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Mercy Thompson #6
River Marked
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Best Paranormal Fantasy (2011)Welcome to Patricia Briggs's world, a place where "witches, vampires, werewolves, and shapeshifters live beside ordinary people" (Booklist
Coyote shifter Mercy Thompson knows that life with her mate, the Alpha werewolf Adam, will never be boring, but even their wedding doesn't go as planned. Nevertheless, a ten-day honeymoon camping on the banks of the Columbia River, alone, just the two of them, should make up for it. But the trip - and the pimped-out trailer they're using - is courtesy of the fae. And nothing from the fae comes without strings attached...
Being a different breed of shapeshifter - a walker - Mercy can see ghosts, but the spirit of her long-gone father has never visited her. Until now. An evil is stirring in the depths of the Columbia River - and innocent people are dying. As other walkers make their presence know to Mercy, she must reconnect with her heritage to exorcise the world of the legend known as the river devil...
Coyote shifter Mercy Thompson knows that life with her mate, the Alpha werewolf Adam, will never be boring, but even their wedding doesn't go as planned. Nevertheless, a ten-day honeymoon camping on the banks of the Columbia River, alone, just the two of them, should make up for it. But the trip - and the pimped-out trailer they're using - is courtesy of the fae. And nothing from the fae comes without strings attached...
Being a different breed of shapeshifter - a walker - Mercy can see ghosts, but the spirit of her long-gone father has never visited her. Until now. An evil is stirring in the depths of the Columbia River - and innocent people are dying. As other walkers make their presence know to Mercy, she must reconnect with her heritage to exorcise the world of the legend known as the river devil...
326 pages, Hardcover
First published March 1, 2011
About the author
Patricia Briggs
133 books29.1k 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 4,317 reviews
June 11, 2023
YES! Finally a great book! Finally a use for the mysterious walking stick!! Oh such a wonderful day! What a wonderful life!
Love Mercy
Love Adam
Love Coyote
Love Fishy Thing Creature
It just might be the best in the series.
December 17, 2017
Still love ❤️
February 23, 2011
Favorite Quote: Adam didn’t approve of Walmart.
Note: This is a spoiler-free review!
I had not read any blurbs or spoilers for this book before I started it and let me tell you how surprised I was at the first few chapters in this one. Yes, it tells the big surprise on the inside of the jacket cover – but since I am posting this review before release date, I don’t feel comfortable talking about it. So I’m not going to talk a lot about the plot. But I will tell you this.
I read this series for two reasons. One, I adore Mercy and Adam. Both separate and together. Mercy is such a strong, level-headed heroine who can claim her independence while surrounded by pack, vampires etc, yet she is so polite and warm. And Adam – well – he fulfills all my dirty needs when it comes to an alpha male. In River Marked we get a lot of Adam and Mercy. And by that I mean, almost the entire book is the two of them together. I was shocked, and I loved every second of it. We get a very intimate glimpse into their relationship. We see another side of Adam, and wow. What a sweetie. I love him even more.
“No ma’am,” he drawled mildly, though I could see a dimple peeping out. I loved his dimple – and I loved it even more when he dropped into the accent of his youth. I especially loved the warm strength of him against me. I was so easy.
We also learn a lot about what Mercy is. Her heritage is presented in much detail. At times I found these parts to be very slow. There is a point towards the middle that the pacing slows down so much I got worried for the rest of the book. But then something big happens and the rest finished quite nicely.
The second reason I read this series is for the amazing intricacies of pack life Patricia Briggs has created. I love her wolves, and their politics. How they live so closely as pack, yet are always on the verge of violence. I adore their dynamics and how Mercy has come to fit in. But – we don’t get that in this book. Adam and Mercy are removed from pack (or as much as they can be) in this one. I miss that. I know I sound greedy because we do get awesome Adam and Mercy stuff, but I will be looking forward getting back to pack life hopefully in the next one.
Overall I enjoyed this book. Like I said, we see a side of Adam that made me smile. Don't worry, he totally loses it a few times and his alpha, growly, wolf takes over. But it is a very romantic, quieter side we see.
He smiled at me. “Go to sleep.”
I waited three seconds. “Are we there yet?”
His smile widened, and the last of the usual tension melted from his face. For a smile like that I’d….do anything.
The mystery and conflict are interwoven into Mercy’s ancestry and I think this look at who Mercy is and where she comes from really makes you understand Mercy better.
This book is definitely one of the more romance oriented books in the series. While I don’t think a sex scene in every book is necessary for this series, I do think this book really could have benefited from at least one. You can think me shallow for saying that – but once you read this book you might understand why I say that.
Patricia Briggs continues to write one of the best written urban fantasy series out there. If you don’t read this series, pick up Moon Called immediately. You will not be disappointed.
Rating: B
Note: This is a spoiler-free review!
I had not read any blurbs or spoilers for this book before I started it and let me tell you how surprised I was at the first few chapters in this one. Yes, it tells the big surprise on the inside of the jacket cover – but since I am posting this review before release date, I don’t feel comfortable talking about it. So I’m not going to talk a lot about the plot. But I will tell you this.
I read this series for two reasons. One, I adore Mercy and Adam. Both separate and together. Mercy is such a strong, level-headed heroine who can claim her independence while surrounded by pack, vampires etc, yet she is so polite and warm. And Adam – well – he fulfills all my dirty needs when it comes to an alpha male. In River Marked we get a lot of Adam and Mercy. And by that I mean, almost the entire book is the two of them together. I was shocked, and I loved every second of it. We get a very intimate glimpse into their relationship. We see another side of Adam, and wow. What a sweetie. I love him even more.
“No ma’am,” he drawled mildly, though I could see a dimple peeping out. I loved his dimple – and I loved it even more when he dropped into the accent of his youth. I especially loved the warm strength of him against me. I was so easy.
We also learn a lot about what Mercy is. Her heritage is presented in much detail. At times I found these parts to be very slow. There is a point towards the middle that the pacing slows down so much I got worried for the rest of the book. But then something big happens and the rest finished quite nicely.
The second reason I read this series is for the amazing intricacies of pack life Patricia Briggs has created. I love her wolves, and their politics. How they live so closely as pack, yet are always on the verge of violence. I adore their dynamics and how Mercy has come to fit in. But – we don’t get that in this book. Adam and Mercy are removed from pack (or as much as they can be) in this one. I miss that. I know I sound greedy because we do get awesome Adam and Mercy stuff, but I will be looking forward getting back to pack life hopefully in the next one.
Overall I enjoyed this book. Like I said, we see a side of Adam that made me smile. Don't worry, he totally loses it a few times and his alpha, growly, wolf takes over. But it is a very romantic, quieter side we see.
He smiled at me. “Go to sleep.”
I waited three seconds. “Are we there yet?”
His smile widened, and the last of the usual tension melted from his face. For a smile like that I’d….do anything.
The mystery and conflict are interwoven into Mercy’s ancestry and I think this look at who Mercy is and where she comes from really makes you understand Mercy better.
This book is definitely one of the more romance oriented books in the series. While I don’t think a sex scene in every book is necessary for this series, I do think this book really could have benefited from at least one. You can think me shallow for saying that – but once you read this book you might understand why I say that.
Patricia Briggs continues to write one of the best written urban fantasy series out there. If you don’t read this series, pick up Moon Called immediately. You will not be disappointed.
Rating: B
May 15, 2019
River Marked, book #6 in the Mercy Thompson urban fantasy series, takes place mostly during Mercy's honeymoon, which starts off wonderfully (I <3 Adam) and then goes south in a way that only Mercy's life can, with something very ancient, fearsome and hungry in the water. It's worse than Jaws for making you afraid to go in the water.
A fair amount of Native American mythology - or Briggs' variation on it, anyway - is woven into the storyline, along with the usual suspects (werewolves, vampires and fae). There's a fascinating revelation about Mercy's biological father. And, briefly, about Max Schrek!
It should come as no surprise to anyone to find out that Max Shrek really WAS a vampire. I mean, duh.
A fair amount of Native American mythology - or Briggs' variation on it, anyway - is woven into the storyline, along with the usual suspects (werewolves, vampires and fae). There's a fascinating revelation about Mercy's biological father. And, briefly, about Max Schrek!
It should come as no surprise to anyone to find out that Max Shrek really WAS a vampire. I mean, duh.
March 3, 2011
River Marked is a good book. There's not really any reason to think otherwise.
It follows on faithfully the tale of Mercedes Thompson through her marriage and honeymoon. Fans of the series might be very relieved that this book's mystery doesn't deal with fae, vampire or pack issues unlike previous books.
After a lovely wedding, Mercy and Adam head off on their romantic and sex fueled honeymoon. The book is very light on any sexual descriptions, possably causing a number of frustrated groans from fans as they read. When a man is found in a boat with a bitten-off leg and his sister missing, things start to get interesting. This probably proves that either the universe hates Mercy or that she is on a one-coyote mission to prove that werewolves CAN age by giving Adam Hauptman prematurely gray hair.
Briggs has been suspiciously closed lipped on my query emails about whether it is the latter.
Nevertheless, Mercy has her opportunity to scare the shit out of Adam who should really know by now that she is not a normal woman but a super-powered space robot which is impervious to death.
Actually, this novel addresses and finally resolves one of Mercy's big mysteries about herself and her past and it is done with such a lovely flare of American mythology that I found myself really enjoying the story and characters. Though we are missing most of the usual cast apart from brief appearances, the stand-in cast is funny and very likable.
But the book left me pondering a single question. How much more does the Mercedes Thompson series have in it?
A quick google search says it's a seven book deal, but what more does this story REALLY have to offer?
Well, the first six books HAVE been painfully void of evil squirrels so I guess it's their turn next...
I'm glad that there's only one more book in this series. I enjoy the Thompson world, and I'm glad that Briggs has taken it up in her Alpha and Omega book series, but I'm honestly not holding out for anymore books that focus on Mercy and her crew. I'm glad that it's coming to an end and hopefully the last book will maintain the same good quality as the ones that came before it.
It follows on faithfully the tale of Mercedes Thompson through her marriage and honeymoon. Fans of the series might be very relieved that this book's mystery doesn't deal with fae, vampire or pack issues unlike previous books.
After a lovely wedding, Mercy and Adam head off on their romantic and sex fueled honeymoon. The book is very light on any sexual descriptions, possably causing a number of frustrated groans from fans as they read. When a man is found in a boat with a bitten-off leg and his sister missing, things start to get interesting. This probably proves that either the universe hates Mercy or that she is on a one-coyote mission to prove that werewolves CAN age by giving Adam Hauptman prematurely gray hair.
Briggs has been suspiciously closed lipped on my query emails about whether it is the latter.
Nevertheless, Mercy has her opportunity to scare the shit out of Adam who should really know by now that she is not a normal woman but a super-powered space robot which is impervious to death.
Actually, this novel addresses and finally resolves one of Mercy's big mysteries about herself and her past and it is done with such a lovely flare of American mythology that I found myself really enjoying the story and characters. Though we are missing most of the usual cast apart from brief appearances, the stand-in cast is funny and very likable.
But the book left me pondering a single question. How much more does the Mercedes Thompson series have in it?
A quick google search says it's a seven book deal, but what more does this story REALLY have to offer?
Well, the first six books HAVE been painfully void of evil squirrels so I guess it's their turn next...
I'm glad that there's only one more book in this series. I enjoy the Thompson world, and I'm glad that Briggs has taken it up in her Alpha and Omega book series, but I'm honestly not holding out for anymore books that focus on Mercy and her crew. I'm glad that it's coming to an end and hopefully the last book will maintain the same good quality as the ones that came before it.
February 24, 2017
Still loving this series! Another fun and fast read!
January 26, 2024
Loved it. A lot of information about Mercy's birth and parentage.
May 29, 2016
I consider this the Mercy installment written for the romance fans. When I first read it in 2011, I felt like the pacing was awkward but overall appreciated and enjoyed the story, particularly the exploration of Mercy's heritage. Re-reading confirms the overall issues with the series Silver Borne/series review but it remains an enjoyable installment.
It begins with Mercy rescuing a male friend from himself, followed by pre-wedding jitters, encouraged by Mercy's mom now including butterflies and balloons. There's a wedding, and all the important men are there, along with Mercy's two sisters. Adam and Mercy then hitch up a camper and head to a private campground along the Columbia River where they have lots of tastefully alluded to sex in between eating hot dogs and going for runs. Mercy and Adam are innocently playing along the river when they discover an injured man in a boat. Not long after they pull his boat to shore, his family comes looking for him.
The setting for the book is lovely, with the affection for the area shining through. Mercy's narrative is interrupted by an alternate viewpoint dream sequence. Plotting is decent. The wedding and initial parts of the honeymoon were enjoyable, and a payoff for the ups and downs of their relationship. Mercy and Adam choose to fight the river creature because of altruism, not because someone is kidnapped (although it's noteworthy that a kidnapping helps engage Mercy's personal resolution to fight). One of the plot lines has to do with Mercy finding out more about her own heritage/history, moments that cause me mixed emotion out of amusement, enjoyment and eye-rolling that Briggs just couldn't resist the lure of the Super-Speshul-Snowflake. I enjoyed the inclusion of the Native American folklore, although I will note that it made me both a little uncomfortable that Native lore might be being co-opted and that everyone involved insisted on calling themselves 'Indian.' The villain was intimidating and creepy, and powerful enough that winning felt somewhat questionable.
As a complete aside, I'll just note here that there's a bit of obsession with going 'decently clothed,' although from book one, Mercy assures the reader she doesn't have any nudity hang-ups. It's just that now she's married to Adam. And she doesn't want anyone seeing his marvelous body either. I'll attribute this to the romance novel tradition, because I can't think why else we need to go on so much about states of undress if everyone's all copacetic about body image. I feel like Briggs' own issues are showing again.
Once again, almost every introduced is male, except for the villain, a trio of Native avatars, and one injured guy's wife in a hospital scene at the end.
Ms. Briggs, we need to talk.
Three and a half stars, rounding down because that's what I do for this series.
read July 2011
re-read May 2016
It begins with Mercy rescuing a male friend from himself, followed by pre-wedding jitters, encouraged by Mercy's mom now including butterflies and balloons. There's a wedding, and all the important men are there, along with Mercy's two sisters. Adam and Mercy then hitch up a camper and head to a private campground along the Columbia River where they have lots of tastefully alluded to sex in between eating hot dogs and going for runs. Mercy and Adam are innocently playing along the river when they discover an injured man in a boat. Not long after they pull his boat to shore, his family comes looking for him.
The setting for the book is lovely, with the affection for the area shining through. Mercy's narrative is interrupted by an alternate viewpoint dream sequence. Plotting is decent. The wedding and initial parts of the honeymoon were enjoyable, and a payoff for the ups and downs of their relationship. Mercy and Adam choose to fight the river creature because of altruism, not because someone is kidnapped (although it's noteworthy that a kidnapping helps engage Mercy's personal resolution to fight). One of the plot lines has to do with Mercy finding out more about her own heritage/history, moments that cause me mixed emotion out of amusement, enjoyment and eye-rolling that Briggs just couldn't resist the lure of the Super-Speshul-Snowflake. I enjoyed the inclusion of the Native American folklore, although I will note that it made me both a little uncomfortable that Native lore might be being co-opted and that everyone involved insisted on calling themselves 'Indian.' The villain was intimidating and creepy, and powerful enough that winning felt somewhat questionable.
As a complete aside, I'll just note here that there's a bit of obsession with going 'decently clothed,' although from book one, Mercy assures the reader she doesn't have any nudity hang-ups. It's just that now she's married to Adam. And she doesn't want anyone seeing his marvelous body either. I'll attribute this to the romance novel tradition, because I can't think why else we need to go on so much about states of undress if everyone's all copacetic about body image. I feel like Briggs' own issues are showing again.
Once again, almost every introduced is male, except for the villain, a trio of Native avatars, and one injured guy's wife in a hospital scene at the end.
Ms. Briggs, we need to talk.
Three and a half stars, rounding down because that's what I do for this series.
read July 2011
re-read May 2016
August 17, 2023
Mercy is back ~~ sassier than ever and with her classic ability to find trouble basically anywhere
This series continues to be a fun brilliant example of paranormal detectives — create an intriguing mystery plot then sprinkle on your own unique take.
In this series, Mercy Thompson is a Mechanic, Shapeshifter, and fighter who is finally joining the rest of the paranormal world and meeting others of her kind.
And may I just say... they are very sexy *smirks*
We meet some new enemies and allies, see old friends again~ all just a great big Tahitian lovefest
“I start to think he hates me, and he does something nice, like save my life or give me a cool pep talk”
I love how she thinks saving her goddamn life and getting a pep talk are both equal lolol
“You quenched Lugh’s walking stick in the blood of an ancient Native American monster?”
“I screwed up?”
...um no? Nice Mercy, gotta make any situation worse—eh i’d do the same thing probably
“I didn’t do it on purpose,” I wailed miserably. “I didn’t want to almost die.”
Hospital Mercy Back in Action.
When he blames you for almost dying because he just pissed you fought without him, hahah I love Adam
“He lifted his head. “You are going to be the death of me.”
I sucked in my breath. The sudden surge of fear I felt at that thought broke through the happy glaze I’d been enjoying. “Don’t say that. Adam, don’t let me do that.”
“Shh,” he said. “I’m sorry. Don’t cry. It’s all right.” He rose to kneel beside me, wiping my cheeks with his thumbs.”
I love Adam so fucking much this character just ughh fuck yes so much love.
Long Live the Mercy Series (Seriously y’all imma fall apart when I finish, its gonna hurt like a motherfucker)
This series continues to be a fun brilliant example of paranormal detectives — create an intriguing mystery plot then sprinkle on your own unique take.
In this series, Mercy Thompson is a Mechanic, Shapeshifter, and fighter who is finally joining the rest of the paranormal world and meeting others of her kind.
And may I just say... they are very sexy *smirks*
We meet some new enemies and allies, see old friends again~ all just a great big Tahitian lovefest
“I start to think he hates me, and he does something nice, like save my life or give me a cool pep talk”
I love how she thinks saving her goddamn life and getting a pep talk are both equal lolol
“You quenched Lugh’s walking stick in the blood of an ancient Native American monster?”
“I screwed up?”
...um no? Nice Mercy, gotta make any situation worse—eh i’d do the same thing probably
“I didn’t do it on purpose,” I wailed miserably. “I didn’t want to almost die.”
Hospital Mercy Back in Action.
When he blames you for almost dying because he just pissed you fought without him, hahah I love Adam
“He lifted his head. “You are going to be the death of me.”
I sucked in my breath. The sudden surge of fear I felt at that thought broke through the happy glaze I’d been enjoying. “Don’t say that. Adam, don’t let me do that.”
“Shh,” he said. “I’m sorry. Don’t cry. It’s all right.” He rose to kneel beside me, wiping my cheeks with his thumbs.”
I love Adam so fucking much this character just ughh fuck yes so much love.
Long Live the Mercy Series (Seriously y’all imma fall apart when I finish, its gonna hurt like a motherfucker)
April 29, 2020
Re-read for a 3rd time April 23, 2020I find more to love after every reading!
Re-read March 27th 2017
****Spoilers if you haven't read the previous books.****
Adam and Mercy go on a luxury camping honeymoon, and trouble and excitement follow, because nothing can be simple or boring in Mercy's life. River monsters, psycho otters, other shifters and Coyote show up to make things interesting.
Love Adam and Mercy together! They are definitely a power couple.
Lorelei King's narration as usual was amazing!
Re-read March 27th 2017
****Spoilers if you haven't read the previous books.****
Adam and Mercy go on a luxury camping honeymoon, and trouble and excitement follow, because nothing can be simple or boring in Mercy's life. River monsters, psycho otters, other shifters and Coyote show up to make things interesting.
Love Adam and Mercy together! They are definitely a power couple.
Lorelei King's narration as usual was amazing!
October 18, 2023
RIVER MARKED is an interesting installment for me in the Mercy Thompson series. The book focuses on Mercy and Adam and most of the characters we normally see in the books are absent (which, I'll admit, I missed--I think one of the strongest aspects of Briggs' books is her strong cast of side characters and the way they interact with Mercy.) I did enjoy seeing her with Adam. There is a good mystery to solve as usual, this one involving a river next to where Adam and Mercy are staying, and we meet Coyote, and important character in future books.
March 1, 2023
This book is one of my favorites, and I think one of the last I’ve read countless times. I love this book because it introduces Mercy to Coyote. Like all Coyote stories it’s a bit full of chaos but it’s wonderful to see her learn more about what she is. Adam and Mercy are able to get away and end up at a campground…but of course they bump into an ancient Native American monster and they wouldn’t be themselves if they didn’t work to try to stop it. This book focuses on Native folklore and mythology instead of the more European focus of the other books.
September 4, 2021
4.5 Stars for River Marked: Mercy Thompson Series, Book 6 (audiobook) by Patricia Briggs read by Lorelei King.
I really like where this story is going. We are learning so much more about Mercy and the world around her.
I really like where this story is going. We are learning so much more about Mercy and the world around her.
February 14, 2018
February 2018 Reread. Buddy read with Sarah and Erica
February 2017 Re-read
January 2016 Re-read: Buddy read with Sarah.
Next to Iron Kissed, I think this is the most emotional book for me. We get a LOT more time with just Mercy and Adam. A lot more insight into Mercy's heritage. And a lot more emotion throughout it all. I became very quickly attached to characters we just met, and love Adam and Mercy even more than I ever have.
Original Review:
Mercy's going crazy. And it's not the fae, wolves, or vampires that are scaring her this time.
It's her wedding. More specifically, planning it with her mother. Who apparently thinks doves, pigeons, and butterflies would be a wonderful addition to the day. She's ready to elope. The honeymoon should make up for it all though, and be just what she needs. Just her, Adam, a camper and no one for miles for ten days. Bliss.
Unfortunately things don't go quite as planned and when they find a person with his foot bit off, Mercy's suddenly thrust into a mystery that brings her into much closer contact with her own personal history.
I loved this book. Loved it. I think that most fans will either love it, or not like it. It takes us away from all the secondary characters that we love in the Tri-Cities for most of the book, and focuses on Adam and Mercy, and Mercy's roots.
For 5 books I've been waiting to get some more in-depth alone time with Mercy and Adam. I think that this book really solidifies what they are to and for each other and I love that they fit so perfectly.
We meet some new characters, and one, in particular, is a favorite. He's fabulous, funny, smart, and just a little bit crazy. And learning more about Mercy's past - things she didn't even know - is fun and extremely entertaining.
There is a thing with these books that bugs me a bit. It doesn't bug me until I'm finished, but it does bother me. Near the end, when Mercy and Adam are getting ready to fight the "big bad" Adam's always, ALWAYS, knocked out of the fight somehow. There's something that prevents him from being there to help - and mostly this is probably because he'd wipe the floor with anything that was trying to hurt Mercy and Mercy needs to be the one that saves the day/herself/others etc. I get that, and I like that Mercy saves the day, but I wish this could be handled a bit differently in the books. A good example is Kate and Curran - Curran (Magic Bites) is obviously stronger, but Kate's essential and strong too. They work together to get what needs to be done, done. Anyway. Like I said, a minor bother, but I did want to bring it up.
Great book though. Strong interpersonal relationships, strong mystery story-line (with some great emotionally charged moments) and fantastic characters. This continues to be one of my favorite series, and Patricia Briggs a favorite author.
February 2017 Re-read
January 2016 Re-read: Buddy read with Sarah.
Next to Iron Kissed, I think this is the most emotional book for me. We get a LOT more time with just Mercy and Adam. A lot more insight into Mercy's heritage. And a lot more emotion throughout it all. I became very quickly attached to characters we just met, and love Adam and Mercy even more than I ever have.
Original Review:
Mercy's going crazy. And it's not the fae, wolves, or vampires that are scaring her this time.
It's her wedding. More specifically, planning it with her mother. Who apparently thinks doves, pigeons, and butterflies would be a wonderful addition to the day. She's ready to elope. The honeymoon should make up for it all though, and be just what she needs. Just her, Adam, a camper and no one for miles for ten days. Bliss.
Unfortunately things don't go quite as planned and when they find a person with his foot bit off, Mercy's suddenly thrust into a mystery that brings her into much closer contact with her own personal history.
I loved this book. Loved it. I think that most fans will either love it, or not like it. It takes us away from all the secondary characters that we love in the Tri-Cities for most of the book, and focuses on Adam and Mercy, and Mercy's roots.
For 5 books I've been waiting to get some more in-depth alone time with Mercy and Adam. I think that this book really solidifies what they are to and for each other and I love that they fit so perfectly.
We meet some new characters, and one, in particular, is a favorite. He's fabulous, funny, smart, and just a little bit crazy. And learning more about Mercy's past - things she didn't even know - is fun and extremely entertaining.
There is a thing with these books that bugs me a bit. It doesn't bug me until I'm finished, but it does bother me. Near the end, when Mercy and Adam are getting ready to fight the "big bad" Adam's always, ALWAYS, knocked out of the fight somehow. There's something that prevents him from being there to help - and mostly this is probably because he'd wipe the floor with anything that was trying to hurt Mercy and Mercy needs to be the one that saves the day/herself/others etc. I get that, and I like that Mercy saves the day, but I wish this could be handled a bit differently in the books. A good example is Kate and Curran - Curran (Magic Bites) is obviously stronger, but Kate's essential and strong too. They work together to get what needs to be done, done. Anyway. Like I said, a minor bother, but I did want to bring it up.
Great book though. Strong interpersonal relationships, strong mystery story-line (with some great emotionally charged moments) and fantastic characters. This continues to be one of my favorite series, and Patricia Briggs a favorite author.
July 31, 2015
I discovered this series when I read this book and that was it!!! I knew I was going to love reading Mercy Thompson’s adventures!!! And I do love this series!!! I am totally addicted!!
River Marked is the 6th book in the series and it’s quite different to the previous novels as it’s mostly set away from Mercy’s home and a whole new set of characters are introduced, which gives us more information about Mercy’s heritage.
Mercy & Adam are now married and mated and set off on their honeymoon to a secluded camp in the Columbia River area.
Between trying to discover the reason for the killings, she encounters a Native American tribe that knows something about her earlier life. She’s told the identity of her father…..a coyote walker who sees ghosts….
This is a fantastic adventure, filled with new revelations about Mercy and also something new about shape shifters..
I loved the chemistry between Mercy and Adam….
Another well-written story with a great plot and fantastic addition of characters to this amazing fantasy world.
My favorite quote:
River Marked is the 6th book in the series and it’s quite different to the previous novels as it’s mostly set away from Mercy’s home and a whole new set of characters are introduced, which gives us more information about Mercy’s heritage.
Mercy & Adam are now married and mated and set off on their honeymoon to a secluded camp in the Columbia River area.
, looking forward to spending quiet and relaxing time together….but as we know, something is going to happen where Mercy is around…
There’s something in the river that is killing people and Mercy has some connection to the monster, named River Devil.
Between trying to discover the reason for the killings, she encounters a Native American tribe that knows something about her earlier life. She’s told the identity of her father…..a coyote walker who sees ghosts….
This is a fantastic adventure, filled with new revelations about Mercy and also something new about shape shifters..
I loved the chemistry between Mercy and Adam….
. They have a deep and strong connection –and let’s not speak about possessiveness….
I adore these two together…they suit each other perfectly!!!!!
I did enjoy learning about the Native American history, their myths and their customs…it was an added pleasure and hopefully we will see more of them in the next books.
Another well-written story with a great plot and fantastic addition of characters to this amazing fantasy world.
My favorite quote:
“All life is rife with possibilities. Seeds have possibilities, but all their tomorrows are caught by the patterning of their life cycle. Animals have possibilities that are greater than that of a fir tree or a blade of grass. Still, though, for most animals, the pattern of instinct, the patterns of their lives, are very strong. Humanity has a far greater range of possibilities, especially the very young. Who will children grow up to be? Who will they marry, what will they believe, what will they create? Creation is a very powerful seed of possibility.”
July 3, 2023
An excellent adventure for Mercy and Adam. Fantastic twists, heart felt emotions and constants action, the newest addition to the Mercy Thompson series is AWESOME. I did however miss the interaction with regular characters of this series but it was in no way detrimental to the story line.
March 5, 2011
Patricia Briggs has this amazing ability to keep this series feeling fresh. Unlike other longer series (for example, the Sookie Stackhouse Mysteries) the plot lines never feel contrived or forced. River Marked is the epitome of Brigg's ability to tell a story that feels so real, despite the fantasy. When more is revealed about Mercy's background it seems authentic, not like Sookie's fairyblood, which seemed pulled out of Harris' ass. The new supernaturals fall flawlessly into their place in Brigg's world because they flow from her great grasp of real myths and legends.
If that weren't enough to make these books truly special, the subplots actually advance in this series (shocking I know!). There isn't the constant will they/won't they. The continued growth and development of Mercy and Adam's relationship is one of the things that keeps bringing me back to these novels. And although there is always conflict or a challenge in the novels it seems to evolve naturally from the world and the character's position in that world.
If that weren't enough to make these books truly special, the subplots actually advance in this series (shocking I know!). There isn't the constant will they/won't they. The continued growth and development of Mercy and Adam's relationship is one of the things that keeps bringing me back to these novels. And although there is always conflict or a challenge in the novels it seems to evolve naturally from the world and the character's position in that world.
April 29, 2020
The tone in River Marked was a bit different from the earlier books in the series. While I welcomed the added focus on her relationship and the romance, the pressure seemed too light on Mercy, which slowed the pace more than I liked. I really think not including the established cast of characters also hurt the story a little.
We did get to see a few new secondary characters, though, and some of them look like they might be recurring. The main one was Coyote of Indian legend. As one would expect, he both helps and hinders her as she tries to stop a monster that has been killing people. He also provided some surprising and interesting insight into her mysterious father, a man who died before she was born. I’m hoping he makes further appearances later in the series.
We did get to see a few new secondary characters, though, and some of them look like they might be recurring. The main one was Coyote of Indian legend. As one would expect, he both helps and hinders her as she tries to stop a monster that has been killing people. He also provided some surprising and interesting insight into her mysterious father, a man who died before she was born. I’m hoping he makes further appearances later in the series.
December 11, 2021
I don't understand why so many people liked this book so much less than the others. It's my absolute favorite so far. I love, love, LOVED it. I've always loved Native American Folklore though. But that's just me.
July 13, 2017
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
This wasn't my favorite book in the series but it was still a really good story. If you have been following my reviews you probably already know that I adore this series. I remember reading this book back when it was first released and enjoying it and I liked it just as much on this audio re-read. This is a series that I have made a point to keep up with and look forward to every installment. I had a lot of fun listening to the audio of this story.
This story takes place away from most of the group and I have to say that I missed some of the characters that I have grown to love just a bit. Mercy and Adam are there for the whole book so I didn't have too much time to spend missing everyone else. Mercy and Adam are off on their honeymoon but they end up getting involved in a situation that needs their help. There are some interesting characters that are a part of this installment including some that knew Mercy's father.
This book had a lot of really good elements. I like how Mercy and Adam's relationship just keeps getting stronger. I really cannot get enough of these two and think that they are just perfect for each other. The chemistry between them is amazing. It was interesting to learn a little bit more about Mercy's background. Her father is really quite a mystery so getting the chance to learn a little bit more is really quite exciting. There was plenty of excitement in this installment. I mean there is a river monster to be battled so of course there is some excitement. This was the kind of book that you just don't want to put down.
Lorelei King does an amazing job with this audiobook. I really didn't expect anything else. She has done such a fantastic job with all of book in this series that I have listened to so far. She has become the voice of Mercy form me. She does a great job with a large cast of characters and brings a lot of emotion into the story. Her voice is very pleasant to listen to and she read the story at a very natural pace. I was able to completely lose myself in this book for hours at a time. I can't wait to listen to more of this series.
I would highly recommend this series to others. I do think that this is a series that really does need to be read in order since the relationships between the characters develop throughout the series. I can't wait to continue with my re-read of this series very soon.
Initial Thoughts
Not my favorite book in the series but still a really good story. Adam and Mercy are away for most of this book and I did kind of miss the rest of the regular group. Plenty of excitement in this installment.
Book source: Audible purchase
This wasn't my favorite book in the series but it was still a really good story. If you have been following my reviews you probably already know that I adore this series. I remember reading this book back when it was first released and enjoying it and I liked it just as much on this audio re-read. This is a series that I have made a point to keep up with and look forward to every installment. I had a lot of fun listening to the audio of this story.
This story takes place away from most of the group and I have to say that I missed some of the characters that I have grown to love just a bit. Mercy and Adam are there for the whole book so I didn't have too much time to spend missing everyone else. Mercy and Adam are off on their honeymoon but they end up getting involved in a situation that needs their help. There are some interesting characters that are a part of this installment including some that knew Mercy's father.
This book had a lot of really good elements. I like how Mercy and Adam's relationship just keeps getting stronger. I really cannot get enough of these two and think that they are just perfect for each other. The chemistry between them is amazing. It was interesting to learn a little bit more about Mercy's background. Her father is really quite a mystery so getting the chance to learn a little bit more is really quite exciting. There was plenty of excitement in this installment. I mean there is a river monster to be battled so of course there is some excitement. This was the kind of book that you just don't want to put down.
Lorelei King does an amazing job with this audiobook. I really didn't expect anything else. She has done such a fantastic job with all of book in this series that I have listened to so far. She has become the voice of Mercy form me. She does a great job with a large cast of characters and brings a lot of emotion into the story. Her voice is very pleasant to listen to and she read the story at a very natural pace. I was able to completely lose myself in this book for hours at a time. I can't wait to listen to more of this series.
I would highly recommend this series to others. I do think that this is a series that really does need to be read in order since the relationships between the characters develop throughout the series. I can't wait to continue with my re-read of this series very soon.
Initial Thoughts
Not my favorite book in the series but still a really good story. Adam and Mercy are away for most of this book and I did kind of miss the rest of the regular group. Plenty of excitement in this installment.
Book source: Audible purchase
March 22, 2011
4.5 STARS!!!
Even after five books, Briggs is able to keep the Mercy Thompson world fresh. I found that this book was very different from the others. It’s set in an entirely different place. No garage here, even though I kind of missed that. The Pack is set on the sidelines, while Mercy and Adam take centre stage and new characters are introduced. The newbies are very interesting because they are the first Native Americans we’ve encountered in this series apart from Mercy. River-Marked explores Mercy’s Native half and it was a natural change in the course of her life.
But things happen in Mercy’s life that make change inevitable. I thought that as Mercy entered a new phase in her life, her friends were also dealing with changes in theirs. Some are tragic like Stefan who is having trouble dealing with Marsilia’s betrayal while others are more trivial like Jesse trying to figure out ways to outsmart Darryl and let her go out on a date with Gabriel.
While the very beginning and the very end caught my attention, I thought it was a bit slow somewhere in the middle. All the Native stories were getting confusing after awhile. Also, Samuel is not in this one at all! There’s a brief mention of him, but I would have liked to read more about him. Certainly he hasn’t just dropped out of Mercy’s life after all that they’ve been through, no matter that Mercy is married to Adam now.
But my favourite part of the book has to be the letter Mercy wrote for Adam at the very end. It broke my heart! Mercy isn’t fond of expressing her feelings in words, so the fact that she took the time to sit down and do this makes it even more special. I just adore Adam and Mercy together. They’re so perfect!
Even after five books, Briggs is able to keep the Mercy Thompson world fresh. I found that this book was very different from the others. It’s set in an entirely different place. No garage here, even though I kind of missed that. The Pack is set on the sidelines, while Mercy and Adam take centre stage and new characters are introduced. The newbies are very interesting because they are the first Native Americans we’ve encountered in this series apart from Mercy. River-Marked explores Mercy’s Native half and it was a natural change in the course of her life.
But things happen in Mercy’s life that make change inevitable. I thought that as Mercy entered a new phase in her life, her friends were also dealing with changes in theirs. Some are tragic like Stefan who is having trouble dealing with Marsilia’s betrayal while others are more trivial like Jesse trying to figure out ways to outsmart Darryl and let her go out on a date with Gabriel.
While the very beginning and the very end caught my attention, I thought it was a bit slow somewhere in the middle. All the Native stories were getting confusing after awhile. Also, Samuel is not in this one at all! There’s a brief mention of him, but I would have liked to read more about him. Certainly he hasn’t just dropped out of Mercy’s life after all that they’ve been through, no matter that Mercy is married to Adam now.
But my favourite part of the book has to be the letter Mercy wrote for Adam at the very end. It broke my heart! Mercy isn’t fond of expressing her feelings in words, so the fact that she took the time to sit down and do this makes it even more special. I just adore Adam and Mercy together. They’re so perfect!
April 14, 2017
As much as I've loved reading every book so far in this series, it is about time that we got something like this one.
The old Mercy and Adam are back at it again but with sweeter, more tender moments between them that will make you melt. And while most of the pack wasn't present in this, it was okay because for once, this book is all about Mercy. Her heritage, her (finally) feeling like she belongs somewhere, and of course, her relationship with Adam and I couldn't of asked for more.
We got so much that has been missing from the other books without even realizing it had been missing. We finally get the in depth took into what makes Mercy, Mercy and I couldn't of been happier about it. With an introduction to some new characters and lots of new surprises, this was a non-stop read from the exciting plot to the romantic moments.
A wonderful addition to the series that just might very well have been my favorite to date.
The old Mercy and Adam are back at it again but with sweeter, more tender moments between them that will make you melt. And while most of the pack wasn't present in this, it was okay because for once, this book is all about Mercy. Her heritage, her (finally) feeling like she belongs somewhere, and of course, her relationship with Adam and I couldn't of asked for more.
We got so much that has been missing from the other books without even realizing it had been missing. We finally get the in depth took into what makes Mercy, Mercy and I couldn't of been happier about it. With an introduction to some new characters and lots of new surprises, this was a non-stop read from the exciting plot to the romantic moments.
A wonderful addition to the series that just might very well have been my favorite to date.
May 5, 2021
2021 Re-Read
I liked this book better this time. I was inspired to revisit it after reading Wild Sign, which includes another battle with a watery, tentacled foe. Quite different stories, but some similarities in opponents.
This is also the book in which Mercy meets Coyote, plus other indigenous folk who know about being a walker. I love how Briggs seamlessly weaves all the mythologies together: Native American, werewolf, vampire, Fae. Am I missing anyone? I love the tricksy Fae and the blood chilling vampires, so this series just makes me happy. I love any book in which Stefan makes an appearance—he has been one of my favourite characters from the very beginning. His role at the end endears him to me even more. Mercy can order the wolves away and they have to obey, but Stefan is immune and can set her straight. We all need a friend like that, someone we can snarl at and know that they won't go away.
Yes, much improved this time around. I may indulge in one more Mercy re-read before I return to my regular reading program.
Original Review
For me, this was a lull in the Mercy Thompson series. Too much lovey-dovey stuff for someone as completely unromantic as I am. There’s Mercy & Adam’s wedding (planned by other people, no less, and seeming to include much more fluff than someone of Mercy’s tastes would generally choose) and the resulting honeymoon. Of course, their honeymoon has been carefully choreographed by Uncle Mike and the Fae, steering them towards a potential trouble spot.
I did enjoy Mercy’s exploration of her own heritage and Native American mythology. I felt that Briggs was really happy and engaged while describing the landscape, the pictographs, and the history. I suspect, but don’t know, that the villain was something that Briggs made up, rather than a real creature from Native American tradition. I maybe wasn’t comfortable with the whole set up, but I could definitely see where it fulfilled its purpose in the series story arc.
I was also glad to see that our friendly neighbourhood vampire, Stefan, is back is a substantive way. I’ve missed Mr. Tall, Dark & Dangerous. Plus I’m much more comfortable with writers using the good old European folklore tropes—it feels so much less like cultural appropriation.
I am getting repetitive, but Mercy needs some women friends in the worst way possible. All the dudes are fine and dandy, but she needs a soul sister and a confidant who will have her back. I would have been so happy to have one of the Native characters introduced in the novel be a medicine woman. Entirely plausible, and highly desirable—someone who lives in the nearish area and could become that go-to female friend. But, we have to make do with a medicine man and his male apprentice instead, an opportunity bypassed.
Basically, I think this is book 6 and there was bound to be a “pause and regroup” book. Briggs has filled in some of the holes in Mercy’s past, accustomed the reader to Mercy & Adam’s new status as a married couple, and is in the process of pivoting to pursue a new book that is refocused on the familiar secondary characters again (at least I hope so).
A very pleasant evening’s reading.
I liked this book better this time. I was inspired to revisit it after reading Wild Sign, which includes another battle with a watery, tentacled foe. Quite different stories, but some similarities in opponents.
This is also the book in which Mercy meets Coyote, plus other indigenous folk who know about being a walker. I love how Briggs seamlessly weaves all the mythologies together: Native American, werewolf, vampire, Fae. Am I missing anyone? I love the tricksy Fae and the blood chilling vampires, so this series just makes me happy. I love any book in which Stefan makes an appearance—he has been one of my favourite characters from the very beginning. His role at the end endears him to me even more. Mercy can order the wolves away and they have to obey, but Stefan is immune and can set her straight. We all need a friend like that, someone we can snarl at and know that they won't go away.
Yes, much improved this time around. I may indulge in one more Mercy re-read before I return to my regular reading program.
Original Review
For me, this was a lull in the Mercy Thompson series. Too much lovey-dovey stuff for someone as completely unromantic as I am. There’s Mercy & Adam’s wedding (planned by other people, no less, and seeming to include much more fluff than someone of Mercy’s tastes would generally choose) and the resulting honeymoon. Of course, their honeymoon has been carefully choreographed by Uncle Mike and the Fae, steering them towards a potential trouble spot.
I did enjoy Mercy’s exploration of her own heritage and Native American mythology. I felt that Briggs was really happy and engaged while describing the landscape, the pictographs, and the history. I suspect, but don’t know, that the villain was something that Briggs made up, rather than a real creature from Native American tradition. I maybe wasn’t comfortable with the whole set up, but I could definitely see where it fulfilled its purpose in the series story arc.
I was also glad to see that our friendly neighbourhood vampire, Stefan, is back is a substantive way. I’ve missed Mr. Tall, Dark & Dangerous. Plus I’m much more comfortable with writers using the good old European folklore tropes—it feels so much less like cultural appropriation.
I am getting repetitive, but Mercy needs some women friends in the worst way possible. All the dudes are fine and dandy, but she needs a soul sister and a confidant who will have her back. I would have been so happy to have one of the Native characters introduced in the novel be a medicine woman. Entirely plausible, and highly desirable—someone who lives in the nearish area and could become that go-to female friend. But, we have to make do with a medicine man and his male apprentice instead, an opportunity bypassed.
Basically, I think this is book 6 and there was bound to be a “pause and regroup” book. Briggs has filled in some of the holes in Mercy’s past, accustomed the reader to Mercy & Adam’s new status as a married couple, and is in the process of pivoting to pursue a new book that is refocused on the familiar secondary characters again (at least I hope so).
A very pleasant evening’s reading.
December 30, 2015
*** 4 ***
So once again I have to write something about a book in the Mercy Thompson world and I feel like anything I say would be redundant... I love the strongly influenced by the Native American culture of storytelling and mythology tale Patricia Briggs has gifted us with. I love the characters she has created and managed to enthrall us with. I love the creativity the world is build upon and the unobtrusive descriptiveness everything from the smallest action to the wildest character feature are painted with... See, I know I am fan-girling and know not what to do about it - I just love this series!!!
This storyline was slower, more subdued, and singularly focused on Adam and Mercy spending time with each other as a new committed couple. Going camping in nature seems like a good idea at first, but obviously trouble keeps finding our part time coyote everywhere. Once again she has to save the day, and on the way she gets to learn more about her native American heritage and possibly her father... There is danger, love, friendships, and hidden agendas as always, expanding our understanding of Mercy's nature...
I recommend this book to all fans of the series and the Urban Fantasy genre. Happy reading to all!!! :-)
So once again I have to write something about a book in the Mercy Thompson world and I feel like anything I say would be redundant... I love the strongly influenced by the Native American culture of storytelling and mythology tale Patricia Briggs has gifted us with. I love the characters she has created and managed to enthrall us with. I love the creativity the world is build upon and the unobtrusive descriptiveness everything from the smallest action to the wildest character feature are painted with... See, I know I am fan-girling and know not what to do about it - I just love this series!!!
This storyline was slower, more subdued, and singularly focused on Adam and Mercy spending time with each other as a new committed couple. Going camping in nature seems like a good idea at first, but obviously trouble keeps finding our part time coyote everywhere. Once again she has to save the day, and on the way she gets to learn more about her native American heritage and possibly her father... There is danger, love, friendships, and hidden agendas as always, expanding our understanding of Mercy's nature...
I recommend this book to all fans of the series and the Urban Fantasy genre. Happy reading to all!!! :-)
March 12, 2015
Wow, I feel like this series needed this book at this point. If you've been aching for some quality Adam/Mercy time, you get it in spades! Most of this story is just the two of them, along with a few new secondary characters. There is a lot of romance, and not the uber sexy kind. Just good old loving and bonding between a couple that has very little face time in their every day life. Due to the enormous responsibility of Adam's position in the pack...and therefore Mercy's as well...they get miniscule amounts of down time. I found it frustrating as to how little we readers get to see of them just being couple. But not any more. Even if this is the majority of romance for the rest of the series, I think it will be enough. It solidified how much they care for one another, but more importantly...how well they work as a team.
We also get a bit of a scare on both their parts as they receive a reality check on just how deeply their bond goes. It was quite beautiful. OF course there is a big baddie...and she is scary! Plus, Mercy's past comes back to literally haunt her.
As every, one of the BEST UF series available! Right up there with Kate Daniels in my opinion.
We also get a bit of a scare on both their parts as they receive a reality check on just how deeply their bond goes. It was quite beautiful. OF course there is a big baddie...and she is scary! Plus, Mercy's past comes back to literally haunt her.
As every, one of the BEST UF series available! Right up there with Kate Daniels in my opinion.
July 8, 2019
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Felt Disconnected*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Re-read: 08.07.2019
The sixth book in the series focuses more on the Volkswagen mechanic and a walker (a magical being with the power to shift into a coyote at will), Mercedes ‘Mercy’ Athena Thompson Hauptman (31?), and her mate and husband (becomes her husband early in this book) Adam Alexander Hauptman (over 60?), the Alpha of the local werewolf pack (the Columbia Basin Pack). They are on their honeymoon and of course, trouble can't seem to stay away from Mercy as she's like a damn magnate for trouble.
Overall, as it's centered around Mercy and Adam, I'm still a bit angry over the fact that even though Adam is right there, he still isn't/can't fight along side Mercy and Mercy kills the bad guy somewhat alone. Again. Also, I found myself skimming a lot - I was re-reading this one on a plane trip - and it felt sooo... disconnecting. I get Mercy's independence, I do, but for me, she's taking it a step too far and I feel like Adam deserves more to be honest. Is this rude? Weird?
I wish Mercy was more like Kate Daniels. I find that that series has a perfect balance between independence and family/love. Not sure if I should continue my re-read, but on the other hand, I kinda need it as I don't remember certain details and I need those for the once I haven't read yet (#10 & #11). Ugh. I miss reading M/M. I need to finish this though, or I never will.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Urban Fantasy (M/F)
Series: - Series, Book Six.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Adam Hauptman.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably not.
New Rating - 2.5 stars (I gave it 4 stars first time reading it).
May 3, 2011
4.5/5.0
*warning* a huge torrent of gushing admiration about to commence...
I now understand people who are so blinded by their love of an author, they truly believe they can write no wrong (listen closely Lisa Kleypas fans) The eye rolling is over, I am officially capitulating and stand repentant... I am now one of you - with Patricia Briggs. I love everything about the way she writes. Her Mercedes Thompson series is humorous, suspenseful, touching, warm, scary, inventive, romantic - everything, just everything I love in a story! Even with six of them now under her belt, the quality is never better.
In River Marked, Mercedes and Adam's relationship is given the much needed attention it deserves. Briggs ability to write a couple so real yet so sigh-worthy while keeping their animal natures in tact is incredible. They are both strong characters, allowed to be even stronger through their love for each other. The author's genius is even more apparent when considering this is done without the use of graphic sex scenes to bolster those emotions. While the plot-line of a water monster was not as riveting to me as others have been, the interest and page-turning suspense was still present right along with the touch of humor that makes Mercedes such a beloved character.
*warning* a huge torrent of gushing admiration about to commence...
I now understand people who are so blinded by their love of an author, they truly believe they can write no wrong (listen closely Lisa Kleypas fans) The eye rolling is over, I am officially capitulating and stand repentant... I am now one of you - with Patricia Briggs. I love everything about the way she writes. Her Mercedes Thompson series is humorous, suspenseful, touching, warm, scary, inventive, romantic - everything, just everything I love in a story! Even with six of them now under her belt, the quality is never better.
In River Marked, Mercedes and Adam's relationship is given the much needed attention it deserves. Briggs ability to write a couple so real yet so sigh-worthy while keeping their animal natures in tact is incredible. They are both strong characters, allowed to be even stronger through their love for each other. The author's genius is even more apparent when considering this is done without the use of graphic sex scenes to bolster those emotions. While the plot-line of a water monster was not as riveting to me as others have been, the interest and page-turning suspense was still present right along with the touch of humor that makes Mercedes such a beloved character.
June 29, 2012
Picture of the Columbia River Gorge, by Doug Porter
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★★★★☆ (This is a review of the audiobook.) This sixth installment of Mercy Thompson’s series is very well narrated by Lorelei King. Ms. King certainly has cemented her voice as Mercy’s in my brain and she delivers nicely for this first person narrative. Love her Italian accent for Stefan (a vampire), who features in the opening scenes of this volume. It has kind of a “I want to drink your blood…” cadence to it, but Ms. King totally gets away with it.
Nevertheless, without giving away spoilers, this one is mainly about Adam and Mercy. We get to peer into a different, sweet, romantically intimate side of their relationship as they get even closer. They end up camping in the Columbia River Gorge area and eventually battling evil; . Mercy also gets some answers about her Native American Indian father she never knew.
This one is a little different; no mechanic’s shop, very little pack interaction. (Thanks goodness Jesse made a phone call to complain to her father about Darryl.) And the pace seemed slower to me, too, though Ms. Briggs always has a nice way of setting future scenes up without me even knowing it. So, it is a given that it must be read, if you’re planning on continuing this wonderful Urban Fantasy series that has a touch more romance this time around.
Anyone who has researched Patricia Briggs knows that she was strongly influenced by magic and fairy tales. This one is loaded with them, most of them Indian legends, and they are pretty neat.
Stonehenge Memorial at Maryhill, Washington
<--February, 2013
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★★★★☆ (This is a review of the audiobook.) This sixth installment of Mercy Thompson’s series is very well narrated by Lorelei King. Ms. King certainly has cemented her voice as Mercy’s in my brain and she delivers nicely for this first person narrative. Love her Italian accent for Stefan (a vampire), who features in the opening scenes of this volume. It has kind of a “I want to drink your blood…” cadence to it, but Ms. King totally gets away with it.
Nevertheless, without giving away spoilers, this one is mainly about Adam and Mercy. We get to peer into a different, sweet, romantically intimate side of their relationship as they get even closer. They end up camping in the Columbia River Gorge area and eventually battling evil; . Mercy also gets some answers about her Native American Indian father she never knew.
This one is a little different; no mechanic’s shop, very little pack interaction. (Thanks goodness Jesse made a phone call to complain to her father about Darryl.) And the pace seemed slower to me, too, though Ms. Briggs always has a nice way of setting future scenes up without me even knowing it. So, it is a given that it must be read, if you’re planning on continuing this wonderful Urban Fantasy series that has a touch more romance this time around.
Anyone who has researched Patricia Briggs knows that she was strongly influenced by magic and fairy tales. This one is loaded with them, most of them Indian legends, and they are pretty neat.
Stonehenge Memorial at Maryhill, Washington
<--February, 2013
February 21, 2021
4 ☆
Briggs had introduced three major supernatural species into her series. She rotated the main focus and source of danger to Mercy among the werewolves, vampires, and Fae with each book.
Briggs finally writes a book that delves into walkers or "avatars" as one character suggests. Up until this point, Mercy had never encountered people with similar abilities and it had left her feeling, not special, but adrift as though she belongs nowhere. But even after meeting several Native American walkers, Mercy discovers that not all walkers share the same abilities. Mercy also sees her father's ghost for the first time.
This is my favorite of the six books so far in the series. Not only is there background info on Mercy's family and abilities, but I enjoyed the issue du jour. I also liked River Marked for its fuller depiction of Adam. This is the first book in the series with them jointly facing a problem. And it occurs at an untimely occasion - . Because of the timing, they're both happy, which makes for one of the lightest tones of all the books to this point in the series.
#0.3 Homecoming 3 ☆
#1 Moon Called 3.5 ☆
#2 Blood Bound 4 ☆
#3 Iron Kissed 4 ☆
#4 Bones Crossed 3.5 ☆
#5 Silver Borne 3.5 ☆
#7 Frost Burned 3.5 ☆
#7.5 Hopcross Jilly 3.5 ☆
#8 Night Broken 4 ☆
#9 Fire Touched 3.5 ☆
#10 Silence Fallen almost 4 ☆
#11 Storm Cursed 4 ☆
#12 Smoke Bitten 3 ☆
“Mercy is not a proper Indian name." Her tone, like her words, was critical, but not emotionally so. "She is a mechanic. We should call her She Fixes Car."
"No, sister. Bringer of Change."
The woman ... frowned disapprovingly. "Rash Coyote Who Runs with Wolf. We could shorten it to Dinner Woman.”
Briggs had introduced three major supernatural species into her series. She rotated the main focus and source of danger to Mercy among the werewolves, vampires, and Fae with each book.
"Your ability to survive anything that gets thrown at you sometimes leaves the rest of us swallowing ulcer medication for days afterward. I don't like the taste of Maalox."
Briggs finally writes a book that delves into walkers or "avatars" as one character suggests. Up until this point, Mercy had never encountered people with similar abilities and it had left her feeling, not special, but adrift as though she belongs nowhere. But even after meeting several Native American walkers, Mercy discovers that not all walkers share the same abilities. Mercy also sees her father's ghost for the first time.
“I am the reality of all coyotes. The archetype. The epitome.” He smiled out into the darkness. “You are just a reflection of me.”
It also appears that he is ... or some aspect of him was ... my father. It was complicated. I understood it, mostly, but I had to think a little sideways to do it.
This is my favorite of the six books so far in the series. Not only is there background info on Mercy's family and abilities, but I enjoyed the issue du jour. I also liked River Marked for its fuller depiction of Adam. This is the first book in the series with them jointly facing a problem. And it occurs at an untimely occasion - . Because of the timing, they're both happy, which makes for one of the lightest tones of all the books to this point in the series.
#0.3 Homecoming 3 ☆
#1 Moon Called 3.5 ☆
#2 Blood Bound 4 ☆
#3 Iron Kissed 4 ☆
#4 Bones Crossed 3.5 ☆
#5 Silver Borne 3.5 ☆
#7 Frost Burned 3.5 ☆
#7.5 Hopcross Jilly 3.5 ☆
#8 Night Broken 4 ☆
#9 Fire Touched 3.5 ☆
#10 Silence Fallen almost 4 ☆
#11 Storm Cursed 4 ☆
#12 Smoke Bitten 3 ☆
June 17, 2020
Series Reread continues. I'm not sure why I never wrote a review for this one, maybe I'll get around to it this time.
It appears that I never wrote a review for this after finishing it the first time and that was about five years ago so I’ve forgotten why it didn’t jam with me the first time as much. This is one of those times when a re-read goes better than the first read.
Mercy and Adam have just been married in a pretty interesting way and are off on their honeymoon to go glamping. I should have known there was going to be trouble when Adam admits that Uncle Mike, one of the fae, lent them the super comfy trailer with all the bells and whistles to take to a spot along the Columbia River.
This story is steeped in Native American lore and I definitely was more on board with that this time around. It just goes to show that sometimes your reading base and interests grow over time. I think the trouble I had the first go around was that Native American mythos didn’t really appeal to me at that time but now with Coyote showing up and seeing a few of the other Animal spirits I was more intrigued than my first go around.
There is something living in the river and it is hungry. People keep disappearing and Mercy seems to be one of the only creatures immune to it. This is again a tale where Mercy is up against something big and bad and needs to pull in are her coyote cunning to figure out a tricky way to win.
In the middle of all of this Adam and Mercy also try to have a nice little honeymoon and smooth out some of the wrinkles that come up when you are learning to be married. I did enjoy getting some insight into Mercy’s heritage and why her gifts are a bit different than some of the other walkers we run into. Not all of them are coyotes either.
Overall, a better read for me this time around so I’ll bump my rating up to 3.5 stars.
Original Review
I didn't really like this as much as the others. Could have just been the native American theme. The middle seemed to super drag for me.
Full review to come.
It appears that I never wrote a review for this after finishing it the first time and that was about five years ago so I’ve forgotten why it didn’t jam with me the first time as much. This is one of those times when a re-read goes better than the first read.
Mercy and Adam have just been married in a pretty interesting way and are off on their honeymoon to go glamping. I should have known there was going to be trouble when Adam admits that Uncle Mike, one of the fae, lent them the super comfy trailer with all the bells and whistles to take to a spot along the Columbia River.
This story is steeped in Native American lore and I definitely was more on board with that this time around. It just goes to show that sometimes your reading base and interests grow over time. I think the trouble I had the first go around was that Native American mythos didn’t really appeal to me at that time but now with Coyote showing up and seeing a few of the other Animal spirits I was more intrigued than my first go around.
There is something living in the river and it is hungry. People keep disappearing and Mercy seems to be one of the only creatures immune to it. This is again a tale where Mercy is up against something big and bad and needs to pull in are her coyote cunning to figure out a tricky way to win.
“Trouble seems to follow me around, waiting to club me with a tire iron.”
In the middle of all of this Adam and Mercy also try to have a nice little honeymoon and smooth out some of the wrinkles that come up when you are learning to be married. I did enjoy getting some insight into Mercy’s heritage and why her gifts are a bit different than some of the other walkers we run into. Not all of them are coyotes either.
Overall, a better read for me this time around so I’ll bump my rating up to 3.5 stars.
Original Review
I didn't really like this as much as the others. Could have just been the native American theme. The middle seemed to super drag for me.
Full review to come.
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