Charlaine Harris: Dead in the Family

Review by Vicky London

Dead in the Family is the tenth book in the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris. Here’s the cover blurb:

A Fae War has left the supernatural community of Bon Temps, Louisiana, in chaos–and waitress Sookie Stackhouse mentally and physically drained. And still, the peace and quiet she so desperately craves is hard to come by…

Even with the blood of two vampires in her system, Sookie is having trouble healing from the terrible torture she endured at the hands of her great-grandfather’s enemies during the brief but deadly Fae War. Worse are the emotional wounds–especially over the loss of her own personal fairy godmother and the near death of her first love.

Sookie is hurt and she’s mad. Just about the only bright spot in her life–besides the fact that she is after still alive–is the love she thinks she feels for vampire Eric Northman, who is under scrutiny by the new vampire king because of their relationship.

As the political implications of the shifters’ coming-out are beginning to be felt, Sookie’s connection to one particular Were draws her into the dangerous debate. And, unknown to her, though the doors to Faery have been closed, there are still some fae on the human side–and one of them is angry at Sookie. Very, very angry.

The title of this book is perfect because the story deals with the theme of family in just about every way. Sookie and Bill are both recovering from serious injuries received in the fae war. Bill is suffering still from silver poisoning and Sookie wants to help him. He needs blood from a family member, so Sookie tracks down his sister and finds out a whole new chapter of Bill’s history. Sam is still dealing with the fallout of his family learning that he and his mother are shifters. Eric is finding out that his new vampire “family” is not so benevolent but he’s really in for a surprise when his maker comes to visit with a famous historical figure who has a little problem with murdering humans. Sookie has never had much family and she’s more grateful than ever for those who are left. She never expected however, to be roommates with her cousin Claude the stripper. Family can come in many different forms, but sometimes the best family is the one you choose.

The best thing about the Sookie series is that they defy categorization. More than anything they are an adventure but also mystery, romance and for sure action. Sookie’s life has been for a while but is getting every more f*d up. The poor girl has been through so much crap she really is kind of numb to the violence around her. Her practicality seems to be the thing that gets her through each day even when she has to kill someone to save her own life. It’s balanced out somewhat by her friendships, her love for Eric, and some quality time with her little telepathic cousin Hunter. This was a well told, enjoyable story with some definite twists. Fans of the series will definitely want to read about Sookie’s latest adventure.

Release Date: May 4, 2010
ISBN-10: 0441018645
ISBN-13: 978-0441018642

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