All Together Dead (Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood)

The seventh book in the Southern Vampire Series finds our Sookie attending the Mid West Vampire Conference with the queen of Louisiana and her entourage. Sookie's been hired to use her telepathic abilities to aid the queen, but Sookie's also hoping to spend some time with her weretiger boyfriend, Quinn. This being Sookie Stackhouse we're discussing, naturally things don't go as planned and Sookie soon finds herself facing murders, trials, and bombings. In addition, Sookie's fending off Eric the vampire (Lord only knows why she'd do such a thing!), snubbing ex-lover Bill, working with fellow telepath Barry, and checking up on various vampires' actions while attempting to begin a relationship with Quinn. Things are darker in this novel, and there's wholesale slaughter of characters with Sookie herself in mortal danger more than once.

This addition to the series is action packed and Sookie is definitely coming into her own as she learns to navigate the vampire community. Since this is set at the vampire summit, there are fewer scenes with weres, though the setup for future interaction is there, especially as Sookie's brother (a werepanther) marries his girlfriend who is also a were. But the vampires in this novel are multi-layered, and it's not always easy to determine who is playing level with Sookie. She spends a good deal of energy not listening to Bill's explanations for his initial contact with her, and her tie with Eric is definitely strengthened as the two exchange blood once more. The climax is bloody and scary, and Sookie's forced to live with decisions she's made and things she knows that are going to change her life forever. Ending on a dark note, there is a good setup for future novels but one is left hanging at the close of this one.

I love Sookie and her world, and I loved that the author incorporated the devastation of Katrina into this novel; to have done otherwise would have been ridiculous since the tragedy was so much a part of Louisiana's history. I like the secondary characters but sometimes feel that way too much information is given about them before they leave the landscape never to be heard from again. I like Quinn but he just doesn't appeal to me as the vampires do, and I have to agree with others that his judicious use of "babe" is annoying. I also like Barry and feel that his own conflicted emotions bring a lot to Sookie's feelings about her own telepathic ability. My biggest petty complaint: the author expends a good deal of space describing what everyone is wearing! At times it's nice to know, such as when the ball was going on, but to know that Sookie put on this colored shirt with those colored pants and matching pumps is just too much information. I seriously don't read these books for the fashion! I love them for the supernatural creatures and Sookie's personality.

This is a good entry in the series and well worth a read. With minor editing (and of course, Sookie together with Eric, lol), this book would be my favorite so far. I loved the funny moments and the suspenseful ones, and I love how Sookie is balancing the men in her life, for the most part. Enjoyable reading and one that leaves you looking forward to the next book.

First Sentence: The Shreveport Vampire Bar would be opening late tonight.

Telepathic barmaid Sookie Stackhouse has been hired to protect against non-Vamps at the Vampire Queen of Louisiana at the Chicago Vampire Summit where the Queen must defend herself against charges of murdering her husband. Complicating the situation is that both Sookie's boyfriend waretiger Quinn, and her ex-boyfriend vampire Bill will be there. But beyond the politics of the summit, there are protestors from the anti-vampire movement who would like the whole thing brought to an end.

I am such a fan of this series. For those of us who are fans of Butcher's Harry Dresden, Green's Nightside series or the early Hamilton's Anita Blake series, these are for us. They are funny but gruesome. They are not light fluff but contain graphic violence. But Harris does such an excellent job of balancing the two elements; I look forward to each new book and put it at the top of my TBR stack when it arrives. I do recommend reading this series in order but, if you're a fantasy fan, I do recommend this series.

Sookie has definitely been brought out of Bon Tempts and I am not quite sure how she gets back.

The situation with Bill seems contrived. The author wanted to introduce other men into the story when it started selling so this seems to be the way she did it. I am not sure it was successful.

This book was a little too much of a downer for my taste. I read for entertainment, not to be made sad. I hope things pick up a little in the future.

One good thing about coming into a series after many have been written is sitting down and reding them all one after another. This really gets you into the world, but unfortunately leaves you hanging when you run out of books. Although the last was somewhat of a downer, I will definitely buy the next one when it comes out.

The story had so much promise, but it kept going off into territory not relevant to the story being told. The ending was just so, flat and unsatisfying. What happened to Eric, and Pam after they returned to Shreveport? Did Bill return to Bon Temps? And, I don't know about anybody else, but I really could care less about two of her high school friends getting together -- really... who cares! And why bring up her temporary housemate's rich infamous father if it's not relevant to the story being told in this chapter of the series. Ugh! Frustrating...

I have also come to the conclusion that I just do not like Sookie's character as a whole. In this series I have noticed she likes to collect men and keep them chasing after her only to ignore them or be offended when they start dating someone else after she's rejected/ignored them.

Also, the pages and pages of her taking care of boring everyday tasks reeks of filler. Do we really need to know every step she takes when cleaning her house?

All Together Dead (2007) is the seventh Rural Fantasy novel in the Southern Vampire series, following Definitely Dead. In the previous volume, Sookie Stackhouse spoils plans of the Vampire King of Arkansas and Peter Threadgill switches to an alternative plan. Sookie manages to escape the ensuing violence with a little help from her friends.

When Sookie returns to her New Orleans lodgings, Amelia Broadway -- the witch who is her landlady -- announced that she has accidentally turned her lover Bob into a cat. Now Amelia needs a place to hide until Bob is restored. So Amelia travels back to Bon Temps with Sookie the next day.

In this novel, Amelia is living in Sookie's spare bedroom. Nobody really questions Amelia's presence since Bon Temps has its share of Katrina victims. Bob is still a cat and Amelia hasn't yet found anyone to work with her on restoring him to his human shape.

The weddings of the Bellefleur siblings had been postponed when Miss Caroline -- the clan matriarch -- suffered a heart attack in the spring. Now Sookie is busy attending bridal showers for Halleigh Robinson (but not for Portia Bellefleur). Of course, Amelia is one topic of conversation at the showers, but Sookie just tells the truth (but not the whole truth) and people assume the rest.

Sookie also has to prepare for the Vampire Summit. Since all the Arkansas vampires participating in King Peter's plot had failed to survive, Sookie is going to be a prime witness at Queen Sophie-Anne's trial. Moreover, the Queen wants Sookie to pay close attention to the thoughts of humans attending the summit.

Sookie will once again be working at the summit with Barry Bellboy -- formerly Barry Horowitz -- of the Texas delegation. Barry is the only other human telepath known to Sookie. He has come up in the world since their last meeting, but she later learns that he is still less mature than herself.

The summit will be held at the Pyramid of Gizeh -- a vampire hotel and tourist attraction -- in Rhodes, Michigan. Amelia googles the website for Sookie. Of course, the hotel has a pyramidal shape, but is shorter and less steep than the Egyptian version. Also, the pyramid has smoked glass windows and sits on a big rectangle that contains the convention center.

Sookie has orders to dress sumptuously and has been provided a credit account at Tara's Togs. Tara has been advising her on clothes for years, but Sookie has always been on a limited budget. Now Sookie gets to splurge, outfitting herself from head to toe.

In this story, Sookie and Amelia also attend the wedding of her brother Jason Stackhouse. Even before Jason became a partial werepanther, he had been going with Crystal Norris. Now the Hot Shot community is going all out for the wedding.

Sookie just hopes that her brother stops his tomcatting with normals. The werepanther community is very inbred and wants to reserve his genes for themselves. Think of dozens of irate brothers and cousins with shotguns and claws.

Highly recommended for Harris fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of vampire intrigues, homicidal conspiracies and telepathic detectives.

-Arthur W. Jordin

ALL TOGETHER DEAD finds human telepath Sookie Stackhouse traveling to the long-awaited vampire summit in the employ of the Vampire Queen of Louisiana, Sophie-Anne.

ALL TOGETHER DEAD takes place after Hurricane Katrina. In Sookie's world, not only did the humans of New Orleans suffer devastating losses, the vampires did as well. Sophie-Anne needs Sookie's help to maintain her power base, and Sookie is the only witness that can prove Sophie-Anne killed her vampire husband in self defense. The majority of ALL TOGETHER DEAD takes place inside the Pyramid of Gizeh, a vampire hotel, giving the book an appropriately gloomy, claustrophobic feel.

Inlast year's DEFINITELY DEAD, Book Six in the series, Sookie started dating Quinn the Tiger. But the connection between Sookie and her former lover, Eric the Vampire, remained fraught with sexual tension. In ALL TOGETHER DEAD, Sookie grows closer to both Quinn and Eric, as those relationships evolve in intriguing new directions.

ALL TOGETHER DEAD may prove confusing for a reader new to the series. Earlier books such as DEAD TO THE WORLD (Book Four) are more accessible starting points. And the introduction of the Britlingens, warriors from another dimension, felt a bit incongruous. But those are minor quibbles with an otherwise great read.

Harris does an outstanding job of weaving in plot lines and characters from previous books. Barry the Bellboy, the telepath from LIVING DEAD IN DALLAS, returns as a major character, and loyal readers should find at least a cameo appearance by nearly all of their favorite characters from previous books.

ALL TOGETHER DEAD packs in two weddings, a trial, and a whole lot of funerals in just over three hundred pages. The book provides a dark breakneck ride that leaves the reader breathless and eagerly awaiting the eighth book in the series.

Reviewed by Deb Gross
06/22/2007

4.5-Books on WUAT = 5-Stars on the store

Charlaine Harris has an inate ability to make her heroine believable and humorous at the same time. Sookie is just your average waitress with that little something extra that seems to drag her into the extraordinary. In ATD Ms. Harris 'fleshed out' some of the background characters and entertained us while doing so. Her dry Southern witt and down to earth style of writing keeps me coming back for more. I found this latest book very enjoyable. Every book can't be your favorite, but this one comes close. My favorite line in the book comes from Sookie after Pam has delivered some particularly horrific statement in her casual'oh, by the way' style. To quote Sookie, "That Pam!" If you don't appreciate subtle humor dished out Southern style, this is not the book for you.

This book was, frankly, a waste. Which sucks, because I've really enjoyed the other Sookie Stackhouse novels. The single most irritating thing about this novel was the "dumbing down" of Sookie. In all the other books she was a strong-willed, intelligent woman with some unusual abilities and even more unusual friends. In this one, she's just a blond idiot.
Let me put a question to you all:
Imagine you are aware of a muderous group of people who have ALREADY kidnapped you (once) and tried to kill you (twice). This group believes they're acting on God's orders AND want to kill a large number of the people you live and/or work with. AND there's already been one bomb scare. Then you find large pieces of unclaimed, unlabeled luggage. In a post-9/11 world is there ANYONE ANYWHERE who wouldn't think, "Hmmmm...this might be a bomb."?!?!
Yeesh.. Charlaine Harris really dropped the ball with this one, but I have high hopes that the next novel will return to her previously high standards.

A lot of the time, later books in a series can feel watered down or old, but I've really enjoyed the path this series is on. Despite the heavy vampire politics in the recent books, things are not too difficult to follow here. In fact, some of the clues were neon-sign obvious to me, though Sookie doesn't figure things out until way too late. She also makes some logical jumps that I'm not sure I would make in her shoes. I'm finding myself warming to her relationship with Eric, and disappointed in Quinn. I thought the most interesting part of this book was the action Sookie takes that can possibly expose her "gift" to the public at large. I'm already on to the next book, so we'll see what happens!

I can say truthfully that the previous book kind of turned me off of the books for awhile, considering I thought it was the worst one so far, but good enough to have kept me very briefly happy. So its been about a year, maybe more since I picked up this eighth edition.

I still do not think it deserves the five star rating as the first three books got, but I definitely believe that Charlaine Harris is back on a roll. I believe that Sookie and Eric will get back together soon, so I want to plow through this one and maybe the next one just so I can get to that part. It's more intriguing when she is in a relationship with a vampire.

I admit I'm part of the problem--I refused to read this series for WAY too long because I thought the name Sookie was too stupid for a character.

Wrong about that--Sookie is perfectly written as the Southern blue-collar worker she is by someone who knows this area and people. So much of the author's work is dead-on perfect--says THIS escaped rural Southener--like needing a flashlight to walk down a country road because there is no light--at all! You need to have been there/done that to respect what a perfect detail that is to include. But I felt sorry for Sookie during this entire story. She is not being treated well by her paranormal associates and this gal needs a break! From the moment her hare-brained brother gets married in a ceremony with potentially serious consequences for Sookie to being pushed around by vamp politics, I wanted something nice to happen. She's starting to seem like a victim and I'm worried about her future. From a novel I read for fun and relaxation--I don't need that kind of trouble.

So..after having read all 6 previous Sookie books, and enjoying them, I have to say that this one has been my favorite so far :) It was action packed and funny, although less funny than some of the others, and just a really good book. I zoomed through it quite quickly, and can't wait to start the next one...which I already own. I just wish she would hurry up and choose a dude already! I'd prefer that she picked Eric, I sure would, but at this point, anyone would be better than this constant back and forth thing. Although it is slightly annoying and roller-coaster-ish (you like that madeup word, didn't cha?) it is still entertaining. Can't wait to begin 'From Dead to Worse' in a moment!

The first 70% of the book was rather boring. At one point I thought it was finished and I looked at my progress bar and there was still a lot to read. Fortunately the last part of the book was far more interesting and entertaining.

At the beginning it was like Sookie and all the other characters were walking around aimlessly until someone found a good idea of something to do. There's Jason's marriage, and then? Nothing. There's an argument with Arlene and coldness from Tara, and then? Nothing. It was like the author was changing her mind about what to tell next.

I don't find Quinn fascinating, I can't see why Sookie went from Eric to Quinn: because Quinn pays attention to her? I don't know, he doesn't seem all that interested.

I like the fact that Eric and Sookie are beginning to share something more, even if Eric hasn't reached the level of intensity he had in the amnesia book. I am looking forward to the next book, because what happened at the end could have some nice development, even if I hope it will focus more on the vampire or supernatural society than on the Fellowship of the Sun

Charlaine, I love you !!! I absolutely Love, Love , LOVE this series. It is my drug of choice !!
I started out reading these years ago when the store suggested it to me as I was/am an Anne Rice
fan/reader. Then low and behold HBO made it into a series ~ yaay !! The Viking better NOT be dead !
Anyone who has not read this series You must do so immediately ~ stop what you are doing, and order
them asap. Start at the beginning, and enjoy the ride. PAALEEEZ Charlaine don't EVER stop writing
about our girl Sookie and ALL the gang. Thank you ! :)

* WARNING: SPOILERS*

Chances are, if you're reading this review or any other review of All Together Dead, then you're already a fan. You've probably read most, if not all, of the six other novels about our favorite telepathic waitress. You're probably breathlessly awaiting the Sookie tv show, True Blood (and hoping that the terrible casting of the actress chosen to play Sookie doesn't ruin the show). Anyway . . . even if you were to read a bad review of this novel, which you won't here, then you'd still read All Together Dead anyway, right? Yeah, I'm the same way and I'm happy to report that Charlaine Harris has written yet another great installment in the Southern Vampire Mystery series.

In All Together Dead, Harris's focus is on the vampires rather than the shapeshifters, Werewolves or any of the other supernaturals. Sookie has been hired by Sophie-Anne, The vamp Queen of Louisiana, to act as an extra set of ears during a vampire conference where the Kings and Queens of every state are gathering for many reasons, one of which is to witness Sophie-Anne's trial for the murder of her late husband, the former King of Arkansas. When Sookie arrives in Rhodes for the summit, she quickly reacquaints herself with the only other telepath that she's met, Barry the Bellboy. Barry, who now works for the King of Texas, has done quite a bit of growing up since his last appearance, and his is quite a sizeable role as he assists Sookie in everything from trying to listen in on plots against their respective employers to tracking down a vampire assassin to saving the lives of a hotel full of vampires and humans.

Upon her arrival in Rhodes, Sookie notices strange behavior: hotel employees are acting weird, extra suitcases appear that nobody claims, the sycophantic hotel owner is around too often, supernatural bodyguards have been hired to protect the King of Kentucky, the key accuser in Sophie-Anne's trial is murdered, and the violent and vamp hating group The Fellowship of the Sun is plotting something big. The resilient Sookie, constantly proves that she has more than earned her keep as one of Sophie-Anne's employees with her telepathic abilities, mystery solving skills and quick thinking.

An upset to Sookie's role in the vamp politics leaves Sookie in a bigger man quandary than she was before. Should she be with Quinn? Does she love Eric, should she choose him? As always, just enough is given to advance Sookie's emotional journey, without sidetracking from the larger story line. Eric, and Pam and all the other vamps are great, as always. Quinn, who annoyed me with his rather stereotypical California surfer talk in the last book, is much more interesting and far less less annoying this time around. Sookie is as quirky, witty, and loveable as always. Part of why I love these books so much is because Sookie seems like just an ordinary person (with telepathic abilties, of course) who's put in these extraordinary situations that seem way beyond anything she can manage. But, she always rises to this challenge, outwitting the bad guys (woohoo! *victory dance*) and saves the day. All Together Dead is fun, exciting, humorous, and a great installment to the series.

In this, the seventh installment of Charlaine Harris' Southern Vampire series, we enter an expanded world. Heroine Sookie Stackhouse has grown from being mere barmaid in a small town to being telepathic aide-de-camp to Queen Sophie of Louisiana at a summit of vamps and others in the city of Rhodes. The situs of the convention, the Hotel Gizeh, bears a striking resemblance to the Luxor in Las Vegas which, when combined with the vampire patronized Anubis Airlines, adds a nice undead Egyptian touch.

However, Sophie Anne arrives at the meeting somewhat depleted. Hurricane Katrina has ravaged her queendom, killing many of her subjects and doing untold property damage. Additionally, she is charged with the murder of her husband, and Sookie alone is witness to the facts that can exonerate her at the upcoming trial. Underlings vie for position, rivals plot overthrows, and potential suitors connive for a powerful alliance. In other words, your typical regional professional meeting.

Mix in Sookie's growing romance with were-tiger Quinn (grrrowl!), political intrigue and power plays, otherworldly bodyguards known as the Britlingens, and a cast of new characters representing vampire royalty from all over the U.S., and you have a wonderful fresh tale. I marvel at the imagination of Harris as she plucks new beings and social systems from out of seeming thin air and breaths life into them with absolute believability and skill.

This is a transitional novel, and as such some of the dramatic tension of the earlier books is replaced with laying the foundation for what promises to be a dynamite next chapter in this exciting and ever-entertaining series. Why does the cover art show Sookie clinging to Eric as they fly on an obviously preoccupied coffin? Well I'll let you find that out on your own.

This time, Sookie sets out to attend the vampire summit against the advice of her friends and her better judgment. She hopes to get closer to Quinn, but instead, she finds herself even further confused about her emotions because of Eric. One particular event draws them even closer than Sookie would ever want.

As usual, Sookie is our mystery solver and our quick-witted heroine. I found this installment to be both a quick read and a funny one. But I also found it more emotionally heavy than previous Sookie Stackhouse books. I can't decide if I like that or if I prefer the lighter fare we're used to seeing.

I am so hooked in the Southern Vampire series, I love it. I bought the set that comes with the first seven paperbacks of the Sookie Stackhouse series. ALL TOGETHER DEAD was one of my favorites, for bringing the good old adventurous Sookie back. The book starts with her attending a wedding and ending up "in" the wedding. Then she must travel to the Vampire Convention, leaving behind her home town of Bon Temps. The summit turns out to be filled with surprises and misteries, and no one better than Sookie and her telepathic talent to help solve them.
I highly recommend the entire series. It's my favorite guilty pleasure

I love Charlaine Harris' Southern vampire series books. Sookie Stackhouse is one of the best, most likeable heroines that I have encountered and Ms. Harris writing style is so very appealing. I love her characters and once I pick up one of these books, I usually finish it in a day, with All Together Dead being no exception.

That being said, this book did feel different to me. Perhaps it was because most of the action took place in another city rather than Bon Temps. Sookie is in Rhodes at the behest of the Queen of Louisiana, Sophie-Anne Leclerq and her constant companion and vampire child, Andre. Sophie-Anne's power base has been seriously damaged since Hurricane Katrina. The Queen was formerly based in New Orleans, but now finds herself holding court in Baton Rouge. A vampire summit is planned in Rhodes and Sookie's telepathic abilities are highly desirable to Queen Sophie-Anne. Fortunately, Eric, Pam, Bill and several other enjoyable characters make frequent appearances as well as Sookie's newest love interest Quinn, and Barry the bellboy, the only other telepath Sookie has ever encountered. There is a lot of action in this book and Sookie is maturing. She is more sure of herself around the vampires now and seems to understand them better even though she doesn't always like what she knows.

I guess I wasn't as crazy about this book because I missed Sam, Merlotte's Bar and the crowd there and Bon Temps. Also, I was hoping for more interaction between Sookie and Bill/Eric. I know Bill is a jerk, but I still root for Sookie and Bill as a couple. Pam was great as usual, and I really enjoyed the further development of Amelia's character.

All in all, this was a good read. I will keep buying this series as long as Ms. Harris keeps writing it. I guess everyone has a favorite book in any series; it is just a matter of personal taste. If you have enjoyed the Southern Vampire series, by all means read this book.

The main storyline for this book is that Sookie, along with many of her vampire pals is invited to a crazy vampire convention at a hotel. There is a lot of humor in this book, because the author makes it seem highly plausible that this is what an actual vampire convention would be like. There are also some very heartfelt moments. It's one of the best in the series. At this point in the storyline there are a lot of additional characters but they all tie into the events of this book very well.

I found a lot of things disappointing in this book, I thought it was one of the worst books in the series. There were many logical gaps, and areas where it didn't seem the author had thought things through.

On top of that, once the plot gets started (which takes far too long), things seem rather rushed. There's loads of time and pages spent at the beginning of the book dealing with Sookie's day-to-day affairs, but then it seems to skimp on the actual story.

Worst of all, the book just abruptly ends. There's no real conclusion, and not even a cliffhanger ending, it's just...stops. It reads as if the book was going along happily, following its course, and then the author reached a certain page count and quit writing. Things are left unresolved, unfinished, and unanswered, and you're left with the impression that there are at least a few chapters missing from the end of the book. It makes me wonder if the book wasn't split into two parts, so that readers will have to buy twice as many books.

Other things bothered me as well. Things are still left unresolved with Bill, Eric seems to have become a love-sick puppy, and Quinn is conspicuous mostly by his absences. Bubba doesn't show up at all, and is barely mentioned. Plus, some of Sookies actions and reactions seem out of character, it seems like Harris is trying to turn Sookie from an every-day type woman (with a special gift) into some kind of Action-Hero-Woman, and not doing all that good a job with it.

Vampire politics were fun to get into, although at times I forgot who each vampire or consort or assistant was meant to be. Overall, a good entry, although I personally prefer those novels that focus more on Sookie's life and Bon Temps, as opposed to those where I feel she's a secondary character, even if she's doing the narrating.

I wish this series would come more often than once a year. The characters are so lovable. Sookie is still dating Quinn (the were-tiger) and he's still reeeeaaaally HOT! Not only hot, but he seems to be totally into Sookie. Their relationship moves on to the next level in this book, but not without worries on both their parts. Eric returns in this one, too, and I couldn't help but feel sorry for him. Bill is still a weeney.

The beginning of the novel starts off just a little too slow for me, but picks up speed when Sookie arrives at the Summit meetings to do her promised job for the queen of Louisiana. Apparrently Sookie is the only person at the Summit who bothered to bring a brain because it seemed as though she was figuring everything out quite matter-of-factly, whereas the vampires were all, like duh, why didn't I think of that. I didn't like that so much in that I'm worried Harris is beginning to make her character "all-powerful," still, it was a great book, and hard to put down. Happy Reading!

Book 7 of the Southern Vampire series by Charlaine Harris brings telepathic cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse to a vampire 'town meeting' that yields a tasty trial, romantic intrigue and radical-right anti-vamp attack. Oh, and Sookie is still surrounded by former or would-be lovers who want to make love, drink her blood, use her psychic gifts, or all of the above. Harris has crafted a character, a town, a world that her fans can't get enough of. Personally, I'd like to see her move a little faster on the 'Eric' front, but hey....choosing between a gladiator/ were-tiger and a thousand-year old Viking can't be easy! This isn't the best of the series, but it's a trueblood treat for those of us who love Sookie's Lopsided Louisiana otherworld.

It's more of the same, except a bit more predictable than some of the previous ones. I saw the ending coming a mile away. But, it's like crack in a book form. I can't put them down once I get into them. So, I have no choice but to give it five stars. If you've liked the series thus far, you'll like this one too. If you haven't, you probably wouldn't be on this page. So, this review probably won't mean much, but there you have it.

From start to finish, All Together Dead was an unbelievable thrill ride. I loved every single second of this novel. The last couple chapters had me on the edge of my seat, frantic to find out what was going to happen. Certain parts of the mystery were obvious, others were completely shocking. Either way, the action was unbeatable. The repercussions of everything that occurred are unfathomable and I just can't wait to read the next book. All Together Dead was amazing, shocking and truly awesome. The Southern Vampire series just keeps getting better and better.

This is the 7th book in the Sookie Stackhouse series. I love this series; they're fun reads. In this one, Sookie has been hired by the vampire queen to attend a vampire convention and read the minds of the human companions. Eric and Bill are of course at the convention as well and Quinn is added to the mix to keep things very interesting. The Fellowship of the Sun reappears to take on the vampires and the results are not good. Great characters, great writing and a fun read makes this one of my favorite series.

[...]

I can't repeat often enough how readable the Sookie Stackhouse novels are...a testament to Charlaine Harris' writing ability. I enjoyed this story. I even enjoyed the romance developing between Sookie and Quinn although that's clearly chick stuff. I burned out on vampires years ago in college when I used the opportunity to bow out by giving all my speeches in speech class on vampires and my final paper in anthropology on vampire legends around the world. But I got caught up in HBO's Tru Blood and had to reread the first three books and get all the others. I'm still only just over halfway through. They're great reading.

I loved this book. I like that Sookie is doing a lot of soul searching into the 'why''s of her life. Why is she with Quinn? Why does Eric pull her? Why does she still help the vamps and wares even after she knows how she came into this world?
I didn't know Quinn very well, but I'm getting to know him and I like him. Yes, he's not Bill, and he's definately not Eric, but if Sookie can find happiness with him, then bully for her.
I'm not angry at her for being upset with Bill. She probably wouldn't be going through so much soul searching, and she definately wouldn't be getting death threats and having to run all the time to save her life if she hadn't met Bill. I'd be a little peturbed too. I still like Bill, and it's nice to see him show remorse for his actions but the two of them need to spend a little time apart. lol
Eric... oh how I loved what she did with his character in this book! I got my fix for the next year, and I'm quite satisfied. I'm so glad to have read the bit about how he "recruited" his second in command. We at least have it now verified that Eric does really have some compassion...sort of.
Overall I loved the twists and turns and I absolutely loved the ending of the novel. Though I wish that the vamp/ware could have been a little more developed and not just a pawn to get the ending to where it needed to be.
Once again, thank you Mrs. Harris for giving me another meaty morsel in your Sookie stories.

In this latest installment of the Southern Vampire series, Sookie Stackhouse, our favorite telepathic waitress, finds herself drawn once again into the world of the Louisiana undead. This time she has a new love interest, the shape-changing weretiger Quinn, but just as they're getting to know each other better Sookie's talents are requested by the vampire Queen of Louisiana at a national vampire summit several states away. Sookie fans will know that this event won't go off without a hitch.

Although the story was predictable at times, Sookie is as plucky as ever. I'll admit I'm not a big fan of Quinn -- I'm still holding out for Eric!

I really liked this book because it explored the vampire government in a similar way that the werewolf government was explored earlier. I found that the pythoness was really interesting, and I hope some of this is explained more in the future. I hate to admit that I'm glad that it didn't work out with Quinn. His character always seemed unsexy to me and kind of gross. He was way too aggressive, which is saying a lot amidst this group of alpha males. Of course, that is more of the next book, but it is started in this book.

"Being surrounded by all varieties of undead, changeling, and preternatural beings has gotten to be nothing out of the ordinary for Louisiana cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse. Still, even she has her limits. Betrayed by her long time vampire love, Sookie must now not only deal with a possible new man in her life-the oh-so-handsome shapeshifter Quinn- but also contend with the long planned vampire summit in Rhodes.

The summit, which has attracted undead power players from all over central U.S., is sure to be a tense situation. The vampire queen of Louisiana is in a precarious position, her power base weakened by hurricane damage to New Orleans. And there are some vamps who would like to finish what nature started. With secret alliances and backroom deals the order of the day-and- night Sookie must decide what side she'll stand with. And her choice may mean the difference between survival and all-out catastrophe..... "

I have been waiting for so long for this book to be published....and finally here it is !!! "All Together Dead" is book 7 from Southern vampire series. I loved the book, but there is a reason why I did not give it five stars. I loved going back into Sookie's crazy world of vampires and other creatures, but the story seemed a little too cluttered to me, all about vampire politics (a little dry). And I must admit that I missed Sookie's home town, her bar, Sam ....
All-in-all I loved the book but it did not have the same feel to it like the others in the series.

First, let me say that I love this series. I love that Sookie is down-to-earth and still rubs elbows with the supernatural. I love learning more about the characters and catching snatches of rural life in Louisiana.

And this book was no different, EXCEPT that once again, Sookie is kind-of-not-dating AGAIN!!! I understand that she has a special power and that she dates supernatural guys, but why can't one of her relationships last longer than one book? It was never so obvious to me as in this most recent installment, and although I'll read it again, I still hated how she ended up in the romance department. It's like her life has silver linings in every department except for love. Please, Ms. Harris, let Sookie love with success!

Otherwise, I thought this was a great read. Ms. Harris addresses current political issues with thoughtfulness and aplomb, and of course, Sookie has a great adventure. There's development between her and Eric, and we get a more in-depth look at some of the townspeople. If you're a fan of the series, definitely buy it. But if you're just starting with Sookie, I suggest starting with the first novel.

Set your affairs in order, at least for the afternoon. Get your favorite beverage and perhaps a snack. If you pick up "All Together Dead" I promise you are not going to want to put it down.

What happens? Let's see:

Wedding(s)
Bomb(s)
Vampire's Verdicts (a.k.a. the undead version of Judge Judy)
New kickbutt aliens
Gorgeous men both dead and alive
Sookie gets to work with another human telepath, Barry the Bellboy

It's a hard time for both the dead and undead in Louisiana. Vamps have just come out of the closet in the last 5 years and the human opposition to them is growing. Then, Katrina struck leaving a toll of dead, homeless and interrupted business among the Southern Louisiana vamps. On top of that, their Queen is on trial for murdering her late husband, the Vampire King of Arkansas.

Sookie's there at the vampire conference to help the LA Queen figure out whether any of the humans they are dealing with are being untruthful. For a young telepath who's spent most of her life considering her gift a handicap and having to fight off the intrusion of other thoughts and the exclusion of humans uncomfortable with her gifts, this is an entirely new situation. And there's more than one plot our plucky Louisiana barmaid's got to figure out with many lives at stake.

Charlaine Harris is a master at literary juggling. If almost any other author I've read tried to write this much into a novel, I'd still be trying to put the pieces together. Harris also handles tough situations with empathy and economy. She's one of my top favorite authors and I hope she writes many more Sookie novels.

I love this series, but this installment is just disappointing. There's no romance to speak of, no sexual tension, no witty banter, and all those great guys Sookie's introduced us to over the years barely rate a mention. Plus, the plot is pretty thin, and Harris devotes long passages to pretty mundane things like shopping. The plot of this book is mainly boring political intrigue, with Sookie sounding more like an embittered and inflexible Lily Bard (from Harris's Shakespeare series) than herself. I sure hope the next installment is better.

Well Book 7 of this seried finds Sookie in the middle of things again. All of the familar characters make an appearance, though some shorter than others. As with Dead in Dallas, Sookie is once again leaving the comforts of her home to help out the Vampires.

Charlaine Harris interjects some real world events into her latest book, as part of the plot is the Vampires dealing with the after effects of Katrina. Mentions of 9/11 are also made. She manages to blend those real events in nicely with the story line in this book, and continue to build upon prior books.

The book started off slow for me, and did not seem to really find itself until almost 100 pages in. We were given glimpses of the town and current happenings, but it all felt sluggish slowing down the story itself.

To her credit once she gets on Track she does not let go, the rest of the book flows nicely and major events take place that can affect the direction of future books. As I got to the end I was wishing I had a few pages more, but as with most fo the books in this series the endings seems a bit rushed.

I enjoy the Sookie series, I have from book 1. I find the adventures of each book to be very different yet still familiar in it's tone and characters.

Without going into the plot as others have already done, I once again enjoyed visiting with Sookie and her unusual life, friends, and loves. Quinn won me over this time (I had been skeptical before), Eric is still an enigma (albeit a very interesting and compelling enigma), Bill is still pitiful, Barry the Bellboy added a freshness I really enjoyed, the vampires of America still surprise me with their inability to see the forest for the trees while at the same time discussing things with layers of meaning behind each word, and Sookie's adventures were once again an enjoyable journey through the unusual world and circumstances in which she lives.

I devoured this book in one day (as I have all the others), and wait (impatiently) for each new one.

I enjoyed this book better than the last one in the series. The plot was fast-paced, without too many subplots to slow it down. There was more of a focus on vampire politics, which gives the reader a better glimpse of Sookie's world. I enjoyed the developing romance between Sookie and Quinn, and the increased "bonding" tension between her and Eric. I missed Sam and the bar folks, but it was nice to see the main characters in another setting. Looking forward to reading the next one. :)

I was looking forward to read about Sookie going to the Vampire summit, but the the story kind of dragged through most of the book. So mnay new characters intoduced, too much deatail on Sookie's day to day activies (like putting on her makeup and trying on a dress, boring) made me stop reading this for a few weeks. Then I decided to pick it up and finish the darn thing. The exploxsion scene was pretty intense, but I still found this book rather blah. Sookie seems to have bad luck when it comes to the men in her life also. What baffles me is how she still hasn't forgiven Bill. Lorena was is maker and he was compelled to be with him. But she jumps into bed with Eric, and now Quinn...with no thought of any consequences. And this attraction thing with her and Eric is simply sickening. I can already tell that Harris favors this couple; why don't she do us the favor of killing Bill off in the series so we don't have to see him come into Marlottes anymore? I am not a Sookie/Bill fan due to the show; I feel that Bill is a lot more grounded than Eric. Overall, this book was not my favorite. If you can skip this one to read the next, try to do so...but then that book wouldn't make much sense. :(

After reading a disappointing 5th and 6th installation of the series, I was pulled back into the world of Sookie and her adventures once again. I'm so glad to be pulled back into the a main plot that involved vampires and their world and not the shapeshifters and Weres. It's not that I don't like those characters, its that Harris took such a long time in her first 2 books to really get into vampires and how Sookie is affected by them. I feel that the vampires interactions deserve more than just characters passing by in the story line. I really enjoyed book 1, 4, and now 7. I do like how Bill is trying to get back in good graces with Sookie, because there was really a connection between the two, despite what Bill has done to her and how much Sookie is trying to fight it.

What imagination Ms. Harris has. These books are all good. Entertaining and just a bit "off the wall" meaning they do not follow the normal path that many of the supernatural vampire books take. I would highly recommend reading them all. The characters are well written and is the plot. There is a little humor thrown in just for "laughs".
Enjoy and thanks Charlaine for another good Sookie novel.

I often end up reading Charlaine Harris' books in one night because the plot is so good! The latest installment in the Southern Vampire series is no exception to this rule. What I love about Harris is that with the exception of Eric, Sookie and Bill, ANY of these characters can be killed off. This type of doom hangs over all of these characters and it lends itself to such an uncertain and exciting read. I love how Bill continues to linger in Sookie's periphery, just like any crummy ex-boyfriend. It was great to have Barry the Bellboy return in this book as a stronger telepath. I'm a big Eric fan and Harris has managed to keep the tension between Sookie and Eric going even after they had a brief relationship. This was a great read--it was exciting and hilarious.

I am a big fan of the Southern Vampire Mystery series by Charlaine Harris. I have quite enjoyed every book in the series. However, while I would give this newest effort, All Together Dead, a solid B, it is not my favorite. Some of the juice of the previous books is missing. The humor more than anything, but the naughtiness, nudiness and sexual escapades are played down. Sookie has become more prim. Faced with a naked beautiful roommate with piercings, Sookie is taken aback. The Sookie I love would have taken a closer interest and been less judgmental. I hope that Charlaine understands that the reason her series is so outstanding and successful is precisely that mixture of naughty sexiness and light-hearted humor that we all enjoy so much. If this book had more light-hearted humor, with more ankles-in-the-air and short skirts blowing up in the wind, more inventive and other-worldly sex, and less violence, I would have liked it more. Still, a good effort and a good read.

This book was awesome and soooo fun to read. But on the flip side it was also a bit gory and you were on the edge of your seat wondering if anyone you really loved as a character was going to die in the end. You know it's coming but you just have to keep reading to find out. Whew! This book took a lot of emotion out of the reader and I found it to be one of her absolute best...but like I mention in my title, this is my favorite in the Sookie series.

This may be my favorite Sookie Stackhouse book yet, but too much was going on at one time if you ask me. Too many random charaters and too many subplots. I would of loved to see parts of this book in the show though, like the bombing of the hotel for example. From reviews I have read it seems the series is going to go down hill from here, but I am hoping that is not the case.

Sookie is at it again! Deep in the depths of vampire lore, sookie gets herself in the unenviable position of working for the Queen once more, only this time she has more than just that to contend with. The story in this one is a fast action packed blockbuster that will leave you wanting more more more once you have read that last page.
My only complaint is that i feel there should have been more going on with Sookie and Eric - i mean how long is it going to take them both to realise that they suit each other, are made for each other.
I was glad to see Sookie finally kick Bill to the curb in her emotions.
Great story, can't wait for the next one!!!

I own all the "Sookie Stackhouse" ("Trueblood") books that have been published along with season one of the "Trueblood" HBO series that is based on the books. I'm a fan of these and I never expected to be so!!! I only read the books to keep abreast of what my granddaughter and daughter were reading..and got "hooked"...I'm anxiously awaiting the next book and season two of the HBO, TV series also. Highly recommended if you love a mystery. :)

I own all the "Sookie Stackhouse" ("Trueblood") books that have been published along with season one of the "Trueblood" HBO series that is based on the books. I'm a fan of these and I never expected to be so!!! I only read the books to keep abreast of what my granddaughter and daughter were reading..and got "hooked"...I'm anxiously awaiting the next book and season two of the HBO, TV series also. Highly recommended if you love a mystery. :)

Since others have given a synopsis of the plot, I'll skip that in my review. I liked the book but I have to agree with another reviewer who has some frustration with Sookie, she hasn't seemed to evolve or grow very much from book to book. I find Quinn very annoying......who would ever be attracted to a guy who can't even use her name! He constantly refers to her as "Babe" ...Yikes! And the picture Ms. Harris draws of him is a combination of Mr. Clean & a genie......can't say I find him attractive at all. I also felt this book was a stop gap....I was hoping for more......but alas......it will be another year for the Sookie adventure to continue. Regardless of my complaints, Sookie is entertaining and I will continue to read her adventures...but I hoping for more from the next book.

The onset of this series in my life has been fantastic! In the past month I have read all ten of the Sookie Stackhouse series, and I do not regret one minute of it. All of these books bring intrigue, suspense, and drama into the reader's imagination. I am on the very last few pages of "Dead in the Family", and I am going to cry when it is over. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a good series.

The onset of this series in my life has been fantastic! In the past month I have read all ten of the Sookie Stackhouse series, and I do not regret one minute of it. All of these books bring intrigue, suspense, and drama into the reader's imagination. I am on the very last few pages of "Dead in the Family", and I am going to cry when it is over. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a good series.

Sookie really shines in this latest installment to the vampire series. She gets called in to help the Queen and her group at a summit plus for the Queen's trial after another vampire claims she murdered the King just so she can get everything of his. Things get interesting when there are things happening such as the homemade bomb and the mysterious suitcases that nobody knows who brought. I was happy to see a blast from the past. Barry the Bellboy (Living Dead in Dallas) was very helpful and both he and Sookie use their gifts so much. They are incredible as the story nears the end. I would have liked to have seen more of Quinn like in the last book. They are more in a long distance relationship since she doesn't see him so much. Bill is history but it looks like Eric might still be in the picture. I'll really be looking forward to the next installment.

Another installment I couldn't put down. The books have been dull since Dead to the World and finally Charlaine Harris writes another installment worth reading again. Unlike the previous 2 installments with too much going on a mumble jumble of subplots, this book centered around the Vampire summit. I really liked the beginning dialogue with Pam. I'm starting to like her character more and more. There's a bit more Eric in this story and not a whole lot of Bill or Quinn. Wish there were more steamy romance scenes but this book seemed more action oriented. At least this time I wasn't confused with what was going on. I am rooting for Sookie to choose Eric.

I was so glad to see Charlaine Harris get bact to what I, and I don't think I am alone, was really interested in Bill and Eric. I love the other stories she blends into the other books but they overshadow the characters we have all come to know and love. Book 7 left me craving book 8 I think I read the pair in a week. Ms Harris has never disappointed in the Sookie Stackhouse series. Anyone that has become a fan will really enjoy. I am eager to see how this book will be adapted for HBO...
BTW hardcover book fans...don't be afraid of the used book, mine came from a library. Great way to save a bookworm some money ;-)

I was surprised to find not everyone liked this book as much as I. In fact, I liked it better than its predecessor. It wasn't quite as `dark' and it had all the great characters plus a few. Vampire Bill is getting less attention since his acknowledged betrayal of Sookie and Eric is starting to come around.

While the book says it's about a vampire summit, it's more just about Sookie (as well it should be). It takes its time getting there and that's just fine. I like the everyday life in Bon Temps and Sookie's part in it. Even if we had showers and a wedding to attend, that's ok, too. It's all part of the story. I particularly liked having Sookie stand up for herself to former friend, Arlene, and Pam's clear assessment of Arlene which was right on. Oh, and thank you, Charlaine, for not killing off Pam as she is one of my favorites.

Once we did get to Rhodes for the summit it remained interesting. The reasoning behind the bomb was a tad weak and the way Sookie came to her conclusions maybe far-fetched....far-fetched - I can't believe I used that word considering the subject matter! The vamp trial was eye-opening: "Michael had the face of an angel, and he didn't get that what he'd done was wrong. He had wanted to do it [torture a woman], so he did it. Not all people who've been brought over to be vampires are mentally stable to start with, and some of them are utterly conscienceless after decades, or even centuries, of disposing of humans as they damn well please." True to vamps, it wasn't the torture/death of the woman but that he endangered the other vamps with his illegal actions. Typical. Also, in true vamp fashion they didn't waste time trying to decide what to do about it.

And whose peculiar sense of humor was at work when they decided to hire Anna Freakin' Paquin as Sookie in an upcoming adaptation? Could'a been worse, I suppose. I mean, can you imagine Britney Spears or Paris I'm-Famous-For-Being-Rich Hilton in the role? Makes me shudder just to think of it!

Adaptations aside, this is a good read and I'll gladly add it to my Harris collection.

I am a big Sookie Stackhouse series fan and I belive that Harris is a great writer with a even greater imagination. I have no complaints with the series yet, but i will say i miss the romance the first few books had. I felt that the further I read into the series the less romance each book had and inplace more action. I do still the love the action which this time had me on edge of my seat but i still long for the romance that was there with Sookie and Bill. Or the love Eric shared when he was under the care of Sookie.Maybe im just a hopeless romantic of a vampire fan. But whats up with sookie's love interest Quinn (who by the way seem like a sweet sexy guy) who she never gets to hardly see in the book and when she does its like they are friends or they dont really care about one another. Who else really wants Sookie to get back with Eric? But thats not to say that I dont love this book. its great and nothing will stop me from buying the next book until the series is over. oh god i hope that will be never!

Bon Temps, Louisiana psychic waitress, Sookie Stackhouse feels her plate is overflowing with three weddings to attend. If that is all she had to deal with Sookie could easily cope. Instead she is expected to attend the vampire conference in Rhodes instead of storm damaged New Orleans; she knows two of her former lovers will be there also and vampire politics can be blood curdling even when everyone leaves their teeth shield home. On the plus side is her lover Quinn the were-tiger who will accompany her to the convention.

However, Sookie finds a new catastrophe for her to prevent. With her power at an all time low and forced to reside in Baton Rouge while her capital city recovers from the hurricanes, Louisiana Vampire Queen Sophie-Anne Leclerq is at risk from someone who wants to destroy the cluster of vampires. This individual plans to insure the DEFINITELY DEAD attendees are permanently DEAD TO THE WORLD. Sookie investigates before the vampire conference turns into CLUB DEAD; complicating her inquiry as to why there is a horde of males offering their best dental side at her side.

Though New Orleans was used in the last tale (see DEFINITELY DEAD), fans will enjoy the return of Sookie and the vampire horde in a suspense filled thriller. Vampires from all over the region converge with many seeing this as an opportunity for a coup d'etat. Sookie as always is caught in the middle, but with her humorous asides, she tries to do what she believes is right for the living and the dead. Fans will enjoy her seventh entry as her past loves show up to cause havoc with her heart and a hostile takeover plan sends her sleuthing to prevent a tragedy. Sookie soars superbly in this post Katrina fantasy.

Harriet Klausner

Please respect your fan base!! I waited and waited a whole year for more about Sookie - I love this character and the little town of Bon Temps. Frankly, I am rather disappointed in the direction this tale seems to be heading. Not enough story - feels like a blur of images, a dab of this and a dab of that. Would have rated 2 stars, but was so happy to get ANYTHING about Sookie, it rates an extra star. I own hardbacks of the compilation of the first 3 books, book #4, which is definitely my very favorite and #5 (another missing story line). After #5, I decided to check them out from the library - $25 is too much to pay and feel frustrated with a book that ends before a tale is told. Some of the scenes just seem like so much filler. Charlaine, are you bored with Bon Temps and it's characters? I for one, would be very sad if you stopped with this series - So fun to read and reread when it's good!! I love owning the hardback copies of the good ones.

This book seemed very dark to me. Not that the Sookie Stackhouse books are normally light or anything, but this one just seemed even more sinister. Maybe because it's easy to make a connection between 9/11 and the catastrophe in this story. And maybe because it was so easy to see the resemblence, I actually felt for Sookie. Normally she's just a character to me. I never really got invested in her. But in this story I did. I felt bad for her and I felt her pain. It seemed a little too real. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, From Dead to Worse.

As in the previous novels of this series, Sookie Stackhouse is one sought after lady - in more ways than one. The night set has sought to monopolize her least obvious asset, her telepathic capability, as much as Eric, the Area 5 sheriff, has been wanting her other more obvious assets. Mix this up with a summit by Lake Michigan where the undead outnumber the living, and you have one heck of a story with more twists and turns than Pan's Labyrinth! Marriages, murders, mystery, and mayhem are on the menu for Sookie and her male counterpart, Barry the Bellboy, as they deal with hair trigger emotions, political intrigue, and the presence of a virulent anti-vampire group with more in mind than a poster campaign! Sookie is at her personal best in this latest offering, showing a gratifying maturity and direction lacking in some of the earlier novels. She's become a confidant young woman no longer 'cursed' by her talent, but blessed by it and using it to its best advantage. Now, if she can just get her personal life sorted out! A big kiss and hat's off to Charlaine Harris.

I love Sookie and was thrilled to get this book. Although it disappointed me, I still found it a fun and compulsively readable book. Some of the plot points felt quite contrived, which surprised me because Ms. Harris' writing has previously been so tight that I had no trouble suspending disbelief, and there was far more exposition with much less payoff than usual. This book felt like it was setting up for the next one when a lot of things will need to be resolved. If you have read all of Sookie up to now, you'll have to read this one, of course. My hope is that the next one will be more emotionally satisfying.

Entertaining page turners. Read the first 10 books in this series in under a month. First books I've actually read in years after getting addicted to True Blood on HBO. These books are way better than the TV Show. I am starting to see why many fans are being turned off with the TV Show as it keeps getting further and further from the books.

Ms. Harris has a tendency to write her books like a roller coaster. Although it may take her a while to get to the top of the first hill (like 100 pages) she takes you down so many emotional hills, thrilling turns, and unsuspected loops she makes me tired.

Sookie is definitely one of my favorite characters in fiction and the events going on around her always make me nervous and excited at the same time. I do agree that some of the Bon Temps characters are getting old, but I think she is leading up to something with that, other than Andy because he is just flat out annoying.

I was very happy to see more Eric in this book since the last two have seen entirely too little of him. I have a tendency to go through the books to see how much he is featured in them before I start reading so I will know whether or not I will be disappointed from the beginning. I also enjoyed the vampire politics, but agree with Sookie that it may be time for her to take a bit of a break from the supes for a while.

Quinn is a character I have tried to hate as much as Alicide, but I find that difficult to do now. I still don't trust him though. There are no Supes, besides Sam, who don't want to use her gift for some personal gain I am just waiting to see what his angle is. I never really liked Bill and I am glad he is a minor character now. Starting from book one I continued to read because of Sookie's interactions with Eric, not Bill.

I gave it only four stars simply because of the lack of any resolution and my own conflicted emotions, but it has given me a lot to think about until the next installment.

Now that I've read the whole series, this one is my favorite in the series. You get to see Sookie's personality develop, as well as alot of other characters including Quinn. The tempo of the book is different then the other books because most of it isn't set in Bon Temps. Most of it takes place at a vampire confrance, with lost of vampire politics, and "supes" interaction. It never stops! You're either learning about the supernatural community, or Sookie's life is in danger, either way, I was engrossed.
If you like this series, this book won't disappoint. If you haven't read the first 6 books Ms Harris does a really good job or "recapping" what you need to know about the first books without making it boring for those that have.

I've enjoyed the series so far, and this installment was as fast paced as the others, full of twists and turns. However, this story seemed unresolved at the end as Sookie went home without reuniting with any of her vampire comrades. It seemed overly rushed to end the story so abruptly after all that happens. Hopefully, book 8 will tie up numerous loose ends.

I got into the Sookie Stackhouse series a little late but I have been devouring the books ever since. All Together Dead is definitely the best of the bunch! The plot flows seamlessly and there's less of Bill (who I'm not the biggest fan of. I personally want Eric and Sookie together). I have put off reading the 8th book b/c I'm opening my Kindle tomorrow for Christmas and I plan on From Dead to Worse being my first download!

After almost finishing off book 7 of the Southern Vampire series with Sookie Stackhouse, I have to say - the draw for them for me comes from the fact that they are witty, strife with conflict, danger, and varying degrees of romance. If you like Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books, you'll see parallels between her and Sookie, which is a good thing! Makes for a fun, enjoyable read.

I found this installment of the Sookie series a little harder edged than previous novels. Sookie's life, while still hilarious at times, has become more complicated. She faces more moral "gray" areas and dilemmas than in previous books. Quinn is still delicious and I hope he and Sookie continue their relationship in future books. The large number of characters made the book intriguing, and I liked the details of vampire politics and justice.

This will be my last adventure into the world of Sookie Stackhouse for a while. I promise.

I finally finished All Together Dead; book seven of the Sookie Stackhouse series, and the final volume of the boxed set that I received a little over a week ago and have been trudging through since. For those of you who have been following my reviews on the store (or the discussion on Book Blogs) you know that I was not impressed (or amused) by the first book in this series. Not in the slightest. I didn't even review the book on my blog, because the things that I had to say about it were not nice at all. Better just to say nothing.

By the time I finished book four, Dead to the World, my opinion of the series had gotten better (from one star to three stars), and I grudgingly admitted that while I absolutely hated the first book, my initial impression of Sookie and Co. may have been a little off base. Having now made it this far into the series, I have to say that the little world that Charlaine Harris has created is starting to grow on me.

The plot of All Together Dead is quite a bit more complicated than its predecessors. Sookie finds herself in Michigan attending a vampire convention. She is working for the queen of Louisiana, as a telepath. Of course, all of hear beaux are in attendance in one capacity or another. Bill is selling the vampire database discs he has been working on for months. Eric is there as, well, Eric. And Quinn is there running the show. In her usual style, Sookie unwittingly finds herself torn between Eric (whom she is coerced into sharing blood with for the third time), and Quinn (who she discovers has a deep, dark secret). As for Bill, he is so low on the totem pole that he is being referred to as "nameless."

The entire convoy is staying at a vamp hotel in Michigan. Along with vamps from around the country, weres and shifters, interdimensional body guards, demons, fang-bangers, and at least one more telepath. Remember Barry the bellboy? He's baaack.

Of course, when you get this many supes together under the same roof, you can be sure it's going to hit the fan. Between the politics, the personal agendas, and the Fellowship of the Sun in hordes outside, there is danger around every corner. And although Sookie is good at what she does, she can only read the minds of the humans. Who, at least in this installment, are fewer and farther between than ever before.

All Together Dead ended up being my favorite book in this series so far. Some of the threads that were left hanging at the end of book six are tied up (think the death of Sophie-Anne's King). However, there was a lot that seemed irrelevant. Like Jason's wedding. And Tara's. And Amelia still staying with Sookie, along with Bob, her lover-turned-cat. And the fact that Sookie still has a thing for Bill. And a thing for Eric.

Needless to say, although All Together Dead answered a few questions, it left a lot more hanging. For the Sookie faithful, I guess that's a wonderful thing. The series is guaranteed to go on for a few more installments. Maybe it will keep getting better. One can hope. As it stands, I have to give All Together Dead three stars. It was better than the rest. But not that much better.

This is a difficult book to review, so soon after publication. I don't want to do any spoilers for anyone. But, here goes. Does anyone else wish Sookie would just get down to it and have a menage with Eric and Bill? I certainly do. However, we all know that isn't going to happen. (Rats, so HOT, but this isn't that type of story or author.) Anyway, the newest chapter in Sookie's life does, as other reviewers mention, take a turn to the darker side. No one comes out of the distastrous Northern meeting of the vampire world unscathed in one way or another. Sookie's new man (tiger), is hurt and does for Sookie in a big way, poor ol' Bill (I don't care...he does love her!) is damaged, the vampire Queen of Louisiana is hurt both in body and soul (yeah, I think vamps still have them), does some major reprehensible hurt in return, and is shown for the conniving politician she really is, Eric and Pam (I really like Pam and love Eric) are caught up in the whirlwind of trauma and damage, and Sookie is torn three ways to Sunday between who she wants, who she craves, and who seems to care the most for her. Plus, her good ol' boy brother pulls another surprise out of his pants, I mean, hat. More plus, her witch friend from New Orleans starts to show up as a major player. I think one would almost have to go to Laurell K. Hamilton to get a more convoluted situation. This book is good. Very, very good. Harris is starting to move into the big time with more intense and conflicting emotions, more damned if we do, damned if we don't situations (and I mean that morally and emotionally), and more angst and conscience-straining behaviour. I almost miss the apparently easy choices of the earlier books...naw, I guess I don't...really. Everyone is growing, and growth is sometimes painful. But, don't forget Bob! Meow.

First, I've gotta say, I've never been into vampire fiction (except the "original," Bram Stoker's version; okay, and Buffy). But I got hooked on this author through one of her other series, and ended up trying the Sookie series. I'm completely addicted. And this book did not disappoint -- it sucked me in from the start. I love the characters, I love the humor, and the action was great. Lots of Eric, lots of Quinn, and even a little bit of Bill -- very satisfying. Pam's a lot of fun, as always, and she tells Sookie her story in this one. I also enjoyed seeing what time has done for Barry (the) Bellboy, who's grown into a more confident and admirable character. My only complaint -- the book ended too soon, and now I have to wait months for the author's next book.

there are a bunch of really in-depth reviews on this book, so I really have nothing to add except to say that this was my favorite book in the entire series. i devoured it. i wanted more. Sookie was very relatable, if that's even possible, and every step of the way i was 100% on board with everything she was feeling. so well-written.

This book has been very well reviewed by seemingly everyone but me. I did not enjoy it. Call me crazy, but Sookie seems a little naive and at times just stupid in this one. Spoiler to follow...if in the post 911 world you can not figure out that an unclaimed suitcase spells trouble.. You have no survival instincts. I still love the series. I wish Bill would freaking quit whinning and get over it. I was looking forward to more of Sophie Anne, but she is hardly in the book. Just not my favorite. I will still buy and read them though... and I am looking forward to seeing what the series on HBO will be like.

I have really liked Sookie but this may be the end of her for me. I dont know what has transpired but the last book and now this one seems to not have the Sookie I loved. The author just ambles along it seems in no apparent direction and with reason she never gets anywhere. I usually complain that a series is getting boring and predictable by now but this book wasnt predictable because it appeared to not have a destination to start with.

I probably will read the next one just to see if Sookie has evolved or is lost forever or if she has made any decision on her love life or maybe has another male sniffing after her. Good luck on her search.

I enjoy the characters in this series, and even though the tv series follows some story lines pretty close, some are way off, I like the books more! I don't picture all the blood and gore in my minds eye like the tv show does.

I didn't enjoy much the one that goes before this one, because I don't like Quinn too much, but this book is just amazing, and it really works for me.

It aslo has Bill on it, and I think Sookie is behaving very angrily towards him, because yes, he was following orders in he beginning, but he fell for her in the end.

The book is very well written, the action fast-paced, and you can't believe it when is over and there's no more pages to turn to!!!

I can't wait for the next one!!!!

Maybe it is because I haven't had a true day off in a long time... but I sat by the pool today with this book. Finished the entire thing in one sitting. This is by far one of Ms. Harris's most fun vampire books. Sookie has really come into her own as a character. I won't rehash the plot other than to say that I truely enjoyed this book, even if it was a bit too fast paced. THAT is why it got 5 stars - this book made me laugh out loud a few times with sheer pleasure.

My only complaint? That I have to wait a whole year for another new Sookie story. (And with each book, I love Eric just a little bit more.)

I own all the "Sookie Stackhouse" ("Trueblood") books that have been published along with season one of the "Trueblood" HBO series that is based on the books. I'm a fan of these and I never expected to be so!!! I only read the books to keep abreast of what my granddaughter and daughter were reading..and got "hooked"...I'm anxiously awaiting the next book and season two of the HBO, TV series also. Highly recommended if you love a mystery. :)

I love Charlaine Harris' writing on Sookie, it can be so fun to read, yet frustrating at the same time. but sometimes Authors need to finish the series, or you get these books coming out every year and you can see the author is getting bored with them, the story goes nowhere. The readers feel more and more like the cash-cow. Please give sookie a happy ending, I'm sick of Bill, what the hell is happening with Eric and is Quinn coming or going?, I don't think I'll buy another hardback.

This is a lovely series to read. It's easy and quirky. Nothing to in depth and I love that about books. I just want to enjoy the story and not have to think too much about the characters or plot line. She does a great job of balancing out the characters and I like how they have developed.

I always feel a little bit like I am visiting relatives when I read one of Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse books. I have grown to really love each of the characters and I find that they only grow more three demensional with each book. She never fails to deliver, and she manages to ride that fine line between sexy and raunchy that so many of her peers seem to be tripping over (ahem Laurell K. Hamilton ahem)...I like the introduction of Quinn into the series, although I must say he's still second place to Eric in my mind. I can't wait to see what new developments will arise out of this tantalizing love-triangle.....just PLEASE Charlaine, don't introduce any more new characters or love interests for Sookie!! I can't have fun at the family reunion if I can't remember everyone's names!!! :)

Oh my goodness, I have all 7 of these and the 8th one on order. This author cannot write fast enough! I love these books because the characters are fun, the plot is exciting and it all happens around an ordinary bar maid. There is enough romance and sometimes to much detail for me on the physical side but not enough to drop reading the stories.

I have read all of the Southern Vampire Mysteries. They have always been a great source of fun and entertainment. This book is no different. I still found this installment to be unsatisfying.

There is no resolution regarding Sookie's romantic suitors. Frankly, I am growing weary of the ambiguity surrounding Eric and Sookie's relationship. I also found the relationship with Quinn to be rushed. (Quinn is still as annoying as ever with the "Babe" thing.) The whole relationship does not ring true for me.

It seems as if Ms. Harris is trying to drag out the suspense as long as possible. If this keeps up, instead of rushing out to purchase the book the first day it comes out, I will probably wait until I can buy it from a used bookstore.

Charlaine Harris' new Southern Vampire Novel; All Together Dead, is a fantastic novel that lives up to its series. There is so much packed into this novel that you'll be craving for more by the end. Sookie is forced to go with the Louisana vampire queen to a vampire summit in Michigan. She is supposed to be the ears to thoughts that cannot be heard since she is a telepath. Although it takes a while for her to be able to piece together the thoughts that she hears and for some of the vampires it may be too late. For someone, whether vampire or human, is planning to destroy all the vampires at the summit with their human entourage with one big blow. Who will survive?? You'll have to read the book to find out. Overall a fantastic novel and now impatiently waiting for the next one, however that isn't for a year!

Sigh...it seems like all my favorite authors are slipping these days. I found her newest book to be slow and boring....the first one hundred pages is a baby shower (completely unrelated to the plot), a wedding that comes out of nowhere and seems to be going back to the same place, and contrived daliance in the bar with Bills new honey, some clothes shopping...it's all a day in the life and not well done, either. The meat of the plot, if you'll call it that, was lame and contrived and I sat through most of it saying "Don't you SEE! OMG, after 9/11 anyone in their right mind can see where the bombs are!" You don't have to be a frelling psychic! I won't say it was BAD, because even though boring, it was well written, but it sure wasn't good. If I'd actually paid money for this book, though, instead of hitting up the budget of my friendly neighborhood library I'd have been pretty ticked.

Ms Harris shows why she is a best seller in this action packed seventh installment of the Southern Vampire Series. I absolutely loved this book! With this series Ms Harris has taken a simple southern bar maid and we have watched her grow with each book, and this one is no exception. In All Together Dead, Sookie's eyes are opened much more and she becomes aware of dangers to her not only from the vampires and the other supernatural beings but from the human population as well. With the introduction of the Britlingens, it makes me wonder what else is out there for Sookie to find out. As with all the books in this series Ms Harris has skillfully mixed paranormal, humor, mystery and romance; if you are a fan of those genres and have not read any of the Sookie books you definitely need to go out and get them. If you have read them, then you know that you MUST get All Together Dead; you will not be disappointed, as this is the best one yet!

this is a very good addition to the Sookie Stackhouse series. GO SAM!!!!! i love sam.........eric is okay.....still cant stand bill after what he did to sookie. this book has alot of suspense in it and alot of action. i am a thirteen year old girl and i just serioulsy love it :)

I liked a lot of things about this book but it has created some bad feelings toward Sookie for me. Up to this point, I've mostly enjoyed her character and have loved the books. But I won't abandon the series. I'm just hoping for some character improvement for Sookie with Book 9.

Very different from the TV show on HBO, but both are good. As the series continues on, it gets further and further from the show. But i think it's fun because neither give the other away and it's like you get two versions of Sookie's world.

All I can come up with at the moment is this:

It is a fantastic book that fully continues the series with just as much suspense, eroticism, and humor as the last six. The series is wonderful, and this tops it all off as the most recent contribution to the Southern Vampire Mysteries. I love Charlaine Harris, and her work continues to be perpetually inventive and original.

I'd bet money that the next installment of Sookie's adventures will have her hiding in the Britlingen realm. It was made very clear towards the end of this book that she fears for her privacy since she let her powers be known while assisting in the search for survivors of the bombing. What better place to hide than in another dimension? And I'm sure the Queen of Louisiana would be willing to foot the bill for having saved her life.

I was pleased with the series as a whole, this particular installment was not up to par. It is a necessary link in the chain to read this before going on (well, for someone like myself). Though I recommend it for Harris fans, I rank it low in this series.

Sookie is pulled into some Vampire politics in this book that has her leaving Bon Temps to help out at the Queens request to attend a summit. efore she leaves theres quality time with Quinn and spending time with Jason who finally makes a big step in his new shapeshifter lifesytle. I liked what the writer did with Sookie's best friend Tara she finds love finally. We also get to learn about a shape shifter wedding is like.

This was another great tale of Sookie's misadventures. We get more insight into the vampire world and we see Sookie finally seriously considering what would happen if she were exposed to the general public. Great times and alot of fun. Can't wait for the next book!

Which is surprising considering I have enjoyed the previous installments in this series tremendously. This novel lacked the charm, the emotional attachment to characters, the paranormal feel that made the prior books fun and interesting.

The author seems to have run out of steam with the series and doesn't seem to have her heart in it anymore. The "plot" was plodding and formulaic. The vampire politics especially bored me because there was nothing paranormal about it. The author did a great job in previous books of making the reader (and Sookie) feel like they were getting a glimpse into an unknown and threatening culture. Despite the occasional flashing of fangs, the summit seemed really dull, random, and mundane. Also the colloquialism and Southern stereotyping were out of control and detracted from an already struggling novel. To be fair, I am more of an adventure reader than romance reader, but the sex scenes were so corny I cringed. Ms. Harris is a very talented writer, so I can only beg her to please bring the old Sookie back and not sell out.

Love the politics, the danger, the tension-everything flows smoothly to a gripping conclusion. Even the romance was kick ass. Really great writing for a really great series that sparks the imagination.

This is the last good book in this series, and it is such a shame. Since this book, Harris hasn't written anything that compares. I suggest reading books one to seven then leave this series alone. It will just disappoint you.

i was very excited to get this book, i had high hopes but after having started reading the book right away it didn't feel like the sookie i knew and loved in previous books. it was entertaining and i loved that harris brought berry the bellboy into this book. i did not like however, the change in sookie's dialect. sookie, after six books now all of a sudden say things like y'all and talks back to high ranking vampires, now all of a sudden shes gusty and not smart about creating the wrong enemies? COME ON! that is not the sookie i remember! it was like i was reading a different character in this book, there were times when the old sookie shined through but, the new sookie was present enough that it through me off while i was reading. hopefully in the future harris won't decide to make sookie super souther all of a sudden with a drawl she did not other wise have before.

i rate this a 2 1/2 but bumped it to a three b/c there wasn't a star for that.

Waited for it. Bought it. Read it. Still left hanging.

It's clear that this book was slapped together as fast as possible. I totally understand why - these books have become very popular and I'm sure that Ms. Harris wanted to get a volume out to her fans in a hurry. (Especially with the HBO series in the works.)

But the thing is, the over-all story was only advanced the tiny bit. By the time I finished, it felt like I had read a single episode TV script. It may have felt more complete if details were more fleshed out but that wasn't the case.

If you're a die-hard Sookie fan, you'll want to read this but there were definately better episodes in this series.

Can't say enough good things about the Sookie Stackhouse series!
Love to read these.....easy to read, pulls me right in.....just the right mix of romance, humor, and drama. I'm going crazy waiting for the newest book to come out!

I could not help thinking as I read this book that the author must have had someone else write this for her. The writing feels so different from the rest of the series. It was a struggle to get through it. It seems to have lost the Sookie character along with the wit and charm of the previous books. I mistakenly read the next book in the series "From Dead to Worse" out of sequence, and that book was more like the earlier ones. This one was either just a quickly written clunker, or Ms. Harris had some help. That being said, I have enjoyed reading the Sookie Stackhouse novels and would recommend them.

this book FINALLY got good about 60% through.. but i still love sookie & the gang, i do wish that they would have the main orginal characters like jason, sam , & bill more in the last few books..

With the possible exception of the first in this series, this is the best one yet. Somewhere in the middle I thought this series was losing steam but I love the addition of Quinn. Things take an interesting twist with each Quinn and Eric that should prove interesting for future adventures with Sookie. I'm rooting for Quinn, I think since neither he nor Sookie fits into just one group, they will have a lot to share and understand in each other. The filip with Eric this time gives that little spice that keeps you guessing as where this will go.

Loved every page and can't wait for the next one.

I've read the first 8, and they are all wonderful!! This is not my normal topic of interest (no interest in any of the other vampire series), but this one has a great mix of action and romance. Couldn't stop reading!!

I've read the whole series multiple times and this is definitely one of the best. There's tons of character development and great action. The plot is sound, I loved it! I can be a meanly honest critic when something disappoints, but this book really was that good.

ATD has proven another great installment in the SV books. This time we are out of town again at the famed vampire summit that was forshadowed in previous books. While I miss the Bon Temps setting and hope things quiet down in the next book I enjoyed the summit.

The action in this book was greater than in previous novels making for fast reading. While Quinn is the central romance figure in ATD (and I must admit getting background on the were has made me a much more sympathetic reader) Harris doesn't destroy all hope of Sookie's future interactions with some of our favorite vamps. We also have some interesting plot developments as Sookie gets a jump start on an expansion to her powers which may or may not evolve in future books.

All in all a good read with some interesting yet plausible developments to expand upon in future books, some minor character death to keep things dramatic, and a lot of opportunities for Sookie to shine.

p.s. I think its a mistake when people rush to compare all paranormal romances to the Anita Blake series. In this case Ms. Harris has been writing a lot longer than Hamilton and it's a grave insult in my opinion to suggest that any parnormal writer can't write without taking from the Anita Blake playbook. Those who scour a book with fanatic zeal looking for evidence that a series is "going Anita Blake on us" are ruining the experience for themselves. Judge the author on her own style and merit please.

First I would like to note I really enjoy reading books from this series; they are hard to put down. This book in particular is very eventful and exciting. Because of the gruesome details this book would be popular with a wider demographic.

I listened to the book on cd. Maybe it would have been better if I had read it myself. It was just ok. I was bored most of the time and it seemed Charlaine Harris tried to cram so many characters into the book that I sometimes got them mixed up. I did love her other book called Grave Sight. That one is 5 stars.

Loved the first three books. Like the fourth. The last two have been terrible. It seems like she lost focus and should have ended the series after the fourth book. I'm probably in the minority- but I actually liked Bill and hoped they would get back together. It just seems like Sookie is depressed, tired and angry all the time. She also seems to keep going from loser to loser. I hope this is the end, if not I'm not sure I'll read more.

This is the latest in Charlaine Harris' vampire series starring human mind-reader and heroine Sookie. Harris does a fantastic job extending this series without getting dragged down in the history/past books. It's fresh, it's fun, it's interesting and I couldn't put it down!!! If you haven't read any of this series you can jump in here, but I recommend going back and reading each one! (I'd hate for you to miss out on the ride so far!) It does contain some sexuality and so I recommend readers in their 20's and up.

I had really high hopes for the latest Sookie Stackhouse adventure, but I didn't enjoy the novel as much as some of the other installments. I found myself uninterested and partially confused at times given the myriad of secondary characters, even knowing that a summit was a chief setting. So, I actually enjoyed much of the goings on in Sookie's town early in the book more than the summit. I didn't become invested enough in all the extra characters to care what happened to them. I find the books more fun when stuff happens to or with Sookie than simply around her. Also, hoping for more of Eric in the next outing - which I'll definitely read. Oh, and can't wait for the TV show later this year.

Continuing Sookie Stackhouse's adventures with such an array of other-worldly creatures is an interesting idea all by itself, but the author has such an incredible imagination that I was more than deeply engrossed. Each time I move to the next book in her series, I find that I can't wait for the book to get here and then I sit down and read it all the way through as soon as it arrives. I can't wait for Book 8!

This one added even more to the story and I enjoyed it. I like the triangle mystery going on with Sookie, Eric and Bill. I am enjoying debating that aspect of the stories with my fellow Sookie fans a lot. I am voting for Bill! :)

As usual, Sookie Stackhouse is up to her eyeballs in supernatural intrigue. She has vampire politics, her brother's ties with the shifter community, and a brand new relationship to juggle. This book does a great job of bringing together all the different storylines and subplots in the previous books, while keeping the story moving at a brisk pace. Sookie's evolution as a character is fascinating to watch. A thoroughly enjoyable read!

Let me first say that I really have enjoyed the previous six Sookie Stackhouse books and have also enjoyed all the Lily Bard Shakespeare series books by Charlaine Harris. That said, I must admit to being very disappointed with All Together Dead.

This book is not funny, or charming or endearing. It is very, very dark. Too many characters. Charlaine Harris tried to tie up loose threads from all the previous books before grieviously harming nearly every vampire ever mentioned.

In this book Sookie grows up. She sees too much to keep her aura of innocence. I do not think she can ever go back to just being a barmaid at Merlottes. I wish her well and will miss her, but I think we have seen the last of my favorite fictional character.

Another great Charlain Harris book of Sookie Stackhouse adventures with the Fey. Booke was delivered on time as promised but condition of the book was a little rough. Looked like it has suffered too much time on the book rack.

i loved this book! it was great, a perfect continuation to the series. we get to see more of quinn, which was nice and a bit more about eric, which is also interesting.

i would definately recommend this book! it had a good pace, and it was very well written, and i love the characters!

I have both the Kindle versions of Harris' "dead" series: the books and the TV series True Blood. Although I thought the series matched the book in many areas, the TV series was way too "hurl-y" for me. The books allowed me to read and keep to my less gorry, and sadistic imagination. Reading was less weird than viewing.

These are somewhat the silly side for my tastes. I read the last two or three while home sick, just blew through them. The writing is not the strongest. There are a few humorous moments here and there, but they're just not that good. I do give credit that Sookie develops somewhat; she's not as 'green' as she was in the first book, and I like that she grows. The concept is a bit different with a woman who can read minds and she's intrigued by vampires because she can't read their minds, and gets introduced into all this intrigue and whatnot. Perhaps if this didn't go on into seven or eight books and actually got resolved without some major battle in each book and Sookie always battered and bruised and deciding who to sleep with and yadda yadda yadda. I also don't care for all the odd characters, the fairies and angels and werewolves and the hierarchies. I mean, yeah, if you have one supernatural creature why wouldn't you have other kinds? But I just don't care for it. In terms of fantasy I've much preferred The Book of Lost Things or The War of the Oaks. Maybe I just have vampire fatigue, because there are a lot of vampire chick fiction books out there right now. But if you like vampire chick lit you probably will like this.

still escapist mystery/romance, but the book is starting to explore some of the more uncomfortable aspects of associating with the undead -- including politics. A very good read, and I look forward to seeing where Harris is going with all of this.

I was given the first 6 books in this series by a cousin while on vacation and read all of them in about a week's time. When I received my the store gift certificate for a b-day present, I just had to have this last one. The characters are genuine and funny. It is definately not the typical vampire story. It is very unique and moves along quickly. You cant help but get drawn into the lives of each character.

I highly recommend this and all of the other books in the series.

This book was soo good, I loved the character of Sookie. This book kept me reading up until the last page I couldn't put it down. Another amazing and intriguing read I HIGHLY recommend is Love Returns Through The Portal Of Time

I love all of Charlaine Harris' southern vampire stories! They are fun, easy reads. Definitley a chick book but i do have some guy friends who have read it and enjoyed it just as much as I did. Anybody who likes vampire books will love the Sookie books. I cant wait for the next one Oct 1st!!!!

I was a tad dissapointed with this addition to the series. I felt that it lacked in furthering the series and only had one great addition, that hopefully will help with further books. Love the series, but this book felt rushed.

This has to be one of her best novels yet. The ending will shock you. It is definitely a must read. This series is one of my absolute favorites. One that I pre-order months in advance. I would tell anyone who enjoys paranormal novels to give it a chance.

If you've made it this far in the Sookie Series, then you probably know that this book is as exceptional as the rest. Real character development and twisting, facinating plots occur. I loved it! I was so disappointed that it was over that I had to go back and read it again. I can't wait for the next novel...

I have really enjoyed reading the Southern Vampire novels. They are a quick, entertaining, light read. However, I found this latest to fall flat. Unlike the earlier books there was not much character development in this one. Also the events were all horribly predictable. An earlier reviewer stated this book felt like a one episode script, and I agree. I have to admit I will still read the next book in hopes that some of the past storylines become more developed -

Love,love,love Charlaine Harris. My only complaint (and it's my fault) is that I read her books too fast and then have to wait too long for the next one. I would recommend any of her books, but especially the southern vampire mysteries. Can't get enough of them.

i have read all Charlaine's Sookie books and usually love them. i had to force myself to read her latest book. it was incredibly slow and i found no humor in it at all. it wasn't her usually snappy read. but i will still follow her Sookie books in the future.

This is the seventh book in 'The Southern Vampire' series, by author Charlaine Harris. Harris ties together fantasy and a little bit of satire, mixing it with a bit of 'southern fried' humor in this latest novel about a bubbly telepathic barmaid vampire named Sookie Stackhouse. I would suggest this book to anyone looking for a new spin on fantasy or horror writing.

I wasn't exactly thrilled with Definitely Dead, since it felt as though Harris was trying to cram in all of the characters and subplots into two-hundred-something pages. I also didn't like the totally lame twists regarding Bill. I thought it was a little too convenient for my taste. So, I wondered if the series had jumped the shark and if I should read the next book. All Together Dead, while not as good as Dead to the World, my favorite Sookie book so far, was far more enjoyable than its predecessor. It was time for the vampire summit, and Sookie, our adorable telepathic heroine, under orders from Eric and Sophie-Anne, the Queen of Louisiana, is forced to attend. In addition to Eric and the queen, Sookie would join boyfriend weretiger Quinn and vampire ex-boyfriend Bill. Sookie also reunites with Barry the Bellboy, a fellow telepath introduced in Living Dead in Dallas. The summit, aside from parties and business conventions, would also feature a few criminal trials, one of which is the queen's trial for the murder of her husband (Definitely Dead). But, as expected when vampires get together, strange things begin to occur. Vampires turn out dead. The murders seem to be connected with the queen's trial. But soon bigger threats arise, and it is up to Sookie and Barry the Bellboy to figure out what is going on. There are some twists throughout the novel.

When the action began, the novel was quite riveting. I liked some of the twists that went on toward the end as well. I also liked the inner conflicts Sookie was encountering. She has reached a point where she doesn't know if her life will ever be normal again. Her connection with the vampires become more integral in this installment, and I think that Harris foreshadows Sookie's descent from having a fairly average life to one solely centered on the supernaturals around her. Other than those good points, I thought the novel was all over the place. There was little resolution regarding Sookie and the men in her life. She cares for Quinn, and she likes that he seems more normal than the vampires, but she doesn't know if she loves him. She also doesn't know how she feels for Eric. And she has unresolved issues with Bill, whom she still resents for having lied to her. (On a good note, it appears that Bill shows genuine remorse for everything he had done to her. Come on, Sookie, the guy's sorry! Sookie is being petty and downright childish when it comes to him. I wonder for how much longer the author will drag this on.) There is little interaction with Quinn and Eric -- the latter of whom is very sexy in this installment. If she were to choose between these two men, I'd like for her to choose Eric. (But, to be honest, I still prefer Bill.) However, I believe the journey is better than the destination, so I don't mind more romantic tension between her and Eric and Bill (more with the latter please!). Quinn is a little more developed here, but I don't like him much. I tried to, but I can't picture a bald-headed, olive-skinned, beefy guy without picturing a pro wrestler or Mr. Clean. I also hate his annoying habit of addressing Sookie as "babe." Going back to Sookie and Bill, there is no closure between them. Bill was just sort of there, making brief appearances throughout the novel. He went from a strong lead to sort of a filler character, and I'm not happy with that. Secondary characters are thrown in and out without much purpose. (I did like the scene where Pam talks about her past though.) Even though I like the simple scenes of Sookie working at the bar or interacting with her small town buddies, those scenes in this book seemed forced. All in all, All Together Dead is rushed and uneven. Charlaine Harris should really forget about the small characters and concentrate on Sookie and the main characters. She tries to do too much in a limited amount of pages. I give this novel four stars because it was entertaining nevertheless and there were some hilarious passages. I especially enjoyed the scenes with roommate Amelia and her cat/boyfriend Bob. The Southern Vampire Mysteries is still worth reading, but Harris should do one of the following two things: either do a little house-cleaning with the characters and subplots, or consider making the future novels longer. So it may be time to get her publisher to increase her word count limit.

I was very surprised with this book. It isn't nearly as well written as previous Sookie installments. I know there is a push to get sequels out as quickly as possible, but if the push results in an inferior story, why bother?

Ms. Sookie, a trial for the death of a vamp leader. Hanging out with the Queen of Lousiana? Those crazy religious fanatics again? Will you and Barry the Bell Boy be safe? Girl...Bill, Eric and Quinn?

Number seven in the Southern Mystery Vampire Series...Whoa baby, fasten that seat belt, it's gonna be a bumpy but incredible ride!!!

I love these books....I alternately laugh and cry....I cannot wait for a new one and once I have it I cannot stop til I am done....I think the house could burn down and while I was escaping I would still be reading.....

I could NOT put this book down! I bought it through the store pre-order, and finished it in RECORD time! Charlaine Harris has outdone herself again! Action-packed, and a confused telepath makes for an amazing seventh book!

I definitely suggest reading the first six first, like any series. But she does explain things from previous books well...

The newest Sookie book, All Together Dead, is the best one to date. Darker, edgier with a great twist at the end, I loved it!

Jeanne SteinThe Anna Strong Chronicles: Blood Drive (Book 2)

I bought the boxed set of books #1 - #7 about two weeks ago, and I probably have about 50 pages to go until I'm finished All Together Dead, but at this point and time I feel that I can confidently say that this series just keeps getting worse and worse for me. There are way too many different characters and subplots going on, for one thing. I don't think Charlaine Harris can really keep up with it all nor do I think she is talented enough to handle this mess of a world she's created. I get that you need to introduce new characters to the story, but why do all of the main characters from the beginning of the series have to be thrown into a barely-there role? Sam? Jason? Even Bill! Speaking of Bill, I absolutely hate what the author has done with his character. Another thing, if I'm up to the 7th book in the series, why do I constantly have to re-read, as is the case in every single book, this unnecessary recapping of things that we get by now: Sookie is a telepath, she can't read vamps minds (as of now), she can kind of make out thoughts from the were-minds, it's tough being a telepath, blah blah blah, I get it, I don't need to see the same explanations over and over in each book. Nobody is starting the series in the 7th book, or at least they shouldn't be, so just enough already. Basically, in my opinion, Sookie gets dumber and more annoying with each book, Quinn needs to lose the genie pants and stop saying "Babe", and Ms. Harris needs to stop trying to cram every wackadoodle thought that enters her brain into one book, focus on the main characters (keyword: main), come up with a good plot that actually makes sense and moves the story forward and develops those aforementioned characters, and then maybe I'll have something good to say.

I have stayed up so late at night that the bags under my eyes have a zip code all of their own...but I have not regretted my late night readathons. I want Charlaine Harris to keep writing about these characters.

Charlaine Harris does a wonderful job with this series. Old characters are still in the mix but several new characters make appearances to keep the book interesting. Sookie, as always, makes the book original and fun to read.

Went out and bought it this weekend. Lots of action but I kinda thought it just ended too quickly. That is a good thing for the author because I can't wait to find out what happens. So when the next one is out I will be there to buy it.

I have really enjoyed the previous Sookie books, but I feel like in each new book, there is more and more reviewing. I feel like I'm reading short, confusing summaries of the previous books, and not much new stuff. I just want to have a fun Sookie/Eric book!

Maybe i'm old fashioned, Or I expect to much from the heroine in a book, But i just think that Sookie is becoming hard and mean and unpleasant, It took me two months to read this book because I kept getting angry with the way she thought and the things she did. She was harsh and judgemental and a hypocrite. I also hate the way things turned out with Bill. I don't think i'll read anymore of this series

I love Sookie!!! We need more I hope the series goes on. I'am playing catch up right now with this series and I'am enjoying every moment of it. I'am reading Dead As A Doornail and one more to go before I can read this one. I'am Completely hooked!!!!

This book was very disappointing. Too over the top and not in a good way. Too many character changes, even Sookie. If you like the series True Blood and Bill- you will not enjoy this. Too depressing in parts. I liked the fun Sookie.

I picked this up expecting a fairly light read, but found myself in awe of the author's willingness to exploit two of the greatest disasters in US history to promote her characters and book. She manages to invoke both Katrina AND the bombing of the Twin Towers, explicitly... but it's the way she does it that's shocking. Her main character has the ability, as it turns out, to locate victims trapped in the wreckage of a terrorist attack in time to find them alive... but decides NOT to continue doing this for the govt because it would take too much time away from her small-town life. If Harris didn't MENTION the Twin Towers several times, perhaps this wouldn't seem so off-putting and sick on the main character's part, but to tell us this woman could help in terrorist bombings but can't be bothered makes me wonder what she's trying to tell us about this woman, and also makes me think the author's exploiting these tragedies as nothing more than backdrop. She should be ashamed.

ANOTHER RIP OFF!!! Harris get with the program and make your publishers sell digital formats for reasonable prices. You should be ashamed of yourself encouraging destruction of trees and wastefulness and for the greediness of your publishers and yourself if you are getting a bigger cut due to the larger profit margin. SHAME ON YOU.

BOYCOTT THESE RIDICULOUS PRICES FOR E-BOOKS - NEVER PAY AS MUCH OR MORE THAN A PAPERBACK OR AS MUCH AS A HARDBACK.

If you want to read a great book about this subject, try BAD GIRLS BURN SLOW, by Pam Ward. this book is almost criminally insane. Old broads, kids who are vicious and men who kill their own blow up dolls.