Book Review: Deadlocked by Charlaine Harris

Deadlocked is the 12th book in Charlaine Harris’ bestselling Sookie Stackhouse novels. It released earlier this week, and I was able to get my hands on a copy.  I know from the reviews I've read, they are some fans ready to ditch the series.  I'm happy to report, I don't share their sentiments.  Note:  I'll do my best not to mention any spoilers.

Deadlocked, in short, is about family, friendship, vampire politics and of course star-crossed love. If you’ve read the sneak peak chapter Harris released on her site, then you understand some of the family dynamics brewing in Bon Temps. Sookie has her hands full with fairies in Deadlocked. Why exactly are they drawn to her? Is it her blood? Is it the portal in the woods? Or is it the cluviel dor? Not that many folks know about the cluviel dor or its powerful magic? Or do they?

In the snippet Harris provides, she mentioned Eric being accused of murder.  But is he really capable of it?  Hell yes. But did he do this murder? The police seem to think so—along with everybody else. Even Sookie has her doubts. The story tracks Sookie in her not-so-normal life in Bon Temps as she attempts to find the real culprit. And the vampire politics with Felipe are heated because the King wants answers about his missing regent vampire, Victor.  And then of course there is The Queen of Oklahoma, Freyda. You’ll be happy to know the Sookie finally meets the regal beauty. And boy is she positively frightening. Or maybe threatening is a better word.  Despite the unnerving situation, Sookie handles it with courage, grace and even a splash of spitfire. I love that about her. And let's not forget about Eric Northman. The impending decision from the vampire viking has yet to be made. Will pride rule over love? Who will Eric choose: Freyda or Sookie?

I call these two star-crossed because that’s ultimately what they are. He’s a vampire. She’s part fairy and part human. Two very unlikely beings that were doomed from the start. While the ride was fun—and you may hate me for stating this, minions—I don’t think they will last long.  As you know, much has happened in the past, but in this book, clear lines are drawn on both sides. At times, it was hard to read. *swallows hard* And there’s much of me that is extremely disappointed in Eric. Damn you, Eric!

For me, Deadlocked was a thrilling read. Some fans are exasperated with the series, but not me. Expect to have some questions answered, but not everything will be revealed. The ending rocked my world. Sookie has balls. BALLS! She makes an irrevocable decision in Deadlocked that will leave you in awe if not begging for more. The ending alone, put this book at a 4.

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Don't forget about Fred. Here's a shot of him snuggling with me. My buddy.

 Remember to stop by and visit Schatze over at Mary’s BookHounds too.

Have a great weekend.

Mina B.

Book Obsession: Sookie Stackhouse Series

Okay, I was waaaay late coming to the Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse rave.  Being a vamp lover and having a penchant for all things creepy, I should have read these books sooner.  I have no excuse. None.  I knew for a few years I wanted to read them, but I just  didn't have the time until I made some - which meant no sleep.  I believe as a writer, you must read anything and everything that’s out there in your genre, in order to hone your craft.  And so I did.  Today, I thought I’d share some brief thoughts about the series to date and then in another post, I'll share my opinion of the HBO's TrueBlood series.

About the Sookie Stackhouse series:

In a nutshell the Sookie Stackhouse series are a never-ending dish of southern creepy comfort.  These are books I could read for an eternity and never get bored.  Sookie feels so familiar; a woman who thinks she’s a freak in so many ways, yet she’s still human (mostly).  I think we all can relate - at least the human side.  Her Deep South roots keep her unique and alluring to the core.  The way Harris infused Sookie’s Gram's influence is something that speaks to my very marrow.  My Grandma (while alive) used to have these old southern/nearly forgotten adages she’d say to us (the grand kids.) Back then, I laughed and ignored them. Now those memory clips – when I recall them - are like pure poetry to me.  Sookie rattles off these southern sayings that make me yearn for my long-gone grandmother. As you can see, from the beginning, I was smitten. Sookie is smart, fun, positive, a go-getter and never dull.  And above all, she has manners sprinkled with a “do unto others” mentality.  What a concept!  Don’t get me wrong, I love the snarky, tough chick heroine in books, but they are nearly everywhere in stories nowadays and I believe a bit overdone.

Creating solid likable characters comes naturally to Harris. There’s probably not one character I don’t admire in some way.  And the town Bon Temps resembles–"sups" aside– the mess of Podunk towns that I lived around as a kid.  All the creepy creatures, vampires, fairies, elves, shifters, werewolves, witches, etc.… are awesome to say the least. The  story lines are incredible too.  Sookie finds love a few times, so there are always delicious love triangles that will satiate those who need romance in their fiction.  Whether it’s Sookie's first love, Bill, or the forbidden love of Eric, it’s all goooood!  Charlaine Harris knows how to write a series damn it!  There’s a reason why these are so loved.  If you haven’t had a chance to read the series, you really should. They are positively addicting!

Book 12, Deadlocked in the Sookie Stackhouse series comes out in May 2012.  Oh jeez, I can’t believe I have to wait that long.  She released chapter 2 recently for those who haven’t seen it.  Can't wait!

Mina B.