Monday, July 1, 2013

Review: Frost Burned by Patricia Briggs

Frost Burned
by Patricia Briggs
Series: Mercy Thompson #7
Publisher: Penguin
Publication date: March 5, 2013
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Source: Purchase
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Mercy Thompson’s life has undergone a seismic change. Becoming the mate of Adam Hauptman—the charismatic Alpha of the local werewolf pack—has made her a stepmother to his daughter Jesse, a relationship that brings moments of blissful normalcy to Mercy’s life. But on the edges of humanity, what passes for a minor mishap on an ordinary day can turn into so much more.  After an accident in bumper-to-bumper traffic, Mercy and Jesse can’t reach Adam—or anyone else in the pack for that matter. They’ve all been abducted. Through their mating bond, all Mercy knows is that Adam is angry and in pain. With the werewolves fighting a political battle to gain acceptance from the public, Mercy fears Adam’s disappearance may be related—and that he and the pack are in serious danger. Outclassed and on her own, Mercy may be forced to seek assistance from any ally she can get, no matter how unlikely.
The Mercy Thompson series is one of my favorites! I purchased Frost Burn on release day and was delighted when I finally had a chance to immerse myself in the world Patricia Briggs has created. Filled with non-stop action and suspense I consumed this in a single day. As always Briggs delivered exactly what I wanted. I do not recommend reading this out of order as the overall arc and characters are not explained. Three word review: action-packed, heart-tugging, perfection.

The tale begins at almost midnight on Black Friday and if you can believe it Mercy is out Christmas shopping with Jesse.  She is no longer in a wheel chair and fully healed. When the two get into a fender bender and are unable to reach Adam or any of the pack they realize something is dreadfully wrong. Through her bond she realizes they have all been kidnapped and the tale that unfolds is non-stop action with twists and turns as Mercy and her unusual friends must save the pack.

I love all of the characters in Briggs Mercy Thompson series even snarky Honey and the Vampire Queen. I enjoying the growth we continually see in Mercy and love the slow building thread that reveals more and more just how special this shape-shifting coyote is. Mercy is really starting to feel comfortable as the mate of Adam and her role in the pack. Their relationship is healthy, heated and continues to become stronger. We see her use her position with confidence more as she finds it necessary and despite her call to protect and dive in to save the day she is really balanced. Briggs gave us a real treat as we got a third person POV from Adam. While this was necessary because of the plot, it also gave us a little more insight into the smexy alpha himself and I quite enjoyed it.  Since the pack was kidnapped we got a chance to spend more time with Kyle, Warren’s mate. I have always liked Kyle, as a lawyer he is pretty level headed and his attention to fashion always makes me giggle. Missing were both Samuel and Bran which was disappointing since I like them both. Bran does send aid to help but we never really get to know this wolf.  Stephan, the Fae and the vampires are back. We learn things, see a different sides of their personalities and I was quite satisfied. The humans are involved and their police and military branches added to the overall arcs political unrest.

One of the things that I enjoy about this series is the non-stop action and clever twists. From the moment you open a book in this series you know you are in for one hell of a ride. Briggs carries your emotions right along with it. She takes us from sweet moments that make me giggle, to the saddest moments that had me wiping tears from eye. I love that we continue to see growth from Mercy both as a coyote and as a woman. We didn’t get a lot of alone time with Adam and Mercy but when we do it is both romantic and intense. I really liked getting inside Adams head and would love to see more of this but in first person. His love for Mercy just makes me shiver and the responsibility and burden he carries close to his heart for his pack, wife and daughter is touching. Why the pack was kidnapped and the end game were exceptional well written and had me on edge. The overall arc regarding revealing themselves to the humans and the consequences are present and we get hints of things to come. 

Frost Burned was a delicious, intense addition to the Mercy Thompson series and this remains one of my favorite urban fantasy series. Night Broken the eighth book is expected to release in 2014. 

Four and half cups of coffee out of five 
Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer Kimba The Caffeinated Book Reviewer Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer

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80 Comments:

At July 17, 2013 at 8:56 PM , Anonymous Lark @ The Bookwyrm's Hoard said...

OK, you sold me with that last bit!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 8:57 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

It takes place in a major city, which is why it is urban fantasy and not a paranormal romance, but it has a close knit community of characters that just draw you in.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 8:57 PM , Anonymous Lark @ The Bookwyrm's Hoard said...

I don't know why, but I always pictured it as more "big city" -- probably because it's called "urban fantasy." But I do like the sound of it.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 8:57 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I think you would like this..as it has a small town feel to it and the characters are amazing!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 8:58 PM , Anonymous Lark @ The Bookwyrm's Hoard said...

Great review! I haven't read this series yet, but I'm liking what I hear. It's obviously one of your favorites!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 8:59 PM , Anonymous Michelle said...

I am so far behind in this series!! I've only read the first 4...Also let me just take a moment to say that I love the covers for this series.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:00 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

ooh enjoy and did you see the synopsis for the next book...woot!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:01 PM , Anonymous Anna@herding cats said...

Oh eep! I cannot wait to read this one. I have it sitting on my bookcase so I can at least *look* at it until there's fun reading time. I have a thing for Adam too. Love everything about him and how he is with Mercy. So good! Fab review Kimberly!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:01 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

yes you do..did you see the synopsis for the next book *faints*

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:01 PM , Anonymous Melissa said...

Oh bugger! I so need to find a way to get to this series. :) Thank you.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:01 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

Squee..oh this one just rocked Lauren...enjoy and I hope it's good on audio:)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:01 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I agree Maja..the character's spring to life in my mind. Did you see the synopsis for the next book!?!?!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:01 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

No this is my first series with Brigg's although I have a few others on my wishlist, at the time I was juggling way to many series. I think we will still get some tension and ooh Kyle turned would be nice.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:01 PM , Anonymous Pabkins said...

I love this series as well. I agree Kyle is also one of my favs. What do you think....maybe he'll get changed someday? He's just so freaking awesome. I liked the perspective of Adam as well. Though I'm wondering if things have cooled down in the romantic tension dept now that they're married. I really wish Patricia Briggs would write some more straight fantasy. Did you ever read her Hob's Bargain, Hurog Duology or the Raven Duology??

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:01 PM , Anonymous Maja (The Nocturnal Library) said...

You're so right about these characters, Kimba. I've grown so attached to each and every one of them, I can't even imagine what I'll do once the series ends. Most of all, I love how clever the series is, how much thought Briggs put into things such as body language. Apparently, she's almost done with the next book and I simply can't wait to get my hands on it.
Lovely review.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:02 PM , Anonymous Lauren said...

Oh my gosh, I'm SO excited to read this now! I'm just waiting for my audible credit to get it on audio. I'm thrilled to hear that we get Adam's perspective in this one, and that the plot is action-packed and clever. This is definitely one of my absolute favorite UF series. Awesome review, so glad you enjoyed this! :-)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

one of my all time favorites:)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous Pnrurbfantasyreviews said...

I really need to start this series! Sounds like something I would enjoy. I love action-packed books with strong female protags.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

well to be fair you are planning a Wedding!! eep:)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous Jennifer said...

Girl, I know, I've been MIA with a lot of blog stuff, including my own!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

ooh you would like this series!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

thanks Brandi :)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

aww thanks!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

Jen is that you? *faints* I love this series and yes you need to pick it back up!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:03 PM , Anonymous Jennifer said...

I've only read the first book in this series and it was years ago, but I really liked it. I need to get on the rest!
Great review :)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Naomi Hop said...

This is one series that has been on my TBR list for such a long time! It's great to see a character that continues to grow and understands her knew life.And full of twists.... I can go on!! I must read this series!!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Aurian said...

Ooo if you want to get to know that big bad wolf send by the Marok, you need to read the Alpha and Omega series, he plays a big part in those.
Still, I think something is missing since Mercy and Adam got together, some freedom for Mercy perhaps to be with her friends instead of the pack. I still love the books, but just a bit less.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Jenny @ Supernatural Snark said...

I need to read this Kimba! I need to read River Marked first because I still haven't read that one, but I can't wait to get back into Mercy's world, it's been a while since I've bee there. Love that Mercy is finally finding her place in the pack as Adam's mate, I just adore them together. And yay Kyle! He's always been one of my favorites too:)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Jenea Whittington said...

Wow, this does sounds like a great series. I haven't read anything from Briggs yet, must change that. Great review/

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Gin's Book Notes (Ginny) said...

I LOVE this series. It is also one of my favorites. Mercy is so kick butt and Adam well he is just yummy. The audio version is also excellent so if no one has the time to read the books I highly recommend the audiobooks.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Debbie Haupt said...

another great review and addition to my pile. Thanks Kim :)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous thegeekyblogger said...

GAH! I am behind and can't wait to catch up :)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Nick said...

7 books! Wow! That's a lot of books!
I have heard a lot of praise for this series, but the idea of getting through 7 books is kind of putting me off! I like that the romance is actually healthy. And the characters all sound wonderful! Plus, you did mention it had a lot of action. I might have to change my mind about not going through 7 books!
Fabulous review, Kim! :)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Sharon - Obsession with Books said...

This is one of my fave ever series but I still haven't bought this book! Too many books so little time.

I love your review Kimba! Mercy & Adam are one of my favorite couples.

PS. Have you read the Kate Daniels series??

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Judy-ree said...

This was such an awesome book. Are you reading the Alpha and Omega series as well? The third book, Fair Game should be read before this book, as it helps set up background to their shared world. I was glad to see Coyote make the small cameo. Hopefully he will continue to make appearance throughout!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Blodeuedd said...

I just read the blurb for book 8 and was all eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Danny Bookworm said...

OoO!!! I've read this series a while back but I think I am 2 books behind! And yes I agree they are always kickass, full of action and awesome twists!!! Totally need to catch up!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

Ooh yes. Catch up woman ;)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous kindlemom1 said...

I am so glad this series is still going strong, I love it too but I am so far behind, like books behind. Gah! I really need to read one soon, you reminded me so much of why I love this series, because of all the great characters!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

Thanks for forwarding it to me on facebook I cannot wait and I am loving the softer covers.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:04 PM , Anonymous Bea @ Bea's Book Nook said...

Great review Kimba. This is one of m y fave series also. I can hardly wait for the next one; did you see the blurb for it?

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:07 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I have heard the audio is most excellent! Enjoy:)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:07 PM , Anonymous Book Savvy Babe said...

Can't wait to read this one. I've been thinking of just grabbing the audible copy. I hope to get to it soon, glad you really enjoyed the book!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:09 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I love the softer covers too! Hurry and catch up!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Danielle Chapman said...

I love, love, love this series! And your review is spot on!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous brandileigh2003 said...

Glad the characters are awesome as ever and hearing it is your fave series makes me need to check it out.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

ooh they are so good hope you pick them up.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Diana Leigh said...

Whoa, Mercy looks intense on the cover. This is another one of those series I want to read, but haven't had a chance to.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I have heard the same thing about the audio books..hope you catch up soon!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Carmel @ Rabid Reads said...

I still have a ways to go before I'll be caught up in this series but I have this book waiting for me on my TBR shelf. Although, I heard the audiobooks were good too so I might go that route instead. Great review though, you can't go wrong with 4.5 stars!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I love this series and each book is one heck of a ride!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I do not think she has forgotten one bit..but when it comes to protecting what is hers she will use any means (peeps) possible.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Kristin Clifton said...

Oh, and AWESOME review!!! I think I forgot how awesome Adam's POV was... his love for Mercy is so awesome!!!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Kristin Clifton said...

Oh, yeah, baby!!!! So, maybe we need to go off the internet but what did you think about Stephan's return? It seems like he's forgiven a little too easily. Or should I say, Mercy has kind of forgotten the whole past thing and how upset she was at him. Or his getting hurt makes her not as mad at him... hmmm.... I was torn. I might have missed a piece there or something.

Briggs writes THE best characters!!! I'm so glad we share this love!!! I'm kind of glad we get Mercy again next year... (sorry Charles!)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Andrea @ The Bookish Babe said...

I've heard so many great things about this series, but have never gotten started. It's pretty awesome that you are still excited and happy after seven books! Great review, Kim.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

yes you need to catch up Danny:)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

*bounces* love it and i cannot wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

no but they are on my wishlist!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

*raises eyebrow* I will check out Kate Daniels asap and I hope you read this soon!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

7 books is nothing! Hahaha..this is one of the best Urban Fantasy series out there, hope you try one.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

Gin said the audio version rocks!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

one of my favorite UF series :)

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

glad to hear the audio version rocks and yes Adam is yum!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

ooh I hope you try them!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

Oh my goodness you need to catch up..STAT!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

they are on my list to read!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I will add it to my list!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

squee..enjoy!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I haven't read the spin offs.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

this is one my favorite urban fantasy series!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

Agreed this released in March in hardcover and ebook

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

I love Adam *swoons*

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous kimbacaffeinate said...

you won't regret diving back in!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Melissa (Books and Things) said...

I'm so bummed that I'm so behind on this series. I have to get all the rest of the series. This review makes me want to dive back in even more!! You have me wanting the next edition already! LOL

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Heidi said...

I've got my copy and I haven't had a chance to read this yet either. I love Mercy Thompson and I agree we need more from Adam's POV. I love all the characters. A great series!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous In the Hammock said...

i hadn't seen this one yet! the mercy thompson book that i read was fantastic!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous Ellen said...

This series is new to me and it sounds like something I would really like. I love the cover and "non-stop action and clever twists," yes, I think I will check this series out. Great review.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:13 PM , Anonymous candacerobinson said...

I haven't started this series yet though I've read the spin off series and own many of the books. I know many people love it, hopefully I can read it soon!

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:14 PM , Anonymous Jackie B Central Texas said...

Love the series will be glad when my paperback copy is in my hands when it finally releases so can catch up on Mercy.

 
At July 17, 2013 at 9:14 PM , Anonymous karina said...

Fantastic review, K.! And I agree with Aurian - read Fair Game, it was even better that Frost Burned and a good continuation of events :)

 

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