reading the third and final book in the Ink and Sigil Series by Kevin Hearne and there was an Author's Foreword that mentions this book because of ONE particular story. Why in the world is that even important? Well, it really isn't.
Not to rehash things, but I was a pretty die hard fan of Atticus O'Sullivan in the Iron Druid Series. To say that I was NOT particularly happy with the way that series ended, well, with the actions of another Druid who Shall Not Be Named would probably be the understatement of the century. In my review, I think I said something like I hoped there might be a spinoff or another book that took us into the future to see how Atticus and Oberon were doing, but that I had absolutely NO desire to read another word about She Who Should Not Be Named. Here is the link to it if anybody cares: Scourged Review
The reason that this is even mentionable is that I wrote that review almost 7 years ago! 7 years and I still feel the same anger towards that character (fantastic writing Mr. Hearne!). So when Mr. Hearne started off this other book by mentioning that there was a short story that took us to Atticus and Oberon's new life, I was excited. So....here we are.
This was an anthology of three stories - the first being the aforementioned Atticus and Oberon story. It was GREAT. A wonderful way of getting a peek into their current life with the addition of a murder mystery as well. Luke Daniels always does a fantastic job narrating Oberon and this time was no different. To me, the book was worth it just for this story.
Then. the second story was by a "new to me" author Delilah S. Dawson and it felt like it might be the beginning of a new series. If it is, I would definitely be interested in continuing with the next book. I liked the FMC and the setting in the enchanting world of Arcadia Falls made for lots of possibilities.
The third book - by author Chuck Wendig was a pass. His name sounds familiar, but I'm not really sure if I've read anything by him in the past. The story itself did nothing for me but I was okay with that since the first two more than made up for it.
Not to rehash things, but I was a pretty die hard fan of Atticus O'Sullivan in the Iron Druid Series. To say that I was NOT particularly happy with the way that series ended, well, with the actions of another Druid who Shall Not Be Named would probably be the understatement of the century. In my review, I think I said something like I hoped there might be a spinoff or another book that took us into the future to see how Atticus and Oberon were doing, but that I had absolutely NO desire to read another word about She Who Should Not Be Named. Here is the link to it if anybody cares: Scourged Review
The reason that this is even mentionable is that I wrote that review almost 7 years ago! 7 years and I still feel the same anger towards that character (fantastic writing Mr. Hearne!). So when Mr. Hearne started off this other book by mentioning that there was a short story that took us to Atticus and Oberon's new life, I was excited. So....here we are.
This was an anthology of three stories - the first being the aforementioned Atticus and Oberon story. It was GREAT. A wonderful way of getting a peek into their current life with the addition of a murder mystery as well. Luke Daniels always does a fantastic job narrating Oberon and this time was no different. To me, the book was worth it just for this story.
Then. the second story was by a "new to me" author Delilah S. Dawson and it felt like it might be the beginning of a new series. If it is, I would definitely be interested in continuing with the next book. I liked the FMC and the setting in the enchanting world of Arcadia Falls made for lots of possibilities.
The third book - by author Chuck Wendig was a pass. His name sounds familiar, but I'm not really sure if I've read anything by him in the past. The story itself did nothing for me but I was okay with that since the first two more than made up for it.
September 30, 2024
I was unaware of this book until Kevin himself recommend I read it after I was complaining about the lack of closer we got in 'Scourged'.
Only the first story of the three is written by him and upon finishing it, I replied with the classic Adam Savage quote of "I reject your reality and substitute my own!". Needless to same, I don't consider that short story to be considered 'closer'. Honestly though, I won't consider anything other than my own mental fabrication to be cannon (sorry Kevin). That being said. It was fine for a 'who dun it' sort of story. It was the best IMO of the three, so I finished it quickly. Plus, I'm a sucker for Oberon's wit.
The second story was another Scooby-doo-esque caper about a girl coming home to the hills of Georgia to help her little sister by being a bartender at a local restaurant. She was, naturally, met with the warnings that a bear has been killing locals (including the former bartender). She has some very negative reunions with past friends, falls for a dude who help her care for a fawn, and bonds with the local bar dog. Things escalate and you learn that not everything is what it seems but she walks away unscathed and, of course, gets the guy.
The third had the hardest time keeping my attention. To be honest, I half-heartedly listened while I was cleaning. It's like Covid-meets-AI that resulted in a pandemic that left people dead or under the control of a Matrix inspired virus. The story centers around an 8-year-sober bartender who is determined to have a Whiskey Sour. He travels to get some citrus for it, only to bond with the produce guy as they commiserate over how the virus (Dubbed Black Swan) ruined them. I was honestly having a hard time following it or even getting invested enough to do so and only finished it so that it wouldn't end up on my DNF list.
Only the first story of the three is written by him and upon finishing it, I replied with the classic Adam Savage quote of "I reject your reality and substitute my own!". Needless to same, I don't consider that short story to be considered 'closer'. Honestly though, I won't consider anything other than my own mental fabrication to be cannon (sorry Kevin). That being said. It was fine for a 'who dun it' sort of story. It was the best IMO of the three, so I finished it quickly. Plus, I'm a sucker for Oberon's wit.
The second story was another Scooby-doo-esque caper about a girl coming home to the hills of Georgia to help her little sister by being a bartender at a local restaurant. She was, naturally, met with the warnings that a bear has been killing locals (including the former bartender). She has some very negative reunions with past friends, falls for a dude who help her care for a fawn, and bonds with the local bar dog. Things escalate and you learn that not everything is what it seems but she walks away unscathed and, of course, gets the guy.
The third had the hardest time keeping my attention. To be honest, I half-heartedly listened while I was cleaning. It's like Covid-meets-AI that resulted in a pandemic that left people dead or under the control of a Matrix inspired virus. The story centers around an 8-year-sober bartender who is determined to have a Whiskey Sour. He travels to get some citrus for it, only to bond with the produce guy as they commiserate over how the virus (Dubbed Black Swan) ruined them. I was honestly having a hard time following it or even getting invested enough to do so and only finished it so that it wouldn't end up on my DNF list.
August 10, 2024
Review for The Chartreuse Chanteuse by Kevin Hearne: A sticky mystery tangles things up for Oberon and Starbuck, but these plucky canine sleuths are willing to do their thing NO MATTER WHAT. Even if it means delicious sausages must go uneaten. These two goodest boys aren't about to let a crime that happened RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEM go unpunished.
Meanwhile, on the Atticus/Rose front, Atticus is about to take a big leap. He has to trust Rose to trust him enough to listen and understand why he couldn't tell her some of the things he's about to tell her when they first met. Which is a somewhat complicated way of saying that Atticus is about to spill the beans and Rose is about to have her world rocked. (Because dogs that understand humans and gods who walk the earth and all that jazz can be a little overwhelming.)
A truly terrible crime (which is to say on both the unaliving and sausage wastage front), some new old ways, a druid who is ready to take the next step in his relationship, and two very good boys who have CRIME to solve! MOST EXCELLENT
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Meanwhile, on the Atticus/Rose front, Atticus is about to take a big leap. He has to trust Rose to trust him enough to listen and understand why he couldn't tell her some of the things he's about to tell her when they first met. Which is a somewhat complicated way of saying that Atticus is about to spill the beans and Rose is about to have her world rocked. (Because dogs that understand humans and gods who walk the earth and all that jazz can be a little overwhelming.)
A truly terrible crime (which is to say on both the unaliving and sausage wastage front), some new old ways, a druid who is ready to take the next step in his relationship, and two very good boys who have CRIME to solve! MOST EXCELLENT
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 7, 2025
Kevin's Oberon meaty adventure was a hoot as usual. Despite the story being short, Hearne managed to get a fair about of canine hijinks in it.
Delilah's Arcadia Falls story was OK. No previous history with the author, so can't tell whether Cash King was part of an overall series or something new to this collab. Overall, story was also well written and despite the brevity, there was enough character development by the end of the tale.
The final story by Chuck Wendig was not my cut of tea. Thanks to a college course in which I was forced to read a crappy book by the title Black Swan, all future references to that title brings back unfavorable flashbacks. So Chuck's story started off on the wrong foot after the name of the bioengineered AI nano swarm was called B.S., and it did not get better. Several pages into the story I still had no idea what I was reading. I effectively stopped the story after the protagonist was handed a revolver with a "safety" for his protection to get lemons for a final drink.
Overall this book was OK.
Hearne - 4 stars
Dawson - 3 stars
Wendig - 1 star
Delilah's Arcadia Falls story was OK. No previous history with the author, so can't tell whether Cash King was part of an overall series or something new to this collab. Overall, story was also well written and despite the brevity, there was enough character development by the end of the tale.
The final story by Chuck Wendig was not my cut of tea. Thanks to a college course in which I was forced to read a crappy book by the title Black Swan, all future references to that title brings back unfavorable flashbacks. So Chuck's story started off on the wrong foot after the name of the bioengineered AI nano swarm was called B.S., and it did not get better. Several pages into the story I still had no idea what I was reading. I effectively stopped the story after the protagonist was handed a revolver with a "safety" for his protection to get lemons for a final drink.
Overall this book was OK.
Hearne - 4 stars
Dawson - 3 stars
Wendig - 1 star
March 30, 2024
Stories to pass the time. The first one with Oberon, Starbuck and Atticus was okay, there was a lot of filler writing just describing stuff instead of any plot at first, and then there came a story which was a bit limp - unimaginative and weak.
The second short story with a pitbull and the "returning-to-hometown-with ex- and new man" trope was okay, the story was familiar with different names and places. Filler romance.
The third short story was too bleak for me and a DNF.
The first two narrators kept me listening and I probably would have bailed on these first two stories if this book collection was on Kindle or paperback.
I've read some science fiction lately that had interesting ideas and plots, and therefore have higher expectations from experienced writers. There was nothing interesting here.
Kevin Hearne has done better writing and this was a filler book.
These food-themed short story/novelette books are just okay.
The second short story with a pitbull and the "returning-to-hometown-with ex- and new man" trope was okay, the story was familiar with different names and places. Filler romance.
The third short story was too bleak for me and a DNF.
The first two narrators kept me listening and I probably would have bailed on these first two stories if this book collection was on Kindle or paperback.
I've read some science fiction lately that had interesting ideas and plots, and therefore have higher expectations from experienced writers. There was nothing interesting here.
Kevin Hearne has done better writing and this was a filler book.
These food-themed short story/novelette books are just okay.
May 22, 2024
A good collection of three novellas, unrelated apart from the eponymous Canines and Cocktails.
The Chartreuse Chanteuse is an absolutely fabulous story in the Iron Druid/Oberon Meaty Mysteries series, it's wonderful and delightful and works incredibly well with everything that's come before in that series. Definitely the highlight, and the reason I bought this in the first place.
The Bartender and the Beast was very easy to read, and although I think I worked out the mystery a bit early, it still made for a good story. Not exactly my favoured style of 'universe', but still fairly good.
Whiskey Sour was the most difficult to follow, story/prose-wise, but did eventually make a reasonable amount of sense in the end. The world-building was great (if somewhat teased out and confusing) but the main character wasn't really likeable. I think something else in this universe would be worth reading, however.
The Chartreuse Chanteuse is an absolutely fabulous story in the Iron Druid/Oberon Meaty Mysteries series, it's wonderful and delightful and works incredibly well with everything that's come before in that series. Definitely the highlight, and the reason I bought this in the first place.
The Bartender and the Beast was very easy to read, and although I think I worked out the mystery a bit early, it still made for a good story. Not exactly my favoured style of 'universe', but still fairly good.
Whiskey Sour was the most difficult to follow, story/prose-wise, but did eventually make a reasonable amount of sense in the end. The world-building was great (if somewhat teased out and confusing) but the main character wasn't really likeable. I think something else in this universe would be worth reading, however.
September 15, 2024
Three stories involving drinks and dogs are in this volume. I picked up this title because it had a an Oberon's Meaty Mysteries inside and I wanted to read it and see how it tied in with another of Kevin Hearne's series. "The Chartreuse Chanteuse" had a dandy mystery that also served as a backdrop to the romance that started "The Buzz Kill" (found in Death & Honey. "The Bartender and the Beast" has one sister returning home to Arcadia Falls, GA, to protect her sister only to find mystery and possible romance where she least expected it. "Whiskey Sour" has a recovered alcoholic deciding he really needs a drink, but not just any drink. This being an end-of-the world tale, he has to go off to find the ingredients and himself accompanied by a dog. I thoroughly enjoyed the first two tales and did not mind the third. Will have to see if Delilah Dawson does more with Arcadia Falls.
April 22, 2024
Loved it! All three stories are compelling and it's amazing to me how the tone of each of these stories is wildy different. Kevin Hearne's story is as comfortable as a beloved sweater. Settling in with Atticus and Oberon again is just a delight, and all the new characters are becoming Iron Druid family as well. I really loved the part when Atticus told Rose about being a druid. Delilah's story was pure awesome but the best part is the secret at the end. The characters were vivid and relatable, the setting felt real and comfortable, and their perspectives match what mine would've been for the most part, so it was a very enjoyable read. Chuck's story I found to be much darker and mysterious than the previous two and deeply melancholy, but I did love Gumball, and I hope Harry finds his way in whatever new world is coming.
July 5, 2024
So far I have only read THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE but intend to read the others. I have read the series which the Chuck Wendig story is in, and I've seen positive reviews on the other story.
3.5 - 4 hearts
THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE by Kevin Hearne is an Oberon Meaty Mystery which falls into the timeframe after the IDC Chronicles and during the Ink & Sigil series. It is the "HEA" for Attticus, now known as Connor. I always enjoy Oberon and Starbuck. The mystery is always easier with an experienced Druid and smart dogs on the case. It was predictable that DI Rose would be his HEA because that's who Connor has been seeing.
The core under layer is the life outlook Atticus has developed and his view on the fae debts and favors. It was nice to catch up with Owen and the new Druids a bit.
COYER Buddy read with Berls who rated it 4
3.5 - 4 hearts
THE CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE by Kevin Hearne is an Oberon Meaty Mystery which falls into the timeframe after the IDC Chronicles and during the Ink & Sigil series. It is the "HEA" for Attticus, now known as Connor. I always enjoy Oberon and Starbuck. The mystery is always easier with an experienced Druid and smart dogs on the case. It was predictable that DI Rose would be his HEA because that's who Connor has been seeing.
The core under layer is the life outlook Atticus has developed and his view on the fae debts and favors. It was nice to catch up with Owen and the new Druids a bit.
COYER Buddy read with Berls who rated it 4
January 13, 2026
Three short stories in one.
Three stories. Four very good dogs. I am not a person who likes reading books from animals' perspectives, but two of the three had snippets of insights from the dogs I found amusing. Do not give me 400pp of that though.
The Iron Druid series I will read no matter who is narrating, but enjoyed a change of POV to Oberon, and to the lesser extent, Starbuck. I didn't enjoy the last Delilah Dawson book I read, but I would revisit this world again with Peach the Pitt Bull. The Chuck Wendig book got a lot darker and I struggled with, but Gumball the Golden Retriever persevered, so so did I. The story also got better, but was as little of a downer to the lighter atmosphere of the first two.
Again, a solid 3.5. Getting annoyed with Goodreads' lack of halvsies.
Three stories. Four very good dogs. I am not a person who likes reading books from animals' perspectives, but two of the three had snippets of insights from the dogs I found amusing. Do not give me 400pp of that though.
The Iron Druid series I will read no matter who is narrating, but enjoyed a change of POV to Oberon, and to the lesser extent, Starbuck. I didn't enjoy the last Delilah Dawson book I read, but I would revisit this world again with Peach the Pitt Bull. The Chuck Wendig book got a lot darker and I struggled with, but Gumball the Golden Retriever persevered, so so did I. The story also got better, but was as little of a downer to the lighter atmosphere of the first two.
Again, a solid 3.5. Getting annoyed with Goodreads' lack of halvsies.
May 2, 2024
Not only does this give Atticus a happily ever after, but the Oberon story does NOT disappoint. Hilarious and fun. I love seeing how Starbuck has gotten better with his speech. If you've enjoyed Kevin Hearne's other Meaty Mysteries, you're going to love this.
The story by Delilah S. Dawson was SO much fun!! All three of these stories have dogs, but man, I want to meet the dog from this story! I need more Peach Pit in my life. Another mystery with a supernatural twist! Dawson is amazing.
Chuck Wendig's humor and grit don't disappoint in his story. The third story completes a trifecta of fun, humor, and action for the entire book. I can't say too much about the particulars without spoilers, but oh man!
The story by Delilah S. Dawson was SO much fun!! All three of these stories have dogs, but man, I want to meet the dog from this story! I need more Peach Pit in my life. Another mystery with a supernatural twist! Dawson is amazing.
Chuck Wendig's humor and grit don't disappoint in his story. The third story completes a trifecta of fun, humor, and action for the entire book. I can't say too much about the particulars without spoilers, but oh man!
January 12, 2025
NOTE: This review ONLY covers Hearne's novella Chartreuse Chanteuse, not the OTHER TWO novellas in the book. I am an Iron Druid fan. What can I say?
I was quite sad to learn that author Keven Hearne has now wrapped up his long-running Iron Druid series. I had really enjoyed that world.
That said, Hearne did give his Iron Druid a happy ending. I was surprised said resolution showed up in a novella published with two other novellas. But who says it takes an entire novel just to wrap up a ten-book series?
And I have enjoyed watching Oberon and his sidekick Starbuck endeavoring to figure out who-dun-it in these Meaty Mysteries.
Highly recommended for all Iron Druid fans and for dog-lover fans too!
I was quite sad to learn that author Keven Hearne has now wrapped up his long-running Iron Druid series. I had really enjoyed that world.
That said, Hearne did give his Iron Druid a happy ending. I was surprised said resolution showed up in a novella published with two other novellas. But who says it takes an entire novel just to wrap up a ten-book series?
And I have enjoyed watching Oberon and his sidekick Starbuck endeavoring to figure out who-dun-it in these Meaty Mysteries.
Highly recommended for all Iron Druid fans and for dog-lover fans too!
February 18, 2024
Of the whole series this one is the best from all three authors in my humble opinion. Each story has at its base a human in trouble and a dog who is both companion and saviour.
Kevin Hearne’s Oberon is his amusing, intelligent and loving self. Delilah Dawson’s pitbull Peach Pit is a snuffle faced surprise you have to love and Chuck Wendig’s Gumball is just a good old boy in the right place. Their humans couldn’t achieve good outcomes without the four legged friends.
Loved every story equally. More please👍❤️
Kevin Hearne’s Oberon is his amusing, intelligent and loving self. Delilah Dawson’s pitbull Peach Pit is a snuffle faced surprise you have to love and Chuck Wendig’s Gumball is just a good old boy in the right place. Their humans couldn’t achieve good outcomes without the four legged friends.
Loved every story equally. More please👍❤️
December 10, 2025
CHARTREUSE CHANTEUSE Kevin Hearne
Decided to finish off Oberon's Meaty Mysteries while I'm on Kobo Plus so went straight from Buzz Kill to this one. A quick read and Atticus gets the happy ending he deserved at the end of Scourged.
BARTENDER AND THE BEAST Delilah Dawson.
I liked the emotional journey the main character went on and the burgeoning romance between Cash and Riley. The blurb hints that this may be the start of a series, which I shall be on the watch for.
Decided to finish off Oberon's Meaty Mysteries while I'm on Kobo Plus so went straight from Buzz Kill to this one. A quick read and Atticus gets the happy ending he deserved at the end of Scourged.
BARTENDER AND THE BEAST Delilah Dawson.
I liked the emotional journey the main character went on and the burgeoning romance between Cash and Riley. The blurb hints that this may be the start of a series, which I shall be on the watch for.
March 31, 2024
I bought this book because it has the third Oberon Meaty Mystery but I enjoyed the 2nd story as well. I really didn't care about the 3rd story because I didn't really know what was going on. I felt like I was dropped in an already established world and the explanation was repetitive but not really enlightening.
May 15, 2024
Oberon! And Starbuck! And a Princess Bride reference.
I liked Peach Pit and her protectiveness.
Gumball's story... I felt like there was a prequel I was missing
I also want the recipe to the cocktails mentioned in the stories.
I liked Peach Pit and her protectiveness.
Gumball's story... I felt like there was a prequel I was missing
I also want the recipe to the cocktails mentioned in the stories.
November 26, 2024
Excellent! After finishing Candle & Crow, I went straight here. The Chartreuse Chanteuse kicks butt. It makes me want to re-read both the Iron Druid books as well as the Ink & Sigil books. Really great writing.
December 12, 2024
Once again, I only wanted Oberon's Meaty Mystery and only technically finished that chunk of the story. That said, it was once again a blast. I love the Druid and his wonderful hounds. Makes me want to hug a puppy.
January 10, 2025
The Kevin Hearne story was great. The Delilah Dawson story was good. I'd like to read more of her work. However, I didn't enjoy the Chuck Wendig story. I think it needed a context. It seemed that I should have known the backstory already, and I didn't, so the story didn't flow.
May 23, 2025
Format: Audiobook
Story: Chartreuse Chanteuse
Narrator: Luke Daniels
Although this take place from the POV of Oberon, it was nice to get a bit more character development for Atticus. Luke Daniels, a legend as always.
Story: Chartreuse Chanteuse
Narrator: Luke Daniels
Although this take place from the POV of Oberon, it was nice to get a bit more character development for Atticus. Luke Daniels, a legend as always.
November 19, 2025
Didn't like the narrator for Delilah S. Dawson's story. She chose a very feminine-sounding voice for a male character. Every time he had dialogue, I thought it was a girlfriend speaking. Otherwise, a good collection from a specific set of friends.
April 12, 2024
Great audio! I really loved the first two stories! The third wasn’t my cuppa, but it was well written and well narrated.
April 19, 2024
Started with the best story and got progressively worse. 4 star to 2 star.
May 16, 2024
Kevin Hearne’s story in this anthology is what earned it five stars.
May 18, 2024
Good read
Wow. Three stories by three masters. I really enjoyed thin short story collection. You might want to give these doggy stories a try.
Wow. Three stories by three masters. I really enjoyed thin short story collection. You might want to give these doggy stories a try.
June 18, 2024
4 stars for the Kevin Hearne story that I bought the book for. I tried to listen to the Delilah Dawson story but I’m too old to listen to stupid high school drama.
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