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The Iron Druid Chronicles #1
Hounded
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Best Paranormal Fantasy (2011)Atticus O’Sullivan, last of the Druids, lives peacefully in Arizona, running an occult bookshop and shape-shifting in his spare time to hunt with his Irish wolfhound. His neighbors and customers think that this handsome, tattooed Irish dude is about twenty-one years old—when in actuality, he’s twenty-one centuries old. Not to mention: He draws his power from the earth, possesses a sharp wit, and wields an even sharper magical sword known as Fragarach, the Answerer.
Unfortunately, a very angry Celtic god wants that sword, and he’s hounded Atticus for centuries. Now the determined deity has tracked him down, and Atticus will need all his power—plus the help of a seductive goddess of death, his vampire and werewolf team of attorneys, a bartender possessed by a Hindu witch, and some good old-fashioned luck of the Irish—to kick some Celtic arse and deliver himself from evil.
Unfortunately, a very angry Celtic god wants that sword, and he’s hounded Atticus for centuries. Now the determined deity has tracked him down, and Atticus will need all his power—plus the help of a seductive goddess of death, his vampire and werewolf team of attorneys, a bartender possessed by a Hindu witch, and some good old-fashioned luck of the Irish—to kick some Celtic arse and deliver himself from evil.
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 3, 2011
About the author
Kevin Hearne
71 books12.4k followersKevin is the NYT bestselling author of the Iron Druid Chronicles, as well as The Seven Kennings, an epic fantasy trilogy, and the Tales of Pell, a humorous fantasy series co-authored with Delilah S. Dawson. INK & SIGIL, a new urban fantasy series set in the Iron Druid universe, will be out in 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 7,557 reviews
September 25, 2012
It's hard for me to read urban fantasy these days and not compare the books to the Dresden files.
When the main character is a magic-wielding badass that interacts with mythological figures, it makes it harder to avoid the comparison. When the book is in first person, and the magic wielding badass is also a snarky, sarcastic wise-ass.... well... it's nigh impossible to avoid putting the two books side-by-side in my mind.
That said, there are a lot of differences. And the vast majority of the things that set Atticus apart from Dresden are good things. These books are more lighthearted than the Dresden files. Atticus is less emo than Harry, and he starts off as a huge badass who is able to go toe-to-toe with some serious mythic shit right off the bat in book one.
Mind you, when I say I like these differences, it's not because I dislike the way things were handled in Butcher's books. I'm saying that I like them because those are the things that make these iron Druid books distinct from the Dresden files. It gives the books their own distinct feel.
Normally, I'd probably give this one a 4/5 stars. But given that it's the author's first book AND the fact that I know I was unfairly comparing this book to the Dresden files all the way through... I'm going to bump it up to 5/5.
April 5, 2017
I loved this book! ❤ I wasn't sure at first because lately when reading my urban fantasy books, they are taking me longer to get into and that's sad because I used to read them all of the time. At any rate, this one took off for me after a little bit and I freaking fell in love.
I mean this book has so much stuff in it! All kinds of gods, references to gods, God, the devil. We have Vampire and Werewolf attorneys, goblins, ogres... gah! there is just so much.
Anyhoo, so Atticus is a 2100 year old Druid, the last Druid I might add, unless of course the author brings another one into the story later. Atticus poses as 21 and owns a store that has crystals and herbs and what not.
AND,
he has a talking relationship with his Irish Wolfhound, Oberon. OMG! He's my new book boyfriend, er, druid.
This book is both funny, narly and plenty of awesomeness.
Sooooooooooooooooooooooo, this evil god dude <-- was he a god? Now I can't remember, either way he was a jerk evil demon dude and he blames Atticus for stealing his sword. The sword is named Fragarach the Answerer and it's bad to the bone, it will kill you deader than dead in a second. There is a whole history there but you can read it yourself!
Atticus is living in Arizona and has been off the radar from said jerko for years, but apparently gods or demons, minions, whatever can surf the net and find people. Yeah, I know right? And Atticus was stupid enough to put his real info-ish out there. Now he is being hunted.
A few things the old jerko send after Atticus to try to get the sword and kill Atticus before he gets there end up having a bad day or night. And it's amazeballs! OMG!
Oh and there is the Morrigan who is the death goddess. She's on Atticus side so to speak and stuff.
And Atticus has a werewolf (Hal) and a vampire (Leif) as his attorney's. I mean this is just too cool for me to handle people!
There are just so many cool things that you just have to read the book. The earth energy that Atticus uses, just all kinds of stuff. Oh and the old widow lady down the street, Mrs. MacDonagh who drinks like crazy, loves Atticus and is okay with him killing stuff and having werewolf friends. Lol! She's a hoot!
I'm going to leave this review with some excerpts. Some are of Oberon the dog who has an obsession with Geghis Khan and French Poodles!
**EXCERPTS**
Fin =)
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
I mean this book has so much stuff in it! All kinds of gods, references to gods, God, the devil. We have Vampire and Werewolf attorneys, goblins, ogres... gah! there is just so much.
Anyhoo, so Atticus is a 2100 year old Druid, the last Druid I might add, unless of course the author brings another one into the story later. Atticus poses as 21 and owns a store that has crystals and herbs and what not.
AND,
he has a talking relationship with his Irish Wolfhound, Oberon. OMG! He's my new book boyfriend, er, druid.
This book is both funny, narly and plenty of awesomeness.
Sooooooooooooooooooooooo, this evil god dude <-- was he a god? Now I can't remember, either way he was a jerk evil demon dude and he blames Atticus for stealing his sword. The sword is named Fragarach the Answerer and it's bad to the bone, it will kill you deader than dead in a second. There is a whole history there but you can read it yourself!
Atticus is living in Arizona and has been off the radar from said jerko for years, but apparently gods or demons, minions, whatever can surf the net and find people. Yeah, I know right? And Atticus was stupid enough to put his real info-ish out there. Now he is being hunted.
A few things the old jerko send after Atticus to try to get the sword and kill Atticus before he gets there end up having a bad day or night. And it's amazeballs! OMG!
Oh and there is the Morrigan who is the death goddess. She's on Atticus side so to speak and stuff.
And Atticus has a werewolf (Hal) and a vampire (Leif) as his attorney's. I mean this is just too cool for me to handle people!
There are just so many cool things that you just have to read the book. The earth energy that Atticus uses, just all kinds of stuff. Oh and the old widow lady down the street, Mrs. MacDonagh who drinks like crazy, loves Atticus and is okay with him killing stuff and having werewolf friends. Lol! She's a hoot!
I'm going to leave this review with some excerpts. Some are of Oberon the dog who has an obsession with Geghis Khan and French Poodles!
**EXCERPTS**
The bars along the wall of my shop had melted silently apart behind them and morphed into jaws of sharp iron teeth. The giant black maw reached out for them and snapped closed, scissoring through the fairies' flesh as if it were cottage cheese, and then they were inhaled like Jell-O, with time only for a startled, aborted scream. Their weapons clattered to the ground, all glamour gone, and then the iron mouth melted back into its wonted shape as a series of bars, after gracing me with a brief, satisfied grin.
I got a message from the iron elemental before it faded away, in the short bursts of emotions and imagery that they use for language: //Druid calls/ Fairies await / Delicious / Gratitude//
••••••••••
There was no time to negotiate. He nodded once and said, "They don't look very tough."
"They're giants using glamour, so don't trust your eyes. Use your other senses. What does their blood smell like?"
They were almost upon us, but it was a worthwhile question. Leif's eyes widened when he caught the scent of their blood. "They are strong," he said. "Thanks, Atticus." He grinned, his fangs lengthening as he smiled. " I have not had my breakfast yet."
"Look at it like an all-you-can-eat buffet." I said, and then there was no more time for talking. Not one to be shy, Leif launched himself in a superhuman leap against the leading Fir Bolg, far above where his head was according to mortal eyes. That's because the giant's neck was actually about three feet higher, and the Fir Bolgs slowed down when they saw their leader taken down by a guy in an English business suit. But slowing down wasn't the same as stopping.
••••••••••
"Agreed," the vampire said. "I am full right now anyway. I need to work some of this off." He dug a cell phone out of his-or, I should say, my-breast pocket and used a speed-dial number to call someone named Antoine. "I have dinner for the whole crew at Mitchell Park in Tempe right now. Bring the truck . . . Yes, there is enough for everybody, trust me. See you there."
Whoa. He had ghouls on speed dial. My lawyer kicks so much ass.
••••••••••
I rose from my chair and Oberon began to trot in front of me down the hall to the bathroom, his tail wagging again. *Will you tell me about Genghis Khan's whores while I'm in the bath?*
Hordes, not whores. He had both, though now that you mention it.
*Sounds like he was a busy guy.*
You have no idea.
••••••••••
*Did you get me that movie about Genghis Khan?*
It's in the Netflix queue, but that's not the surprise. You don't need to worry, it'll be something good. I just don't want you to feel depressed about going home.
*Oh, I won't. But it would be cool to have a stream like this in the backyard. Can you make one?*
Umm. . . no.
*I figured. Can't blame a hound for trying*
Oberon was indeed surprised when we got back home to Tempe. Hal had made the arrangments for me, and Oberon perked up as soon as we were dropped off by the shuttle from the car rental company.
*Hey, smells like someone's in my territory,* he said.
Nobody could be here without my permission, you know that.
*Flidais did it.*
That isn't Fidais you smell, believe me.
I opened the front door, and Oberon immediately ran to the kitchen window that gazed upon the backyard. He barked joyously when he saw what was waiting for him there.
*French poodles! All black and curly with poofy little tails!*
And every one of them in heat.
*Oh, WOW! Thanks, Atticus! I can't wait to sniff their asses!* He bounded over to the door and pawed at it because the doggie door was closed to prevent poodles from entering.
You earned it buddy. Hold on, get down off the door so I can open it for you, and be careful, don't hurt any of them.
I opened the door, expecting him to bolt through it and dive into his own personal canine harem, but instead he took one step and stopped, looking up at me with a mournful expression, his ears drooping and a tiny whine escaping his snout.
*Only five?*
Fin =)
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
August 24, 2011
If Joss Whedon and Jim Butcher had a love child that would one day grow up and write a novel - this would be the novel he wrote.
PLUS
EQUALS
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Now would be the time to admit the truth about your parents, Hearne! ADMIT IT!
For the most part, Hounded is a delightful, action-packed urban fantasy novel with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, interesting characters and witty banter.
It's not a perfect novel. The main protagonist, Atticus, a 2100 year old druid living in Tempe, Arizona is a fantastic character. Unfortunately, Hearne realized what an awesome character he'd written and accidentally took that step into making him just a little TOO awesome. Reading about Atticus standing around pwning yet ANOTHER person with his cool witty banter and incredible intellect eventually becomes a little tiresome.
Characters like Buffy and Captain Mal, whom Atticus is strangely linked to in my mind, are fantastic characters - and what makes them doubly awesome is that they aren't perfect. Atticus needs to have a flaw which doesn't include him being too good with the ladies. That's like going to a job interview and stating that your personality flaw is that you just work too hard!
My dashing good looks and charm really are a curse...
Over all, 3.5 stars from me and I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
PLUS
EQUALS
[image error]
Now would be the time to admit the truth about your parents, Hearne! ADMIT IT!
For the most part, Hounded is a delightful, action-packed urban fantasy novel with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, interesting characters and witty banter.
It's not a perfect novel. The main protagonist, Atticus, a 2100 year old druid living in Tempe, Arizona is a fantastic character. Unfortunately, Hearne realized what an awesome character he'd written and accidentally took that step into making him just a little TOO awesome. Reading about Atticus standing around pwning yet ANOTHER person with his cool witty banter and incredible intellect eventually becomes a little tiresome.
Characters like Buffy and Captain Mal, whom Atticus is strangely linked to in my mind, are fantastic characters - and what makes them doubly awesome is that they aren't perfect. Atticus needs to have a flaw which doesn't include him being too good with the ladies. That's like going to a job interview and stating that your personality flaw is that you just work too hard!
My dashing good looks and charm really are a curse...
Over all, 3.5 stars from me and I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
March 30, 2018
The Learning Annex presents a three-session workshop:
HOW TO WRITE URBAN FANTASY IN 3 EASY STEPS!
Session 1: Uncover Your Inner Shallow Self And Flaunt It
Why waste time putting energy towards creating depth? Readers are not looking for intangibles, they are looking for escape! Depth often makes them feel out of their depth so why not create some positive impact. Research your mythology of choice, then surround that central mythology with as many other mythologies and fantasy figures as you possibly can. This tried-and-true formula has guaranteed success. Satisfy everyone! Celtic mythology can only be improved by adding such cultural icons as the Vampire, the Werewolf, Coyote, and Thor! The lucrative and open-ended series of your dreams is only hours away. You can make it happen! As the song goes... "Drown me in the shallow waters before I get too deep"!
Session 2: Forget Resonance And Create FUN
Dedicated, career-minded professional and beginning screenwriters, directors, producers, novelists, creative studio executives, video game creators and everyone else should understand that their livelihood depends on knowing what makes a story great and successful. The answer is non-resonant FUN! As we move through a step-by-step journey from the "inspiration" to the final draft, we will take an in-depth look at all the essential concepts... story structures and principles, metaphor (the secret language of great stories), the creative unconscious (the source of our creativity) and the Golden Paradigm (the story model that contains the hidden story structures all great stories have in common)... and then quickly throw it all in the trash where it belongs. You are not writing Ulysses, you're writing a high concept idea that can last years! The key is FUN!
Session 3: The Ancient Path to Enlightenment
This is a class that reveals techniques that have been taught from time immemorial to connect one to the primal life energy that enlivens the earth, plants, animals, man, and the universe. And Urban Fantasy series! The universe is alive and conscious. The planets themselves are but the shadow of the great beings, which influence our lives and organize time through their orbits around the sun. This session functions as an introduction to the Ancient Path of Enlightenment, the path that utilizes "mantra" to invoke the ancient archetypes that exist in the collective unconscious from time immemorial. It is an experiential path. In this class you will experience the importance of creating your "spirit animal": a cute and lovable talking dog named Oberon. This dog will be your guide on your path to making money. Your path leads back to you. You are the path. You are a money magnet. You will attract money easily and effortlessly. Money will come to you every day in every way. The Universe takes care of your every need. Abundance flows to you every day. Abundance flows to you in every way. You are open to receiving money now.
HOW TO WRITE URBAN FANTASY IN 3 EASY STEPS!
Session 1: Uncover Your Inner Shallow Self And Flaunt It
Why waste time putting energy towards creating depth? Readers are not looking for intangibles, they are looking for escape! Depth often makes them feel out of their depth so why not create some positive impact. Research your mythology of choice, then surround that central mythology with as many other mythologies and fantasy figures as you possibly can. This tried-and-true formula has guaranteed success. Satisfy everyone! Celtic mythology can only be improved by adding such cultural icons as the Vampire, the Werewolf, Coyote, and Thor! The lucrative and open-ended series of your dreams is only hours away. You can make it happen! As the song goes... "Drown me in the shallow waters before I get too deep"!
Session 2: Forget Resonance And Create FUN
Dedicated, career-minded professional and beginning screenwriters, directors, producers, novelists, creative studio executives, video game creators and everyone else should understand that their livelihood depends on knowing what makes a story great and successful. The answer is non-resonant FUN! As we move through a step-by-step journey from the "inspiration" to the final draft, we will take an in-depth look at all the essential concepts... story structures and principles, metaphor (the secret language of great stories), the creative unconscious (the source of our creativity) and the Golden Paradigm (the story model that contains the hidden story structures all great stories have in common)... and then quickly throw it all in the trash where it belongs. You are not writing Ulysses, you're writing a high concept idea that can last years! The key is FUN!
Session 3: The Ancient Path to Enlightenment
This is a class that reveals techniques that have been taught from time immemorial to connect one to the primal life energy that enlivens the earth, plants, animals, man, and the universe. And Urban Fantasy series! The universe is alive and conscious. The planets themselves are but the shadow of the great beings, which influence our lives and organize time through their orbits around the sun. This session functions as an introduction to the Ancient Path of Enlightenment, the path that utilizes "mantra" to invoke the ancient archetypes that exist in the collective unconscious from time immemorial. It is an experiential path. In this class you will experience the importance of creating your "spirit animal": a cute and lovable talking dog named Oberon. This dog will be your guide on your path to making money. Your path leads back to you. You are the path. You are a money magnet. You will attract money easily and effortlessly. Money will come to you every day in every way. The Universe takes care of your every need. Abundance flows to you every day. Abundance flows to you in every way. You are open to receiving money now.
January 16, 2013
*sigh* This was quite the frustrating book to read. For the first third or so of the book I wasn't certain how I felt about it, but this was largely due to my hesitancy to jump to conclusions. Well the potential middle of the road rating quickly deteriorated to a well-deserved one star. Needless to say I will not be continuing in the series unless I am at a level of boredom I have not yet experienced.
Let's start with Atticus. Atticus is supposed to be a Druid who is 2,100 years old. However, he acts like an idiotic teenager who thinks he knows it all. Atticus is far too immature to be believed as anyone who is more than a few decades old rather than 21 centuries old. Shouldn't one who has lived this long be a little more rough around the edges, a bit more wise? He makes ridiculous comments (jokes some might say if they were actually funny), is obnoxious to gods despite their ability kill him (oh please get rid of him Morrigan!), says whoa! and gadzooks (oh yes, very mature) and cannot contain his horniness despite literally being ancient. Atticus' inner dialogue is also quite clearly modern-day American and nothing like what you would expect someone who has lived so long to be. Shouldn't he be an amalgamation of the history he has lived??
One of the worst scenes in the book by far? When Atticus gives a paramedic a WEDGIE while he is trying to help him with a gunshot wound. WHAT THE F%&K is that?!?!?! A freakin wedgie???? Oh yes, I think 2,100 years is enough for Atticus. He also sleeps with this or that goddess because apparently he is irresistible. Yes, the red curly hair and long goatee is just freakin unbearably irresistible (not). When all is said and done, Atticus is quite frankly who Kevin Hearne dreams he could be. Male fantasy fulfillment is splashed across every page of this book.
This book is a classic example of telling not showing. Clearly the author was also trying too hard and it came through the writing. He tried hard to be funny but it just simply failed most of the time. The dialogue was stilted and the dull info-dumps were nearly unbearable.
The gods in the book were unimpressive as they were never fleshed out. I was largely attracted to the book due to the Celtic mythology aspect but Hearne failed in this department as well.
And then there is Oberon. Oberon does not strike me as a dog at all, just some jackass' idea of what a dog would sound like if you could communicate with him/her. I absolutely hated the storyline with Oberon wanting French poodles and then Atticus buying(?) poodles for Oberon to have his way with. Oh great, dog rape, what a grand way to end the male fantasy book!
P.S. Atticus gives Oberon (a DOG) both coffee and tea in this book, both of which are TOXIC to dogs. Caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea have a similar impact on a dog's system that chocolate does (which hopefully people know is toxic as well). I hate to think of the number of idiots who gave their dog coffee or tea after reading this book, or at least thought it was ok! So not only a poor book but it sets a terrible example as well (and that isn't even counting the wedgies....ugh).
Let's start with Atticus. Atticus is supposed to be a Druid who is 2,100 years old. However, he acts like an idiotic teenager who thinks he knows it all. Atticus is far too immature to be believed as anyone who is more than a few decades old rather than 21 centuries old. Shouldn't one who has lived this long be a little more rough around the edges, a bit more wise? He makes ridiculous comments (jokes some might say if they were actually funny), is obnoxious to gods despite their ability kill him (oh please get rid of him Morrigan!), says whoa! and gadzooks (oh yes, very mature) and cannot contain his horniness despite literally being ancient. Atticus' inner dialogue is also quite clearly modern-day American and nothing like what you would expect someone who has lived so long to be. Shouldn't he be an amalgamation of the history he has lived??
One of the worst scenes in the book by far? When Atticus gives a paramedic a WEDGIE while he is trying to help him with a gunshot wound. WHAT THE F%&K is that?!?!?! A freakin wedgie???? Oh yes, I think 2,100 years is enough for Atticus. He also sleeps with this or that goddess because apparently he is irresistible. Yes, the red curly hair and long goatee is just freakin unbearably irresistible (not). When all is said and done, Atticus is quite frankly who Kevin Hearne dreams he could be. Male fantasy fulfillment is splashed across every page of this book.
This book is a classic example of telling not showing. Clearly the author was also trying too hard and it came through the writing. He tried hard to be funny but it just simply failed most of the time. The dialogue was stilted and the dull info-dumps were nearly unbearable.
The gods in the book were unimpressive as they were never fleshed out. I was largely attracted to the book due to the Celtic mythology aspect but Hearne failed in this department as well.
And then there is Oberon. Oberon does not strike me as a dog at all, just some jackass' idea of what a dog would sound like if you could communicate with him/her. I absolutely hated the storyline with Oberon wanting French poodles and then Atticus buying(?) poodles for Oberon to have his way with. Oh great, dog rape, what a grand way to end the male fantasy book!
P.S. Atticus gives Oberon (a DOG) both coffee and tea in this book, both of which are TOXIC to dogs. Caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea have a similar impact on a dog's system that chocolate does (which hopefully people know is toxic as well). I hate to think of the number of idiots who gave their dog coffee or tea after reading this book, or at least thought it was ok! So not only a poor book but it sets a terrible example as well (and that isn't even counting the wedgies....ugh).
June 13, 2017
Re-read 2017
Because Druids are hot!
I've been meaning to reread this series (and catch up on missing books) for a while now, but it took my oldest son getting into Urban Fantasy to kick my ass into gear. I gave it to him, he loved it, and then promptly wanted to talk about what had happened in the story.
Aw, fuck.
Yeah, I'd forgotten everything, so I had to 'refresh' my memory. Luckily, this was one of those first books in a series that wasn't bogged down by too much set up for the next installment or info-dump world building. In fact, I was kinda shocked at how well it was paced!
Bonus: Thanks to my faulty memory chip, this was like reading a brand new story.
Anyway, I think my original review still sums up how I feel about this one.
Original review 2012
It started off a little slow and clunky (my opinion), but after a few chapters things started clicking together. Really well.
Atticus is a 2000 plus year old Druid who makes his home in Arizona. Other than running an occult shop (and occasionally selling fake weed to stoners), he has generally tried to lay low to avoid a powerful enemy who has been after him for over a millennium. Because he stole the guy's sword. A bad ass sword. Evidently, the Celtic god of love isn't very lovable. In fact, he's pretty pissed.
And that's where the story starts...
Atticus reminds me a lot of a hot Harry Dresden. I'm not saying Hearne ripped-off Butcher, though. Hearne's writing style isn't as chaotic as Jim Butcher's, for one thing. The similarity is that both characters are the kind of humorous underdogs that everyone loves to root for.
Hounded is a great 1st book in what looks to be a very good urban fantasy series. I have the next one waiting for me right now, and you can bet your ass I'll be reading it as soon as I can save this review...
P.S
On a side note, I loved that Thor was described as a huge douche in this book. Made me giggle.
Because Druids are hot!
I've been meaning to reread this series (and catch up on missing books) for a while now, but it took my oldest son getting into Urban Fantasy to kick my ass into gear. I gave it to him, he loved it, and then promptly wanted to talk about what had happened in the story.
Aw, fuck.
Yeah, I'd forgotten everything, so I had to 'refresh' my memory. Luckily, this was one of those first books in a series that wasn't bogged down by too much set up for the next installment or info-dump world building. In fact, I was kinda shocked at how well it was paced!
Bonus: Thanks to my faulty memory chip, this was like reading a brand new story.
Anyway, I think my original review still sums up how I feel about this one.
Original review 2012
It started off a little slow and clunky (my opinion), but after a few chapters things started clicking together. Really well.
Atticus is a 2000 plus year old Druid who makes his home in Arizona. Other than running an occult shop (and occasionally selling fake weed to stoners), he has generally tried to lay low to avoid a powerful enemy who has been after him for over a millennium. Because he stole the guy's sword. A bad ass sword. Evidently, the Celtic god of love isn't very lovable. In fact, he's pretty pissed.
And that's where the story starts...
Atticus reminds me a lot of a hot Harry Dresden. I'm not saying Hearne ripped-off Butcher, though. Hearne's writing style isn't as chaotic as Jim Butcher's, for one thing. The similarity is that both characters are the kind of humorous underdogs that everyone loves to root for.
Hounded is a great 1st book in what looks to be a very good urban fantasy series. I have the next one waiting for me right now, and you can bet your ass I'll be reading it as soon as I can save this review...
P.S
On a side note, I loved that Thor was described as a huge douche in this book. Made me giggle.
August 9, 2011
Ten Things I liked/loved about Hounded and the Whys:
1. Sexy, redheaded Irish hero. Why, because I have a thing for red-headed guys, and I am a proud person of Irish ancestry, so I think Irish people are cool!
2. Hero is a druid who can also kick butt like nobody's business. Why, because I love characters who can kick butt, and druids are so mysterious and underutilized in contemporary fantasy.
3. The hero communicates with his dog. Why, because I am crazy about animals, I love the human/animal bond, and I thought Oberon was freaking hilarious with his obsessions with sniffing butts, sausage, and French Poodles.
4. Celtic Mythology. Why, well that goes back to my love of the Irish and the Celts (and mythology in general). Um, I do have to say that I prefer my Christian deity, because I don't trust those Celtic gods as far as I can throw them (no offense to those who believe in Celtic pantheism).
5. The Arizona setting. Why? I hate hot weather, but the desert has a raw beauty that appeals. Hearne does it very well here, and not too many books that I've read were set in Arizona.
6. The variety of magical elements and beasties here. Why, because I am a fantasy nerd. Enough said!
7. Swords and swordfighting. If you don't know, I can't tell you why this is cool.
8. Werewolves. Why? I love werewolves. I just do. And these are Scandinavian werewolves, even cooler!
9. Wicked witches. Why, because I like to read books with wicked witches!
10.This book was laugh out loud funny. Why? I love to laugh.
Bonus: Dang, Atticus has some good lawyers!
If you haven't read this book and you enjoyall most at least 60% of what I listed, you should read this book.
In all seriousness, I really enjoyed this book. I had a ball reading it! Highly recommended.
Rating: 4.5/5.0 stars
1. Sexy, redheaded Irish hero. Why, because I have a thing for red-headed guys, and I am a proud person of Irish ancestry, so I think Irish people are cool!
2. Hero is a druid who can also kick butt like nobody's business. Why, because I love characters who can kick butt, and druids are so mysterious and underutilized in contemporary fantasy.
3. The hero communicates with his dog. Why, because I am crazy about animals, I love the human/animal bond, and I thought Oberon was freaking hilarious with his obsessions with sniffing butts, sausage, and French Poodles.
4. Celtic Mythology. Why, well that goes back to my love of the Irish and the Celts (and mythology in general). Um, I do have to say that I prefer my Christian deity, because I don't trust those Celtic gods as far as I can throw them (no offense to those who believe in Celtic pantheism).
5. The Arizona setting. Why? I hate hot weather, but the desert has a raw beauty that appeals. Hearne does it very well here, and not too many books that I've read were set in Arizona.
6. The variety of magical elements and beasties here. Why, because I am a fantasy nerd. Enough said!
7. Swords and swordfighting. If you don't know, I can't tell you why this is cool.
8. Werewolves. Why? I love werewolves. I just do. And these are Scandinavian werewolves, even cooler!
9. Wicked witches. Why, because I like to read books with wicked witches!
10.This book was laugh out loud funny. Why? I love to laugh.
Bonus: Dang, Atticus has some good lawyers!
If you haven't read this book and you enjoy
In all seriousness, I really enjoyed this book. I had a ball reading it! Highly recommended.
Rating: 4.5/5.0 stars
August 25, 2017
Atticus O’Sullivan, the protagonist of Kevin Hearne’s Iron Druid series, Thor, Stevie Nicks and Lyn sit in the left field seats watching an Arizona Diamondbacks game and discussing Hounded.
Thor: So why did you call me an “ass-hat”?
Atticus: I call ‘em like I see ‘em big guy. But don’t take it too hard, I’ll buy you another beer as my way of making amends. [hails a beer vendor]
Thor: I’m repeatedly described as difficult, and that’s a euphemism, and I’m not supposed to take it so hard?
Stevie: I think what Atticus is getting at is that you’re much more complex than Marvel has portrayed you in the last few years.
Thor: I think that’s another euphemism.
Lyn: Hearne never really described you, always as an off stage aside, I think it was kind of a running joke.
Thor: So now I’m a running joke, this is not getting better.
Stevie: Well, just like Neil Gaiman did in American Gods, one of the points Hearne made was that all of the gods are real, he invested in an extremely broad and diverse universe.
Atticus: But kept it with an Irish setting … even in Arizona.
[crowd applauds]
Atticus: Gods below! Johnson is nasty tonight.
Stevie: I don’t think a speed spell druid could have hit that.
Atticus: I don’t think so.
Thor: Well, at any rate, a cool urban fantasy with several pantheons described, ghouls, demons, dryads, and werewolves is a fun story.
Stevie: Don’t forget witches.
Lyn: And don’t forget a bloodsucking vampire as an attorney.
Atticus: Ha! I thought you’d like that.
Lyn: Yeah, I loved the part about your lawyers being werewolves and vampires, imagine the fee!
Atticus: I described the fee, a wine glass of my vintage 21 century old blood.
Stevie: I also liked the magical Celtic sword Fraggle Rock.
[all laugh]
Thor: How many beers have you had?
Stevie: I can’t pronounce all those Gaelic consonants together, sounds like Fraggle Rock.
Atticus: Well, I think any reader who liked American Gods or Christopher Moore’s A Dirty Job would like our little tale.
Lyn: True, and Hearne has created a gem. You have 21 centuries of cool exploits to draw from as you demonstrated in the short story The Chapel Perilous. I see the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
[crowd erupts as Randy Johnson blazes a 100 mile per hour heater high in the strike zone, making the Dodgers hitter look silly as he swung wildly and fail to catch up, striking out.
(* footnote: I am aware that Randy Johnson retired in 2009, this is my fantasy so I’m having fun, BTW – congrats to The Big Unit on his 2015 induction in the HOF)
Thor: So why did you call me an “ass-hat”?
Atticus: I call ‘em like I see ‘em big guy. But don’t take it too hard, I’ll buy you another beer as my way of making amends. [hails a beer vendor]
Thor: I’m repeatedly described as difficult, and that’s a euphemism, and I’m not supposed to take it so hard?
Stevie: I think what Atticus is getting at is that you’re much more complex than Marvel has portrayed you in the last few years.
Thor: I think that’s another euphemism.
Lyn: Hearne never really described you, always as an off stage aside, I think it was kind of a running joke.
Thor: So now I’m a running joke, this is not getting better.
Stevie: Well, just like Neil Gaiman did in American Gods, one of the points Hearne made was that all of the gods are real, he invested in an extremely broad and diverse universe.
Atticus: But kept it with an Irish setting … even in Arizona.
[crowd applauds]
Atticus: Gods below! Johnson is nasty tonight.
Stevie: I don’t think a speed spell druid could have hit that.
Atticus: I don’t think so.
Thor: Well, at any rate, a cool urban fantasy with several pantheons described, ghouls, demons, dryads, and werewolves is a fun story.
Stevie: Don’t forget witches.
Lyn: And don’t forget a bloodsucking vampire as an attorney.
Atticus: Ha! I thought you’d like that.
Lyn: Yeah, I loved the part about your lawyers being werewolves and vampires, imagine the fee!
Atticus: I described the fee, a wine glass of my vintage 21 century old blood.
Stevie: I also liked the magical Celtic sword Fraggle Rock.
[all laugh]
Thor: How many beers have you had?
Stevie: I can’t pronounce all those Gaelic consonants together, sounds like Fraggle Rock.
Atticus: Well, I think any reader who liked American Gods or Christopher Moore’s A Dirty Job would like our little tale.
Lyn: True, and Hearne has created a gem. You have 21 centuries of cool exploits to draw from as you demonstrated in the short story The Chapel Perilous. I see the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
[crowd erupts as Randy Johnson blazes a 100 mile per hour heater high in the strike zone, making the Dodgers hitter look silly as he swung wildly and fail to catch up, striking out.
(* footnote: I am aware that Randy Johnson retired in 2009, this is my fantasy so I’m having fun, BTW – congrats to The Big Unit on his 2015 induction in the HOF)
July 27, 2016
By any objective standard, this is an awful book. It has a childishly simple plot, which still manages to get buried under page after page of the sort of clumsy exposition and background information that can only be shovelled on by an author who clearly believes the 'show, don't tell' adage applies to other people. It has a supporting cast of characters who, when they're not cheap caricatures lifted directly from Urban Fantasy for Dummies are so poorly fleshed out as to be virtually non-existent. And it has a narrator/protagonist who is supposedly two thousand years old and Irish, yet carries on an internal monologue that is entirely twenty-first century American at all times, complete with pop-culture references that never stray to older than a decade. Although I suppose this could be something of a blessing, as if the central character had been in a similar vein to the elderly Irish neighbour who's conversation seems entirely limited to 'Top of the morning!', 'You'll never get me Lucky Charms!' and 'Kill the English', I'd probably have burned the whole book in disgust.
You could probably get away with those problems though. Whilst being chronologically and ethnically confused, the protagonist Atticus O'Sullivan has a certain charm about him, and is occasionally quite amusing. What kills the book is that he's also the worst kind of adolescent wish fulfilment super-powered stupidity. As mentioned, he's two thousand years old. And the last of the druids. And has ridiculously over-done magic powers. And he's a great swordsmen. And has a magic sword that can cut through anything. And is friends with a vampire and some werewolves. And the goddess of death. Oh, and he has a talking dog. Effectively he has the super-power of being able to kill drama. It's probably not a good idea to have your protagonist fighting gods in the first novel of a series anyway, but if you must at least have them rely on luck, or cunning, or their opponent's over confidence and arrogance, or at least a lot of help. Don't whatever you do just have them go toe to toe and win through being better at everything. In a perverse way, it's actually sort of impressive that at one point our hero gets shot in the chest, and Hearne is still unable to generate even the slightest sense of peril. I'm guessing the author thinks that the existence of kryptonite spoils Superman.
But having said all that, somehow it still manages to be sort of fun. Fun like reading bad Harry Potter fan fiction, where for some reason Harry is brought up by ninjas, given bionic limbs and defeats Voldemort in a light sabre duel on the bridge of an exploding airship that's crashing into an erupting volcano. Fun that makes you feel kind of dirty and ashamed, and feeling you've somehow betrayed your intellect and critical faculties by getting caught up in it all. But still fun. It's a book that your inner twelve-year old will enjoy every minute of. And that isn't necessarily a bad thing, once in a while.
Just don't tell anyone else you liked it. Or publicly review it on a major website.
Oh bugger...
You could probably get away with those problems though. Whilst being chronologically and ethnically confused, the protagonist Atticus O'Sullivan has a certain charm about him, and is occasionally quite amusing. What kills the book is that he's also the worst kind of adolescent wish fulfilment super-powered stupidity. As mentioned, he's two thousand years old. And the last of the druids. And has ridiculously over-done magic powers. And he's a great swordsmen. And has a magic sword that can cut through anything. And is friends with a vampire and some werewolves. And the goddess of death. Oh, and he has a talking dog. Effectively he has the super-power of being able to kill drama. It's probably not a good idea to have your protagonist fighting gods in the first novel of a series anyway, but if you must at least have them rely on luck, or cunning, or their opponent's over confidence and arrogance, or at least a lot of help. Don't whatever you do just have them go toe to toe and win through being better at everything. In a perverse way, it's actually sort of impressive that at one point our hero gets shot in the chest, and Hearne is still unable to generate even the slightest sense of peril. I'm guessing the author thinks that the existence of kryptonite spoils Superman.
But having said all that, somehow it still manages to be sort of fun. Fun like reading bad Harry Potter fan fiction, where for some reason Harry is brought up by ninjas, given bionic limbs and defeats Voldemort in a light sabre duel on the bridge of an exploding airship that's crashing into an erupting volcano. Fun that makes you feel kind of dirty and ashamed, and feeling you've somehow betrayed your intellect and critical faculties by getting caught up in it all. But still fun. It's a book that your inner twelve-year old will enjoy every minute of. And that isn't necessarily a bad thing, once in a while.
Just don't tell anyone else you liked it. Or publicly review it on a major website.
Oh bugger...
March 6, 2019
Well, now I'm hooked on Hearne.
October 9, 2014
I’m kind of torn on this one. On the one hand, it was fast paced, exciting, fun, and humorous. On the other hand, it’s a little muddled, has a couple of plot holes, and is occasionally silly to the point of being cheesy. I enjoyed it, but I honestly don’t know whether I would recommend it to someone else. So here is what I liked and what I didn’t - you decide.
Hounded has an interesting premise - a 2,100 year old Druid, along with the Celtic god of death, a magic sword, a pack of werewolves, and a witch, face down the villainous Celtic god of love. Sounds fun, right? It is certainly is a fun read, with enough action to move the plot along at a fast clip. My first problem, though, was with the mythology. It’s cool that Atticus is a Druid and gets to use his awesome Druid powers to fight bad guys, and I also like how random Celtic gods keep showing up to mess with him. But this story doesn’t just embrace Irish mythology - it tries to encompass every mythology. That’s right, every god and monster known to man is real, including Jesus, the Virgin Mary, Allah, Thor, vampires, ghouls, and so on. While this premise provides the potential for all kinds of craziness and trouble to ensue, it also muddies the waters a bit too much in my opinion. It feels like the author is trying to do everything and the story could easily get out hand with all these supernatural figures running around. Perhaps it would have been cleaner and more plausible if it had just focused on Celtic mythology and left the rest alone.
Despite the muddled world building, the plot was pretty good. The identity of the villain is no secret, but the loyalties of the various gods and witches are never certain. Almost everyone has ulterior motives, and it’s not easy to figure out who’s trustworthy and who’s not. That being said, there were a couple of tiny plot holes that really bugged me. You’ll recognize them when you find yourself thinking, “That... doesn’t make sense.”
The characters are likable, if not realistic. Atticus acts like he’s fifteen at times, but he’s a hero you can root for. My favorite character by far is Atticus’ Irish wolfhound, Oberon. He’s funny and adorable, and he’s largely responsible for why I like Atticus. The Celtic gods are also intriguing, and several of them have the hots for Atticus. It’s not sexy so much as it’s silly and amusing, but it doesn’t reach the level of cheesy that is the character Mrs. MacDonagh, the elderly, Irish widow that lives in Atticus’ neighborhood. I think she’s supposed to provide comic relief, but her antics and attitudes border on the ridiculous. No one would act the way she does, making her character little more than a cartoon. Some of the other supporting characters are thin as well, but that’s to be expected in a first installment when the cast is just starting to be introduced.
Regardless of its deficiencies, Hounded gets major points for making me laugh out loud. Atticus has some pretty cheesy one-liners, but other parts are truly hilarious. For example, I was cracking up as I read the paragraph where Atticus explains how he is able to cry on cue. (I won’t spoil it.) Oberon’s obsession with Genghis Khan and French poodles also gave me some genuine laughs.
Overall, Hounded is funny and entertaining, an enjoyable read despite the problems I have with the overambitious mythology, the plot holes, and the cheesy characters. It’s a decent debut with plenty of room for improvement as the series progresses. I might pick up the next book, Hexed, when I feel in the mood for some light reading and a few laughs.
(Note: This is a review of the advance reader’s edition of Hounded. Changes may have been made before it went to press.)
Hounded has an interesting premise - a 2,100 year old Druid, along with the Celtic god of death, a magic sword, a pack of werewolves, and a witch, face down the villainous Celtic god of love. Sounds fun, right? It is certainly is a fun read, with enough action to move the plot along at a fast clip. My first problem, though, was with the mythology. It’s cool that Atticus is a Druid and gets to use his awesome Druid powers to fight bad guys, and I also like how random Celtic gods keep showing up to mess with him. But this story doesn’t just embrace Irish mythology - it tries to encompass every mythology. That’s right, every god and monster known to man is real, including Jesus, the Virgin Mary, Allah, Thor, vampires, ghouls, and so on. While this premise provides the potential for all kinds of craziness and trouble to ensue, it also muddies the waters a bit too much in my opinion. It feels like the author is trying to do everything and the story could easily get out hand with all these supernatural figures running around. Perhaps it would have been cleaner and more plausible if it had just focused on Celtic mythology and left the rest alone.
Despite the muddled world building, the plot was pretty good. The identity of the villain is no secret, but the loyalties of the various gods and witches are never certain. Almost everyone has ulterior motives, and it’s not easy to figure out who’s trustworthy and who’s not. That being said, there were a couple of tiny plot holes that really bugged me. You’ll recognize them when you find yourself thinking, “That... doesn’t make sense.”
The characters are likable, if not realistic. Atticus acts like he’s fifteen at times, but he’s a hero you can root for. My favorite character by far is Atticus’ Irish wolfhound, Oberon. He’s funny and adorable, and he’s largely responsible for why I like Atticus. The Celtic gods are also intriguing, and several of them have the hots for Atticus. It’s not sexy so much as it’s silly and amusing, but it doesn’t reach the level of cheesy that is the character Mrs. MacDonagh, the elderly, Irish widow that lives in Atticus’ neighborhood. I think she’s supposed to provide comic relief, but her antics and attitudes border on the ridiculous. No one would act the way she does, making her character little more than a cartoon. Some of the other supporting characters are thin as well, but that’s to be expected in a first installment when the cast is just starting to be introduced.
Regardless of its deficiencies, Hounded gets major points for making me laugh out loud. Atticus has some pretty cheesy one-liners, but other parts are truly hilarious. For example, I was cracking up as I read the paragraph where Atticus explains how he is able to cry on cue. (I won’t spoil it.) Oberon’s obsession with Genghis Khan and French poodles also gave me some genuine laughs.
Overall, Hounded is funny and entertaining, an enjoyable read despite the problems I have with the overambitious mythology, the plot holes, and the cheesy characters. It’s a decent debut with plenty of room for improvement as the series progresses. I might pick up the next book, Hexed, when I feel in the mood for some light reading and a few laughs.
(Note: This is a review of the advance reader’s edition of Hounded. Changes may have been made before it went to press.)
March 20, 2014
Millenia-old druid Atticus O'Sullivan has a powerful magical sword in his possession and a Celtic god wants it in the worst way. But what does that have to do with a coven of witches? And which side are Flidais and the other gods on? Can Atticus escape with his skin, even with a pack of werewolves and a vampire lawyer on his side?
I had my eye open for a new urban fantasy series to try once the Dresden Files began tasting like ashes in my mouth. When the price on the ebook version of this dropped to 99 cents, my choice was made. It turned out to be a pretty good one.
Atticus O'Sullivan is a 2000 year old Druid that looks like a tattooed 21 year old. Once I accepted that was the reason he sounded like a modern man, I had a lot of fun reading this.
Hounded reads like the Dresden Files with a dash of American Gods thrown in. I found Atticus to be a much more likeable lead than Harry Dresden, primarily because he has personality traits above and beyond being a smart ass. Oberon, his Irish wolfhound, further sealed the deal. I liked the way Hearne depicted Atticus' magic and his Druidic abilities set him apart from a lot of other urban fantasy characters.
The supporting cast was equally interesting. The vampire and werewolf lawyer combo was a pretty novel idea and I liked that he didn't overuse them. I also liked Atticus' dealings with the Celtic pantheon and how careful he was when dealing with them and the witches.
The Arizona setting was a nice change of pace. The plot wasn't all that revolutionary but I thought it was well done for what it was. When dealing with the gods, a certain amount of treachery is expected and Hearne delivered the goods. It was a fun story.
I'm not going to pretend it didn't have some things that irked me. Things were wrapped up a little too nicely and even though I was able to push it aside, I didn't like that Atticus talked so much like a 21st century man. I also question the wisdom of running a store that happens to sell occult books. It's not on par with Tony Stark saying Iron Man is his bodyguard or Peter Parker mysteriously getting the best pictures of Spider-Man but it's in the ballpark.
Minor gripes aside, this was a really fun read and well-worth the ninety-nine cents I spent on it. I'll be looking to pick up the rest, hopefully for an affordable price. Four out of five stars.
I had my eye open for a new urban fantasy series to try once the Dresden Files began tasting like ashes in my mouth. When the price on the ebook version of this dropped to 99 cents, my choice was made. It turned out to be a pretty good one.
Atticus O'Sullivan is a 2000 year old Druid that looks like a tattooed 21 year old. Once I accepted that was the reason he sounded like a modern man, I had a lot of fun reading this.
Hounded reads like the Dresden Files with a dash of American Gods thrown in. I found Atticus to be a much more likeable lead than Harry Dresden, primarily because he has personality traits above and beyond being a smart ass. Oberon, his Irish wolfhound, further sealed the deal. I liked the way Hearne depicted Atticus' magic and his Druidic abilities set him apart from a lot of other urban fantasy characters.
The supporting cast was equally interesting. The vampire and werewolf lawyer combo was a pretty novel idea and I liked that he didn't overuse them. I also liked Atticus' dealings with the Celtic pantheon and how careful he was when dealing with them and the witches.
The Arizona setting was a nice change of pace. The plot wasn't all that revolutionary but I thought it was well done for what it was. When dealing with the gods, a certain amount of treachery is expected and Hearne delivered the goods. It was a fun story.
I'm not going to pretend it didn't have some things that irked me. Things were wrapped up a little too nicely and even though I was able to push it aside, I didn't like that Atticus talked so much like a 21st century man. I also question the wisdom of running a store that happens to sell occult books. It's not on par with Tony Stark saying Iron Man is his bodyguard or Peter Parker mysteriously getting the best pictures of Spider-Man but it's in the ballpark.
Minor gripes aside, this was a really fun read and well-worth the ninety-nine cents I spent on it. I'll be looking to pick up the rest, hopefully for an affordable price. Four out of five stars.
August 24, 2017
i was surpirsed at how much i loved it.
the myths are correct and from all over the world.
and i loved the dog.
re-read still love that dog!!
re-re-read i could read this every month if i had too.
the myths are correct and from all over the world.
and i loved the dog.
re-read still love that dog!!
re-re-read i could read this every month if i had too.
May 20, 2012
Manchee fans (of Chaos Walking) - you will love Oberon!
Review for the males :
Atticus is a guy's guy. He's got a dry sense of humor, doesn't spew pretty language for the sake of having to impress anyone, and spends a good portion of his time communicating with man's best friend - yep, a dog. A very intelligent dog who happens to be loyal and helpful in a pinch, but would rather be eating sausages and banging french poodles.
Oh yeah, and this Atticus guy carries a big sword. And works some badass magic. And makes comparisons of things and circumstances with Hot Pockets and Star Wars in random conversations.
Review for the females :
Atticus is smart, pulls no punches, and is going to let you know straight up if he's interested. He's an ancient druid and is the kind of sexy in a way you'd find from meeting one of those casual cool guys who knows he's all that, but doesn't seem to really care or pay attention to it.
This book is an action filled, gender-neutral Urban Fantasy that will appeal to the people who are tired of fluffy paranormals. I took to Atticus and his story immediately, in a way that I wish I could have with Dresden Files (don't worry DF fans...I'll get back there eventually, I promise!).
I hear the books get even better, so I'm hyped. HYPED, I tell you.
Review for the males :
Atticus is a guy's guy. He's got a dry sense of humor, doesn't spew pretty language for the sake of having to impress anyone, and spends a good portion of his time communicating with man's best friend - yep, a dog. A very intelligent dog who happens to be loyal and helpful in a pinch, but would rather be eating sausages and banging french poodles.
Oh yeah, and this Atticus guy carries a big sword. And works some badass magic. And makes comparisons of things and circumstances with Hot Pockets and Star Wars in random conversations.
Review for the females :
Atticus is smart, pulls no punches, and is going to let you know straight up if he's interested. He's an ancient druid and is the kind of sexy in a way you'd find from meeting one of those casual cool guys who knows he's all that, but doesn't seem to really care or pay attention to it.
This book is an action filled, gender-neutral Urban Fantasy that will appeal to the people who are tired of fluffy paranormals. I took to Atticus and his story immediately, in a way that I wish I could have with Dresden Files (don't worry DF fans...I'll get back there eventually, I promise!).
I hear the books get even better, so I'm hyped. HYPED, I tell you.
December 6, 2017
Full review now posted!
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Sometimes, I want my fantasy dense and epic. Sometimes I want a fantasy that keeps things light and funny. Sometimes, I want a fantasy that is a happy medium between the two, something that isn’t dense and has humor, but where there are real stakes to the hardships facing the protagonist. That’s when I turn to Urban Fantasy. Some UF series (and most of them are series) are superior to others. While I like what I’ve read of the Dresden Files and the Hollows series, the Anita Blake series and the Black Dagger Brotherhood soured for me, relying too heavily on sex instead of plot. Then there are series like The Others by Anne Bishop and the Mercedes Thompson series by Patricia Briggs, both of which I love. So when I start a new UF series, I never know which of those three possible feelings it will inspire in me. Judging from this first book, the Iron Druid series is at least in the “like” category, and I can see that growing into love.
Atticus O’Sullivan is a fantastic UF protagonist. Far older than he appears, he balances between his physical youth and mental maturity with a fair amount of aplomb. He’s the last of the Druids, and a powerful one at that. But that power, along with his unnatural longevity, has ensured that he has more than a few powerful enemies. As with most UF protagonists, he’s constantly on the wrong side of angry beings far more powerful than he is, and he has to protect himself with his wit and a little help from his friends.
My favorite of those friends, and one of the few who isn’t supernatural in some way, is Oberon. Oberon is Atticus’s Irish wolfhound, who can communicate with Atticus via a telepathic link the druid has developed between them. This canine companion provided the lion’s share of the comic relief. He’s well versed in pop culture, and his references mingled with his doggy sarcasm made for a lot of laughs.
Probably my least favorite thing about this book was that the protagonist’s main weakness was his libido. The man needs to simmer down around the ladies, be they goddess or mortal. However, he knows himself, and it’s something that he’s working on, so I can overlook it. Also, that horniness made for some funny moments. So, while this particular aspect of the protagonist's character annoyed me, it by no means hindered my enjoyment.
One last reason that I believe that I enjoyed this book more than some other UF offerings is the lore. There's just something about Irish lore that has always fascinated me, and having that in a 21st century American setting was a lot of fun. Watching the archaic attempting to mingle with modernity was incredibly entertaining, and is a big draw for me continuing with the series.
All in all, this was a really fun book, and I fully intend to continue the series. This is another series with audiobooks narrated by the phenomenal Luke Daniels, which added to my enjoyment.
Original review can be found at Booknest.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Sometimes, I want my fantasy dense and epic. Sometimes I want a fantasy that keeps things light and funny. Sometimes, I want a fantasy that is a happy medium between the two, something that isn’t dense and has humor, but where there are real stakes to the hardships facing the protagonist. That’s when I turn to Urban Fantasy. Some UF series (and most of them are series) are superior to others. While I like what I’ve read of the Dresden Files and the Hollows series, the Anita Blake series and the Black Dagger Brotherhood soured for me, relying too heavily on sex instead of plot. Then there are series like The Others by Anne Bishop and the Mercedes Thompson series by Patricia Briggs, both of which I love. So when I start a new UF series, I never know which of those three possible feelings it will inspire in me. Judging from this first book, the Iron Druid series is at least in the “like” category, and I can see that growing into love.
Atticus O’Sullivan is a fantastic UF protagonist. Far older than he appears, he balances between his physical youth and mental maturity with a fair amount of aplomb. He’s the last of the Druids, and a powerful one at that. But that power, along with his unnatural longevity, has ensured that he has more than a few powerful enemies. As with most UF protagonists, he’s constantly on the wrong side of angry beings far more powerful than he is, and he has to protect himself with his wit and a little help from his friends.
My favorite of those friends, and one of the few who isn’t supernatural in some way, is Oberon. Oberon is Atticus’s Irish wolfhound, who can communicate with Atticus via a telepathic link the druid has developed between them. This canine companion provided the lion’s share of the comic relief. He’s well versed in pop culture, and his references mingled with his doggy sarcasm made for a lot of laughs.
Probably my least favorite thing about this book was that the protagonist’s main weakness was his libido. The man needs to simmer down around the ladies, be they goddess or mortal. However, he knows himself, and it’s something that he’s working on, so I can overlook it. Also, that horniness made for some funny moments. So, while this particular aspect of the protagonist's character annoyed me, it by no means hindered my enjoyment.
One last reason that I believe that I enjoyed this book more than some other UF offerings is the lore. There's just something about Irish lore that has always fascinated me, and having that in a 21st century American setting was a lot of fun. Watching the archaic attempting to mingle with modernity was incredibly entertaining, and is a big draw for me continuing with the series.
All in all, this was a really fun book, and I fully intend to continue the series. This is another series with audiobooks narrated by the phenomenal Luke Daniels, which added to my enjoyment.
Original review can be found at Booknest.
December 1, 2016
This book was a fun read I needed for recuperation. Thank you, Milda, for one more great rec ;)
“Hounded” is well soaked in Celtic mythology, with some spices from other cultures, also it’s fast-paced, humorous, magical, doggily fantastic and it has a great blend of modern and mythic worlds.
I think “Hounded” was a great read. I liked the variety of mythology a lot, it was interesting and engaging to read. The story is fast-paced and it wasn’t over-flooded with stereotypes, so no eye-rolling or yawning for me. You’ll find no typical mythological creatures and persons. I was charmed by Mr.Hearne’s ability to manage knitting some easily flowing storylines without any tangle or confusion. The story is well prepared and I liked that I didn’t need to search some additional info to understand it better. So what more an UF can want? Maybe a stronger character in the lead, a longer living villain(s)() and higher percentage of mortality. But I must admit, I enjoyed the final showdown between good and bad. Also there were some twists and unexpected turns hidden in the story.
Main character, the druid Atticus, is quite likable. He is both a millennial and carrying ancient wisdom, joking and really serious when it’s needed.
Now I suspected I was a pawn of the Fae. I didn’t know whose pawn I was, precisely. I felt somewhat like Korea, with the United States and China fighting a proxy war through me.
I didn’t want to be a pawn. Or Korea. It would be better to be a knight. Or Denmark. The Danes used to kick everyone’s ass—until their victims figured out where they came from.
As I’m getting older and meaner I think I started to appreciate different characters more, so a young easy-going punk somehow didn’t succeed in hooking me up. But his comrade doggy just blew my mind. He was awesomely awesome *sends love to Oberon* He had his amazing jokes and I just loved Oberon's mouthy personality and his efforts to make the world and humans more suitable for him.
I also liked Morrigan, she was well-built and the old lady, Atticus cared about, was a great fun to read.
To sum up and keeping some untasty things in mind, this book was an enjoyable read with the help of Oberon, my dog of dreams. It’s definitely fast paced, full of wit and has tasty mythic spices.
“Hounded” is well soaked in Celtic mythology, with some spices from other cultures, also it’s fast-paced, humorous, magical, doggily fantastic and it has a great blend of modern and mythic worlds.
I think “Hounded” was a great read. I liked the variety of mythology a lot, it was interesting and engaging to read. The story is fast-paced and it wasn’t over-flooded with stereotypes, so no eye-rolling or yawning for me. You’ll find no typical mythological creatures and persons. I was charmed by Mr.Hearne’s ability to manage knitting some easily flowing storylines without any tangle or confusion. The story is well prepared and I liked that I didn’t need to search some additional info to understand it better. So what more an UF can want? Maybe a stronger character in the lead, a longer living villain(s)() and higher percentage of mortality. But I must admit, I enjoyed the final showdown between good and bad. Also there were some twists and unexpected turns hidden in the story.
Main character, the druid Atticus, is quite likable. He is both a millennial and carrying ancient wisdom, joking and really serious when it’s needed.
Now I suspected I was a pawn of the Fae. I didn’t know whose pawn I was, precisely. I felt somewhat like Korea, with the United States and China fighting a proxy war through me.
I didn’t want to be a pawn. Or Korea. It would be better to be a knight. Or Denmark. The Danes used to kick everyone’s ass—until their victims figured out where they came from.
As I’m getting older and meaner I think I started to appreciate different characters more, so a young easy-going punk somehow didn’t succeed in hooking me up. But his comrade doggy just blew my mind. He was awesomely awesome *sends love to Oberon* He had his amazing jokes and I just loved Oberon's mouthy personality and his efforts to make the world and humans more suitable for him.
I also liked Morrigan, she was well-built and the old lady, Atticus cared about, was a great fun to read.
To sum up and keeping some untasty things in mind, this book was an enjoyable read with the help of Oberon, my dog of dreams. It’s definitely fast paced, full of wit and has tasty mythic spices.
July 6, 2018
Iron Druid has the strongest beginning to an urban fantasy series that I have read to-date. Hounded was thoroughly entertaining without being cheesy and resorting to too much sex, violence and gore.
Given that Atticus O'Sullivan is a druid, it is only fitting that the debut novel dealt heavily with Celtic mythology. Even though my knowledge of Celtic lore is painfully lacking, the one thing I would not desire is a story told with loads of clunky info-dump. My fears are unfounded as Hearne crafted the narrative in a manner that provides the necessary information at the right time while maintaining decent plot momentum.
The characters are also likeable although the main protagonist, Atticus, can come across as quite cocky at times. My favourite character by far has to to be the most adorable and hilarious Irish wolfhound, Oberon - loyal companion and lover of sausages and poodles. Oberon even has his own Twitter account, by the way.
Before I end this short review, I must make a mention regarding the incredible narration of the book by no other than the magnificent Luke Daniels. My enjoyment of Hounded was enhanced by magnitudes from Daniels' extraordinary ability to bring the characters and story to life.
Fans of urban fantasy, and especially in audio-form, do pick this up as a treat that you will not regret.
Given that Atticus O'Sullivan is a druid, it is only fitting that the debut novel dealt heavily with Celtic mythology. Even though my knowledge of Celtic lore is painfully lacking, the one thing I would not desire is a story told with loads of clunky info-dump. My fears are unfounded as Hearne crafted the narrative in a manner that provides the necessary information at the right time while maintaining decent plot momentum.
The characters are also likeable although the main protagonist, Atticus, can come across as quite cocky at times. My favourite character by far has to to be the most adorable and hilarious Irish wolfhound, Oberon - loyal companion and lover of sausages and poodles. Oberon even has his own Twitter account, by the way.
Before I end this short review, I must make a mention regarding the incredible narration of the book by no other than the magnificent Luke Daniels. My enjoyment of Hounded was enhanced by magnitudes from Daniels' extraordinary ability to bring the characters and story to life.
Fans of urban fantasy, and especially in audio-form, do pick this up as a treat that you will not regret.
August 21, 2011
Enjoyable, engrossing read. Definite fun. Atticus is the first praciticing druid I've read about in a long while, and it's nice to have a new take on magic in the urban fantasy line. In fact, all sorts of immortals and deities seem to be present, particularly from Celtic and Norse mythologies. They actually behave a lot like the stereotypes of gods from mythology (at least in the Greek myths I read), which is to say, manipulative, egotistical and randy. Hearne does a nice job of balancing their scary powers with approachability. Just like the Greek gods--sometimes you could wheedle a favor out of them if you had the right gift. Vampires, werewolves and witches also play a role in the action.
Characters are very likeable, although at first Atticus really seems a lot like a moderately interesting 25 year old rather than a 2100 year old druid. That's one of my only complaints about the series to date; I just don't have the feel of great age behind him, only power. Sure, his running a store in the middle of campus might keep him in contact with current culture, but I expect him to be a little more ponderous and thoughtful. Oberon the wolfhound kept me laughing, especially the running joke about "Oberon Khan." I like their banter, and Atticus' consideration for their relationship.
Hearne's attempt to fully integrate the 'real world' of police, persistent detectives and nosy neighbors is interesting too--so many urban fantasy books have the cops either on the "clueless" or "colluding" list, that it's another interesting take to seem them behaving normally.
I like the small touches, like the bar with the best fish and chips, and the lawyerly behavior of both vampire and werewolves. I do think the big battle was over too quickly for it to feel satisfying for the build-up; it was the only moment that pacing felt truly disruptive. Otherwise, hugely enjoyable and I'll definitely keep reading the series.
Cross-posted at http://clsiewert.wordpress.com/2013/0...
December 10, 2016
1.5 Nope
It's not for me.
I really didn't like it... The beginning seemed really good then everything went downhill damn fast.
This guy was thinking like a 12-year-old! And he was just so damn annoying about it!
When I decided to read this one I saw two types of reviews: really good ones and really bad ones. I really hoped that I'd be in the "YES" category but well, guess I wasn't.
It was a bad read for me.
Why the 1.5/2 stars? I can see the appeal, the guy has his good moments (although I DNFed, so maybe he gets better or maybe he gets worse, I just didn't have the patience to stay and find out).
But all in all, I really really didn't like him.
It's not for me.
I really didn't like it... The beginning seemed really good then everything went downhill damn fast.
This guy was thinking like a 12-year-old! And he was just so damn annoying about it!
When I decided to read this one I saw two types of reviews: really good ones and really bad ones. I really hoped that I'd be in the "YES" category but well, guess I wasn't.
It was a bad read for me.
Why the 1.5/2 stars? I can see the appeal, the guy has his good moments (although I DNFed, so maybe he gets better or maybe he gets worse, I just didn't have the patience to stay and find out).
But all in all, I really really didn't like him.
March 4, 2014
I enjoyed this first in the Iron Druid series. It reminds me a great deal of Dresden (that's a good thing). My only compaint...I didn't get as emotionally connected as I would have liked - probably beause he seemed rather nonconcerned about any conflict that would befall him. But that's a minor nitpick. (I'm a writer we always think about how we would have done things)
I highly recommend this book - especially for those that enjoy Butcher's Dresden.
I highly recommend this book - especially for those that enjoy Butcher's Dresden.
May 14, 2022
This is totally entertaining urban fantasy and a great start to what promises to be a great series. Atticus O'Sullivan, is the last of the Druids, two thousand years old and living peacefully in Arizona, disguised as the twenty one year old owner of an occult Bookshop. He is friendly with the local werewolf pact, respectful (but not totally trustful) of the local coven of witches, has a vampire for a lawyer and is on good terms with the Morrigan, the God of Death. He is also the owner of a very special magical sword - one a Celtic God claims was stolen from him and wants returned. He's finally tracked Atticus down and plans to use all his powers and resources to kill him and take the sword.
The world building and system of magic, interwoven with Celtic mythology is well done and well explained. There is also a lot of humour in the book, particularly in Atticus' relationship with his dog, an Irish wolfhound called Oberon, who can communicate telepathically with him and has quite a sarcastic sense of humour. An Irish barmaid also proves to be an interesting and amusing ally and may be important to the series in the future. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next in the series.
The world building and system of magic, interwoven with Celtic mythology is well done and well explained. There is also a lot of humour in the book, particularly in Atticus' relationship with his dog, an Irish wolfhound called Oberon, who can communicate telepathically with him and has quite a sarcastic sense of humour. An Irish barmaid also proves to be an interesting and amusing ally and may be important to the series in the future. I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next in the series.
July 31, 2014
Rating: 4* of five
The Publisher Says: Atticus O’Sullivan, last of the Druids, lives peacefully in Arizona, running an occult bookshop and shape-shifting in his spare time to hunt with his Irish wolfhound. His neighbors and customers think that this handsome, tattooed Irish dude is about twenty-one years old--when in actuality, he’s twenty-one centuries old. Not to mention: He draws his power from the earth, possesses a sharp wit, and wields an even sharper magical sword known as Fragarach, the Answerer.
Unfortunately, a very angry Celtic god wants that sword, and he’s hounded Atticus for centuries. Now the determined deity has tracked him down, and Atticus will need all his power--plus the help of a seductive goddess of death, his vampire and werewolf team of attorneys, a sexy bartender possessed by a Hindu witch, and some good old-fashioned luck of the Irish--to kick some Celtic arse and deliver himself from evil.
My Review: The Doubleday UK meme, a book a day for July 2014, is the goad I'm using to get through my snit-based unwritten reviews. Today's prompt, the 28th, is to discuss your favorite animal in fiction. Who else could it be but Oberon the Wolfhound?
Let me start with this:
Now, I ask you. Can a normally-constructed reader of any but the grimmest and least amusant of books fail to see the humor in that?
I am on record as being no fan of phauntaisee nawvelles with their styoopid Misspelynnges and Random capitaLizations to indicate magjickq is in Use. So I approach each recommended genre book with, well, trepidation. (I'm stretching for polite words that mean "strenuous desire to insult author, publisher, and recommender.") So these couple of ladies here on LT tag-teamed me, beat my head into the mat, kicked my nose through the back of my head, and started breaking bones I can't operate without until I got this book and read it.
Yeah. That.
The more observant of my readers will have noted the four-star rating above. This was not in the least a foregone conclusion, even with the chuckles and the muffled hoots the book provided. I am not any kind of a fan of straight-people sex, having memories of same that range from boredom on the high end all the way down to horror. Three stars is the most I'll give anything with more than a token window-dressing of girl-sex. Yes, I know lots of people do it, but it's icky and I don't want to hear about it. That fourth star?
Okay, Hearne. I'm gaffed through the gills. Yes, my mouth still fills with nausea-water at the sex, but you've hit The Nerve. Wry and funny? Yes please. Handsome, tattooed, and Irish? TRIFECTA! Twenty-one hundred years old and talks like a lamebrained kid? Well...
And now we're on a different plane of storytelling.
In the voice of the character, the author explains why anachronism is alive and well, and does so with a level of character development that shows something I don't get very often in any book: Respect for the reader. "I'm telling you a story about an immortal magical being who lives in the armpit of creation, USA, voluntarily, and needs to blend in as much as possible. Here is how it's done, why it's done, and what you can expect from the character."
Not only is the fourth star secured to the sleeve with tiny, tough stitches, but the sale is made for book two and book three. Of seven (I think), mind you, but still that's more than I'd even *dream* of doing absent this surprising development.
As Atticus himself said, “Winning ugly is still winning.”
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
The Publisher Says: Atticus O’Sullivan, last of the Druids, lives peacefully in Arizona, running an occult bookshop and shape-shifting in his spare time to hunt with his Irish wolfhound. His neighbors and customers think that this handsome, tattooed Irish dude is about twenty-one years old--when in actuality, he’s twenty-one centuries old. Not to mention: He draws his power from the earth, possesses a sharp wit, and wields an even sharper magical sword known as Fragarach, the Answerer.
Unfortunately, a very angry Celtic god wants that sword, and he’s hounded Atticus for centuries. Now the determined deity has tracked him down, and Atticus will need all his power--plus the help of a seductive goddess of death, his vampire and werewolf team of attorneys, a sexy bartender possessed by a Hindu witch, and some good old-fashioned luck of the Irish--to kick some Celtic arse and deliver himself from evil.
My Review: The Doubleday UK meme, a book a day for July 2014, is the goad I'm using to get through my snit-based unwritten reviews. Today's prompt, the 28th, is to discuss your favorite animal in fiction. Who else could it be but Oberon the Wolfhound?
Let me start with this:
There are many perks to living for twenty-one centuries, and foremost among them is bearing witness to the rare birth of genius. It invariably goes like this: Someone shrugs off the weight of his cultural traditions, ignores the baleful stares of authority, and does something his countrymen think to be completely batshit insane. Of those, Galileo was my personal favorite. Van Gogh comes in second, but he really was batshit insane.
Now, I ask you. Can a normally-constructed reader of any but the grimmest and least amusant of books fail to see the humor in that?
I am on record as being no fan of phauntaisee nawvelles with their styoopid Misspelynnges and Random capitaLizations to indicate magjickq is in Use. So I approach each recommended genre book with, well, trepidation. (I'm stretching for polite words that mean "strenuous desire to insult author, publisher, and recommender.") So these couple of ladies here on LT tag-teamed me, beat my head into the mat, kicked my nose through the back of my head, and started breaking bones I can't operate without until I got this book and read it.
When you're in the middle of a killing field and the fucking Chooser of the Slain tells you to do something, you do it.
Yeah. That.
The more observant of my readers will have noted the four-star rating above. This was not in the least a foregone conclusion, even with the chuckles and the muffled hoots the book provided. I am not any kind of a fan of straight-people sex, having memories of same that range from boredom on the high end all the way down to horror. Three stars is the most I'll give anything with more than a token window-dressing of girl-sex. Yes, I know lots of people do it, but it's icky and I don't want to hear about it. That fourth star?
Monty Python is like catnip for nerds. Once you get them started quoting it, they are constitutionally incapable of feeling depressed.
Okay, Hearne. I'm gaffed through the gills. Yes, my mouth still fills with nausea-water at the sex, but you've hit The Nerve. Wry and funny? Yes please. Handsome, tattooed, and Irish? TRIFECTA! Twenty-one hundred years old and talks like a lamebrained kid? Well...
I have been around long enough to discount most superstitions for what they are: I was around when many of them began to take root, after all. But one superstition to which I happen to subscribe is that bad juju comes in threes. The saying in my time was, "Storm clouds are thrice cursed," but I can't talk like that and expect people to believe I'm a twenty-one year-old American. I have to say things like, "Shit happens, man.”
And now we're on a different plane of storytelling.
In the voice of the character, the author explains why anachronism is alive and well, and does so with a level of character development that shows something I don't get very often in any book: Respect for the reader. "I'm telling you a story about an immortal magical being who lives in the armpit of creation, USA, voluntarily, and needs to blend in as much as possible. Here is how it's done, why it's done, and what you can expect from the character."
Not only is the fourth star secured to the sleeve with tiny, tough stitches, but the sale is made for book two and book three. Of seven (I think), mind you, but still that's more than I'd even *dream* of doing absent this surprising development.
As Atticus himself said, “Winning ugly is still winning.”
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
November 19, 2023
This is the first novel in an urban fantasy series. There are a couple of short stories that are before this which I believe are not required reading. In this one we follow the exploits of a Druid that has been around for many, many years. His enemy is making his move against him as he believes that our main character has a sword that belongs to him.
This has been on my tbr pile for some time as I kept putting it off. I read many glowing reviews about it but I was not totally sold. The cover doesn't do anything for me (yeah I know. Don't judge a book by its cover) and I wasn't sold on getting into Celtic lore. Immediately I was dispelled of my feelings and I had such a fun time with this story. What sold me right away was the main character. He is a very old Druid but disguises himself as a twenty one year old. I liked this as we get a perspective that has lived for many years but can be immature. That wasn't the strongest aspect though. His relationship with his dog is amazing. His dog can verbally communicate with his master and I fell in love with this and the dog. To round out my enjoyment there are topical references that made me giggle, sincerity between relationships, and action scenes. The only reason I did not give this five stars is the drama to get the sword. There were characters that I felt like were not fleshed out as much as I wanted them to be. This might be on me as these characters are from Celtic lore and I know absolutely nothing about that subject.
This easily exceeded my expectations as I laughed with some scenes and I was invested with the characters that were on the side of the protagonist. I also like the mix of supernatural beings that one expects to find in an urban fantasy genre novel. The writing style is down to earth with a vast amount of likability for the main character. And a bit of snark within him. I will definitely be reading more from this series.
This has been on my tbr pile for some time as I kept putting it off. I read many glowing reviews about it but I was not totally sold. The cover doesn't do anything for me (yeah I know. Don't judge a book by its cover) and I wasn't sold on getting into Celtic lore. Immediately I was dispelled of my feelings and I had such a fun time with this story. What sold me right away was the main character. He is a very old Druid but disguises himself as a twenty one year old. I liked this as we get a perspective that has lived for many years but can be immature. That wasn't the strongest aspect though. His relationship with his dog is amazing. His dog can verbally communicate with his master and I fell in love with this and the dog. To round out my enjoyment there are topical references that made me giggle, sincerity between relationships, and action scenes. The only reason I did not give this five stars is the drama to get the sword. There were characters that I felt like were not fleshed out as much as I wanted them to be. This might be on me as these characters are from Celtic lore and I know absolutely nothing about that subject.
This easily exceeded my expectations as I laughed with some scenes and I was invested with the characters that were on the side of the protagonist. I also like the mix of supernatural beings that one expects to find in an urban fantasy genre novel. The writing style is down to earth with a vast amount of likability for the main character. And a bit of snark within him. I will definitely be reading more from this series.
October 18, 2011
I jinxed myself. I read the first 5 pages and thought I might actually like it after procrastinating over the decision of: to read, or not to read? I blame myself for settling on the former, as many have compared it to Jim Butcher's writing. Me and that dude do not get on. We are chalk and cheese.
The humour is unfunny; it's forced. The info-dump is off-putting; too much, too fast. Dialogue-overload. Not enough description.
Atticus claims to be 2,100 or just 21 to humans. He lies to everyone but the humans. He ain't two thousand years old. There's no way. He brags about the famous historical events he's witnessed, the powerful and dangerous gods he knows, and thinks his physical prowess is that of a ninja. He sounds like an immature boy. Show me you've lived longer than most, don't just tell me. He also feels too modern and "down with the kids".
These gods care enough to warn Atticus of an impending threat on his life but he doesn't take them seriously. Even after he is attacked. I don't understand why they care if he never listens to them.
One of said gods has promised not to let Atticus die. So if he's in terrible agony from multiple wounds, he won't die. That's awful. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy, and this woman is supposed to be an ally. Some ally. No thanks.
I wasn't impressed with the gods we met in the beginning. Not much intelligence or wisdom to be found in them. They were only concerned with petty grievances and vengeance. The norm for gods generally, though some semblance of substance or the ability to champion a worthwhile cause would've been nice, anything to show some depth of character to engender interest from me as the reader.
I hear Oberon is a hoot and an adorable sidekick. Well, I met him but he doesn't seem terribly dog-like.
I've never given up after so few pages read before, but I can't force myself to read any more.
Not for me.
36/292 pages read.
The humour is unfunny; it's forced. The info-dump is off-putting; too much, too fast. Dialogue-overload. Not enough description.
Atticus claims to be 2,100 or just 21 to humans. He lies to everyone but the humans. He ain't two thousand years old. There's no way. He brags about the famous historical events he's witnessed, the powerful and dangerous gods he knows, and thinks his physical prowess is that of a ninja. He sounds like an immature boy. Show me you've lived longer than most, don't just tell me. He also feels too modern and "down with the kids".
These gods care enough to warn Atticus of an impending threat on his life but he doesn't take them seriously. Even after he is attacked. I don't understand why they care if he never listens to them.
One of said gods has promised not to let Atticus die. So if he's in terrible agony from multiple wounds, he won't die. That's awful. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy, and this woman is supposed to be an ally. Some ally. No thanks.
I wasn't impressed with the gods we met in the beginning. Not much intelligence or wisdom to be found in them. They were only concerned with petty grievances and vengeance. The norm for gods generally, though some semblance of substance or the ability to champion a worthwhile cause would've been nice, anything to show some depth of character to engender interest from me as the reader.
I hear Oberon is a hoot and an adorable sidekick. Well, I met him but he doesn't seem terribly dog-like.
I've never given up after so few pages read before, but I can't force myself to read any more.
Not for me.
36/292 pages read.
January 30, 2016
I know, I know.. I'm totally late to the party. And, I have had this book forever - just sitting around. Why did I wait so long to read it? It has everything that I like: Urban Fantasy, great one-liners, awesome side characters- especially the widow MacDonagh, and a talking dog. I want to be able to talk to my dogs so much!! ...well, on second thought, maybe not... they would just nag me night and day for food.
and if my dog talked baby-talk I might have to shoot myself in the head to make it stop...
So, Atticus is a 2,100 year old Druid living in Arizona, running a new age tea shop. He has an ancient magical sword that some jackass god wants, and has been hunting him down to kill him for, for the last 1,000 of those years. But, Atticus has been smart and wiley so far, and has a few allies in the fae realm. There are many fun interactions with goddesses, fae, and other magical creatures along with a few minor battles before we get to the big final battle. The side characters are awesome!
The widow MacDonagh is Atticus's neighbor who is very Irish and enjoys her whiskey, but hates the British. When Atticus kills someone and needs to bury the body, all he needs to tell her is that he is British, and voila, she's as helpful as can be.
"He's British?"
"Aye."
"Ah, well then ye can bury the bastard in me backyard, and God damn the queen and all her hellish minions."
This cracked me up because my husband is English and there is definitely no love lost between him and the Irish. My kids were cracking Irish jokes since they could talk, much to the amusement of my family.
The widow brings lots of color to the already colorful story. When Atticus is going out to battle the asshat who wants to kill him and is saying goodbye to her:
""I'm going to fight with a god, some demons, and a coven of witches who all want to kill me..."
"Off y'go, then. Kill every last one o'the bastards and call me in the mornin'."
The goddesses and fae are also extremely entertaining. They have such a disturbing lack of humanity and absolutely no regard for human life. When Atticus finds the goddess Flidais making a smoothie in his kitchen, she explains that her love for the modern drink came from a man that she hunted down and killed after he hit the smoothie shop.
"So, after I killed him and stowed his body..., I sampled his smoothie concoction in the parking lot and found it to be quite delicious."
Everything about this book was fun. Atticus is funny and entertaining. The story moves at a good pace with plenty of action. And, the side characters are great.
There is only one negative about this book, in my opinion. He dares to blaspheme the mighty name of Thor!!!
The local college kids would describe Thor as a "major asshat" if they ever had the misfortune to meet him.
Everybody hates Thor in this book.
Atticus's vampire lawyer (yeah, a blood sucking lawyer with no soul. It's a stretch to imagine, right?) His fangs pop out if you just say "Thor" aloud, and he hunts carpenters simply because they use hammers.
How dare you sir!!?!!
Thor shall ever be the ultimate specimen of male beauty and perfection that all mankind should weep and bow before.
that's right, bow down before his manly beauty!
and if my dog talked baby-talk I might have to shoot myself in the head to make it stop...
So, Atticus is a 2,100 year old Druid living in Arizona, running a new age tea shop. He has an ancient magical sword that some jackass god wants, and has been hunting him down to kill him for, for the last 1,000 of those years. But, Atticus has been smart and wiley so far, and has a few allies in the fae realm. There are many fun interactions with goddesses, fae, and other magical creatures along with a few minor battles before we get to the big final battle. The side characters are awesome!
The widow MacDonagh is Atticus's neighbor who is very Irish and enjoys her whiskey, but hates the British. When Atticus kills someone and needs to bury the body, all he needs to tell her is that he is British, and voila, she's as helpful as can be.
"He's British?"
"Aye."
"Ah, well then ye can bury the bastard in me backyard, and God damn the queen and all her hellish minions."
This cracked me up because my husband is English and there is definitely no love lost between him and the Irish. My kids were cracking Irish jokes since they could talk, much to the amusement of my family.
The widow brings lots of color to the already colorful story. When Atticus is going out to battle the asshat who wants to kill him and is saying goodbye to her:
""I'm going to fight with a god, some demons, and a coven of witches who all want to kill me..."
"Off y'go, then. Kill every last one o'the bastards and call me in the mornin'."
The goddesses and fae are also extremely entertaining. They have such a disturbing lack of humanity and absolutely no regard for human life. When Atticus finds the goddess Flidais making a smoothie in his kitchen, she explains that her love for the modern drink came from a man that she hunted down and killed after he hit the smoothie shop.
"So, after I killed him and stowed his body..., I sampled his smoothie concoction in the parking lot and found it to be quite delicious."
Everything about this book was fun. Atticus is funny and entertaining. The story moves at a good pace with plenty of action. And, the side characters are great.
There is only one negative about this book, in my opinion. He dares to blaspheme the mighty name of Thor!!!
The local college kids would describe Thor as a "major asshat" if they ever had the misfortune to meet him.
Everybody hates Thor in this book.
Atticus's vampire lawyer (yeah, a blood sucking lawyer with no soul. It's a stretch to imagine, right?) His fangs pop out if you just say "Thor" aloud, and he hunts carpenters simply because they use hammers.
How dare you sir!!?!!
Thor shall ever be the ultimate specimen of male beauty and perfection that all mankind should weep and bow before.
that's right, bow down before his manly beauty!
July 18, 2015
Easily a five star book for me, and Atticus, the 2000 year old Druid, is a five star character too! This has LOTS in common with the Dresden Files which is a plus plus plus because I love the Dresden Files and have to wait patiently each year for the next in the series. This series will help me wait:) Hounded is a great read, full of magic and all the creatures that that entails plus a new to me superhero who eventually wins the ultimate battles. Oh and lots of laugh aloud moments too especially with Atticus's offsider who happens to be an Irish Wolfhound and who gets all the best lines. Loved it and can't wait to get the next one.
June 1, 2018
2.75 stars. I listened to the audio version and the narration was good. I plan to listen to #2.
Okay, I feel sort of like the odd woman out here. Most of my goodreads friends loved this book and are gushing about it. But I just did not see what was so special about this book. I feel bad writing this review and saying this, but no this book is not a favorite.
Okay, the good things first. The writing is solid in Hounded and the pacing is good. The characters are interesting. There is not any chapter that drags or is slow. This is a unique thing in this genre, particularly for a first book! I went into this book with high expectations and I have learned that is usually not going to be a good thing for the book I am reading, with a few exceptions. This review concentrates on what disappointed me about this book. It seems that lately, with a few exceptions, it is hard for me to read an urban fantasy book and not find problems with the plot or storyline. I did enjoy the book somewhat, so ……
This book reads to me like “urban fantasy lite”. The character development is not overly deep, the relationships are not thoroughly flushed out, and the plot is pretty simplistic: Hearne tells the readers rather than shows them the world building and the history of the characters. And he utilizes Atticus’s conversations with people he meets as a method to do this. I just find this as a weak plot device to teach the readers and further the plot. Plus it just isn’t as interesting. My favorite urban fantasy books have characters who have access to power or have supernatural traits, but they can only wield their power with a heavy cost. That makes sense to me and the cost seems to balance things. Books such as Mercy Thompson by Briggs and the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher are great examples of this. Power is not easy to come by. And those that carry such power, not only have to make sacrifices but they also wear heavy battle scars – emotionally and physically. Well, there are no such costs or scars in this book. Atticus (the hero) appears to have access to an unending source of power and quite a bit of supernatural support – but at what cost? None, so it appears. Sleeping on the grass? Breathing fresh air? Those things are not a true cost. I never doubted that Atticus would win/succeed/make it away fast. I enjoy wondering in my books if everything will work out and I like it when authors surprise me sometimes and not all works out. Suspense and tension are a positive for me in books I read. For me, this book had neither.
Atticus has been alive for 21 centuries, he references yet he is light hearted and does not appear to be affected by the passage of time or the loss of those he loved. He acts like a man from this time period, he acts like maybe not a 21 year old, but a 28 year old. He loves watching sports on Sunday? He loves Kevin Costner movies? I just found this not to be believable. I also thought it was a weak plot device to have Atticus surprised and manipulated so easily. For example, This openness and lack of vetting people wasn’t consistent with a guy who had been alive for 21 centuries. I saw that they were not trustworthy early on and I am much younger than Atticus. I understand why Kevin Hearne used these characters in a way to titillate and then surprise the readers, but couldn’t have it been done in a more convincing way? Oddly enough (perhaps this says more about me than the book), I just did not think the book was too funny. It might just be me, but I don’t think it is funny to get revenge on a neighbor by sending your dog over to poop on his lawn, repeatedly. Yes, I know the neighbor was mean and reported him to the police. But hey, in the neighbor’s defense usually the stuff reported was dangerous and illegal. And then to talk about the revenge tactic, repeatedly, just not funny for me. Nor do I think it is funny to read dialogue that includes making fun of the way somebody looks. I understand that the witch really didn’t look that beautiful and was wearing fake skin, but why go there? But I may just be uptight. Another example of mean humor that I just did not enjoy, was the giving of wedgies to the paramedic. Why was Atticus doing this? Why is this funny? The entire discussion of suing the police was ridiculous. Atticus knows that he has committed crimes by modern day standards. The police are rightly investigating Atticus. And then Atticus learns Why would he sue them? Just for revenge and money? When in reality, the police either had no control over their actions and/or were acting on legitimate tips! This entire discussion was really distasteful for me, yes sue when you have been wronged but this wasn’t one of those situations.
What I liked about the book. The pacing is fast, it is refreshing to read an urban fantasy from a male point of view, the cast of characters – despite being one dimensional, a few were interesting and I want to know more about them. I plan on moving on to Book 2, because, well I bought it, I signed up for a buddy read and I am slightly intrigued as to whether the series will get stronger. Many urban fantasy books start out with a great premise, like this book, and need a few books to get really strong. So because it was not a bad book and because I somewhat enjoyed it, I will read it again.
I recommend this book to people who are interested in a light read.
Okay, I feel sort of like the odd woman out here. Most of my goodreads friends loved this book and are gushing about it. But I just did not see what was so special about this book. I feel bad writing this review and saying this, but no this book is not a favorite.
Okay, the good things first. The writing is solid in Hounded and the pacing is good. The characters are interesting. There is not any chapter that drags or is slow. This is a unique thing in this genre, particularly for a first book! I went into this book with high expectations and I have learned that is usually not going to be a good thing for the book I am reading, with a few exceptions. This review concentrates on what disappointed me about this book. It seems that lately, with a few exceptions, it is hard for me to read an urban fantasy book and not find problems with the plot or storyline. I did enjoy the book somewhat, so ……
This book reads to me like “urban fantasy lite”. The character development is not overly deep, the relationships are not thoroughly flushed out, and the plot is pretty simplistic: Hearne tells the readers rather than shows them the world building and the history of the characters. And he utilizes Atticus’s conversations with people he meets as a method to do this. I just find this as a weak plot device to teach the readers and further the plot. Plus it just isn’t as interesting. My favorite urban fantasy books have characters who have access to power or have supernatural traits, but they can only wield their power with a heavy cost. That makes sense to me and the cost seems to balance things. Books such as Mercy Thompson by Briggs and the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher are great examples of this. Power is not easy to come by. And those that carry such power, not only have to make sacrifices but they also wear heavy battle scars – emotionally and physically. Well, there are no such costs or scars in this book. Atticus (the hero) appears to have access to an unending source of power and quite a bit of supernatural support – but at what cost? None, so it appears. Sleeping on the grass? Breathing fresh air? Those things are not a true cost. I never doubted that Atticus would win/succeed/make it away fast. I enjoy wondering in my books if everything will work out and I like it when authors surprise me sometimes and not all works out. Suspense and tension are a positive for me in books I read. For me, this book had neither.
Atticus has been alive for 21 centuries, he references yet he is light hearted and does not appear to be affected by the passage of time or the loss of those he loved. He acts like a man from this time period, he acts like maybe not a 21 year old, but a 28 year old. He loves watching sports on Sunday? He loves Kevin Costner movies? I just found this not to be believable. I also thought it was a weak plot device to have Atticus surprised and manipulated so easily. For example, This openness and lack of vetting people wasn’t consistent with a guy who had been alive for 21 centuries. I saw that they were not trustworthy early on and I am much younger than Atticus. I understand why Kevin Hearne used these characters in a way to titillate and then surprise the readers, but couldn’t have it been done in a more convincing way? Oddly enough (perhaps this says more about me than the book), I just did not think the book was too funny. It might just be me, but I don’t think it is funny to get revenge on a neighbor by sending your dog over to poop on his lawn, repeatedly. Yes, I know the neighbor was mean and reported him to the police. But hey, in the neighbor’s defense usually the stuff reported was dangerous and illegal. And then to talk about the revenge tactic, repeatedly, just not funny for me. Nor do I think it is funny to read dialogue that includes making fun of the way somebody looks. I understand that the witch really didn’t look that beautiful and was wearing fake skin, but why go there? But I may just be uptight. Another example of mean humor that I just did not enjoy, was the giving of wedgies to the paramedic. Why was Atticus doing this? Why is this funny? The entire discussion of suing the police was ridiculous. Atticus knows that he has committed crimes by modern day standards. The police are rightly investigating Atticus. And then Atticus learns Why would he sue them? Just for revenge and money? When in reality, the police either had no control over their actions and/or were acting on legitimate tips! This entire discussion was really distasteful for me, yes sue when you have been wronged but this wasn’t one of those situations.
What I liked about the book. The pacing is fast, it is refreshing to read an urban fantasy from a male point of view, the cast of characters – despite being one dimensional, a few were interesting and I want to know more about them. I plan on moving on to Book 2, because, well I bought it, I signed up for a buddy read and I am slightly intrigued as to whether the series will get stronger. Many urban fantasy books start out with a great premise, like this book, and need a few books to get really strong. So because it was not a bad book and because I somewhat enjoyed it, I will read it again.
I recommend this book to people who are interested in a light read.
December 7, 2017
This book was just bad. The main character was supposed to be a 2,100 year old druid that acted like a 15 year old boy, down to giving a paramedic a wedgy with his magic. It might have worked if the main character was some kind of brainless fighter that had lived for 2,100 years, but a super wise druid that doesn't act wise at all, now that is just stupid.
All of the gods in the book acted worse than high school kids in juvenile hall. And there was not really any redeeming quality in this book. It was like reading a bad CW TV show on steroids. So, many of the kids out there probably loved it and I might have too at the age of 15, but at the age of 30 it was wholly unenjoyable, and ranks high on my worthless drivel list.
All of the gods in the book acted worse than high school kids in juvenile hall. And there was not really any redeeming quality in this book. It was like reading a bad CW TV show on steroids. So, many of the kids out there probably loved it and I might have too at the age of 15, but at the age of 30 it was wholly unenjoyable, and ranks high on my worthless drivel list.
December 31, 2020
Hounded wasn’t what I expected. This is one of the very few books I’ve read told solely from the point of view of an 1000+ yo immortal. It’s about a druid, my first time reading about such a person. It was interesting and fun to read overall. But it wasn’t memorable and I didn’t connect with the characters enough to want to read the sequel. I’m glad I’ve read this book at last since it was one of the oldest (date added wise) fantasies on my tbr list.
August 13, 2023
This urban fantasy has a very light tone. What’s supposed to be serious turns into dark humor. A 2100-year-old Druid using the alias Atticus O’Sullivan is enjoying life in Arizona with his Irish wolfhound, a talking dog with a French poodle obsession.
The plot is very simple: He has a sword this god-enemy wants. The enemy sends minions to get it. When they’re all gone, the enemy finally shows up himself to get the sword. Atticus is so powerful, we’re never worried for his safety. Ever.
It’s light and funny with a sort of Harry Dresden vibe. Atticus often comes across as cocky and immature. I imagined him played by Nathan Fillion, and that worked well. Harrison Ford would probably work, too.
The audio narration is very good. There is some strong language throughout and some sexual innuendo. The violence is more humorous than graphic.
The plot is very simple: He has a sword this god-enemy wants. The enemy sends minions to get it. When they’re all gone, the enemy finally shows up himself to get the sword. Atticus is so powerful, we’re never worried for his safety. Ever.
It’s light and funny with a sort of Harry Dresden vibe. Atticus often comes across as cocky and immature. I imagined him played by Nathan Fillion, and that worked well. Harrison Ford would probably work, too.
The audio narration is very good. There is some strong language throughout and some sexual innuendo. The violence is more humorous than graphic.
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