Series: Kitty Norville #11
Format Read: Kindle book
Source: owned by the reviewer
Release Date: March 26, 2013
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Blurb from goodreads:
On the heels of Kitty’s return from London, a new werewolf shows up in Denver, one who threatens to split the pack by challenging Kitty’s authority at every turn. The timing could not be worse; Kitty needs all the allies she can muster to go against the ancient vampire, Roman, if she’s to have any hope of defeating his Long Game. But there’s more to this intruder than there seems, and Kitty must uncover the truth, fast. Meanwhile, Cormac pursues an unknown entity wreaking havoc across Denver; and a vampire from the Order of St. Lazaurus tempts Rick with the means to transform his life forever.
Bea's Thoughts:
Kitty and I do not always get along. I disliked the first book, loved the second and it's been up and down ever since. This one was not great, not awful. I enjoyed it but didn't love it. Maybe I'll love the next one.
I read this on my kindle and I was at almost 50% when I realized that not much had happened yet. This was not an action driven story but a character driven one. After several mostly action books in the series, it was a surprise to get this slower paced one. We see more of the inner workings of the pack and Kitty in her role as an alpha. I wish we spent more time with the pack in the series but it only makes sporadic appearances here and there so this was a treat. There's a new werewolf in town and after a slow start, he begins to make trouble. Watching Kitty deal with him was a treat as she tried to balance her human and werewolf sides and to be different from the pack's former alphas.
We also learn more about Rick and about vampires in general, but again, that story line moves slowly. The revelations about vampires were interesting and there should be reverberations from both it and Rick's actions in future stories.
Kitty's human family makes an appearance and I love how they just don't get what her being a werewolves means. Maybe because of that, they don't let Kitty use being one as an excuse for slacking in her familial obligations. Her sister can be a pain but in a way that rings true. Now if only Kitty's husband Ben were as well fleshed out. As usual, he has little to do besides stand next to Kitty and support her. Cormac on the other hand was in action in this story and it was good to see him at work.
One of my favorite parts of the series is when Kitty does her show and we got that in this book. I wonder how often Vaughn listens to call-in radio shows or watches tv shows such as Maury Povich; Kitty's show feels so authentic. It may just be Vaughn's vivid imagination but she nails it. And the jokes that Kitty and her producer played on each other, hee hee. That was a needed bit of humor.
The series arc of The Long Game continues to move at a glacial pace as Vaughn continues laying the groundwork. Honestly, that story line bores me. I prefer when Kitty is interacting with other supernaturals and working with humans to make a place for supernaturals. You could argue that the Long Game allows for all of that to happen but Kitty being who she is, that story line could be resolved and still allow for her interactions.
"Kitty Rocks the House" is a meandering story, mostly character driven, that gives us insight into the pack, Kitty's human family, and does have one bomb shell of a surprise. It doesn't do a lot to move the series along but it's pleasant and it gives us insights into several characters.
I'm not a huge fan of the more paranormal genre (except ghosts! Love ghosts!) so I may give this one a miss since it's been so up and down for you. I have a series or two that I really want to completely love and the author just isn't completely cooperating and it sounds like this may be the case of this one for you!
ReplyDeleteThe author and I definitely have different ideas on where the series should go. I like it enough to keep reading but it might not be right for you.
DeleteOh geez, I'm so far behind on this series! It's been at least 5 years since I've read one. So whatever has come out since then and maybe more. I don't mind if the action takes a step back sometimes. I think I get overwhelmed with UF that has constant action in every book and no breaks at all. I miss her radio show!
ReplyDeleteThe radio show is back in this one! I was behind too but this year I've been trying to catch up.
DeleteA lot of UF blogs I follow love this series. I'm sure book 2 is going to take off, 1st novels are always spotty for some reason.
ReplyDeleteBook 2 was good, this is book 11. The series has its ups and downs but I'm sticking with it.
DeleteInteresting and helpful review, Bea! I've been wavering on whether to start this series. I think I'll try to catch up on a few other series before deciding. :-)
ReplyDeleteMaybe wait until the series is done, whenever that may be, and then give it a try. It's good but not great.
DeleteIt IS taking a long time to resolve this story arc. If you have he first book, give it a try, but yeah, don't rush to read this one. Maybe wait until/if the series finishes?
ReplyDelete