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Mercy Thompson #9
Fire Touched
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Fantasy (2016)Mercy Thompson is back, and she'll soon discover that when the fae stalk the human world, it's the children who suffer . . .
Tensions between the fae and humans are coming to a head. And when coyote shapeshifter Mercy and her Alpha werewolf mate, Adam, are called upon to stop a rampaging troll, they find themselves with something that could be used to make the fae back down and forestall out-and-out war: a human child stolen long ago by the fae.
Defying the most powerful werewolf in the country, the humans and the fae, Mercy, Adam and their pack choose to protect the boy no matter what the cost. But who will protect them from a boy who is fire touched?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2016
1957 people are currently reading
20092 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Briggs
123 books30.1k followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Patricia Briggs was born in Butte, Montana, to a children’s librarian who passed on to her kids a love of reading and books. Patricia grew up reading fairy tales and books about horses, and later developed an interest in folklore and history. When she decided to write a book of her own, a fantasy book seemed a natural choice. Patricia graduated from Montana State University with degrees in history and German and she worked for a while as a substitute teacher. Currently, she lives in Montana with her husband, children, and six horses and writes full time, much to the delight of her fans.
Patricia Briggs was born in Butte, Montana, to a children’s librarian who passed on to her kids a love of reading and books. Patricia grew up reading fairy tales and books about horses, and later developed an interest in folklore and history. When she decided to write a book of her own, a fantasy book seemed a natural choice. Patricia graduated from Montana State University with degrees in history and German and she worked for a while as a substitute teacher. Currently, she lives in Montana with her husband, children, and six horses and writes full time, much to the delight of her fans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,534 reviews
March 17, 2016
*Review below*
Ahh, yes, another Mercy book. We might have to wait another year, but at least the series is continuing!
*Happy and so excited!*
There are a couple things I would love to see happen in the next book/finally figure out:
1. I would love for Smurf Christy to make another appearance, just so Mercy can throwdown again.
2. Learn more about Mercy's lifespan .
3. More Kyle, Warren, Ben, and Jesse moments.
4. Maybe a little something between Honey and Gary?? *wink wink*
5. Figure out why the Walking Stick is more like a Glue Stick when it comes to Mercy. Why does it like her and follow her around so much?
6. More of Mercy kicking supernatural butt.
7. And of course, more Adam and Mercy moments! And maybe a baby in the future (towards the end of the series)? Ms. Briggs has hinted at it! .
But in any case, I'm just happy the series is continuing. You will always have a fan and willing reader in me, Ms. Briggs!
*9/15/2015 edit*
Man, that cover looks amazing! I love the artist (Daniel Dos Santos) who makes the Mercy covers! He is seriously talented, and his work on the Mercy series has yet to disappoint.
*3/17/2016 review*
The Mercy Thompson series has once again used the force. This was a really strong addition to the series, and it's very refreshing to see things get back on track.
Fire Touched focused mainly on the fae, and there was also an addition of some new, intriguing characters. (Not to mention it was also nice to see Mercy making more friends than enemies!) We are introduced to Aiden, the Fire Touched, a human who had been trapped in the fae world of Underhill for so long, he came out with the power to control fire. Underhill wants Aiden back, and the fae are also on the move to look to re-establish their dominance in the world. Mercy is thrown in the middle of this, and she and the pack must work to stop a war between the fae and humanity.
This book was more political and plot driven than some of the ones before it. The last couple have been very action-heavy with new game players being introduced, so it was quite nice to return to some of the characters and conflicts that had been part of the series initially. Also, the relationship between Adam and Mercy, while still protrayed in a positive, strong light, took a backburner to everything going on the book, and I think that ended up being a good thing. It was nice to see the main conflict/plot point be the core focus of the book, and I think it really helped restrengthen the series.
I'm still very curious about the Walking Stick.
While most of the points I wanted to see didn't happen (hopefully Christy will really be put in her place by Mercy in the next book!), there was still some quality moments between characters, strengthening relationships between characters and the pack, and some great Jesse moments. We can't always have it all, but I am more than happy to take what Briggs has provided. This is such an extraordinary, unique series, and I would recommend it anyone. I always say this for every book, but I can't wait to see what happens next. The Mercy Thompson series will hopefully not be ending any time soon.
Ahh, yes, another Mercy book. We might have to wait another year, but at least the series is continuing!
*Happy and so excited!*
There are a couple things I would love to see happen in the next book/finally figure out:
1. I would love for Smurf Christy to make another appearance, just so Mercy can throwdown again.
2. Learn more about Mercy's lifespan .
3. More Kyle, Warren, Ben, and Jesse moments.
4. Maybe a little something between Honey and Gary?? *wink wink*
5. Figure out why the Walking Stick is more like a Glue Stick when it comes to Mercy. Why does it like her and follow her around so much?
6. More of Mercy kicking supernatural butt.
7. And of course, more Adam and Mercy moments! And maybe a baby in the future (towards the end of the series)? Ms. Briggs has hinted at it! .
But in any case, I'm just happy the series is continuing. You will always have a fan and willing reader in me, Ms. Briggs!
*9/15/2015 edit*
Man, that cover looks amazing! I love the artist (Daniel Dos Santos) who makes the Mercy covers! He is seriously talented, and his work on the Mercy series has yet to disappoint.
*3/17/2016 review*
The Mercy Thompson series has once again used the force. This was a really strong addition to the series, and it's very refreshing to see things get back on track.
Fire Touched focused mainly on the fae, and there was also an addition of some new, intriguing characters. (Not to mention it was also nice to see Mercy making more friends than enemies!) We are introduced to Aiden, the Fire Touched, a human who had been trapped in the fae world of Underhill for so long, he came out with the power to control fire. Underhill wants Aiden back, and the fae are also on the move to look to re-establish their dominance in the world. Mercy is thrown in the middle of this, and she and the pack must work to stop a war between the fae and humanity.
This book was more political and plot driven than some of the ones before it. The last couple have been very action-heavy with new game players being introduced, so it was quite nice to return to some of the characters and conflicts that had been part of the series initially. Also, the relationship between Adam and Mercy, while still protrayed in a positive, strong light, took a backburner to everything going on the book, and I think that ended up being a good thing. It was nice to see the main conflict/plot point be the core focus of the book, and I think it really helped restrengthen the series.
I'm still very curious about the Walking Stick.
While most of the points I wanted to see didn't happen (hopefully Christy will really be put in her place by Mercy in the next book!), there was still some quality moments between characters, strengthening relationships between characters and the pack, and some great Jesse moments. We can't always have it all, but I am more than happy to take what Briggs has provided. This is such an extraordinary, unique series, and I would recommend it anyone. I always say this for every book, but I can't wait to see what happens next. The Mercy Thompson series will hopefully not be ending any time soon.
September 19, 2017
I love Mercy and Adam so much! I love the majority of everyone in these books!
Now the crew are going up against the fae by taking out a troll they sent and taking in a boy they are after. Everything was so bad ass as usual. This series can go on forever as far as I'm concerned!
I would love for Mercy and Adam have a baby. Would it be part werewolf and coyote? Who would know. It's an awesome concept though 😊
And I love this cover! She's so bad and beautiful!
Mel ❤️
Now the crew are going up against the fae by taking out a troll they sent and taking in a boy they are after. Everything was so bad ass as usual. This series can go on forever as far as I'm concerned!
I would love for Mercy and Adam have a baby. Would it be part werewolf and coyote? Who would know. It's an awesome concept though 😊
And I love this cover! She's so bad and beautiful!
Mel ❤️
December 15, 2021
FINALLY, we're back on track. I felt like both the last Mercy and Alpha & Omega book were filler/setup, but FIRE TOUCHED is plot-driven and fantastic.
Full RTC.
Full RTC.
February 26, 2019
One of my favorite books in this series! Full review, first posted on www.FantasyLiterature.com:
Fire Touched is the ninth novel in Patricia Briggs’ MERCY THOMPSON urban fantasy series, and the series is still going strong. In fact, this is one of the stronger entries in the series. (Spoiler alert for earlier books in the series.)
Mercy is relaxing in her home with her husband Adam, the Alpha of the Columbia Basin werewolf pack. Of course there are all the small day-to-day annoyances: Adam’s ex-wife, a thorn in Mercy’s side, is still in town; the fae walking stick is still stubbornly following Mercy around; the other non-werewolf member of the pack, Joel the tibicena (sort of a brimstone demon Pressa Canario) is having trouble controlling his demon dog shape and shifting to human form for any appreciable amount of time; the mother of her stepdaughter’s friend corners Mercy to sell her vitamins and essential oils that may be infused with witchcraft as well as lavender.
A bigger problem is that the fae are still barricaded inside their reservations, magically blocked off from humans, but there are signs of trouble. Some deadly fae monsters have been released upon the human world, and the media is starting to take notice, though the government is trying to keep a lid on it and avoid publicity and any resulting panic. This latest monster blows the lid off all containment efforts: an elephant-sized troll takes over Cable Bridge on the Columbia River, playing with and tossing around vehicles like they’re Matchbox cars and chomping down on a few humans. Mercy, Adam and the rest of the werewolf pack take off to try to take care of the problem, and a rousing battle ensues. But this is only the first symptom of bigger problems.
At the conclusion of the battle, Mercy officially agrees to extend the protection of the werewolf pack to a human who is “Fire Touched,” gifted by the fae’s sentient Underhill with magical control over fire. Aidan looks like a ten year old child ― the age he was when he was kidnapped by the fae centuries ago ― but he has a very old mind, and he’s just escaped from both Underhill and the fae, who want him back very badly. Mercy’s actions, though justifiable because of some significant assistance Aiden has provided to friends of the pack, may endanger the pack and the humans who live in their territory.
It’s amazing how Briggs continues to keep the MERCY THOMPSON series so fresh and inventive. Briggs continues to weave a complex and well-integrated overarching story as the ripple effects of past events and decisions continue to affect the characters’ lives. Seemingly minor occurrences early in Fire Touched (like, say, the ones I listed above in the second paragraph) resurface later to play a substantial role in the plot; old characters learn and grow and new characters are introduced who are well-rounded and seem likely to play a role in later installations in this series. One is Aidan, who is out of touch with modern times and displays a poignant mix of defensive anger and vulnerability. Another interesting add is Sherwood Post, a troubled werewolf sent by Bran to Adam’s pack, amusingly named after two authors (Sherwood Anderson and Emily Post) that Bran was reading at the time, but not-so-amusingly dealing with suicidal tendencies arising out of his disability and traumatic past.
There was a surprisingly swift resolution of the longstanding issue of how Mercy is having difficulty being accepted by some of the pack. The suddenness and completeness of it surprised both Mercy and me, but a reasonably satisfactory explanation is offered that is consistent with wolf pack behavior, and frankly it’s relieving to have this issue finally resolved (at least one hopes).
Mercy Thompson remains one of the most appealing characters in urban fantasy, with her unusually well-realized traits of loyalty and concern for others, courage in the face of sometimes overwhelming odds, and selfless determination to do what’s right. Combined with an intelligent plot that has a satisfying amount of action as well as character growth and change, Fire Touched will be beloved by Briggs’ many fans and is likely to win her some new ones.
4.5 stars.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for a review. Thank you!
Fire Touched is the ninth novel in Patricia Briggs’ MERCY THOMPSON urban fantasy series, and the series is still going strong. In fact, this is one of the stronger entries in the series. (Spoiler alert for earlier books in the series.)
Mercy is relaxing in her home with her husband Adam, the Alpha of the Columbia Basin werewolf pack. Of course there are all the small day-to-day annoyances: Adam’s ex-wife, a thorn in Mercy’s side, is still in town; the fae walking stick is still stubbornly following Mercy around; the other non-werewolf member of the pack, Joel the tibicena (sort of a brimstone demon Pressa Canario) is having trouble controlling his demon dog shape and shifting to human form for any appreciable amount of time; the mother of her stepdaughter’s friend corners Mercy to sell her vitamins and essential oils that may be infused with witchcraft as well as lavender.
A bigger problem is that the fae are still barricaded inside their reservations, magically blocked off from humans, but there are signs of trouble. Some deadly fae monsters have been released upon the human world, and the media is starting to take notice, though the government is trying to keep a lid on it and avoid publicity and any resulting panic. This latest monster blows the lid off all containment efforts: an elephant-sized troll takes over Cable Bridge on the Columbia River, playing with and tossing around vehicles like they’re Matchbox cars and chomping down on a few humans. Mercy, Adam and the rest of the werewolf pack take off to try to take care of the problem, and a rousing battle ensues. But this is only the first symptom of bigger problems.
At the conclusion of the battle, Mercy officially agrees to extend the protection of the werewolf pack to a human who is “Fire Touched,” gifted by the fae’s sentient Underhill with magical control over fire. Aidan looks like a ten year old child ― the age he was when he was kidnapped by the fae centuries ago ― but he has a very old mind, and he’s just escaped from both Underhill and the fae, who want him back very badly. Mercy’s actions, though justifiable because of some significant assistance Aiden has provided to friends of the pack, may endanger the pack and the humans who live in their territory.
It’s amazing how Briggs continues to keep the MERCY THOMPSON series so fresh and inventive. Briggs continues to weave a complex and well-integrated overarching story as the ripple effects of past events and decisions continue to affect the characters’ lives. Seemingly minor occurrences early in Fire Touched (like, say, the ones I listed above in the second paragraph) resurface later to play a substantial role in the plot; old characters learn and grow and new characters are introduced who are well-rounded and seem likely to play a role in later installations in this series. One is Aidan, who is out of touch with modern times and displays a poignant mix of defensive anger and vulnerability. Another interesting add is Sherwood Post, a troubled werewolf sent by Bran to Adam’s pack, amusingly named after two authors (Sherwood Anderson and Emily Post) that Bran was reading at the time, but not-so-amusingly dealing with suicidal tendencies arising out of his disability and traumatic past.
There was a surprisingly swift resolution of the longstanding issue of how Mercy is having difficulty being accepted by some of the pack. The suddenness and completeness of it surprised both Mercy and me, but a reasonably satisfactory explanation is offered that is consistent with wolf pack behavior, and frankly it’s relieving to have this issue finally resolved (at least one hopes).
Mercy Thompson remains one of the most appealing characters in urban fantasy, with her unusually well-realized traits of loyalty and concern for others, courage in the face of sometimes overwhelming odds, and selfless determination to do what’s right. Combined with an intelligent plot that has a satisfying amount of action as well as character growth and change, Fire Touched will be beloved by Briggs’ many fans and is likely to win her some new ones.
4.5 stars.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for a review. Thank you!
March 6, 2016
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
I absolutely loved this book! As soon as I had this book, I set everything else aside and started it right away. It has been two long years since I had a new Mercy Thompson book to read and this book proved to be worth the wait. It really had just about everything that I could have hoped for. There was tons of excitement, some tender moments, and some scenes that made me laugh. I haven't read a book this entertaining for a very long time.
Can I just say up front how much I love this series?!?! It has been so much fun to watch these characters developed over the course of the series. Mercy and Adam are so good together and I find it really refreshing to see such a solid relationship demonstrated in this series. I think I like Mercy just a bit more with every book. She is really such a wonderful character. She knows her weakness and doesn't try to pretend that they don't exist. She doesn't make a lot of assumptions and when she makes a mistake, she owns up to it.
This book is filled with action and excitement from beginning to end. An epic fight with a troll on a bridge leads Mercy and the pack to become protector of a boy who has lived with the fae for many, many years. Adam's pack finds themselves in a difficult situation that must be handled with extreme car. I love the pack politics in this book. I think that everything has been leading up to this moment for a while but I loved seeing how everything played out.
The writing in this book was nearly perfect. The pacing was well done with the more exciting scenes between nicely spread throughout the book. The lighter moments were well placed in the story and it seemed liked any time I needed a laugh, I soon found one. The characters continued to develop in this installment and really proved to be one of the strengths of the book. As I read this book, I was completely immersed in Mercy's world and happy to be there.
I would highly recommend this series to fans of urban fiction or anything paranormal. I do recommend that this series be read in order since the characters and world have changed and developed over the course of the series. Plus the rest of the books are excellent so why would anyone want to skip them? I have been a fan of Patricia Briggs and this series for a long time and I plan to continue to read and re-read this series many times in the future.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Initial Thoughts
Can I just say that I absolutely love this series?!?! I love how Mercy's character has developed over the course of the series and how awesome she truly is. She doesn't try to be something that she's not. She knows her weaknesses and doesn't try to pretend they don't exist. All of the characters in the series are just amazing and I love them a little more with each new installment.
This book is pretty much non-stop excitement with a few moments that will make you laugh as well as a few tender moments that may make your heart melt just a bit. Adam was just about perfect as always even with the "nudge". After reading this book, I really want more of this world and may need to plan a re-read of the series very soon.
Full review to be posted closer to the publication date.
Before Reading
Woo Hoo!! I am so happy to be approved for this one!
I absolutely loved this book! As soon as I had this book, I set everything else aside and started it right away. It has been two long years since I had a new Mercy Thompson book to read and this book proved to be worth the wait. It really had just about everything that I could have hoped for. There was tons of excitement, some tender moments, and some scenes that made me laugh. I haven't read a book this entertaining for a very long time.
Can I just say up front how much I love this series?!?! It has been so much fun to watch these characters developed over the course of the series. Mercy and Adam are so good together and I find it really refreshing to see such a solid relationship demonstrated in this series. I think I like Mercy just a bit more with every book. She is really such a wonderful character. She knows her weakness and doesn't try to pretend that they don't exist. She doesn't make a lot of assumptions and when she makes a mistake, she owns up to it.
This book is filled with action and excitement from beginning to end. An epic fight with a troll on a bridge leads Mercy and the pack to become protector of a boy who has lived with the fae for many, many years. Adam's pack finds themselves in a difficult situation that must be handled with extreme car. I love the pack politics in this book. I think that everything has been leading up to this moment for a while but I loved seeing how everything played out.
The writing in this book was nearly perfect. The pacing was well done with the more exciting scenes between nicely spread throughout the book. The lighter moments were well placed in the story and it seemed liked any time I needed a laugh, I soon found one. The characters continued to develop in this installment and really proved to be one of the strengths of the book. As I read this book, I was completely immersed in Mercy's world and happy to be there.
I would highly recommend this series to fans of urban fiction or anything paranormal. I do recommend that this series be read in order since the characters and world have changed and developed over the course of the series. Plus the rest of the books are excellent so why would anyone want to skip them? I have been a fan of Patricia Briggs and this series for a long time and I plan to continue to read and re-read this series many times in the future.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Initial Thoughts
Can I just say that I absolutely love this series?!?! I love how Mercy's character has developed over the course of the series and how awesome she truly is. She doesn't try to be something that she's not. She knows her weaknesses and doesn't try to pretend they don't exist. All of the characters in the series are just amazing and I love them a little more with each new installment.
This book is pretty much non-stop excitement with a few moments that will make you laugh as well as a few tender moments that may make your heart melt just a bit. Adam was just about perfect as always even with the "nudge". After reading this book, I really want more of this world and may need to plan a re-read of the series very soon.
Full review to be posted closer to the publication date.
Before Reading
Woo Hoo!! I am so happy to be approved for this one!
May 31, 2016
You aren't going to believe this, because I can just barely, but suddenly I started enjoying Mercy Thompson again. My last reviews for books 4 through 6 were less then stellar. Reading so many so close together highlighted the narrative re-explanations, the device of kidnapping, Mercy's lack of agency, the general lack of females and the general antipathy of the females that were included. Surprisingly, much of that changes here, sometimes obviously so. Let's hope it sticks, and that Briggs doesn't fall back into old habits in book ten.
Opening with a typical pack morning in Adam's house, Mercy is waylaid by aScentsy pusher "midlevel marketer," much to everyone's eventual amusement. Not long after most of the pack has left, Mercy gets a call from her police department friend Tony who knows something is throwing cars off a major bridge. Mercy, Adam and Joel head down to the bridge and through luck, ingenuity and the timely assistance of returned friends are able to save the day, declaring the area under Pack province in the process. The pack is in an uproar while Bran, leader of the werewolves disowns them for political reasons. Adam and Mercy need to unify the Pack, protect the boy they claimed and manipulate the Fae to the bargaining table before the Fae declare war on humans.
Given my recent binge read, and antipathy towards the ex-wife storyline in book 8, I actually liked it. Of course, we'll have to see about re-read. There's still not enough friendly females, but the female wolf antipathy has been taken down a couple of notches, Baba Yaga makes an entertaining reappearance, and there's another Fae woman who sidelines Mercy for some girl-talk (sadly, thus failing the Bechdel test of still including men by the conversation being about men). If the villains remain female, well, at least they are there, right? It's nice to have much of the emotional drama of the pack finally dealt with and laid to rest, because there have been versions of it in every book to date. I liked the sullen human boy with Fae skills, and the return of Mercy's friends.
Overall, it might just be the book that rekindles my interest in the series--and major thanks to Naomi for being willing to read it--but I don't think it's ready to join my personal library.
Opening with a typical pack morning in Adam's house, Mercy is waylaid by a
Given my recent binge read, and antipathy towards the ex-wife storyline in book 8, I actually liked it. Of course, we'll have to see about re-read. There's still not enough friendly females, but the female wolf antipathy has been taken down a couple of notches, Baba Yaga makes an entertaining reappearance, and there's another Fae woman who sidelines Mercy for some girl-talk (sadly, thus failing the Bechdel test of still including men by the conversation being about men). If the villains remain female, well, at least they are there, right? It's nice to have much of the emotional drama of the pack finally dealt with and laid to rest, because there have been versions of it in every book to date. I liked the sullen human boy with Fae skills, and the return of Mercy's friends.
Overall, it might just be the book that rekindles my interest in the series--and major thanks to Naomi for being willing to read it--but I don't think it's ready to join my personal library.
April 23, 2016
Dear Author
Dear Mercy
someone slap the fuck out of Christy .. knock that bitch into next week please. (5 stars if you do that no matter what happens in the plot) she doesn't need to die or anything but knock that bitch out
ps. I hate every bitch who reads this book before me
update: reading the audio book youtube review coming up soon
Dear Mercy
someone slap the fuck out of Christy .. knock that bitch into next week please. (5 stars if you do that no matter what happens in the plot) she doesn't need to die or anything but knock that bitch out
ps. I hate every bitch who reads this book before me
update: reading the audio book youtube review coming up soon
November 21, 2023
4.5 stars!
The Mercy Thompson series is one I've been reading for years. I love it so much and think we are lucky as fans that the series has not ended yet. It's also one of the best urban fantasy series out there, in my opinion. So every Spring when a new book in the series is published I get so delighted because I really want to see what happens next in the series.
In this ninth installment, Mercy and her Alpha werewolf husband Adam, find themselves faced with issues surrounding the Fae. The past few books have been building up to this, with mentions of the fae disappearing and much more interesting activity afoot. Here Mercy finds herself battling a troll on a bridge with some members of the pack, and unintentionally speaking for the Pack on the stance they take toward the Fae, and claiming the Tri-Cities as their own territory.
What follows is a series of events of Mercy and the Pack defending themselves and entering into intricate bargains with the Fae and other supernatural species.
This book took a little bit for me to get into, normally when I read a Mercy book it's finished in less than 12 hours. Fire Touched took me a while longer mostly because I had a bit of trouble finding the reading rhythm (and binge watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer didn't help matters). I loved the bits where we saw the Pack resolving issues that needed to be solved like, 2 books ago. I was sick of the way some members had been treating Mercy and I like that some of that was covered. The introduction of a new and mysterious character named Aiden, the human buy stuck in a Fae world for centuries, turning him into a sort of hybrid. I cannot wait to learn more about him.
Being a romance junkie I would have liked more on Mercy and Adam but I understand that wasn't a priority. Briggs dropped a relationship bomb in this book and seemed to brush it off very quickly, but we saw that Briggs!!! And it better be talked about in the next book you sly author you! I also cannot help but think there is something going on between Jesse and Ben, or that maybe there will be in the future when she's not in high school. Nothing obvious is written but I kind of feel that happening.
Anyways, I love this author and this series, so hopefully you take a chance on it and read the first book, Moon Called. You won't regret it. (And now the year long wait for the next book begins. Grr.)
The Mercy Thompson series is one I've been reading for years. I love it so much and think we are lucky as fans that the series has not ended yet. It's also one of the best urban fantasy series out there, in my opinion. So every Spring when a new book in the series is published I get so delighted because I really want to see what happens next in the series.
In this ninth installment, Mercy and her Alpha werewolf husband Adam, find themselves faced with issues surrounding the Fae. The past few books have been building up to this, with mentions of the fae disappearing and much more interesting activity afoot. Here Mercy finds herself battling a troll on a bridge with some members of the pack, and unintentionally speaking for the Pack on the stance they take toward the Fae, and claiming the Tri-Cities as their own territory.
What follows is a series of events of Mercy and the Pack defending themselves and entering into intricate bargains with the Fae and other supernatural species.
This book took a little bit for me to get into, normally when I read a Mercy book it's finished in less than 12 hours. Fire Touched took me a while longer mostly because I had a bit of trouble finding the reading rhythm (and binge watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer didn't help matters). I loved the bits where we saw the Pack resolving issues that needed to be solved like, 2 books ago. I was sick of the way some members had been treating Mercy and I like that some of that was covered. The introduction of a new and mysterious character named Aiden, the human buy stuck in a Fae world for centuries, turning him into a sort of hybrid. I cannot wait to learn more about him.
Being a romance junkie I would have liked more on Mercy and Adam but I understand that wasn't a priority. Briggs dropped a relationship bomb in this book and seemed to brush it off very quickly, but we saw that Briggs!!! And it better be talked about in the next book you sly author you! I also cannot help but think there is something going on between Jesse and Ben, or that maybe there will be in the future when she's not in high school. Nothing obvious is written but I kind of feel that happening.
Anyways, I love this author and this series, so hopefully you take a chance on it and read the first book, Moon Called. You won't regret it. (And now the year long wait for the next book begins. Grr.)
April 19, 2016
This is what I looked like when the librarian handed me this book:
Not even an exaggeration, folks...
So, after all that flailing and screaming, was it any good?
YES!
In fact, I only have one complaint, and that's that Fire Touched was just waaaaaay too short.
342 pages, Ms. Briggs? Are you trying to kill me with disappointment?!
Oh well. I guess I'll just take what I can get...and like it.
Ok, ok. I'll shut up about the length.
This one was classic Mercy.
If you're a fan of the books, then you'll know what I mean. If you haven't started this series yet, then let me quickly explain why she's a fantastic character & these books need to be immediately shoved onto your must-read-now shelf...
Mercy is strong, but she's never the strongest person in the room. She's constantly out-muscled & out-powered. And yet, she always comes out on top.
It costs her, but she manages to win. And she does it without betraying her morals, her friends, or her husband.
She's loyal, smart, tough, and a...a good person. When I grow up, I wanna be Mercy.
Maybe I'm not explaining it very well, but when I close one of these books, I feel like this:
This time around was no different.
The story starts off with a troll attacking cars on a bridge. Yes. I said a troll on a bridge!
Sorry, guys. Not cute little trolls like you...
Like most things in Mercy's world, this troll is dangerous. And HUGE. And kinda crazy.
I don't want to give away any of the plot for those of you who enjoy just letting these stories unfold without any expectations. <--ME!
But I will say there was plenty of action, great dialogue, and the sort of storyline that I've come to expect from Briggs.
LOVED IT!
Ok, and this has nothing to do with the fantastic stuff inside the book, but...
Here's the thing. As soon as I got it from the library, I snapped a pic & posted it to my Facebook page. Because I'm a dork.
Anyway. Here are a couple of the comments that non-Mercy fans said:
Does she have a second career as a stripper?
And
I'd like to be touched by her fire...
Then there's me...reacting to their comments:
Of course, both of those guys were joking, but the point is, these covers lend themselves to that sort of thing. She looks a bit...*shudder*
The Mercy I read about wouldn't be caught dead looking like a truck stop hooker. In fact, her looks aren't even a thing! But she'd certainly go into battle with her stomach covered.
Dear Publishing Companies,
Pleasepleaseplease stop sexualizing these covers. It's embarrassing for most of the readers.
Thanks,
An Urban Fantasy Fan
Not even an exaggeration, folks...
So, after all that flailing and screaming, was it any good?
YES!
In fact, I only have one complaint, and that's that Fire Touched was just waaaaaay too short.
342 pages, Ms. Briggs? Are you trying to kill me with disappointment?!
Oh well. I guess I'll just take what I can get...and like it.
Ok, ok. I'll shut up about the length.
This one was classic Mercy.
If you're a fan of the books, then you'll know what I mean. If you haven't started this series yet, then let me quickly explain why she's a fantastic character & these books need to be immediately shoved onto your must-read-now shelf...
Mercy is strong, but she's never the strongest person in the room. She's constantly out-muscled & out-powered. And yet, she always comes out on top.
It costs her, but she manages to win. And she does it without betraying her morals, her friends, or her husband.
She's loyal, smart, tough, and a...a good person. When I grow up, I wanna be Mercy.
Maybe I'm not explaining it very well, but when I close one of these books, I feel like this:
This time around was no different.
The story starts off with a troll attacking cars on a bridge. Yes. I said a troll on a bridge!
Sorry, guys. Not cute little trolls like you...
Like most things in Mercy's world, this troll is dangerous. And HUGE. And kinda crazy.
I don't want to give away any of the plot for those of you who enjoy just letting these stories unfold without any expectations. <--ME!
But I will say there was plenty of action, great dialogue, and the sort of storyline that I've come to expect from Briggs.
LOVED IT!
Ok, and this has nothing to do with the fantastic stuff inside the book, but...
Here's the thing. As soon as I got it from the library, I snapped a pic & posted it to my Facebook page. Because I'm a dork.
Anyway. Here are a couple of the comments that non-Mercy fans said:
Does she have a second career as a stripper?
And
I'd like to be touched by her fire...
Then there's me...reacting to their comments:
Of course, both of those guys were joking, but the point is, these covers lend themselves to that sort of thing. She looks a bit...*shudder*
The Mercy I read about wouldn't be caught dead looking like a truck stop hooker. In fact, her looks aren't even a thing! But she'd certainly go into battle with her stomach covered.
Dear Publishing Companies,
Pleasepleaseplease stop sexualizing these covers. It's embarrassing for most of the readers.
Thanks,
An Urban Fantasy Fan
March 16, 2016
most amazing kick ass series ever!!
Review will come
Review will come
February 6, 2017
4.25 stars
Fire Touched is the ninth book in Patricia Brigg’s Mercy Thompson series. This is one of those series I have been reading for forever and I still look forward to each book releasing. My husband and I both love this series, so it’s fun to chat about it since we don't read a ton of the same books. There is always some supernatural drama going on around Mercy- and this book centers on the fae. It starts with a troll, then goes to a fire touched child. There is a lot going on, as always.
I love how kick-ass Mercy is. She is a little less into the action in this book in some aspects, but I have my theories on that. All the other characters are fantastic, too. I especially loved Honey in this one and her speech. It was great to get more Zee and Thad as well. And Adam. Always Adam.
I love Mercy and Adam’s relationship so much. The are just great together. I can’t imagine either one of them with someone else. I am so flipping excited about whats to come with them…
It’s not very often a series can have this many books and still completely hold my attention. This series does that. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series! If you like PNR/Urban Fantasy stories, I can’t recommend these books enough!
Fire Touched is the ninth book in Patricia Brigg’s Mercy Thompson series. This is one of those series I have been reading for forever and I still look forward to each book releasing. My husband and I both love this series, so it’s fun to chat about it since we don't read a ton of the same books. There is always some supernatural drama going on around Mercy- and this book centers on the fae. It starts with a troll, then goes to a fire touched child. There is a lot going on, as always.
I love how kick-ass Mercy is. She is a little less into the action in this book in some aspects, but I have my theories on that. All the other characters are fantastic, too. I especially loved Honey in this one and her speech. It was great to get more Zee and Thad as well. And Adam. Always Adam.
I love Mercy and Adam’s relationship so much. The are just great together. I can’t imagine either one of them with someone else. I am so flipping excited about whats to come with them…
“She doesn’t need the pack. She doesn’t need me.”
I shot to my feet. “That’s not true,” I said hotly.
He tilted his head a little, his eyes meeting mine. His eyes softened.
“I misspoke,” he said in a steady voice. “She doesn’t need me to make sure she has enough food or a place to live-that is my privilege, but she doesn’t need me to do that. She doesn’t need me to keep her safe or to make her a whole person. She doesn’t need me to do anything except love her. Which I do.”
It’s not very often a series can have this many books and still completely hold my attention. This series does that. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series! If you like PNR/Urban Fantasy stories, I can’t recommend these books enough!
February 17, 2024
3.5*.
Another day in Mercy's life and a new foe to face. Some new characters are introduced and like previous books it's the start of new friendships (I hope so). Full of action and a little less on drama, this was another great entry in Mercedes Thompson series.
Another day in Mercy's life and a new foe to face. Some new characters are introduced and like previous books it's the start of new friendships (I hope so). Full of action and a little less on drama, this was another great entry in Mercedes Thompson series.
August 25, 2020
Re-read 3rd time June 23rd 2020
Re-read April 1st 2017
4.5 Stars
When the Fae let a monster loose, the Pack are called to take it down, since the police can’t make any headway and lives are at stake. Zee and Tad join in the fight bringing with them an odd, fire-touched boy named Aiden who seeks the Pack’s protection from the Fae. Taking in Aiden brings all kinds of risk and problems, but we all know Mercy and Adam would never turn their back on someone seeking safety. At the end of the battle, Mercy draws a line in the sand with the Fae, and claims the Tri-Cities as the pack’s territory saddling them with new responsibilities, protection of its citizens being one those. This has far reaching effects on the Pack which could result in an all out war with the Fae. Can Mercy and Adam defuse the situation all the while standing their ground? I was glued to the pages to find out!
As usual with the Mercy Thompson series, once I started Fire Touched I couldn’t put it down. The Fae are very much front and center in this installment, which dives into action and danger pretty quickly. The Fae are creepy and volatile for the most part, and I love getting a little more of their history and secrets when a Fae centered installment comes along. I was definitely thrilled to have grouchy Zee back, since we haven’t had much from him lately.
The dynamics of pack hierarchy and relationships continue to fascinate me. Adam makes a proclamation to the Pack and I was overjoyed! I felt it was a long time coming, and oddly enough, it had a unifying effect over the Pack. Adam and Mercy continue strongly united and very much in love, while still being interesting and hot together. Their bond warms my heart a more and more with every installment!
I’m always impressed how masterfully Mercy sizes up situations, uses her brain before speaking, (something I could do a little more of!) and comes out on top because of it!
Still can’t stand Christy! She makes my blood boil every time she’s in a scene. That Mercy doesn’t scratch her eyes out is a miracle in my opinion! Thankfully, Christy’s presence is kept to a minimum.
There were a couple of side stories that really grabbed my interest. I’d love to continue on with Thomas and Margaret’s story. Thomas is the vampire in Frost Burned who fought by Mercy’s side, and he’s accompanying Margaret, a fae, to meet with the Gray Lords. This is a story of unrequited love and I need more, please! Then there’s Sherwood Post, a werewolf Bran sent to Adam’s pack. He’s a bit damaged since he lost one of his legs, and feels sort of useless to the Pack. I won’t go further into his portion of the story, but I’m hopeful we get more of him in the future.
I’m addicted to anything Patricia Briggs writes, Mercy Thompson and Alpha and Omega are in my top five favorite Urban Fantasy series, and Fire Touched is another winner for me. Just makes me want to go back and read them all over again!
A copy was kindly provided by Ace via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Re-read April 1st 2017
4.5 Stars
When the Fae let a monster loose, the Pack are called to take it down, since the police can’t make any headway and lives are at stake. Zee and Tad join in the fight bringing with them an odd, fire-touched boy named Aiden who seeks the Pack’s protection from the Fae. Taking in Aiden brings all kinds of risk and problems, but we all know Mercy and Adam would never turn their back on someone seeking safety. At the end of the battle, Mercy draws a line in the sand with the Fae, and claims the Tri-Cities as the pack’s territory saddling them with new responsibilities, protection of its citizens being one those. This has far reaching effects on the Pack which could result in an all out war with the Fae. Can Mercy and Adam defuse the situation all the while standing their ground? I was glued to the pages to find out!
As usual with the Mercy Thompson series, once I started Fire Touched I couldn’t put it down. The Fae are very much front and center in this installment, which dives into action and danger pretty quickly. The Fae are creepy and volatile for the most part, and I love getting a little more of their history and secrets when a Fae centered installment comes along. I was definitely thrilled to have grouchy Zee back, since we haven’t had much from him lately.
The dynamics of pack hierarchy and relationships continue to fascinate me. Adam makes a proclamation to the Pack and I was overjoyed! I felt it was a long time coming, and oddly enough, it had a unifying effect over the Pack. Adam and Mercy continue strongly united and very much in love, while still being interesting and hot together. Their bond warms my heart a more and more with every installment!
I’m always impressed how masterfully Mercy sizes up situations, uses her brain before speaking, (something I could do a little more of!) and comes out on top because of it!
Still can’t stand Christy! She makes my blood boil every time she’s in a scene. That Mercy doesn’t scratch her eyes out is a miracle in my opinion! Thankfully, Christy’s presence is kept to a minimum.
There were a couple of side stories that really grabbed my interest. I’d love to continue on with Thomas and Margaret’s story. Thomas is the vampire in Frost Burned who fought by Mercy’s side, and he’s accompanying Margaret, a fae, to meet with the Gray Lords. This is a story of unrequited love and I need more, please! Then there’s Sherwood Post, a werewolf Bran sent to Adam’s pack. He’s a bit damaged since he lost one of his legs, and feels sort of useless to the Pack. I won’t go further into his portion of the story, but I’m hopeful we get more of him in the future.
I’m addicted to anything Patricia Briggs writes, Mercy Thompson and Alpha and Omega are in my top five favorite Urban Fantasy series, and Fire Touched is another winner for me. Just makes me want to go back and read them all over again!
A copy was kindly provided by Ace via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2016
5 Nudge stars
Another Mercy winner! These books are getting better and better. At some point I looked up and saw that I had read to 80% of the book and didn't even realize it!
An excellent addition to the series and hopefully we will get the next one sooner rather than later.
P.S. I never thought I'd get upset over a piece of wood but Patricia Briggs managed it.
----------------------------------------
MARCH 2016?2016?Two years?! Now, I seriously don't like being kept waiting.
-----------------------------------------
March 2014
1 year wait!
Who would have ever thought I'd love a coyote more than a werewolf! A whole year to wait to read more of Mercy!
But I will because it's worth it and well, I have no choice.
September 3, 2019
I'm still reading this series, one of the few that I'm still engaged in! It's all due to the characters - I could read about them hanging out and playing video games all day, but this time Mercy and Adam take on the Fae. This was a strong book and I made the mistake of reading the first chapter of Silence Fallen at the end of the book. You know how the publishers will do that to hook you right into the next book? Yeah, even knowing that trick, I was caught! Only problem, I've been trying to take my time with this series as I know I've only a few books left.
March 7, 2016
3.5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum http://bibliosanctum.com/2016/03/07/b...
Fire Touched is another strong entry into the Mercy Thompson series, and even though it might not be my favorite book or even in my top three, the significance of this volume cannot be overlooked because it contains a lot of important moments and turning points.
For one thing, the pack has grown again. Mercy may have stirred things up after becoming the mate of Adam, alpha of the Columbia Basin werewolves, but after the events of the last book Night Broken the pack has welcomed yet another non-wolfy member in the form of Joel the tibicena. Mercy, who has already taken a lot of heat (sorry, couldn’t resist the pun!) for her role in making that happen, is once more the target of the pack’s ire in Fire Touched when she extends their protection to a fae-altered child in the aftermath of a troll attack on the city. But while this decision has made some of the pack unhappy, worse yet is the concern that Mercy’s actions may have unwittingly sparked an all-out war between humankind, werewolves and the fae.
Now the Tri-Cities area has become a battleground for fae politics, forcing Bran the Marrok to cut ties with the Columbia Basin pack. However, Adam and his werewolves are standing firm on their promise to defend their territory and protect Aiden, the fire-touched child whom the Grey Lords want to get their hands on. But in the face of constant attacks on the pack and their friends, just how long will they be able to hold out?
There were so many great moments in this book. First of all, Adam probably deserves a husband-of-the-year medal for finally putting his foot down on the nasty pack energy directed at Mercy, and I think even Briggs realizes this pack grudge against the protagonist has gone on for far too long. (I was never too keen on the pack power structure in this series, but I have to admit sometimes a werewolf dictatorship has its uses.) Second, I loved the cameo by the unique vampire Thomas Hao, who has appeared in the author’s other stories before, including Frost Burned where I first met the character. There was also the epic battle on the bridge between the werewolves and the troll, which kicked off this novel with an action-packed scene. The story also culminated into a tense climax and interesting resolution.
That said, I also felt that the pacing of this installment was very inconsistent and not very balanced. Fire Touched is the perfect example of the “sandwich effect”, with an explosive introduction and a stunning conclusion, but everything in between felt comparatively low key and uneventful. I mentioned fae politics, and there a lot of it in here, punctuated with a few scenes of wanton property destruction. Major changes to the future of the Columbia Basin pack notwithstanding, I also felt that little progress was made in the overall series story arc. We’re definitely moving in the right direction, but this novel still has that “filler” vibe to it, and the uneven pacing makes this one feel relatively more subdued compared to some of the previous books.
In spite of its weaker aspects though, I thought Fire Touched was a good book. It might not be the best of the series, but it’s enjoyable and entertaining, which is what matters. I love this series, and I’m especially liking the positive effects that Mercy has been having on the pack, even if not all of them are ready to embrace the changes. She and Adam are as sweet as always, and while I’d like to see Mercy’s role as Coyote’s daughter explored further (it occurred to me that she doesn’t shapeshift into a coyote even once in this novel), I’m okay with seeing her consolidate her place and her power within the pack hierarchy. Now that headway has been made on the storyline with the fae, I’m hoping the series will pick up the momentum that this book has started and run with it in the next installment. Looking forward to seeing what comes next.
Fire Touched is another strong entry into the Mercy Thompson series, and even though it might not be my favorite book or even in my top three, the significance of this volume cannot be overlooked because it contains a lot of important moments and turning points.
For one thing, the pack has grown again. Mercy may have stirred things up after becoming the mate of Adam, alpha of the Columbia Basin werewolves, but after the events of the last book Night Broken the pack has welcomed yet another non-wolfy member in the form of Joel the tibicena. Mercy, who has already taken a lot of heat (sorry, couldn’t resist the pun!) for her role in making that happen, is once more the target of the pack’s ire in Fire Touched when she extends their protection to a fae-altered child in the aftermath of a troll attack on the city. But while this decision has made some of the pack unhappy, worse yet is the concern that Mercy’s actions may have unwittingly sparked an all-out war between humankind, werewolves and the fae.
Now the Tri-Cities area has become a battleground for fae politics, forcing Bran the Marrok to cut ties with the Columbia Basin pack. However, Adam and his werewolves are standing firm on their promise to defend their territory and protect Aiden, the fire-touched child whom the Grey Lords want to get their hands on. But in the face of constant attacks on the pack and their friends, just how long will they be able to hold out?
There were so many great moments in this book. First of all, Adam probably deserves a husband-of-the-year medal for finally putting his foot down on the nasty pack energy directed at Mercy, and I think even Briggs realizes this pack grudge against the protagonist has gone on for far too long. (I was never too keen on the pack power structure in this series, but I have to admit sometimes a werewolf dictatorship has its uses.) Second, I loved the cameo by the unique vampire Thomas Hao, who has appeared in the author’s other stories before, including Frost Burned where I first met the character. There was also the epic battle on the bridge between the werewolves and the troll, which kicked off this novel with an action-packed scene. The story also culminated into a tense climax and interesting resolution.
That said, I also felt that the pacing of this installment was very inconsistent and not very balanced. Fire Touched is the perfect example of the “sandwich effect”, with an explosive introduction and a stunning conclusion, but everything in between felt comparatively low key and uneventful. I mentioned fae politics, and there a lot of it in here, punctuated with a few scenes of wanton property destruction. Major changes to the future of the Columbia Basin pack notwithstanding, I also felt that little progress was made in the overall series story arc. We’re definitely moving in the right direction, but this novel still has that “filler” vibe to it, and the uneven pacing makes this one feel relatively more subdued compared to some of the previous books.
In spite of its weaker aspects though, I thought Fire Touched was a good book. It might not be the best of the series, but it’s enjoyable and entertaining, which is what matters. I love this series, and I’m especially liking the positive effects that Mercy has been having on the pack, even if not all of them are ready to embrace the changes. She and Adam are as sweet as always, and while I’d like to see Mercy’s role as Coyote’s daughter explored further (it occurred to me that she doesn’t shapeshift into a coyote even once in this novel), I’m okay with seeing her consolidate her place and her power within the pack hierarchy. Now that headway has been made on the storyline with the fae, I’m hoping the series will pick up the momentum that this book has started and run with it in the next installment. Looking forward to seeing what comes next.
March 8, 2016
I love returning to this world. Not only it is comforting to be back into Mercy’s head but there’s just something about this world that always excites me. There’s never a dull moment, especially when a rampaging troll starts causing mayhem. It’s up to Mercy and her merry crew to tame him. But that seems to be the least of her problems when she discovered that a human child has been stolen by the fae years ago. This sparks a dangerous war between the humans and the fae, throwing Mercy right in the middle of the havoc.
Though the story is narrated through Mercy, Briggs isn’t selfish enough to keep things only about her. We get plenty of glimpses of the pack, learning more about each of them and even some of their backstory. While in the earlier books Mercy seemed like an outsider before, she is now fully cemented as part of the group. You can sense that her connection with the others is as strong as ever and this familial love adds much depth to the story.
I think it’s safe to say that this series continues to get better with each book. Mercy becomes stronger as a character, the pack shows evolution and growth and the world continues to build across several books. With so much going on, this book is packed full of non-stop excitement.
Fans of Anne Bishop’s The Others series would absolutely adore this series. The writing style isn’t that much different and if you enjoy the concept of shifters and pack politics then both these series offer something to you. While Bishop’s series can run a little dark sometimes, Briggs’ does also have its bleak moments. But if you’re a loyal fan and have come this far, I have no doubt that you’ll find FIRE TOUCHED as enjoyable as I have.
March 5, 2018
March 2018 Reread. Buddy read with Sarah and Erica.
February 2017 Re-read
Original review:
I, often, think that it's harder to review a book in a favorite series, or by a favorite author, than almost any other review I write. Not only am I comparing that book to everything else I've ever read, but I'm comparing it to the best that this author, this series, has ever given me. Then there's the fact that because I have twelve full-length novels in my history from this series, I have a bit more love for it than most books. I've given this series not only a huge investment in time, but a large chunk of my heart. So, I'm both more forgiving and more harsh - all at the same time. I'm not sure where that leaves me in the 'how do I rate it' area.
Let me just say, first off, that my biggest pet-peeve with this series was completely turned on its head here! YES! I cannot even begin to tell you how ecstatic I am that in the fight that must be fought, Mercy and Adam fought together. Mercy was integral and needed, not a liability (like so many of the Pack have accused her of being). And despite how many times we've seen her kick ass on her own, this was the first time that Adam wasn't knocked out of the fight so early as to have been a non-issue, so that Mercy could shine.
I don't want to say too much about what happens in the book, except that there were some unexpected tears (over some really unexpected things), some much-needed laughs, and some kick-ass action scenes. Not to mention the overall movement in the world. If you didn't like the uber-close-pack-politics view from Night Broken, then Fire Touched is going to make you happy in that regard. A world-plot-driven novel, this is - much more so than either Night Broken or Dead Heat. There are pack politics - and some much needed movement on some very contentious issues - and there always will be, because Mercy is a part of the Pack. But there's also HUGE events taking place in the larger world, with the fae, and the vampires, and a whole host of others. When I finished Fair Game, I expected lots of things to happen right away. They didn't so much, being more subtle and taking their time - which is definitely the more tension-filled way to go about it, but things I definitely did not expect started occurring here.
I love that Patricia Briggs can still surprise me, still make me question what I do and don't know, and still give me a more varied, bigger, and scarier world for Mercy and Adam to inhabit. I hope that their adventures are nowhere near ending, and I can't wait for the next book in this series. Anna and Charles, or Mercy and Adam...or give me some Honey, Ben, Warren, or a host of others - I'll be a happy camper to keep reading about these characters.
Oh! And I will say, without trying to spoil some really great moments, I was so, so, SO happy with the resolution on a couple of lingering issues from the previous books. Things that had irritated me were...well, let's just say I'll be re-reading those sections post-haste, and probably many times, just for the (evilly-satisfied) smiles.
4.5-rounded-up-to-5-stars-because-of-those-evil-smiles-I'm-still-sporting
February 2017 Re-read
Original review:
I, often, think that it's harder to review a book in a favorite series, or by a favorite author, than almost any other review I write. Not only am I comparing that book to everything else I've ever read, but I'm comparing it to the best that this author, this series, has ever given me. Then there's the fact that because I have twelve full-length novels in my history from this series, I have a bit more love for it than most books. I've given this series not only a huge investment in time, but a large chunk of my heart. So, I'm both more forgiving and more harsh - all at the same time. I'm not sure where that leaves me in the 'how do I rate it' area.
Let me just say, first off, that my biggest pet-peeve with this series was completely turned on its head here! YES! I cannot even begin to tell you how ecstatic I am that in the fight that must be fought, Mercy and Adam fought together. Mercy was integral and needed, not a liability (like so many of the Pack have accused her of being). And despite how many times we've seen her kick ass on her own, this was the first time that Adam wasn't knocked out of the fight so early as to have been a non-issue, so that Mercy could shine.
I don't want to say too much about what happens in the book, except that there were some unexpected tears (over some really unexpected things), some much-needed laughs, and some kick-ass action scenes. Not to mention the overall movement in the world. If you didn't like the uber-close-pack-politics view from Night Broken, then Fire Touched is going to make you happy in that regard. A world-plot-driven novel, this is - much more so than either Night Broken or Dead Heat. There are pack politics - and some much needed movement on some very contentious issues - and there always will be, because Mercy is a part of the Pack. But there's also HUGE events taking place in the larger world, with the fae, and the vampires, and a whole host of others. When I finished Fair Game, I expected lots of things to happen right away. They didn't so much, being more subtle and taking their time - which is definitely the more tension-filled way to go about it, but things I definitely did not expect started occurring here.
I love that Patricia Briggs can still surprise me, still make me question what I do and don't know, and still give me a more varied, bigger, and scarier world for Mercy and Adam to inhabit. I hope that their adventures are nowhere near ending, and I can't wait for the next book in this series. Anna and Charles, or Mercy and Adam...or give me some Honey, Ben, Warren, or a host of others - I'll be a happy camper to keep reading about these characters.
Oh! And I will say, without trying to spoil some really great moments, I was so, so, SO happy with the resolution on a couple of lingering issues from the previous books. Things that had irritated me were...well, let's just say I'll be re-reading those sections post-haste, and probably many times, just for the (evilly-satisfied) smiles.
4.5-rounded-up-to-5-stars-because-of-those-evil-smiles-I'm-still-sporting
January 23, 2016
Mercy Thompson (or should that be Hauptman ?)will always take readers on a fantastic ride and not just because she's a mechanic ! No this coyote shifter who just happens to be married to Adam the local Alpha of the werewolves, just seems to always be in the thick of it. She has stood up to Gods, tackled Vampires, fought Fae assassins and worst of all survived against Adams ex wife ! So when a troll shows up surely its business as usual? Well maybe not as the Grey Lords seem to want to start a war and it looks like Mercy and Adam are the only ones to step up!
Mercy is so grounded and if you had a problem then that's the sort of person you would always turn to so it's surprising just how much flack she gets from Adams Pack. Followers of this series will know that not everyone is pleased with Adams choice of mate and I am happy to report that this book draws a huge line but obviously you will have to read to discover more. So personal issues aside what else is at stake here? The troll is only the start of the offensive that the Fae are mounting but luckily Mercy has made friends who just might be able to help. New characters are introduced too which opens up a whole new direction for the author to explore. There's one particular character who clearly needs to understand boundaries and for this reader his fiery personality made me chuckle. It's perhaps not as action packed as some stories in this series but any fight scenes are detailed and enthralling. I'm suppose it's more of a journey in many ways but you just know that Mercy will lead the charge. Bottom line I need the next book as I'm left wondering just what will happen to the werewolves and their pack structure now. Mercy and Adam seem to be so much in sync but you just know that trouble can't be that far away
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
Four and a half from me
Mercy is so grounded and if you had a problem then that's the sort of person you would always turn to so it's surprising just how much flack she gets from Adams Pack. Followers of this series will know that not everyone is pleased with Adams choice of mate and I am happy to report that this book draws a huge line but obviously you will have to read to discover more. So personal issues aside what else is at stake here? The troll is only the start of the offensive that the Fae are mounting but luckily Mercy has made friends who just might be able to help. New characters are introduced too which opens up a whole new direction for the author to explore. There's one particular character who clearly needs to understand boundaries and for this reader his fiery personality made me chuckle. It's perhaps not as action packed as some stories in this series but any fight scenes are detailed and enthralling. I'm suppose it's more of a journey in many ways but you just know that Mercy will lead the charge. Bottom line I need the next book as I'm left wondering just what will happen to the werewolves and their pack structure now. Mercy and Adam seem to be so much in sync but you just know that trouble can't be that far away
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
Four and a half from me
March 3, 2016
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
FIRE TOUCHED started off with an impressive fight between some of Adam’s pack members, Mercy and a troll on a bridge, and the stakes only got higher from there. There’s a very real possibility that an all-out war between the fae and the werewolves might be looming on the horizon, and the outcome rests on this book’s shoulders. Patricia Briggs once again worked her creative mojo by writing a brilliant plot-driven story chock-full of remarkable characters and enough action to tide you over until the next installment.
Hauptman’s pack becomes more diverse with every new volume from a coyote, to a tibicena, to Aidan—the catalyst of this title. I’ve enjoyed watching the inner dynamics evolve throughout this series, and this novel added yet another layer to the Tri-Cities’ furry family. When you put a volcano demon and a fire touched human in the same vicinity things are bound to get interesting, then add a trip to Underhill along with the usual suspects, and you might as well buckle down because you won’t be leaving your sofa for a good long while!
I love how the MERCY THOMPSON and ALPHA & OMEGA universes continuously intersect however, you can still easily appreciate one without the other. Speaking of which, I was actually kind of disappointed with Bran’s choices in this book, especially how they affected the heroine even though ultimately the reasoning made sense for the weres as a whole. I suspect that the consequences of the Marrok’s ruling will extend well past this installment, and could potentially open up a wealth of opportunities for Adam and co.
A couple of the secondaries that have been MIA are back on the map which made me happy, and to my relief, the Walking Stick finally stops being an unpredictable wild card—that thing was seriously starting to annoy me. Jesse is really beginning to distinguish herself as a character, and I’m liking Joel a lot too. Hauptman reaffirmed why he’s been on my book boyfriend list for four years and counting, and Mercy was her awesome self, ever changing, and yet still comfortable in her own skin.
FIRE TOUCHED is not to be missed!
FIRE TOUCHED started off with an impressive fight between some of Adam’s pack members, Mercy and a troll on a bridge, and the stakes only got higher from there. There’s a very real possibility that an all-out war between the fae and the werewolves might be looming on the horizon, and the outcome rests on this book’s shoulders. Patricia Briggs once again worked her creative mojo by writing a brilliant plot-driven story chock-full of remarkable characters and enough action to tide you over until the next installment.
Hauptman’s pack becomes more diverse with every new volume from a coyote, to a tibicena, to Aidan—the catalyst of this title. I’ve enjoyed watching the inner dynamics evolve throughout this series, and this novel added yet another layer to the Tri-Cities’ furry family. When you put a volcano demon and a fire touched human in the same vicinity things are bound to get interesting, then add a trip to Underhill along with the usual suspects, and you might as well buckle down because you won’t be leaving your sofa for a good long while!
I love how the MERCY THOMPSON and ALPHA & OMEGA universes continuously intersect however, you can still easily appreciate one without the other. Speaking of which, I was actually kind of disappointed with Bran’s choices in this book, especially how they affected the heroine even though ultimately the reasoning made sense for the weres as a whole. I suspect that the consequences of the Marrok’s ruling will extend well past this installment, and could potentially open up a wealth of opportunities for Adam and co.
A couple of the secondaries that have been MIA are back on the map which made me happy, and to my relief, the Walking Stick finally stops being an unpredictable wild card—that thing was seriously starting to annoy me. Jesse is really beginning to distinguish herself as a character, and I’m liking Joel a lot too. Hauptman reaffirmed why he’s been on my book boyfriend list for four years and counting, and Mercy was her awesome self, ever changing, and yet still comfortable in her own skin.
FIRE TOUCHED is not to be missed!
October 23, 2021
Patricia Briggs is one of my very favorite authors because she makes the little things about being a werewolf/supernatural FUNNY. Like being trapped in the kitchen while your daughter's friend's mom tries to sell you catalog products and the pack laughs at you from upstairs, or the police not knowing which scary creatures are the bad guys. I absolutely love her writing and hope this series never ends.
Like so many of Briggs' books, in "Fire Touched" she manages to connect little things at the beginning with plot points later at the end, so readers who pay attention are rewarded with those awesome ah-ha moments. Here the opening chapter or two has several of those. One of the great scenes with a friend of Jesse's mom is on the one hand comical, but also makes a great touchstone for Mercy and Adam the rest of the book.
They jump right into action and the central conflict of the book is opened up with a threat to the tri-cities area. This book deals heavily with the Fae, and one thing I'm continually impressed with is how Briggs fleshes out minor characters I had only a passing interest in before. She really made so much more out of the Fae in this one, and I found myself really fascinated with Zee and Tad in particular. Tad, especially, has been only a very minor character in the first few books, has become a slightly more important character in the last few. He's just cool, becomes more interesting every time we see him, and I'd like to see more of him around. We find out about someone who is "fire touched" much as Tad and Zee are "iron kissed" and that person becomes a key player as the book progresses.
We also get to see Bran and a bit of Charles as well as some vampire friends and of course the werewolf pack. I always love it when Briggs spends some time showing us how the pack works things out, whether it's through little memories Mercy has of growing up in Montana, or showing them having a pissing contest in the house. The group dynamic and how the secondary characters, who are some of the most beloved in the series, play off each other is what makes this series great, and there was plenty of that here. But this one is definitely mostly about the Fae, and the majority of the story stays there, something the narrative doesn't suffer for. It will be interesting as the stories continue to unfold how things will work out as politics become more complex for Mercy and all her friends. 5/5 stars.
Like so many of Briggs' books, in "Fire Touched" she manages to connect little things at the beginning with plot points later at the end, so readers who pay attention are rewarded with those awesome ah-ha moments. Here the opening chapter or two has several of those. One of the great scenes with a friend of Jesse's mom is on the one hand comical, but also makes a great touchstone for Mercy and Adam the rest of the book.
They jump right into action and the central conflict of the book is opened up with a threat to the tri-cities area. This book deals heavily with the Fae, and one thing I'm continually impressed with is how Briggs fleshes out minor characters I had only a passing interest in before. She really made so much more out of the Fae in this one, and I found myself really fascinated with Zee and Tad in particular. Tad, especially, has been only a very minor character in the first few books, has become a slightly more important character in the last few. He's just cool, becomes more interesting every time we see him, and I'd like to see more of him around. We find out about someone who is "fire touched" much as Tad and Zee are "iron kissed" and that person becomes a key player as the book progresses.
We also get to see Bran and a bit of Charles as well as some vampire friends and of course the werewolf pack. I always love it when Briggs spends some time showing us how the pack works things out, whether it's through little memories Mercy has of growing up in Montana, or showing them having a pissing contest in the house. The group dynamic and how the secondary characters, who are some of the most beloved in the series, play off each other is what makes this series great, and there was plenty of that here. But this one is definitely mostly about the Fae, and the majority of the story stays there, something the narrative doesn't suffer for. It will be interesting as the stories continue to unfold how things will work out as politics become more complex for Mercy and all her friends. 5/5 stars.
April 29, 2016
2.5 stars - Spoilers
-Quite enjoyed the story, mainly because of all the fae politics/drama going on, it was better than Patricia Briggs last few Mercy/Anna books which have been nothing but ex wife/girlfriend nonsense and bitchy pack drama. I still couldn't stand most of the characters though. Mercy with her constant apologies, self-blame, and guilt about every decision she made was boring to read. As well as her do goody, vanilla ways, there was just nothing interesting about her.
-The pack's sudden turn around about Mercy was written ridiculously, they spent the entire series hating her only for them to magically realise they were being unfair and that they needed to let go of their prejudices. I know Adam made that speech about respecting her or else they'd have to leave the pack, but even then their attitude change still didn't ring true. It was as if all their years of bitchiness was forgotten about and brushed under the carpet and everyone suddenly became the best friends, none of it felt organic or earned. Even Mary Jo was all genuine smiles after being a total cow to Mercy, it was nonsensical.
-I still hated Adam. After all his daft and uncaring behaviour in the last few books (like him putting his ex wife and douchey pack members before Mercy), him finally standing up for Mercy was too little, too late. He was a disloyal, weakling and his actions in this book didn't change that.
-I had to laugh at Mercy referring to Jessie as her daughter, it was so corny and forced. She didn't raise Jessie and she hardly ever spent time with her, also she only got to know her as a teen. There were never any mother/daughter moments between them, their relationship has only ever been nothing but superficial exchanges, Mercy acting like a mother bear never seemed genuine to me.
-Really liked Aiden's character, but I was kind of annoyed that there was yet another male character added to the mix when what was needed were more female characters.
-Didn't really care about Bran cutting off Adam and his pack and them being rogue, most of the the pack are too unlikeable and boring to care about.
-Quite enjoyed the story, mainly because of all the fae politics/drama going on, it was better than Patricia Briggs last few Mercy/Anna books which have been nothing but ex wife/girlfriend nonsense and bitchy pack drama. I still couldn't stand most of the characters though. Mercy with her constant apologies, self-blame, and guilt about every decision she made was boring to read. As well as her do goody, vanilla ways, there was just nothing interesting about her.
-The pack's sudden turn around about Mercy was written ridiculously, they spent the entire series hating her only for them to magically realise they were being unfair and that they needed to let go of their prejudices. I know Adam made that speech about respecting her or else they'd have to leave the pack, but even then their attitude change still didn't ring true. It was as if all their years of bitchiness was forgotten about and brushed under the carpet and everyone suddenly became the best friends, none of it felt organic or earned. Even Mary Jo was all genuine smiles after being a total cow to Mercy, it was nonsensical.
-I still hated Adam. After all his daft and uncaring behaviour in the last few books (like him putting his ex wife and douchey pack members before Mercy), him finally standing up for Mercy was too little, too late. He was a disloyal, weakling and his actions in this book didn't change that.
-I had to laugh at Mercy referring to Jessie as her daughter, it was so corny and forced. She didn't raise Jessie and she hardly ever spent time with her, also she only got to know her as a teen. There were never any mother/daughter moments between them, their relationship has only ever been nothing but superficial exchanges, Mercy acting like a mother bear never seemed genuine to me.
-Really liked Aiden's character, but I was kind of annoyed that there was yet another male character added to the mix when what was needed were more female characters.
-Didn't really care about Bran cutting off Adam and his pack and them being rogue, most of the the pack are too unlikeable and boring to care about.
May 26, 2020
In FIRE TOUCHED we learn more about the Fae, their relationship with Underhill, and all the shenanigans involved there. It’s some serious messed-up stuff, and you can’t blame Aiden for being afraid of having to go back, which is why he asks for the pack’s protection in the first place. But who knew that Aiden’s simple request would have such far-reaching consequences? The fallout may prove to be a serious problem for the pack–and it looks like we’ll see more in the sequel
November 15, 2022
On reread update, stand by original 3 star for this one. Was good but had a lot of dull parts
3.5
“Holy Avon, Batman, I thought as worry relaxed into annoyance-tinged humor, I’ve been attacked by a multilevel marketer.”
Now don't get me wrong with the rating that is under four or even five stars - I liked this book and wasn't disappointed with it. It has Mercy and most of the group I'm used to, it had an interesting enough story, but it didn't have the oomph and energy required for a four star rating. It was kind of like sitting with a familiar and well-liked group, watching an interesting movie with them, but not like they were actively involved enough to be participants. Yeah, it doesn't make a whole bunch of sense, but it's what it felt like.
I know some grumble about the pack still not accepting Mercy, so Briggs brought that to a head here early enough. While I get annoyed with the grumblings sometimes too, it served the purpose of useful tension that brings story struggle and interest. If everything was rainbows and roses, it'd come across a little cloying and overly perfumed, which eventually just comes across bland. Still, that boat has sailed and now I'm glad, as I'm sure there will still be minor struggles but they won't be so rampant.
I never held a grudge over Adam with Christy, so this story wasn't a redemption for me for their relationship like it was for others. I just saw it as a solid continuation of their sweet joining and how they make such a killer couple, personally and politically.
Bran is present through Skype and there's some emotional struggles with Mercy over him that I found interesting. I know this ties into current plots of her other series that I was never able to get into. You don't have to read that one to get this one, but those who follow that one will understand more of the fae political maneuvering that's been going on in the background.
Aiden was an enjoyable character - didn't know what I'd think about a kid being introduced at first, but now that he's here I don't want him to leave.
There's absolutely no Stefan at all, which was a sad thing. The other werewolves are there but really only at the beginning. The bulk of the book is with the new fae and their issues, which makes an interesting story but nothing I was overly invested in. There stood little tension and actual danger-danger, at least for the mains.
Overall it was a pleasant story and since I already love the series, I enjoyed it. It wasn't too strong or shattering for the world of Mercy overall, more of a set-up for a future alliance and what this can mean later on, and also a bridge toward Bran later that is a little unresolved now. Not fully filler, more of a next step kind of book.
Worth reading but not the best one.
3.5
“Holy Avon, Batman, I thought as worry relaxed into annoyance-tinged humor, I’ve been attacked by a multilevel marketer.”
Now don't get me wrong with the rating that is under four or even five stars - I liked this book and wasn't disappointed with it. It has Mercy and most of the group I'm used to, it had an interesting enough story, but it didn't have the oomph and energy required for a four star rating. It was kind of like sitting with a familiar and well-liked group, watching an interesting movie with them, but not like they were actively involved enough to be participants. Yeah, it doesn't make a whole bunch of sense, but it's what it felt like.
I know some grumble about the pack still not accepting Mercy, so Briggs brought that to a head here early enough. While I get annoyed with the grumblings sometimes too, it served the purpose of useful tension that brings story struggle and interest. If everything was rainbows and roses, it'd come across a little cloying and overly perfumed, which eventually just comes across bland. Still, that boat has sailed and now I'm glad, as I'm sure there will still be minor struggles but they won't be so rampant.
I never held a grudge over Adam with Christy, so this story wasn't a redemption for me for their relationship like it was for others. I just saw it as a solid continuation of their sweet joining and how they make such a killer couple, personally and politically.
Bran is present through Skype and there's some emotional struggles with Mercy over him that I found interesting. I know this ties into current plots of her other series that I was never able to get into. You don't have to read that one to get this one, but those who follow that one will understand more of the fae political maneuvering that's been going on in the background.
Aiden was an enjoyable character - didn't know what I'd think about a kid being introduced at first, but now that he's here I don't want him to leave.
There's absolutely no Stefan at all, which was a sad thing. The other werewolves are there but really only at the beginning. The bulk of the book is with the new fae and their issues, which makes an interesting story but nothing I was overly invested in. There stood little tension and actual danger-danger, at least for the mains.
Overall it was a pleasant story and since I already love the series, I enjoyed it. It wasn't too strong or shattering for the world of Mercy overall, more of a set-up for a future alliance and what this can mean later on, and also a bridge toward Bran later that is a little unresolved now. Not fully filler, more of a next step kind of book.
Worth reading but not the best one.
March 23, 2017
...Quote from Fire Touched...
★★★★★ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Lorelei King, who narrates Mercy’s first person account of this series, just keeps getting better and better. She has a nice range of voices for all the characters. And I just love how you can tell when Mercy is talking with someone from when she is only thinking something. It is a nice thing to know, when you listen to an audiobook. She can make Mercy’s voice filled with humor, snark, sadness, lust, fear, or friendship. Her male voices are even, dare I say it, “yummy”? While she makes all the characters have depth, she did change the voices of a couple of characters in this installation, but I think it’s for the better. Zee in particular, sounds amazing.
I can’t believe Patricia Briggs can keep putting out the high caliber of this series. Her plot here is smooth, almost poetic, with a touch of romance, but action packed. How does she do that? I love the way she weaves mythology into this series. She made me laugh over the troll on the bridge (not under it!) and yet still realize the horror of it.
Werewolf, fae, and vampire abound in PB’s world; however, it is our little supernatural coyote shape shifter who really stirs the pot - this time and every time. The fae are pretty scary, but Mercy lands herself - and the whole pack - right in the middle of their Grey Lords’ political agenda. I actually gasped a few times, especially over the decision Bran Cornick, the Marrok, makes.
Whoa.
★★★★★ (This is a review of the audiobook.) Lorelei King, who narrates Mercy’s first person account of this series, just keeps getting better and better. She has a nice range of voices for all the characters. And I just love how you can tell when Mercy is talking with someone from when she is only thinking something. It is a nice thing to know, when you listen to an audiobook. She can make Mercy’s voice filled with humor, snark, sadness, lust, fear, or friendship. Her male voices are even, dare I say it, “yummy”? While she makes all the characters have depth, she did change the voices of a couple of characters in this installation, but I think it’s for the better. Zee in particular, sounds amazing.
I can’t believe Patricia Briggs can keep putting out the high caliber of this series. Her plot here is smooth, almost poetic, with a touch of romance, but action packed. How does she do that? I love the way she weaves mythology into this series. She made me laugh over the troll on the bridge (not under it!) and yet still realize the horror of it.
Werewolf, fae, and vampire abound in PB’s world; however, it is our little supernatural coyote shape shifter who really stirs the pot - this time and every time. The fae are pretty scary, but Mercy lands herself - and the whole pack - right in the middle of their Grey Lords’ political agenda. I actually gasped a few times, especially over the decision Bran Cornick, the Marrok, makes.
Whoa.
March 26, 2016
4.5 ★'s
Another favorite urban fantasy couple and series that is yes, a bit formulaic, but P.B. has done a good job keeping certain things fresh and interesting.
Mercy and Adam continue to present a united front against the problems with the Fae and they even manage to ramp things up a notch. But I just love the two of them together and I was really impressed with what Adam did.
It was great having Zee and Tad back and I really liked the newcomer. However, I felt like Mercy's abilities were a little diminished in this story and it just can't be the end to a certain cherished something.
And can we just say "hello Baba Yaga!" What an intriguing character. I certainly hope we get more of her in the next book(s) that's hopefully coming out next year! *fingers crossed*
Favorite quote:
♥ "Nudge."
Another favorite urban fantasy couple and series that is yes, a bit formulaic, but P.B. has done a good job keeping certain things fresh and interesting.
Mercy and Adam continue to present a united front against the problems with the Fae and they even manage to ramp things up a notch. But I just love the two of them together and I was really impressed with what Adam did.
It was great having Zee and Tad back and I really liked the newcomer. However, I felt like Mercy's abilities were a little diminished in this story and it just can't be the end to a certain cherished something.
And can we just say "hello Baba Yaga!" What an intriguing character. I certainly hope we get more of her in the next book(s) that's hopefully coming out next year! *fingers crossed*
Favorite quote:
♥ "Nudge."
March 11, 2018
1st Read February 2016
2nd Read February 2017
3rd Read March 2018
Original Review:
Buddy read with Ange
I reread the entire Mercy Thompson series (and the Alpha & Omega spin off) before the release of Fire Touched so to say I was hyped up for this book is a massive understatement. I absolutely adore this world and all it's characters and I'm incredibly invested in what happens to them so this was right up there among my most longed for books of the year (please, please write faster Patricia Briggs I need more than one book a year from you! LOL).
I love Mercy and Adam as a couple, they are so in sync with each other and always seem to know what the other is thinking. Even when they're under an incredible amount of pressure or have other people trying to get between them they always have each other's backs and they never doubt the feelings they have for each other. Even when Christy is doing her worst Mercy never fears that Adam is going to take his ex-wife back and she actually deals with things a hell of a lot better than I would in her position!
One thing that has been really bugging me for the last few books though is the way so many members of the pack treat Mercy. Yes, I get annoyed at Christy too but she's the jealous ex who has realised what a mistake she made letting Adam go and is angry that he's now happier with someone else than he ever was with her so I understand where she's coming from, I don't agree with it but I do get it. She makes me mad and I'm still waiting for that meteorite to fall out of the sky and squish her but it's the pack members like Mary Jo, Paul and Alec who I REALLY want to punch in the face. They have seen Mercy put her life at risk to protect them time and time again so they should be willing to support her for that alone but even if you completely discount Mercy from the equation they should have enough respect for Adam as their Alpha to put his feelings first. He is so happy with Mercy and that alone should have them fully on board with the relationship or at the very least keeping their mouths shut anyway.
I don't want to say too much and give spoilers but I will say that things with the pack really come to a head in Fire Touched and I absolutely LOVED how it played out. It was so awesome that I reread one chapter about 4 times before I was able to continue with the story. It was one of my favourite moments from the entire series and I wanted to give several characters a standing ovation - that's how happy it made me! We do still have Christy to deal with but she's a whole other ball game and I now have high hopes that things will be resolved with her sooner rather than later (I'm totally willing to hire a bus and just run her over if that gets her out of the way faster!).
Fire Touched has everything you could wish for: rampaging trolls, a human child who spent so long living in Underhill that they now have some very interesting abilities, exciting changes and developments within the pack (ones that will have huge implications as the series continues), comedy moments that will make you snort with laughter, emotional scenes that will make your heart melt, edge of your seat action and brilliant friendships. There is a reason that this series remains a favourite and that is entirely down to the skill of Patricia Briggs at creating believable characters that readers want to spend time with, characters you'd want to have at your back in a fight but would also invite around for a barbecue afterwards because they're such great friends. I will never get enough of this series and I'm already thinking perhaps it's time to start yet another reread while I wait a year for the next book to release!
_____________________________
2nd Read
I was so looking forward to rereading this one, especially since the way the pack treat Mercy makes me more and more angry every time I reread the earlier books! I'm not going to say too much for fear of spoilers but I bloody love the way the pack are dealt with in this book. There is one particular paragraph that is so epically awesome that I had to reread it twice before I could move on with the rest of the book. I love Mercy & Adam but I also REALLY loved Honey, Warren and Ben in this one :o)
2nd Read February 2017
3rd Read March 2018
Original Review:
Buddy read with Ange
I reread the entire Mercy Thompson series (and the Alpha & Omega spin off) before the release of Fire Touched so to say I was hyped up for this book is a massive understatement. I absolutely adore this world and all it's characters and I'm incredibly invested in what happens to them so this was right up there among my most longed for books of the year (please, please write faster Patricia Briggs I need more than one book a year from you! LOL).
I love Mercy and Adam as a couple, they are so in sync with each other and always seem to know what the other is thinking. Even when they're under an incredible amount of pressure or have other people trying to get between them they always have each other's backs and they never doubt the feelings they have for each other. Even when Christy is doing her worst Mercy never fears that Adam is going to take his ex-wife back and she actually deals with things a hell of a lot better than I would in her position!
One thing that has been really bugging me for the last few books though is the way so many members of the pack treat Mercy. Yes, I get annoyed at Christy too but she's the jealous ex who has realised what a mistake she made letting Adam go and is angry that he's now happier with someone else than he ever was with her so I understand where she's coming from, I don't agree with it but I do get it. She makes me mad and I'm still waiting for that meteorite to fall out of the sky and squish her but it's the pack members like Mary Jo, Paul and Alec who I REALLY want to punch in the face. They have seen Mercy put her life at risk to protect them time and time again so they should be willing to support her for that alone but even if you completely discount Mercy from the equation they should have enough respect for Adam as their Alpha to put his feelings first. He is so happy with Mercy and that alone should have them fully on board with the relationship or at the very least keeping their mouths shut anyway.
I don't want to say too much and give spoilers but I will say that things with the pack really come to a head in Fire Touched and I absolutely LOVED how it played out. It was so awesome that I reread one chapter about 4 times before I was able to continue with the story. It was one of my favourite moments from the entire series and I wanted to give several characters a standing ovation - that's how happy it made me! We do still have Christy to deal with but she's a whole other ball game and I now have high hopes that things will be resolved with her sooner rather than later (I'm totally willing to hire a bus and just run her over if that gets her out of the way faster!).
Fire Touched has everything you could wish for: rampaging trolls, a human child who spent so long living in Underhill that they now have some very interesting abilities, exciting changes and developments within the pack (ones that will have huge implications as the series continues), comedy moments that will make you snort with laughter, emotional scenes that will make your heart melt, edge of your seat action and brilliant friendships. There is a reason that this series remains a favourite and that is entirely down to the skill of Patricia Briggs at creating believable characters that readers want to spend time with, characters you'd want to have at your back in a fight but would also invite around for a barbecue afterwards because they're such great friends. I will never get enough of this series and I'm already thinking perhaps it's time to start yet another reread while I wait a year for the next book to release!
_____________________________
2nd Read
I was so looking forward to rereading this one, especially since the way the pack treat Mercy makes me more and more angry every time I reread the earlier books! I'm not going to say too much for fear of spoilers but I bloody love the way the pack are dealt with in this book. There is one particular paragraph that is so epically awesome that I had to reread it twice before I could move on with the rest of the book. I love Mercy & Adam but I also REALLY loved Honey, Warren and Ben in this one :o)
March 7, 2025
Aidan, the Fire Touched was taken by Underhill many hundreds of years ago and has spent those centuries at her capricious whim. With the help of Zee and Tad he has managed to escape and run straight to the Tri-Cities –– to Adam, Mercy and the pack.
But the Fae don't give up what they consider to be their's easily and the Grey Lords send a troll to reclaim Aidan. Adam and Mercy manage to defeat the troll but in doing so Adam is injured, leaving Mercy as the pack's leader. With little thought for the ramifications she offers Aidan sanctuary, declares the Tri-Cities to be their territory, and threatens war with the pack to anyone who violates their borders.
For their part, the Grey Lords are divided, some would welcome a war, while others know that a war with the werewolves would have no winners. It is up to Adam and Mercy with the help of Zee to avoid a war while strengthening their claim to the Tri-Cities.
Fire Touched is one of the better of the more recent Mercy Thompson books. Mercy who has been shunned by some on the pack very much comes into her own in this book and finally gets the acceptance of those pack members who have avoided her, and for her part she fully embraces her place in the pack.
The book feels very much like the setting of a scene and ties in quite neatly with Dead Heat (Alpha & Omega Book 4). I'm not sure where the series is going from here, but I'm guessing something big is coming.
Many thanks to Berkley Publishing Group & Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
But the Fae don't give up what they consider to be their's easily and the Grey Lords send a troll to reclaim Aidan. Adam and Mercy manage to defeat the troll but in doing so Adam is injured, leaving Mercy as the pack's leader. With little thought for the ramifications she offers Aidan sanctuary, declares the Tri-Cities to be their territory, and threatens war with the pack to anyone who violates their borders.
For their part, the Grey Lords are divided, some would welcome a war, while others know that a war with the werewolves would have no winners. It is up to Adam and Mercy with the help of Zee to avoid a war while strengthening their claim to the Tri-Cities.
Fire Touched is one of the better of the more recent Mercy Thompson books. Mercy who has been shunned by some on the pack very much comes into her own in this book and finally gets the acceptance of those pack members who have avoided her, and for her part she fully embraces her place in the pack.
The book feels very much like the setting of a scene and ties in quite neatly with Dead Heat (Alpha & Omega Book 4). I'm not sure where the series is going from here, but I'm guessing something big is coming.
Many thanks to Berkley Publishing Group & Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
April 28, 2016
2.5 stars
Yes, that's right, only 2.5 stars. I struggled with how to rate this because my sense of loyalty and nostalgia warred with my sense of fairness and honesty. In the end honesty won out. This has long been a favorite series of mine and I love and adore Mercy and Adam, Ben, Warren, and Kyle. I still love them and will continue reading about them likely as long as the author keeps writing about them. That said, the particular plot of this book didn't really ever suck me in. It took me four days to get through this book and it wasn't because I was intentionally pacing myself. It was more because I found the book easy to put down. In fact, horror of horrors, there were times that I found myself skimming. So, taken all together, I just can't rate this book any higher. "It was okay" is about as accurate as it gets, at least to me. I will still be back for more Mercy and hope that the next book is able to fully engage me again.
Yes, that's right, only 2.5 stars. I struggled with how to rate this because my sense of loyalty and nostalgia warred with my sense of fairness and honesty. In the end honesty won out. This has long been a favorite series of mine and I love and adore Mercy and Adam, Ben, Warren, and Kyle. I still love them and will continue reading about them likely as long as the author keeps writing about them. That said, the particular plot of this book didn't really ever suck me in. It took me four days to get through this book and it wasn't because I was intentionally pacing myself. It was more because I found the book easy to put down. In fact, horror of horrors, there were times that I found myself skimming. So, taken all together, I just can't rate this book any higher. "It was okay" is about as accurate as it gets, at least to me. I will still be back for more Mercy and hope that the next book is able to fully engage me again.
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