An Enchanting Dive into Urban Fantasy: A Review of Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
When I stumbled upon Moon Called, the first installment in the Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs, I was drawn in by its intriguing premise and the promise of a world where magic and reality intertwine. As someone who loves the Urban Fantasy genre—where the extraordinary lives alongside the ordinary—I was eager to steep myself in the adventures of Mercy Thompson, a half Native American mechanic who can shapeshift into a coyote. It’s not every day you find a protagonist with such a unique heritage and abilities, sparking my curiosity about what chaos she might unleash!
From the get-go, what captivated me most were the layers of the supernatural world Briggs masterfully crafts. The werewolves are not merely wild beasts; they are complex social beings intertwined in a pack hierarchy, led by the formidable Adam Hauptman. Their interactions reflect a mix of human emotions and animal instincts—something I found both fascinating and relatable. On the flip side, the vampires remain ominous figures, lurking in the shadows, making their presence felt through more than just bloodlust. The magical intricacies, especially the relationships between different supernatural beings, create a rich backdrop that I couldn’t help but get lost in.
Mercy herself is not your typical kick-ass heroine, and this is part of what makes her so relatable. She isn’t invincible; instead, she is courageous, facing threats head-on while grappling with her own vulnerabilities. Her interactions with a colorful cast—like the fae named Zee and her neurotic vampire client, who happens to be a major fan of Scooby Doo—add depth and humor to the narrative. I found myself chuckling at the moments of levity amidst the tension, particularly when Mercy plays off these diverse personalities.
Briggs’ writing style is both approachable and engaging. She balances action with introspection, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a personal level. The pace, however, does have its ebbs and flows; while the beginning grabs you, some middle chapters felt a bit slow. Yet the emotional stakes kept me invested, drawing me through the narrative twists and turns.
Among my favorite aspects of the book was the way Mercy navigates her world. A memorable quote that resonated with me was, “Sometimes, humanity isn’t entertaining enough.” It perfectly encapsulates the allure of the supernatural in a world that often seems mundane. This concept of embracing the extraordinary really hit home for me, reflecting our inherent desire for adventure and excitement.
Moon Called sets the stage for a series that has continued to thrive across ten books, with its blend of humor, romance, and supernatural intrigue. I believe this series will resonate with readers who appreciate well-drawn characters and a vivid, captivating world. That said, if Urban Fantasy isn’t your jam, this may not convert you—but for those who adore the genre, it’s a must-read!
In conclusion, my journey with Mercy Thompson has only just begun, and I find myself eager for all the twisty adventures that await. If you enjoy stories that entwine the ordinary with the magical, filled with quirky characters and heart, Patricia Briggs’ Moon Called is one enchanting tale you won’t want to miss. Happy reading!
Discover more about Moon Called (Mercy Thompson, #1) on GoodReads >>