Dead as a Doornail (Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood - Book 5)

We open this book to find out Jason is now a werepanther and seem to be doing ok with the idea, but someone is out to kill shifters and Jason is a suspect, so Sookie has find out who is shooting shifters since Calvin and Sam have both been shot, and if that's not enough Sam ask Sookie to go to Eric to see if they can get help with a bar tender until Sam is back on his feet, so of course Eric is all to happy to help out, but what he doesn't know is the guy he sends wants to kill Sookie and tries several times, if that's not enough Alcide wants Sookie to come to the packmaster fight for the slot so she can see if Patrick was cheating and he sure was but it didn't help Alcide's dad he died anyway and now Alcide won't even talk to Sookie, but she sure found herself a rally cute weretiger Quinn.

Less than one month passes and the "Southern Vampire Mysteries" fifth installment "Dead as a Doornail" provides insight into the Were community including internal politics and brutal traditions when someone begins hunting down the two-natured. Though glad to learn more about another supernatural culture, I was disappointed by the faulty editing and lackluster plot in the first person point of view narration by Sookie.

Sookie's witnesses the lingering affects of her brother's horrific imprisonment by a werepanther. The only exciting highlight is a new character named Charles Twining, a pirate vampire; otherwise the uneventful story and plot twists didn't engage me as the prior novels. Sam does demonstrate variety in his abilities too.

The series appears to be young adult with tendencies toward action and suspense, not horror per se. I recommend this collection to any fan of the vampire genre.

Thank you.

This is another one of those books that has been reviewed over and over and over again, so I'll leave my thoughts.

Charlaine Harris' series just continues to get better with each Sookie Stackhouse novel. Sookie is witty and wry, and I love her. I particularly love how as a reader I can get inside of her head and her perceptions. I understand her motivations.

In Dead as a Doornail, Sookie finds herself in the middle of the "election" for a new pack leader of Alcide Herveaux's pack after he asks her to come to a funeral for Colonel Flood. Knowing Colonel Flood, Sookie is happy to oblige but quickly learns Alcide had ulterior motives other than friendship.

Sookie also finds herself trying to solve the mystery of the shifter shootings all over the Southeast. The ending has a surprise twist, but if you pay attention to the foreshadowing Harris provides, you'll figure it out.

I am surprised that this series just gets better and better as you read it. This book makes a shift to focus more on werewolfes and shapeshifters and of course, most of them accept her. We also see a little more from the fairies.

The book picks up on the storyline that was laid in book 4. Eric has his memory back, but doesn't remember. Jason has been bitten by a werepanther and is waiting for the first full moon.

Someone is trying to kill werewolfs and shifters, the search for Debbie Pelt continues and there are attempts made on Sookie's life. While I would have liked to have seen more with the vampires in this book, we got to see enough of them and the storyline with Eric and Sookie is further developed. (love that) Lots of great and well developed plot in this book.

Definetly a page turner and a worthwhile read in this series. Looking forward to book 9.

Sookie Stackhouse is up to her southern fried rear in vampires, weres, and fairies, in Charlaine Harris' 5th installment in the series, "Dead as a Doornail." Sookie's got trouble of a whole other kind this time. Her brother Jason is now a werepanther. After the repeated bites he suffered in the last book, Jason was turned into a werepanther. Sookie and Jason are both OK with this development until a crazy sniper begins killing off weres in the area of Bon Temps. Unfortunately for Sookie and Jason, the werepanther community thinks Jason might be the culprit. When Sookie's boss Sam is shot, it becomes obvious that they are all in need of some help. Eric, the gorgeous blonde vampire, sends Charles Twining, a vampire full of piratey goodness, over to Merlotte's to lend a hand. And it's a good thing he did, because someone sets Sookie's house on fire, and if it weren't for Charles, Sookie would have died.

So all Sookie has to do is find the sniper, rebuild her kitchen, and save the day, once again.

It really took me awhile to warm to this series, but I am so glad I did. Harris' work is terribly cute and very fresh. She puts a whole new spin on the vampire fiction genre. Sookie is a great character who is very real to the reader. Anyone who is looking for a break from the Anita Blake series should definitely check out Sookie Stackhouse!

The combination of supernatural beings and the details that Harris continues to share about the supernatural world just keeps improving this series! This story continues to introduce the reader to new information about werewolf society, the shifters at Hotshot, and the hierarchy of the vamps. As with the last story, Bill's role is minor (though he is present a bit more in this book). Alcide and Sookie's relationship continues to change. Eric and Sookie have the continuation of fireworks we are used to. Jason is in a bit of trouble (what else is new?). Sam is loyal and supportive - as always. New characters are introduced who make the story interesting - a new vampire bartender, a new short-order cook, werewolf leaders, and mysterious Quinn (hope to see more of him in the next book!). And of course Bubba makes his cursory appearance (he is so cute!). I read it in a day ... couldn't put it down!

I've been reading the "Southern Vampire" novels for a while now. Charlaine Harris has created a host of memorable characters for this series: Sookie Stackhouse - telepathic barmaid; Bill - Civil War era vampire; Eric - once a Viking raider, now a tall, blonde vampire with killer good looks; Alcide - a sexy Cajun Werewolf. There's more, but you'll have to read the books to learn about them.

Her novels in this vein (forgive the pun!) are like a weird cross of romance novel, horror novel AND mystery novel. Whatever it is, it works. Poor Sookie finds herself romantically and politically enmeshed in the supernatural world inhabited by her friends and lovers. She's guaranteed to land in the middle of something bad every time she steps out the door. Brought to the brink of death at least twice in every book, she's lucky her friends are nearby to save her, or, is she? Sookie, when not deeply involved in a liason with one of these sexy guys (if she overlooks the fact that they're either dead or grow lots of hair at the oddest times)she's landing in the pooh because of them.

Humor abounds. The heroine of the series is plucky and peevish by turns. Lots of great R rated sex runs rampant across the pages. You'll find yourself looking forward to each reunion with the cast of players and wondering "What will happen next?"

The "Southern Vampire" novels meet every standard for a darn good read - not too heavy, not too light. Try one, you'll want them all.

Mrs. Harris has done it again. I love how Sookie is becoming a woman of her own making and not allowing Bill or anyone else be in control her. We see her starting to grow as a person but still not knowing what lies ahead for her. She has more men interested in her than ever but this just adds to the plot. I like how Jason is also starting to become more of a part of Sookie's "other" life. So much comes to light in this novel and I cannot await to start the next one. Literally it is here by me. I am not a fan of the show at all but the books, I love.

I've really enjoyed this mystery series; this book adds several more layers to Harris' unique world. If you're really into the Sookie relationship thing, you may be disappointed here. Yes, there are several contenders, but they come across as "man of the moment" cut-outs. I'm a reader who found her libido to be a little overactive in this story--not as bad as the guys, mind you, but it just didn't mesh with the rest of her characterization. There was also, for me, a huge let-down regarding one of the main men in her life (not Eric or Bill); thinking back on the last book, I suppose it was coming, but it didn't still sit well with me. There's also a sense that almost every guy she mmets (who's not from her hometown) has the hots for her. Jeez.

You really feel sorry for Sookie in this book, poor thing. Last year her grandmother died; this year.... Well, she goes through the wringer in this one. There were also some superior moments of humor and a very fine mystery. Unfortunately, there were too many loose ends at the book's finish; it almost seemed that a larger book had been sliced in half. Maybe that'll mean a quick publishing date for the next installment? Still, a page-turning read.

Charlaine Harris has developed such a unique twist on the vampire genre that she has already begun to attract imitators, but she owns the vampire/back country/chick lit storyline completely. I read her first several years ago for laughs, but now I keep coming back to her stories of dought Sookie Stackhouse - waitress, vampire date, and telepath. What makes Sookie special is her attitude and brand of courage. Anyone who has had a vampire lover or two, hangs out with weres, and braves the slings and arrows of a Louisiana country town like Bon Temps deserves plenty of respect.

Now that vampire Bill is her ex-boyfriend, and temporary lover Eric is at arms length you would expect Sookie to have a few moments of peaces, but no such luck. Her brother Jason has been bitten by a were panther and, come full moon, he crosses into the world of the shapeshifters. He adapts well, but someone is hunting the weres of Bon Temps, and the panther clan suspects that Jason might be hiding resentments behind his winsome smile.

Sookie tries to go to the rescue, but in the process winds up enmeshed in a power struggle in the nearby werewolf pack. Alcide invites her to the funeral of the pack leader in an effort to influence members to favor his father, but the idea nearly backfires, leaving Sookie deeply disgusted with the whole thing. And one top of that, someone tries to burn down her house with Sookie in it. Possibly as revenge for the woman she had to kill in the last book, but it's hard to tell.

As you can see, a lot happens here. It would be a dark and serious tale, but Sookie, as narrator has a way of pushing back the darkness. Almost making the story a Southern cozy until you remember that a quarter of her friends bite other people on a regular basis. Don't fall for the marketing ploy that compares Harris with Laurell Hamilton. Even when the story gets a bit spicy, it never approaches the steamy scenes of recent Hamilton writing, and Sookie has shown no interest in SM or corpse raising. Sookie doesn't have a cause, she really just wants a normal life, but there doesn't seem to be one available.

This isn't great literature, but enjoyable entertainment. A pleasant pastime in the occult world of the rural South in a world where vampires are legal. Heck! Why not?

I use to read this series as filler between Llaurel K. Hamiltion's Anita series. Roles have now reversed. I'm reading Anita series as filler between the Sookie's series. This series is just wonderful. I love it. The last novel had some really steamy sex scenes between Sookie and Eric, which was fun. I was worried that Harris was turning in the same direction that Hamiltion has unfortuantely turned. All sex, and no plot. Dead as a Doornail was a relief. So be honest, there was not a single sex scene in the entire book--only plot. Not to say the book wasn't "romantic", Sookie definately has several romanic interest. Or at least there are several paranormal creatures that are interested in Sookie, only she's not ready for that sort of thing. I love the fact that Harris keeps Sookie true to her personality. You can't forget that Bill was her first love, her first sexual partner and Eric only her second. She's not some cheap fluzzy that jumps from bed parter to bed partner (Something that has become prevalent in the Anita books).

If you read the book's excerpt, it leads you to believe the book is primarily about the panthier colony and Jason. Not so. The book begins with Jason going through his first transformation and embracing it. Good for him. The book really centers around a serial killer. A sharp shooter that is targeting shapeshifters. Of course, the cops have no idea what the connection between the three victims, but those in the paranormal world do. When Sam is the third one shot, they have to find a replacement bartender. Sookie turns to Eric as a favor to Sam and ask if he could lone one to the bar.

Here's what's going on with the men in Sookie's life: Eric is still going crazy wondering what happened during the time he spent at her house. Bill is moving on--seeing someone new. Sam is still attracted to Sookie, while she is still denying it. Alcide shows up to ask a favor. Calvin still want's her as a wife. She holds all these guys at arm length, explaining to each she doesn't want to get involve. None seem to take her seriously.

Something else I like about Sookie over Anita is that not every man likes or wants her. Andy still hates her. Claude can care less, etc. It makes her more realistic.

I'm looking forward to the next, I hope it won't be another year.

I was reading the other reviews and was kinda surprised with the bad ratings. I personally trully enjoyed this book, the misteries, the relationships....everything.I had just finished the Twilight saga when I was introduced to the Sookie Stackhouse series and fell in love with it. I believe what I liked the most about this book in particular was that although Sookie was "single" this time around, she wasn't really complaining about it - my biggest issue with Bella in the Twilight series, who apparently cannot function without a male(Edward, that is). I agree that Sookie has a lot of suitors, all very different from each other...good for her. She is considered attractive to the "Supes" because of her telepath quality AND her beauty. Oh, and she can be funny too. That added to the misteries surrounding the plot was a big winner for me. I highly recommend.

I listened to the audio version of this book and I have to say that Johanna Parker (the reader) adds a lot! She has created a Sookie with the soft southern accent we might expect and with just the right amount of sassiness to truly bring her (and her friends) to life. The books and the plots are superficially pretty lightweight. But I just adore the character of Sookie. She is so real and she makes me laugh and cry. There's some profound wisdom in there, too. The author doesn't hit you over the head with it, but it sneaks in repeatedly - often as Sookie is thinking through things like discrimination and friendship. I owe a big thanks to another reviewer who, like me, did not appreciate "Undead and Unwed" but suggested Sookie Stackhouse as an alternative. Charlaine Harris and Johanna Parker are an awesome team and I'm taking 2 more of these on vacation with me!

I love the Southern Vampire books! C. Harris has created a fascinating universe in which the vampires have come out of the coffin, but the shapeshifters, fairies and others definitely have not! This is the 5th in the series and can be read without reading the other books. however, it's much more enjoyable to read the others first, so that the interactions between the major and minor characters are clear.

Harris has created an intrecate polical structure for the different supernaturals ("supes")who either hate, ignore or tolerate the other supes with the vampires being the most organized. Sookie Stackhouse, the telepathic barmaid, has been dragged into vampire politics before (and hated it) and now is about to be heavily involved in werewolf politics - the succession of the packmaster of Shreveport.

After having no love life for most of her life (the local men would rather think she's nuts rather than telepathic), Sookie's current love life is a mess. She is definitely not seeing her first boyfriend, Vampire Bill. Eric, Head vampire in the area and Bill's boss, desperately wants to know what happened when he had amnesia and stayed with Sookie (book #4). Sam, Sookie's boss, is a shapeshifter and interested (but only after she starting dating Bill). Calvin, a werepather from an isolated and very strange small town, is courting her. And Alcide, a werewolf, wants to marry her but he also wants to help his father become the next packmaster of Shreveport.

Sookie's brother Jason now turns into a werepanther during the full moon and someone is shooting the shapeshifters of BonTon.

One of the most interesting things about this universe is that the people accept that vampires exist but refuse to admit that shapeshifters, witches and magic also exist!

Warning: if you are expecting this to be a mystery story, it's not. This major plot of this book is the succession of the packmaster of Shreveport. Like the other books in this series, the killings are essential to parts of the plot and subplots but by no means the focus of the book.

I liked this story, wish they had done it in the show. I also like the frustration Sookie goes through and the thought process of having enough of supes entirely (another characteristic I wish they had kept in the show). Great book, look forward to finding out how her life turnsout.

This book is probably my least favorite so far in the entire series. First, the mystery in this book is not compelling. There is only a small sense of danger for the main suspect, Jason, and it is resolved very anticlimactically and not given a second thought. Second, I didn't enjoy Sookie complaining about Bill, Eric, Alcide and her other suitors. She seemed most interested in Calvin, which I thought was very strange. Also, she kisses random characters out of no where. It is all very strange and very unlike the Sookie we were introduced to earlier in the series. In addition to those shortcomings, the book was very boring. When action or conflict was introduced it was easily brushed over. I have two major events in mind, which I won't reveal due to spoilers, that when they occurred Sookie was not nearly as upset as she should have been. I want the old Sookie back with her upbeat no nonsense attitude. Stop dwelling on Bill, get over Alcide with his bad temper and grumpiness, and move on! Another love interest or two were introduced here, so I guess we will have to wait and see where that goes. I'd really just like a good MYSTERY, minus all of the relationship issues and complaining. That is what these books are supposed to be after all: Southern Vampire MYSTERIES.

These books by Charlaine Harris have become quite a guilty pleasure for me. I enjoy them much more than I ever thought I would. They are just plain fun to read. This is the 5th book in the Southern Vampire series. As the last book closed Sookies brother Jason had been bitten by a were-panther. As this one opens he makes his first change and what's more...he likes it. But being a shape-shifter is not such a good idea these days as someone is killing them off Beltway Sniper style. Sam, the owner of the bar where Sookie works is shot and other shape-shifters have also been wounded or killed. Sam needs Sookie's telepathic powers to help track down the the one doing the killing but others are intent on stopping her, nearly burning her alive in her home. Sookie seeks aid from the Vampire Eric who doesn't remember his liason with Sookie due to amnesia. Eric sends a pirate vampire to help out who is one of the most interesting characters in the book.

Dead as a Doornail is smart, fun, exciting and sexy. Harris has created a uniquely dark and witty world populated by real characters who just happen to bee vampires and shapeshifters but who have all the problems of regular people. While I don't normally go for the horror/romance hybrid, Harris' light, but fast-paced and exciting style make the Southern Vampire series rise above so many other books of its kind. It's not all fun and games though. Sookie is dealing with a lot of mental turmoil herself with her previous relationships with Bill and Eric not to mention the apprehension over her brother's shape-shifting. Another great book in the series that gets better and better.

I have read all the books in this series and loved every one. I particularly like the way the character of Sookie Stackhouse matures and becomes increasingly self confident and self reliant in each book. And the books get better with each one. I don't need sex scenes in a book to enjoy it, and quite frankly, that's one reason I only read about 20 pages of one Anita Blake book-then never read another. That particular series is an insult to intelligence. I read for enjoyable characterizations, wit, and charm.

Of all the things Ms. Harris does well, one of the best is her ability to evoke the character of a small Southern town and its inhabitants ("Grabbit Kwik", "Descendents of the Glorious Dead", the pharmacy that is also a card shop and a UPS drop off, etc). She has a wonderful, slightly sardonic sense of humour and is investing Sookie with the same quality-I love it!

I grew up in a small Southern town where my family has lived for 300 years-Ms. Harris captures the flavour of a town and its citizens incredibly well, and this, I think, is what makes her books so wonderful...

In this new adventure, we find that Sookie's brother, Jason, is now a were-panther after being bitten during the course of the previous installment. When a "shifter" serial sniper comes to Bon Temps, the local shifting population suspect Jason since he is brand new and was a made a shifter against his will. To add to Sookie's plate, Sam is shot and unable to tend his bar. So, Sookie asks the sexy Eric for help, who sends her Charles, a pirate-like vampire. Soon, Sookie becomes the target of an assassin seemingly trying to kill her for her association with supernatural entities. Not to mention, there's the added problem of the Were's pack leader dying.

As you can see, the story is interwoven from three different plots, which makes it both exciting and absorbing. You keep reading each page waiting to find out what's going to happen! The story is great, and for the most part resolves any lingering questions you may have about the resolution of all the subplots. Additionally, I love the way Harris intertwines snippets from previous novels in this one. So, if you're a first time reader of the series, you should definitely go back and read the first four books before this one.

The characters are always unique and delightful, and Harris manages to keep Sookie and the other secondary characters (like Sam, Eric, and Bill) consistent throughout the novels.

Now, for the reason, I am docking this one star. As we all know, one of the most popular internal conflict sources for female writers is multiple men competing over the same woman. Harris is no exception. Like the Anita Blake books, Sookie has both a vampire and shifter competing for her affection, except for Sookie, it's more than doubled. Sookie has Eric, Bill, Sam, Alcide, and Calvin Norris all competing for her. Right now, it's not so bad, but I am starting to think that this multiple suitor problem will persist throughout the next couple of novels without any conclusion ever being made (think Anita Blake and Stephanie Plum).

Other than that, it's an excellent new edition, and I highly recommend it. Grade: A-

Someone is hunting down the shape-shifters of Renard Parish, Louisianna, and Sookie Stackhouse's boss, bartender Sam, is shot. Sookie goes to her 'friend' hunky vampire Eric, for help and gets a replacement bartender, but Sookie's problems have only just started. Someone takes a shot at her and sets her house on fire. Then there's wanna-be-boyfriend and werewolf Alcide--who seems to have mixed feelings and ulterior motives in his pursuit of Sookie, Eric's continued interest, and ex-boyfriend Bill (the vampire), and a new love interest--a were tiger? It's enough to make a girl want to run away, except the were community suspects Sookie's brother, Jason, might be behind the shooting. And she's not going to let anything happen to the small bit of family she has left

Sookie uses her mindreading talent to stay alive, but when you're facing the undead, shifters, and a couple of fairies, just trying to stay safe doesn't do the job. Still, she seems irresistible to all the guys she meets--which has to help.

Author Charlaine Harris generally hits a tone that combines humor with action. Sookie makes an attractive every-man sort of hero, facing opponents who are horribly more powerful than she. The damage to her house, her concerns for the woman she killed, and her affection for her brother humanize her. Although I found DEAD AS A DOORNAIL to get off to a slow start, Harris definitely hooked me in the second half.

I liked the True Blood series so I found the books online and ordered a few. I found that I was fascinated by the characters and story lines, even more than the series. I can't stop reading. It is such an interesting way to think about the world, and it makes you want to jump into the book. I think real life seems a little dull at the moment.

I've now bought all the rest of the Stackhouse books and some of Harris' other books which I'll save for when I am mourning the end of the Stackhouse novels. I just bought the Stackhouse books in Spanish, too, so I can brush up on my Spanish. I thought that would be fun after I read the English version through a second time.

I read all the time and I've never enjoyed a book more. I hope Harris will write a few more.

Another great book in the Sookie Stackhouse series. This book didn't really have any romance element to it, which was kind of disappointing but the mystery element was compelling and fun. Werewolf Alcide turns into a jerk in this book and he had been so sweet up to this point. Vampire Bill is also still an ass. Luckily Vampire Eric is still smokin' and funny.

This book's fashion award goes to Vampire Eric, who we all know is VERY sexy and yet is described as wearing "a golden brown silk T-shirt and brown pleated trousers with a magnificent belt that was just barbaric: lots of leather, and gold, and dangling tassels." I'm sorry, Vampire Eric does NOT wear pleated pants or tassels. He's way too hot for that sort of thing.

I don't know if Ms. Harris was a little tired after all the effort she put into the first 4 books but book 5 in the Stackhouse series reads like a drawn out afterthought; a little nonsensical and very often dull. In Doornail there is a sniper on the loose taking out members of the supernatural world. Sookie endures the usual litany of sticky situations and mortal injuries but this time around the story is extremely diluted with pointless commentary and insufferable podunk metaphors ("my face burned like a pack of fire ants"). Cue the banjo.
Furthermore, this book is somewhat hard to follow. Many of the pivotal characters are people/things that have never before been referenced and there are times when the dialogue is completely without context; "I turned to Maryelizabeth and her daughter and thanked them for the glass of water. Maryelizabeth gave me a hostile look and said to her daughter `We should've never sent you to school'". What? What does that have to do with anything? I very often read after I've had a couple (six) glasses of wine but I have a pretty good recollection of the major action items in this story and Maryelizabeth's daughter's education had nothing to do with anything and while we're at it, who the hell is Maryelizabeth?
I mean, I'm going to continue reading the series (if anything it makes the HBO series more fun to watch) but I sincerely hope later stories have a little more umph.

I read a lot of vampire/supernatural books and Harris continues to deliever a superior story by every measure of the genere. The books are told in the first person, and the voice of the heroine continues to endear. Some readers may be disturbed that a like certain other character in another vampire series (Anita Blake) Ms Statckhouse is picking up admirers at an alarming rate. Unlike the other series though, her adventures rarely go beyond PG13 and sex is decidely not the focus of the book. This is primarily a mystery book with enough questions and characters to keep you guesing most of the way through, with the added bonus of visiting with a familiar cast of characters, and watching all of the relationships inch a baby step forward. The events in this book depend heavily on the previous installments and you should be read in order. A quick, light, highly entertaining read. Highly recommended for fans of the series. For those who haven't read any of the series yet, start with the first one.

I thought I'd heard of all the "good" mystery series with female protagonists... but somehow, this one slipped by me! I was more than pleasantly surprised by this book, #5 in Harris' "Vampire" mystery series about Sookie Stackhouse, a "gifted" waitress with a penchant for danger and deadly (or should I say, dead) men.

Gothic appeal aside, this book was full of interesting characters, inventive plot twists, and out-of-the-ordinary occurrences -- including an Elvis sighting. I love an author who creates a world and pulls the reader into it completely, and Harris does that here. The only complaint I have is that Sookie had a few too many love interests -- including a werewolf, a werepanther, a "shifter," and a few vampires. That's quite a few, even for a paranormal chick.

Another great installment in the series. I did somewhat predict the ending before it came, but I also didn't really care, with how much I enjoyed getting to that point. There are a whole host of new messes and complications introduced in this one, along with a few moments that come across as awkward or disappointing. Overall, however, it was just good and fast entertainment, and great fun to read. I know others already gave great and detailed reviews, so I'm not going to bother, and will just say that if you like the series you will enjoy this one as well.

Sookie and the gang are back at it in Charlaine Harris's newest book "Dead as a Doornail". The story moved at a fast clip and I was able to finish this book in one exciting sitting. It oozed with suppressed sexual tension - there were hot supernatural men at the turn of every page..... but, I didnt rate Dead as a Doornail a five for two reasons...

1. The book felt slightly like a filler...it had a transitional quality to it, like it was moving you along to get you ready for the next installment(which if its half as excitng as the end of this book suggests then wow am I in for a looong wait!)

2. And really, this is my main reason for not rating the book a million stars...ERIC. Eric, Eric, Eric. I wanted MORE of him! There was definitey not enough Eric in this book to satisfy me. Truly, I have no idea how Sookie is able to control herself. The man makes ME insane and he isnt even real!

I just am so anxious to read the next book and I pray that I dont have to wait forever for it. I love Vamp books and this series is my fave so far. I think Harris is far superior to LKH. LKH ,IMHO has gone way overboard lately, but Harris seems to find just the right balance of sex, action, and great characterization...Im just so happy to have found her.

While there's certainly a lot of action going on here: multiple shootings, a fire, and a fight to be the new pack master of the Shreveport pack, the enduring theme of this book is Everybody Wants Sookie. I had to laugh: How can one gal, even if she is part fairy, attract the lustful attention of two vamps, a shifter, a were, another shifter, and yet another shifter. (One of them even has a steady job with good insurance benefits.) Fun, light as marshmallow cream, and - except for the packmaster fight - less violence than some of the books, Dead as a Doornail will keep you amused and glad that Sookie and all her many supe admirers are around for the ride.

This book was more about the shifters and weres than the vamps. Sookie as always is stuck in the middle. Given at this point of the story we only know she's a telepathe I find it really funny that she has so many supernatural creatures falling for her. In our world she'd be considered a tease, but it's written so well I find it hard that none of the guys have yet to put their foot down and tell her to pick. Sookie is also dealing with the fall out of Debbie's death and Eric not remembering their time together and Tara's got trouble of her own. This may not have been the best book but it is worth the read.

This the 5th Sookie Stackhouse book in the Southern Vampire Series seems to be nothing much more than a place holder in the series.

I was rather disappointed by the fact that every supernatural male seems to want Sookie. Its getting a bit old, really, doesn't some male want to kill her? Several females have tried, but no males have been serious about it, rather they seem to be appologetic. Even the villain who is supposed to kill her doesn't really want to, its more of a matter of honor for him to finish the job!

I was disappointed about the lack of resolution over the Sookie, defending herself in the last book, the theme drags on through the entire book and is never resolved.

My last issue is what looks like the lead into the Bill/Sookie/Eric love triangle, or some other combination including one of Sookie's vamps and maybe some were. This is getting a bit annoying really. These last two sentences lead me to my chief complaint... I felt bored. I wasn't engaged, the story didn't suck me and make me want to keep reading. I felt I did have to keep reading, after all I did buy the book. Wish I'd waited till it was on paperback, not that it's a bad book, its just not worth hardcover price to me.

On the other hand the book is seemingly error free but I read it while dealing with frequent interruptions. On the whole its not a bad story just a boring one that doesn't inspire a 2nd read.

Poor Sookie, she's always in trouble! In her latest adventure, she finds herself wrapped up in hate crimes against shapeshifters, political struggles between vampires, worry about her brother and attraction to so many different men! No one juggles men like Sookie, and she changes her mind like she changes her shoes. Oh, I forgot. She no longer has any shoes since her house burned down. What a price to pay for being a little telepathic!

As usual, Harris' characters are wild, fun and never boring. The only thing I would suggest, though, is to read this series in order. While you can pick up any of them on their own, it's far more entertaining to follow the plot sequentially, and Harris does seem to assume that you're at least somewhat familiar with Sookie's past. All in all, a fast and fun read, and part of the reason I've raced through every single one. I'm thrilled we won't have to wait long for the next one.

I'm pleased with the way Sookie is maturing both in her responsibilities and in her outlook on life. I read this book in one weekend and my only disappointment was that it had to end. However, I question this on-going attraction to her by nearly all of the men she meets (those who don't fear her). First the vamps then the Weres, now the shapshifters (it's obvious that Quinn is next in line for her affections). One suggestion I'd like to make (and I hope Ms. Harris will read this and take it to heart...she can use it w/ my full permission): since Sookie's insurance agent, Greg, uses spells to keep his customers 'lucky', perhaps he could cast a spell on Terry's new puppy so that it does not meet with the fate(s) of it's predecessors.

While I really enjoy this series, Book 5 (Dead as a Doornail) was not nearly as good as the first 4. I've noticed many mystery writers tend to develop plot/character patterns... In this book, those patterns are revealing themselves. Once again, there's a new bartender at Fangtasia, a new cook at Merlotte's, Jason has a new "girlfriend", and Tara has a new "boyfriend"... While the series does seem to add a menagerie of new "important" characters with each book, you can be assured that one or two of them will be there in a temporary capacity only to fill their personal agenda... It's this pattern, in part, that made this book less enjoyable. Very early on, I guessed (accurately) who the mystery villain(s) was/were. I get the impression that because Ms. Harris' turning these novels out so quickly, she's rushing thru the story a bit.

In addition to the aforementioned complaint, there just seems to be too many "things" coming at Sookie all at once, in this installment. If it's not suitors simply declaring their intentions/claim, it's a battle of some sort. The first few books spent a balanced amount of time between character/interpersonal development & supernatural conflict. This book barely touched upon the personal connections Sookie has with Eric, Bill, & Alcide, and instead added 2 more suitors to Sookie's collection. To me, it comes across like Harris is stretching herself too thin, trying to do too much in this one book to prepare for future books in the series, and in doing so, she lost part of what makes these books enticing. While having a good puzzle to decode in the book is necessary, so is the progression of Sookie's interpersonal relationships... How many active relationship foundations will she lay (so far, Bill, Eric, & Alcide, not to mention new ones w/Sam & the 2 other characters), before Sookie finds one to stick with, if even for a little while?

I have to say that I'm a bit disappointed with where she took the Sookie/Alcide relationship in this book. The past 2 books, he seemed so great for Sookie & I was looking forward to 'more' of them. It seems like just when you're starting to like a character, she ruins it & Sookie's off to something new. Quite discouraging.

Anyway, nevertheless, while this book wasn't as good as the previous ones, it's still worth reading so that the rest of the series will make sense. Book 6, Definitely Dead, is calling to me, so I'm off to read more. :)

I read the first book on a lark, then read all her Shakespeare books and waited breathlessly for each new Dead book. I know I'll enjoy every page. In this book fans of her Shakespeare series get a nice gift, especially since I've heard she isn't going to write any more in this series. The story is good, although you begin to suspect who the trouble makers are early, you still enjoy finding out if you were right and why. Each character grows in each book and you find yourself liking them more and more. I won't go into the plot here as everyone else has and I really don't like that as I want to find that out myself. I just want to know if it's worth the bother. In this case if you've read the others, you'll love this one too. If you haven't do yourself a favor and start at the beginning. Just learning more about "Bubba" is worth the time. A real joy to read.

I was a little disappointed in this book. I felt that the book was a "exercise" in creative writing which was a little frustrating at times. At times I felt that Charlaine Harris played "mix and match" with Sookie's love interest. I don't mind multiple interests, however what I have issues with is the way it's written. I fell that Charlaine Harris was writing a scene between Sookie and (insert hot guy), at that moment Charlaine Harris leads us to believe that this Hot Guy is Sookie's one and only.

But that's not the only reason I have issues with this book. The over all mystery was not as good as I would have liked. The interpersonal relationships that I mainly read for in this series were subpar at best.

However, this is popcorn. It's good if you want hot guys, multiple love interests (without logic), and did I mention HOT Vampires....

The reason why I gave it three stars- Is because I don't believe that this is worth the money for a hardcover book (although discounted) It would have been 4 stars if it were in paperback.

I love charlaine books, however this one is a little...off, I can't seem to put it into words, but I did notice a lot of you had plenty to say about the book. I read them all, and yes, I was happy that sookie and her boss got a little lips action, but Eric and Bill are my top concerns. I like calvin but he needs to move on to some other creature. Bill is kinda weak and Eric well Eric is never anywhere around when the real Stuff hits the fan, he always has someone else to do his bloody work. I still say Eric needs his own story. I lovvvvve Eric. and the Weres well, now that was an excellent story. and I cracked up over the Fairies. Poor Sookie and all the men who want to get with her. who to choose, who to choose.

Sookie is back and there's more mystery to be solved. I liked this book in the series in particular because the mystery elements and suspense were strong. The only thing I didn't like was there were a few too many men tripping over themselves to be with Sookie. I know, I know, she's special, but it gets a little overdone when ever male creature in the book is making a pass at her.

Other than that, it's a very good book. The sniper is in the background--you're worried every time Sookie is in the open.

Her brother is in this story also--this family development is a nice growth area and it creates an interesting tie into the Were world. There's also a character in the book that has known Sookie for a long time and Doesn't like her. That was refreshing--to remember that there are going to be some people that feel threatened by her abnormality.

Charlaine Harris just keeps getting better and better. In her fifth addition to the "Southern Vampire" series, Sookie Stackhouse now has to cope with her brother Jason getting fuzzy once a month (he turns into a werewolf), her boss Sam getting shot, and her old buddy Alcide Herveaux needing her help in--of all things---politics.

Sookie has more on her plate than she can handle, but lucky for her and for us, the Bon Temps, LA barmaid is expert at juggling. Despite the wild backdrop, Sookie still seems incredibly real. I enjoy Harris work and hope to continue to do so. Unlike some of the authors in this genre, Sookie remains a decent and caring person. The sex in this book is still titillating and for the most part, makes sense in relation to the plot. Further, any really rough scenes also relate to what's happening with the characters instead of gratuitious violence just thrown in.

Kudos to Harris, if she keeps this up, I could easily read five--or ten--more of the Sookie stories.

Normaly I become tired of a series and look for the author to end it. With Sookie and the other residents of Bon Temps I don't have that feeling. Sookie really comes into her own in this installment and even though she is far from "normal" she has angst over past actions and relationships that we can all relate too (well, I've never kiled anyone but I have regrets over actions). I love seeing Eric struggle with his memory and appear ever slightly human. Sookie now becomes even more entangled in the Were community and meets a delicious new Were, Quinn. I can't wait to see him again in future books, and it looks like he feels the same about Sookie. Some people may be upset at all the "man action" in her life, but for someone who was shunned by men and her community until Bill came along it is nice to see Sookie developing relationships that she missed out on when she was younger. If I counted right she now has 6 men to choose from. Way to go Sookie!

Remember the New Year's resoulution Sookie made in "Dead to the World"? Well looks like she should have amended it a bit....

This entry fell flat. I never cared much for Quinn, and the werepanthers could have maybe worked better as a subplot. The highlight is Alcide, even if his situation is dire, and the main mystery wasn't that interesting.
Harries does a greeat job with character development, mood establishing, and setting description. If you like the previous entries, read this as well, you won't regret it. Just don't expect it to be as good as the others.

A friend recommended the Sookie Stackhouse books a year ago and I only got around to them this spring. I knocked through all of them in about 4 weeks along side a few of another vampire series. I totally enjoyed the universe Charlaine Harris has skilly created. Her blending of reality and paranormal fits well enough that you have little trouble believing in it. I found Sookie charming and quirky and the vampires and other-worldly creatures interesting and compelling.

"Dead as a Doornail" easily rates up there with the others. I found NO disappointment in it and rather enjoyed the digression away from the vampire-focus and into the weres and shifters. I was particularly glad to see Alcide again (yummy), though I was less than satisfied with how their relationship was left hanging. Then again, if she resolves it we don't get to see him again! What's the saying? Leave 'em wanting more? Well I want more!

A truly enjoyable read with non-graphic violence that I appreciate!

I started reading the books after being a fan of the show and up until this book, I thought the show was better. This is the first book that really grabbed my attention. The show really starts splitting away with this book and there's a lot of new, interesting material. I also think the author's writing is improving. It was nice to get a new female character in the book. So much of these books involves sookie interacting with some supernatural male. I almost wish I skipped the other books a stared with this one

I was extremely pleased with this book as I always am when purchasing a Sookie Stackhouse novel. She has to be my favorite heroine out of all the vamp/were novels out their, she is down to earth and actually just a normal twentysomething small town girl with just a few minor problems that I as a reader can relate to more.

When the last book left off I was very sad because I wanted to hurry up and find out the result of Eric and Sookie's love life. By the end of this book however, and my only complaint for the whole novel is I'm still sad, it could have been at least a few more pages long.... *tears running down cheeks* thats all I can say without spoiling it for those who haven't read the novel.

I did enjoy the Sookie/Calvin relationship in this one, although I really don't find Calvin all that attractive he is a really sweet man and I hope to see more of him in the future. The murder mystery like some have already said, in a series its extremely easy to figure out who it is in the first few chapters, but oh well, I read these novels for Sookie's love life anyway. *Smiles*

The introduction of a new guy, Quinn (thinks thats it) was really great and I really wish he could have been in more, maybe he will be in the next book. I reallllllly liked him!

Anyway, this book was a really great read, got it yesterday afternoon and read it until 5am this morning, I just couldn't put it down. Its really terrific and you begin to care a lot more about all the added characters...just read the book, you'll see!

If you are up to book 5, you've been bitten by the Sookie Stackhouse book and I don't have to tell you how riveting her life is. Charlaine Harris does it again -- and superbly: keeps you enthralled with an unlikely heroine, vampires, werewolves, and all sorts of creatures that you should know better than believe in.

In book 5, brother Jason is now a shifter himself (and still as dumb as dirt and more handsome than he deserves), a sniper is out hunting his shifter kind, and Sookie is (of course) caught in the middle -- with one romantic challenge after another.

Go ahead and read this one too: Work, kids, the grass, and tax day can just wait!

This is the first time I have ever read this far in a series and not gotten bored. I am loving all the characters and I find myself genuinely concerned with their safety... haha. This book was really good, I read it in less then a day. One thing to note, not one single sex scene in this installation. Interesting... why are bookstores putting this book in the 'paranormal romance' section when it is so not that. It should sit next to Anne Rice and Laurel K. in my opinion, and those typically go to horror. Even though Charlaine Harris isn't scarry by any means, she has definitely created her own genre, and it's causing chaos all across America.

Although I was a litle disappointed that things between Sookie and Eric didn't pick up, seeing as how in the last book they had a little more than a "fling", this was still another hit for me. I love reading these books by Charlaine Harris. They are getting a little redundant, but they're still entertaining, and so far I am still enjoying reading them. Sookie does seem to have an unnatural amount of suitors, but she is an unnatural kind of gal, so I guess that's alright. I'm not sure how I feel about *spoiler* the werepanther that has popped up, but we'll just have to see. I'm still rooting for Eric..or Bill. But mostly Eric :)

Wow, just wow! Dead as a Doornail had lots of action, lots of mystery and more than a few surprises. There was a lot of interesting shape-shifter focus in this novel and I am finding myself quite intrigued by the growing fairy storyline. Sookie is getting close with a couple of different men and I'm really wondering who she'll chose and where it'll go. My interest in Alcide is completely over after reading this but I am very glad that Eric is back to being Eric. Dead as a Doornail answered a lot of questions but presented even more new questions to wonder about. This was one highly entertaining Southern Vampire novel.

I had looked forward to reading Dead as a Doornail, the fifth book in the Southern Vampire Mysteries series, so much that I finished it in two sittings. Now I wish I had savored the pages like fine wine, for there won't be another installment coming out until next year. Sookie has a lot of unfinished business with vampires Bill and Eric and shifters Alcide and Sam. She still has loving feelings for Bill, is unsure about telling Eric what had happened between them during his amnesic state, has issues about Alcide and the incident with his ex-girlfriend, and is unable to shake off her lustful feelings for Sam. But the lovable telepathic waitress has other problems. Her brother is now a werepanther, and his fellow Weres suspect that he is the one responsible for several shootings against shape-shifters. She has also reluctantly agreed to join Alcide in witnessing a battle involving Were politics. She is watching out for her friend who is dating a strange vampire. And to her horror, a couple of private eyes are questioning her about Debbie Pelt's mysterious disappearance. But the worst of her problems is that someone is trying to kill her. There are various twists throughout the novel...

The best part of this installment is that Sookie delves into her inner torments and guilt regarding the events that took place in the first three installments. The storylines are well connected and the readers get a few answers regarding previous events that the reader should not disregard as filler (perhaps some may have to reread the series in order to refresh their memory). I also like Sookie's inner turmoil regarding the men in her life. Charlaine Harris did a great job developing Sookie's inner conflicts. Her feelings for Bill -- jealousy, nostalgia, heartbreak -- are quite palpable in their scenes together. Bill is my favorite of the sup men in the series (Eric being my second favorite) and I'm still rooting for them to get it together. I also liked the sexual tension between Sookie and Eric and her awkwardness for being the only one who knows what happened between them. We all know that Alcide and Sam have a thing for her and there are some interesting scenes with each of them. Werepanther Calvin also has has his eyes set out on Sookie, and she doesn't know what to make of his feelings for her. And now there is a new guy who may well get into the equation. Some of the readers here have complained about the fact that all of those male characters have a thing for Sookie, but I rather enjoy the heroine's tension and history with each of them. Each man has a different reason for having feelings for Sookie -- and all of those storylines are interesting and will no doubt make for great future installments. I am all for a bit of romantic intrigue as long as Ms. Harris does not let Sookie take the Anita Blake ardeur route. I love that all of the main characters had a chance to shine in this book (although not as much as I would have liked). The fairies Claudine and Claude are great (Claude sounds yummy) and I enjoyed Bubba's funny, albeit brief appearance as well. The mysteries are well done, but there is a loose end with the Debbie Pelt investigation thing. I also would have liked for Harris to concentrate more on Jason adjusting to life as a werepanther. Aside from those two shortcomings, I enjoyed this installment. And I rather enjoyed the last page of the book in which promises a great plot for the next book. Dead as a Doornail is another addictive Sookie Stackhouse book. But now I'll have to wait a whole year for the next fix. Oh, well, I guess there is always the Lily Bard series...

I loved the previous books in the series, but I don't think this one measures up to the rest. First, I think the subplot with Charles Twining was kind of silly and unnecessary (and confusing). Second, I am getting tired of Sookie hopping from one guy to the next -- first it's Bill, then Eric, then Sam, then Alcide. My head is spinning. I was disappointed that Harris made Alcide kind of a wimpy jerk in this book, because I really liked him in the last book. Also, how long will Bill have to grovel for Sookie's forgiveness? Yes, he was unfaithful, but he has explained why he had to go back to his former lover. It's obvious that Sookie and Bill should be together, so just let her forgive him and move on with it!

Oh, this fifth addition to the series was just great! I stayed up way too late finishing it in one sitting. It was more action-packed than usual, which really led to an even faster pace! More suitors are lining up for Sookie - there is a mysterious guy named Quinn introduced here... But Harris keeps you guessing about Sookie's romantic future! I still don't care for Bill, and though I love Eric, I do have a soft spot for Sam. And I must say that I had hoped that Alcide would remain in the running a bit longer! This is such a fun series! A quick, easy and VERY entertaining read!

In this fifth and latest installment of The Southern Vampire Novels, Charlaine Harris continues to deliver a strong, stable heroine where so many others have begun to falter.

Pulled ever deeper into the preternatural wilds of northern Louisiana, Sookie Stackhouse has her work cut out for her. Someone is shooting shifters and weres in Bon Temps, an arsonist attacks Sookie's home, a vamp with a dangerous reputation moves into town and the packleader of the Shreveport weres dies - opening the position to those willing to fight for it.

Sookie doesn't falter in her reserve to remain her own woman, and makes a point of letting every single man in her life know it. This southern spitfire knows exactly who she is, and will not let anyone simply step in and take care of her when the chips are running low. Though missing the lusty heat of its predecessors, "Dead As A Doornail" is filled with tempting flashes of desire and a couple new characters to keep the reader anxious for the next book. Personally, I'd like to see more of Quinn...

The only problem with this book is that the reader will finish it too quickly. Hopefully, the wait for the next installment will not be too long.

This is the 5th book in th Sookie Stackhouse Series & it doesn't let you down either! After I started reading it I couldn't put it down. Sookie's brother, Jason, changes into a werepanther & he deals with his new life really well. There is a sniper shooting the local changeling community. Sam gets shot in the leg one night while him & Sookie are walking out of the door at Merlotte's. The hotshot community think Jason might be behind all these shootings. Sookies knows that her brother is innocent & that the next full moon will be fatal for Jason if his name is not cleared. Sookie trys to find out who is behind these shootings to clear her brothers name.

Somebody is shooting werewolves and shape-shifters. After were-panther leader Calvin Norris and bartender Sam Merlotte are shot by a sniper, someone sets fire to Sookie’s house. Sookie’s fairy godmother Claudine pops up to rescue her and vampire Charles kills the arsonist, but who is behind all of this?

I am simultaneously lulled and frustrated by the Sookie Stackhouse series. On the one hand, they are undemanding reads, pleasant, even amusing. On the other - they just aren't meaty enough. There is something so insubstantial and shallow about the series, it leaves me feeling slightly empty everytime I finish a book.

Sookie, for example, is no less annoying in this outing. The first person narative means you have to hear her, once again, describe her hot bod, blond good looks and bemoan her social leprosy on account of her unfortunate mind reading habit (a very inconsistent habit, by the way). Boo hoo. Her brother is self-absorbed, Sookie is all alone (though, as we discover in this offering, not as alone as she thinks), but the supernatural world of shifters, weres, vamps and fairies think she's hot and a lot of them love her, want to marry her or both. Truly, poor Sookie.

That's probably my biggest gripe. It's very hard to sympathise with a character like Sookie. She is very mundane, with some frankly rather unenlightened ideas on a whole range of topics, notably gender. The portrayal of other human women in this book is pretty unforgiving and sanctimonious. On top of that, the 'mystery' is laughable, and the characters that give the series its bite (so to speak), the vampires, are largely missing. Ms Harris should play to her strengths.

As for the appearance of ANOTHER love interest for Sookie... sigh. Just - sigh.

Although Sookie seems to be slowly incresing her past and potential suitors (Bill, Eric, Alcide, Sam, Calvin, and now Quinn), I'm sure I am not alone when I say it is quite refreshing to learn that she doesn't fall into the sack with them as quickly as "some other main character who associates with vampires in another series that I need not name"! When I read the part where Sookie bursts into laughter at just the thought of bedding two vamps at once, I felt it was a not-so-subtle jab at a once favorite "some other main character..."! I like Sookie's world for the characters, (some who remind me of people I know), fantastic story-telling, and how nicely everything wraps up in the end. The only reason I did not give this review 5 stars is that I felt there was too much back-story involved. I already read the first 4 books, I didn't need a recap!

This is the fifth book in Sookie Stackhouse series. We are introduced to a couple of new characters in this installment. I do find it interesting that Sookie has gone through most of her life with no love interests and now she has more than I can count! (Although I miss the Eric from the last book). The books are starting become pretty patternish, but I guess thats what happens when you read a series. The books are enjoyable though, and I look forward to starting the next one in the series, Definitely Dead.

In this fifth installment of the Sookie Stackhouse series, I could not put it down, just like all the previous ones. The tales are fast paced and action packed and the characters new and old keep you highly entertained. However, I miss the romance that existed in the first three books, and that is what lost this one book one star in the rating. I really hope Sookie and Bill get back together, or for Eric to quit being a jerk and realize he loves her. Bring back the romance and I'll boost up the score!

It's hard to believe that this is the 5th in the series, because everything in this book seems so fresh and original that you'll swear you've never read anything like it before. The world that Charlaine Harris has created continues to intrigue and mystify the reader, and the humor and sexual chemistry that run rampant throughout this book make for a terrific combination that will have you, like I did, trying to read at every opportunity (including red stoplights...and some green ones as well).

An excellent book, and highly recommended.

I thought Harris started off well enough with Books 1-3, and even though there were some pretty big plot problems present through out, I was willing to give it a chance, despite not really being impressed with book 4

So here we are, at "Dead as a Doornail", book 5, and the series is just totally ruined as far as I'm concerned. Harris has turned it into more of a caricature or some kind of neo-romance series instead of what I thought it was supposed to be, ie a light romantic mystery type of adventure novel

The girl who started out a virgin in book 1, and who's only had one serious boyfriend in her life, nevertheless feels totally comfortable letting total strangers finger her or dry hump her or just unexpectedly french kiss her through out the series so far. I've always thought that was pretty far fetched, but its taken to new heights here

The girl who loses her virginity on her grandmother's bed, maybe 2 days after her grandmother was murdered in that same house, and who has spent the series doing other similarly unbelievable things, takes those practices to new heights here

And the mysteries, such as they were, the development of her relationships with the other characters, such as they were in previous stories, takes a giant back seat to increasingly unbelievable and uninteresting things from the first two categories

So where does that leave us then? With a 320 page book that has maybe 5 pages of Bill in it. Maybe 10 pages of Eric. Both of these guys were practically co-stars in the previous novels, but here they're reduced to just running in and saying "oh i'm jealous and still want you" or "oh i was worried about you. And I STILL WANT YOU!!!" in a completely bizarre and almost comical way

We have Sookie making out and almost having sex with 5 different guys in one book. Which is hard enough to believe, given the character's past actions, but then what makes it even more ridiculous is that she'll make out with one guy, and then 2 pages later make out with another one, then 10 pages later a third, then back to guy number one, etc

Not to mention that she accompanies one of these would-be-boyfriends to a contest where his father is fighting for his life, literally, and while bf's dad is basically losing this fight for his life, she's letting a complete stranger go down on her, un-noticed by the crowd. Then she pops up, goes "oh that's sad" and is off to make out with someone else

Its so far fetched I cannot believe that it isn't some elaborate satire, but at the same time its so lowest-common-denominator in other places that I can't help but realize that we just have a poorly written book derailing the entire series

There is no guy that Sookie meets who doesn't instantly think she is the most awesome girl ever. There is no guy who is interested in her that ever stops being interested in her. There is no guy that she is interested in who is ever even the least bit hard to get. Maybe this would be ok if the only guys interested in her were were wolves or whatever, but even thousand year old vampires who have had telepath gf's before are over whelmed by her in a way that they admit is unprecedented. there is never any decent explanation for this

I realize that nearly all vampire novels or movies have some hugely old and wise creature falling for a teen aged, non-educated woman, and being completely fascinated by her, but I really cannot fathom how Sookie, whose major character traits appear to be crying and yelling, can capture the attention of all of these supernatural creatures and hold it for so long. She is not particularly kind to any of them, she is not particularly witty, etc, at least not in this installment, and yet they are literally fist fighting over her. No explanation for this is ever even attempted

And worse than that, the "mystery" falls totally by the wayside. It is genuinely an afterthought that is wrapped up in maybe 15 pages, which is pretty much how they handled it in the last book too. The guy who is supposed to be trying to kill her has been living in her house and carpooling with her the whole book, but can't find a better time and place to take a crack at her than in the middle of a crowded bar? The sniper literally confesses in front of 3 witnesses before trying to murder her? But this same sniper, who could smell any paranormal person, couldn't tell that her own boss, who she works next to all the time, is a shape shifter?

So where is this heading? by book 9 she'll have 20 would-be suitors swapping spit with her and performing mundane house hold chores while she complains at them for not giving her feelings proper consideration, and in the 30 pages left over we'll get a half-baked mystery out of it? Why would anyone want to read that?

I'm a huge fan of CH's Sookie Stackhouse series, but the last two just aren't doing it for me. The plot in this book was weaker than the plot in the last book. Not only was it predictable, but it fell flat in the action department. And I was really disappointed when the secondary villian was killed. There was no suspense, no thrill...nothing.
And I'm starting to see a Laurell K. Hamilton trend with all of the multiple male interest. I don't like this angle, because it's as if they're aren't any eligible females in the vacinity.

I did however, really enjoy the battle of the Weres for control of the Pack. But I'm not liking how Alcide is turning out, being all devious and all that. I don't see how he can want to be with Sookie, when he can't even be honest with her, then blames her for things that's not her fault. To me, that's a man on my "do not date" list.

Overrall, not her best.

I enjoyed this novel but it wasn't the best in the series. There are many stories going on and Sookie's love life is up for grabs. This book is setting up different serarios for the future. Bill, Eric, Alcide, Norris, Sam and a new man/were all make apperances and confuse the hell out of Sookie. It seems as if they are all potential suitors but the reader gets to know them all a bit better and as far as I am concerned they all have to many flaws for Sookie(except Sam( not my favorite) and the new guy Quinn(we don't know about him yet)).I think this book sets things up for the future and let's face it, we all want her to have romantic situations with all of them but she isn't a slut (like Anita). Sookie needs to pick and choose. If you read this series you have to read this book, to many things happen. Overall it's a good read.

It's been too long since I couldn't put a book down!! What a marvelous imagination Ms Harris has, I've never laughed so loud and long, been so turned on and spooked -all at the same time!! If this appeals, then the Sookie Stackhouse series is for you!! These are the all time BEST ever vampire books written!! The characters are so well defined that they quickly come alive!! Don't miss this series, -they are much MORE in every way than the HBO series!!

I suspect I'm turning into a 'fangbanger!!

Buy this one used or wait for the paperback. A real disappointment after the others were so enjoyable. I don't know what happened during the writing of this book because either Ms. Harris was not very focused on it or maybe she's just in a rut with her story line, but this book is dull and Sookie seems to be in a bad mood most of the time. Considering the character of most of the men in her life as written in this book, no wonder. This book focuses more on the shifter community and the politics of that group, and they all want to use Sookie for one reason or another. Hopefully the next book will be better. This is the third new book out this year by one of my favorite authors that was not up to par. Laurell Hamilton's new Merry Gentry book and Nora Roberts' latest In Death books were disappointing too. At least Kim Harrison came through with a really good follow-up to her first book, Dead Witch Walking. The Good the Bad and the Undead is a fun read.

For me, audio CDs have ebooks beat all hollow. The only thing is that MP3 players are not so ubiquitous that books are routinely offered in that format. In this case for stance you either have to download the book in Audible.com's propietary format or juggle a box of 8 CD's.

Johanna Parker is not a bad narrator but I prefer Christine Marshall who narrated an earlier novel by Harris. The narration, nonetheless, is smooth with good production values.

If I had my druthers, I would rather Harris backed off a bit on Sookie's love life-- her sensual assessment of every man who gets near her starts to pall after a while-- I would also like her to tighten up the mystery a bit. The mystery took second place to all the supernatural high jinx and the book was not the better for it.

Here's Sookie again trying to find who's killing shapeshifters, who wants to kill her, trying to understand werewolves politics and helping a friend with a dangerous relationship. I liked that the novel contained many subplots that are equally good as the main plot itself. This time there's no boyfriend for Sookie, which many people hated but I loved, because it showed that Sookie is and independent woman that doesn't need to have a man around to live. We also see other aspects of her life as sister and mainly as friend. However there is the promise of another love in the next book. I liked 'Doornail' because after becoming a full mythology on the previous book, Harris turns the series again into mysteries that fit into the mythology. Keep em coming.

This was the best in the series so far. All of the plot themes are interesting, fast-paced, and tie together well. There were no lags in the plot at all, and the characterization and world-building was true to the series. The tension between the main character, Sookie, and her love interests was perfect... not too angsty. Sookie has grown stronger, relying on herself more, yet accepts and asks for help when she's out of her depth. I hope the rest follow suit. Well done!

This is such a great surprise from Charlaine. I really loved that she just doesn't stay on one theme (vampires), but instead goes all over the supernatural realm and in depth. It is so interesting to read about the secret inner workings of weres, the term for what people know as werewolves. Jason has a surprise fate, and unfortunately, Eric is somewhat absent for most of this book, which is sad after he was all in the fourth book, but understandable.

I will have to say that some of the writing techniques of Ms. Harris drive me crazy....clarifying the main characters thoughts with ( ) ???? But I find the more I read of these books the more I enjoy them...This book deals more with the werewolf Alcide...I love Alcide...I wish Ms. Harris would develop the relationship between Alcide and Sookie more. If I had to choose Sookie would be with Alcide...Eric would be my second choice...Bill would not be in the picture at all...I find him very annoying! Good mystery, Sookie is a quirky as ever. A great read..enjoyable, easy, quick. I read it in one sitting. I'm now actually looking forward to the next book in the series. Hoping to see more of Alcide in the future!

Sookie has noticed changes in her brother. If it was uncertain before, its curtain now. Jason would never be the same again. At least not at the full moon. Jason had been bitten by a shapeshifter, a werepanther, and now at every full moon he would change into a werepanther, well a half-man half-panther. Jason seemed to be fitting into the werepanther community at Hotshot quite well. That is until a sniper appears.

A sniper is targeting the shapeshifters of Bon Temps, and some of them seen to think Jason may be the shooter. If Sookie can't find the truth before the next full moon the shifters may take matters into there own hands. Will Sookie loose Jason, the only family she has left?

But that's just the beginning of Sookie's problems. There is yet another attempt on Sookie's life, well several attempts to be accurate. The ex-boyfriend to deal with, a number of suitors to contend with, a fire, a beating, a friend in need, a fight to the death, and supernatural politics that Sookie somehow got dragged into.

Another intriguing fast paced story that is impossible to put down. A great mystery that will keep you guessing till the last page. A very enjoyable read.

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've enjoyed the series so far. but this one seemed a little lacking in plot. i still enjoyed it but just not as much as i did with the others.
sookie stackhouse manages to get herself further and further into complications. even worse now that her brother will be transforming into a panther every month.
in this volume, sookie manages to get shot, almost burned to a crisp, gets a sliced leg, and a broken rib. i may be missing some. and yet in all this, she still manages to get offers from all around. there's good old bill (who she still havent forgiven despite knowing that he didnt really have a choice in leaving her), calvin norris (most gentlemen-like of all the suitors), alcide herveaux (who doesnt seem as sweet as in the earlier volumes), sam her boss (gotten a little possessive) and eric (still as hot as ever and continues to try and con sookie into telling him what happened during the time he stayed with her). oh, and there's a new character, Quinn, who a) has a somewhat sexual moment with sookie and b) will probably be suitor #6 in future volumes.
my only complaint is that considering that bill was sookie's first in so many things, why all of a sudden is she so lewd? it wasnt that long ago and now she's having vision of getting it on with more than one? this doesnt seem like the sookie i used to read about.
despite acting like a harlot, sookie's character has gotten stronger also. she seems less like the victim these days. she thinks better for herself and still continues to put others before her own needs.
i still recommend this book as it does have some promising bits. it's a quick read and not at all boring. it's similar to the anita blake series, but not as hardcore. you still wont be disappointed.

By the time you read my review #28 or so, you've read several reviews referring to too many boyfriends and very little mystery. This is a backlash to another book series (Anita Blake) which appeals to this same niche market which suffers from too little plot and too much sex with too many men. Reviewers need to keep these two series separate rather than projecting their disappointment onto another author/character.

On to the Sookie Stackhouse series - In the first book Sookie finds herself with Vampire Bill, in the second book Sookie is becoming disillusioned with Bill's lack of attachment, in the third book Bill leaves Sookie and she ends up needing Eric to help her find Bill and solve the mystery, in the fourth book Sookie has reciprocated by ditching Bill and ends up termporarily with Eric as they try to remove a witch curse. Okay - lots more happens in the first four books but I'm making a point here! Enter book 5: This is the first book in which Sookie is actually free to play the field and explore her options which she does in a very ladylike way, consummating NONE of these relationships prematurely! So what is all the fuss about? Book one explains Sookie's issues with normal men - so of course the supernatural community is going to be drawn to this hottie, who has her own abilities and is understanding and accepting of the dog, the wolf, the panther and the fangs! Why shouldn't she have the options of kissing one or two of these guys and seeing what might work out for her. At first I thought the mystery a tad thinly drawn when I figured out one bad guy almost as soon as the character was introduced but there was a surprising spin that I didn't expect so I'm satisfied there. Sookie is as engaging and sympathetic a character as ever. I used my Barnes and Noble book card and a coupon to get my book for $15ish. I suggest that if you have doubts order from the store where the book is discounted. I have a dislike of the publisher's technique of going to hardback after the series initiates in paperback. This is happening in several genres with hot selling paperbacks. I think this leaves the book open to a deeper level of criticism from series faithfuls. However - I liked this book and will read it again.

Fifth book in the Sookie Stackhouse series. I love this series and this book was a great installment. It had it all--the vamps (Eric and Bill), the Weres (Alcide), the Shifters (Sam, Calvin and the new one, Quinn) and Sookie continues to get herself in some sticky situations. This series is pure fun. Sookie's romantic options are plentiful, though I'm rooting for Eric. I bought this book at a library book sale.

I love these books....as much as I loved the begining of the Laurell K Hamilton Anita Blake series, but all of a sudden here we have every guy in town wanting Sookie and I'm worried about where it is going!!! These books help keep me sane after reading a Hamilton book that covers only one whole day! or less.

I have to tell you I just finished the new Meridith book and almost died reading Dead as a Doornail when no one had sex! Kissing?!?! That's it!! And who knew "He bent and kissed me on my mouth, as soft as a butterfly's fluttering." Could be just as erotic as the alternative.

When something is overdone it becomes boring and old...no one really cares anymore...ooh sex oh boy! bah! I am desensitized to sex because of Hamilton!! When should just a light kiss give me that warm fuzzy feeling inside?!

I am just hoping that Harris will continue keeping her books fresh and original. Sex is great, but too much of a good thing can cause insanity or just make you want to kill yourself for spending 25 dollars on a book when you could have just watched cinemax for an hour.

This was kind of a double critique...oops! :p

I purchased these books on a whim from loving the HBO "True Blood" series. Couldn't get enough,and with it being the hiatus, I am still reading book #4. These books are a reader's delight when needing a fix of the Sookie Stackhouse novels. Eloqeuntly written, smooth, easy to follow, & makes you can't wait for the next few minutes you'll have to read some more of the books. I would definately recommend them to anyone who likes the romance/occult/thriller genre.

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.

I love all of the Stackhouse Novels. If I were to try and persuade you to read them I'd say they are sexy, funny, and cute. The girl falls into a lot of traps and beds. It's funny because she always lands on her feet, wondering how she got there. She has the beautiful pride and innocence of a southern bell and all the fellows eat it up. This group of novels are just too good not to be read.

I loved this book! Ever since I read the first book of the series, I've been hooked.

It was great seeing some of the "regulars", such as Bill, Eric, Sam, and I liked the new additions, such as Quinn - and I can't wait to see more of him!

I thought the story line was great, the book flowed, there wasn't too much of anything, and my only complaint would be that it wasn't longer - I didn't want to put it down.

I love Sookie's way of looking at things, and I enjoy the fact that even though she deals with the supernatural on a daily basis, she's not awed or enthralled by it, and just seems to take everything pretty much in stride.

I hope to see many more books in the series and I can't wait for the next one to come out.

Thanks, Ms. Harris, for yet another great read!

The action doesn't let up in this one. Another major character's in the hospital before the previous one leaves. And pretty much every male in the book except Claude the gay fairy (no, that's not redundant) makes some sort of romantic overture to Sookie, and even he asks her for a personal favor!

If you haven't read the previous book in this series, you should do that. I'll wait while you order "Dead to the World" (ISBN: 0441012183). There, back? OK, once you've caught up, you'll know that in that episode, Eric the vampire lost his memory, stayed at Sookie's place, and got real close. When he regained his memory, however, he did not remember any details of his interlude with Sookie. So...

Sam's has a new cook - seems to happen almost every volume. Tara has a new boyfriend - also seems to happen regularly. But then the shooting starts:

*Calvin Norris gets shot, seriously injured.

*Sam gets shot, in the leg.

*Sookie gets shot, a shoulder graze.

*Dawson, a Were bodyguard, gets shot, seriously injured.

And then, in terms of who's who vis a vis Sookie:

*Calvin Norris is still interested in Sookie, and in fact they do get in a serious kiss, which surprises Sookie.

*Claudine kisses Sookie a couple times, though, since she's Sookie's fairy godmother, what that might mean is ambiguous. Claudine certainly plays up a hint to others that it might be serious, when such a suggestion is useful.

*Charles Twining, the new bartender at Fangtasia, is intensely interested in Sookie, although respectful.

*Eric is still interested in Sookie, though he's not sure why, and he wants to find out what went on, and he does kiss Sookie again in this book.

*Even good ol' Vampire Bill gets in a few licks, including sharing (innocently, this time) Sookie's hospital bed.

*Alcide Herveax, the Were, attempts to continue his courtship of Sookie, sort of, escorting her to the sort of thing where other people will assume one's intentions are serious. (If you recall, they were once engaged for 10 minutes.)

*And the one we've been waiting for - Sam kisses Sookie, and it might have gone further... yes, admit it, you've been expecting Sookie to finally realize that Sam more than just admires her as a barmaid for several volumes now!!

Perhaps the biggest surprise for me what the sudden intersection with one of Harris's other series, a straightforward mystery series which has heretofore had no hints of fantasy. Lily Bard, who lives in Shakespeare, Arkansas, has been the heroine of such books as "Shakespeare's Christmas" and "Shakespeare's Trollop" and in this book she pops up, having finally married Jack Leeds (isn't that a great name for a PI? Leeds?) as they are investigating Debbie Pelt's disappearance. It's odd seeing Lily referred to as Lily Leeds, after years of seeing her as Lily Bard. Anyway, for those who have only been reading Harris's vampire books, now you are informed that those two characters, who pop up for a couple of chapters here, are actually a whole 'nother series, one I recommend to those who read non-fantasy as well as fantasy.

Other fun bits to watch for - how Greg Aubert's insurance customers stay so lucky; Andy Bellefleur and Sookie finally air some things out; Quinn, who doesn't exactly... kiss... Sookie, and what kind of shifter he turns out to be.

That should be enough teasers to get you all busy!

And, for those just finding out about this series, a few notes on how it compares to the overall vampire genre, a/k/a BunRab's Standard Vampire Classification: What is the vampires' position in the world; do they stand as an allegory for women's sexual fears; what powers do the vampires have; are there other supernatural characters; is the author dead serious, if you'll pardon the pun, or have a sense of humor? The answers, in this case: The vampires in this series can be either good or bad guys. Most of them have jobs; they don't exist merely to be evil and brooding, unlike some series which shall remain unnamed. They do have extra powers; in general these powers include the usual super strength, and once undead, they live very long lives; they can sorta force people to do their will; they need invitations to enter a house; there's no turning into bats. They are good at sneaking off silently, sorta melting away, but no invisibility or seeping like smoke between walls. These vampires' taking of blood frequently involves sex, but doesn't have to; they do need human blood to survive, unlike some (P.N. Elrod's vampires can survive quite well on animal blood, for example) except for Bubba, who gets by on cats' blood - but then, Bubba is... different. There are many other species of supernaturals besides vampires, the most common of which are the Were and shifters. In this universe, Were is reserved for those who turn into wolves, and everyone else is a "shape-shifter" - except for the werepanthers in the tiny hamlet of Hotshot, who are a special and peculiar case. And yes, there's a lot of humor in this series. It's not farce; it's that the characters themselves have senses of humor.

One of the things that I like about this series is that we get a fairly strong sense of "place" - it's very clear that we're in semi-rural Louisiana; we wouldn't mistake the setting for Cincinnati or Chicago if the author forgot to give us a name. There is a community and a background here, that have a life of their own even when the characters aren't doing much. I like that better than series such as Hamilton's, set in what is nominally St. Louis, but could be anywhere, since we never learn a single street name, a single detail about the social life other than our characters, or any idea of what else happens in that city. That's a personal preference - you may not care whether the setting is as fully realized as the characters. I feel it affects my opinion of how "realisticallly" the characters behave, at least within the degree of suspension of disbelief that we have to accept the fantasy at all.

In short: a must if you're following the series, a good series to try if you like vampire novels that don't stick to evil, brooding creee-chures of ze niiiight, and it's also a good murder mystery.

Having read the first 7 books in the Sookie Stackhouse series,(and awaiting the arrival of books 8-10 that I ordered on the store) it is obvious I'm hooked! Love the show, True Blood, but the books are much more entertaining and the story is much different. More characters, different plots. I'll be interested to see where the next season of True Blood picks up! Highly recommend Ms. Harris's books. She's a riot!

There are parts of this book I find pretty boring and having listened to it several times, I skip. But what really annoys me is that the narrator seems to have forgotten her characters' accents in this book. Eric and Pam have normal voices, yet in the next book she goes right back to the accents she developed in earlier books. It is incredibly annoying to me-enough to make me write a review!

I'm an avid reader of the Sookie Stackhouse series, and have genuinely enjoyed the books. However, this is my least favorite of the series. I found it kind of, well...boring. There isn't a whole lot of action, and the majority of the book seems to be taken up by Sookie feeling sorry for herself. It's not until the last 50 pages there's any real drama, and even then it's a bit disappointing.
Nevertheless, I'm hooked enough to keep on with the series.

I really enjoyed this novel, it was a refreshing change from the LKH novels.

The sex was entertaining and not over done. The characters were entertaining, my favorite out of his series is Eric. (which is probably a lot of people's favorite.)

I really like the fact that supernaturals are out in the open and Charlaine Harris does a good job with the interaction between the supernaturals and the humans in her series.

I thought this book was better than the last one. Don't get me wrong, I love Eric, but he wasn't Eric and the romance between Sookie and Eric seemed contrived. Not Ms. Harris's best.

I did think that this novel could have been a bit darker, not a big deal though. It was still enjoyable to read, much like the rest of the books in this series. Another great series to get into is D.N. Simmons's Knights of the Darkness Chronicles. Just finished reading it and I loved it! LKH and Harris fans may want to check it out.

I got hooked on this series and bought all that were out. I got one of my co-workers hooked on it too and she now watches True Blood. I don't get HBO so I can't watch but her husband bought her the DVD set and she let me borrow those. Her husband also bought her the set of books too because she liked them. Anyway, I have the next book in the set on pre-order and can't wait to get it.

This was an decently good book, though not as exciting as some of the others in the series. The main plot doesn't really involve a lot of action, but many smaller, interesting stories are woven together to create a pretty good book. The series' plot is moved along and the characters get some good development, but I wouldn't say I was holding my breath at every page turn. As always though, the Sookie books are much better than average reads.

For those of us increasingly frustrated with former favorite Laurel Hamilton's replacing plot with thinly disguised soft porn, Charlaine Harris' "Southern Vampire" series is the answer. Sookie Stackhouse is a telepathic barmaid in a Lousianna bar run by a Shapeshifter. She becomes involved in the local supernatural community when she saves "Vampire Bill" from drainers. They begin a romance and Sookie finds she can't "read" Vampires because they are pretty much dead.

This is the fifth book about Sookie as she learns more and more about vampires, weres, shapshifters, and witches. She is a likable heroine, practical and open hearted, and absolutely fascinating to all of the above. These books are funny, touching, exciting and well written. Harris creates a world both familiar to genre readers while throwing in new supernatural elements and describing the equally interesting characters in a quirky, small southern town. Enjoy!

I absolutely love all Charlaine Harris "Sookie Stackhouse books" Not even for the fact that they are vampires, but I like the action that is going on too. If you like Vampires and other supernatural creatures, mixed with a little sex and witty comments, you will like the Sookie Stackhouse series.

I do not recommend for anyone under 18, just for the sex situations in the books.

Dead as a Doornail is the fifth installment in Charlaine Harris' dynamic Sookie Stackhouse series. Sookie, the buxom, blond, barmaid from Bon Temps is once again thrust into things that she should not be. Her psychic abilities make her a magnet for the supernatural world.

At the conclusion of the Dead to the World, Eric has regained his self, but remembers nothing of his time with Sookie. Jason, Sookie's brother has been found, but is now a werepanther. Dead as a Doornail opens with Jason experiencing his first full moon as a werepanther. Amazingly enough, Jason embraces his new life and enjoys shifting. As much of a relief as this is for Sookie, trouble is looming. Someone is killing shifters and Jason is the prime suspect. To add to Sookie's turmoil, Eric does not remember his time with Sookie, but knows something important happened. In another twist, Debbie's family is desperately searching for her. This search finds its way to Sookie's doorstep once again.

In Dead as a Doornail we get a much clearer picture of the shifter communities - the werewolves and werepanthers. Sookie is drawn into the political struggles within the werewolf pack structure. The outcome is not a happy ending for Sookie or werewolves. Calvin Norris, the head of the werepanthers in Hot Shot continues to attempt to woo Sookie. Another love interest is most certainly not something Sookie needs in her already complicated love life.

I enjoyed reading Dead as a Doornail immensely. Sookie and her adventures are always a treat. The only drawback to this book is that Sookie and the reader become very disappointed when knowledge of certain character defects becomes evident within those close to Sookie. All of the characters, old and new, add flavor to the series and make Sookie's madcap adventures even more entertaining. On the whole, Dead as a Doornail is a fun read.

Charlaine Harris is the author of four previous Sookie Stackhouse novels; Dead Until Dark, Living Dead in Dallas, Club Dead, and Dead to the World. She is also the author of two popular mystery novel series, the Aurora Tegarden series and the Lily Bard Shakespeare series. Dead as a Doornail will be published May 3, 2005.

I am a fan of the Sookie's series but I must say that I'm a bit disappointed with Dead As A Doornail. There's not much of a storyline in this one. It's more like a recap of the past stories and a preparation for what may happen in the latter ones than a story in its own right. While it's understandable that Ms. Harris needs to explain the roles and history of Eric and Bill, and many other characters, in Sookie's life to the new readers the first time each of them enters this story, I simply don't see why this needs to be done over and over again throughout the story. Also, while I like Sookie a lot and hope that she has someone who's deserving to love her soon, it's a bit too much when nearly all the male characters show romantic interest in her. I'm still looking forward to the next book in the series but hope that it can be much better than this one.

I really enjoyed reading Charlaine Harris' 5th book Dead as a Doornail. I couldn't put this book down when I bought it. I think I read it in 2 days, I would've read it in one but I had to work in the morning. But as soon as I finished the book, I preordered for the next one, Definitely Dead. I loved everything about this book. On how annoyed Eric gets by not knowing what happened between them when he lost his memory, meeting Charles the vampire pirate, and being intrigued by Quinn the weretiger. I hope we get to read more about Quinn, and on the fairy brother & sister team. I also love the fact that Sookie has great will power to drive off her growing suitors. Charlaine Harris is one of my favorite authors ever since Laurell K. Hamilton started to disappoint me. At least with this book there is a plot that is good and keeps your attention.

Although I think this book was better than book 3, I thought the lack of main plot made the book reading messy. As much as Sookie is beginning to get a backbone with her character, it seems as she really doesn't have control of her daily activities which is a bit disappointing. She accepts invitations that lead to her getting in messy situations, all the while complaining about it. I think most of the side characters were not deep enough for us to warrant any care for. I do like book 1,2, and 4 better.
One thing I have to say I did like was Bill's stay with Sookie in the hospital. I thought Harris threw away their relationship all to swiftly after she wrote about it for two books. Even though they may be moving on with their lives, I do not believe that they would just forget about each other so quickly.

If you are reading these books from interest from watching True Blood on HBO, you will probably be disappointed. A lot of superficial story, no depth on interesting characters or relationships. Several "new" characters are simply plot devices that are killed off by the end of this story.

I'm getting bored with this series. Consider Christopher Moore's Vampire books, like "Bloodsucking Fiends" as an alternative.

Johanna Parker has been doing such a good job with the accent up until this book...what happened? She still sounds Southern but not as thick. Also she doesn't put as much into the others characters like she did in the audio books up until this one. I have been listening to the series in succession and the difference is quite noticeable.

I have read 8 chapters already, It's really sad to say that it didn't start getting exciting until Sookie's life was threatened. There have been new people? introduced without even finishing up the Bill/Sookie/Eric triangle. Which is what makes the book exciting to me. I am not a fan of were, so that is a bore and the fairy well she is interesting enough. I am going to try to read one more chapter and then..that's it. If it doesn't get better in the next book- I'm going to give up.

*Sigh* Sookie, Sookie, Sookie, your fashion sense is still stuck in the eighties. I blame this on the author, who, no doubt, thinks she's writing you up to date. I, myself, did a face-palm when I read about your lipstick matching your red earrings and your red socks with your black work pants. Questionable fashion aside, I....
You can find the rest of this review (along with many others) on the CommonBookSense blog!
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It's usually pretty easy to figure out what is going on in the mysteries, but this is still a fun series. It has definitely improved since the first book, and I like that Bill isn't around as much anymore.

I am a fan of the Sookie Stackhouse series. In it, a common, everyday person enters the dark world of vampires--but not just vampires, werewolves and shapeshifters as well. Very strange company. It is intriguing to imagine a time in which vampires are an accepted lifestyle rather than as blood thirsty denizens of the dark.

This book was not as good as the previous novels. The plot was thin at best, didn't really kick in until about half way through, and some of the action seemed trite and forced. I also find myself getting tired of Sookie's constant moving from one Supe to another -- it really belittles such a great heroine. I also dislike the direction the author has taken with Bill. Over the last three books he has really turned into a horses behind -- an immature one at that. Overall, the book was OK and it will certainly bring me back to the next book in the series.

descent. I was way disapointed in the first four books in the series. I am hooked on "True Blood" (the HBO series thats based on the books), and I've been giving two stars, but this one deserves a slightly higher rating. Sookie is growing up and not whining as much and I have to say that I love, love, love Eric, he's what keeps me reading!

The sooki stackhouse books are awesome. Way better than True Blood, and I love the show. The books are very addicting and hard to put down after reading a couple of pages. It has a way different take on the true blood story. I like that it cuts out the other drama of the characters on true blood and concentrates more on sooki.

For those of us who enjoy paranormals, this is such a fun series. There was less of a mystery in this book, or perhaps it was that there was more of a focus on Sookie and the "men" around her. I just hope she doesn't go the way of Laurell Hamilton. But all the characters are interesting and the idea of Sookie's world is intriguing. It's not the best in the series, but still a very enjoyable read.

I've enjoyed all of the books in the series and this one is no exception. I do find Sookie maddening - she does a lot of illogical things and is still so immature that I keep shaking my head at her while reading. The most interesting thing in the series are the vampires in my opinion so to have them take a back seat was disappointing. Also, has anyone else noticed that Sookie's libido has gone into overdrive?

If Definitely Dead follows Sookie and Alcide I'm not sure I'll be able to take it since I am a die hard Sookie/Bill fan but hey what can you do?

For people who like light-hearted vampire stories this series is great and I highly recommend it. I've given 4 stars because the character development is wanting and there are many inconsistencies that someone should have caught.

I loved this addition to the Southern Vampire Series. The interaction between Sookie and Sam, Sam and Bill, Sookie and Eric and Sookie and Bill is worth it without the story.

I also like that you are learning more about the supernatural world that the characters reside in. (In this book, it is mainly werewolf politics).

Charlaine Harris is creating a rich world with few words. Great book!

I've listened to all the books thus far and I loved the narrator's voices for all the characters and her acting capabilities. In this series you here her stop, drink something, swallow, not change voices when a different speaker is being read and it's frustrated. What happened? Overall the story is entertaining, I do miss Eric from the story line, but it keeps moving forward. I wouldn't say it's a "Classic" but I do enjoy the story.

Charlaine Harris has a good thing going. I was introduced to her southern vampire series through a promo in one of Mary Janice Davidson's books. I bought the first four in the series and devoured them in two days. I was so entertained, I had to purchase this last novel ASAP. I have to admit that Club Dead has been my favorite so far, but each one has been an excellent read in itself. I can't wait for the next in the series.

I have read all the "Sookie Stackhouse" novels and I simply love them. Not great literature, but who wants to read "War and Peace" all the time. The writing is precise and not too wordy. I have to admit I orderd the books after watching "True Blood" and was pleasantly surprised that they are different enough from the series to not ruin either experience, after all they did come first. These are wonderful stories and characters and I can't wait for more.

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 can't say enough how I am really enjoying this series. I'm also getting a little nervous too because I only have 3 more books to go and then what?? These books have everything you need all wrapped up in one: Romance, Suspense and Comedy. I find them way better then the Twilight series =)

"I have read all the books in this series and loved every one. I particularly like the way the character of Sookie Stackhouse matures and becomes increasingly self confident and self reliant in each book. And the books get better with each one. I don't need sex scenes in a book to enjoy it, and quite frankly, that's one reason I only read about 20 pages of one Anita Blake book-then never read another. That particular series is an insult to intelligence. I read for enjoyable characterizations, wit, and charm."

This was one of the reviews from a reviewer and I have to say, I totally agree.

I perfer Charlain over LKH in many ways. The characters are much more vibrant and likable. Another excellent author that just as good as Ms. Harris is D.N. Simmons, fans should check her out, i'm sure you won't be disappointed.

I finished reading Book 5 in Harris's Southern Vampire Mysteries last night. I wasn't too impressed with it. There wasn't much vampire stuff in this one, and I find the Weres and the other types rather boring. The author should stick with the vamps- they're much more dynamic (I thoroughly enjoyed the fourth book, which involved the vamps to a high degree). And what's with every guy wanting Sooky? It's ridiculous!

I give the book a 2-fang rating.

This book kept me guessing until the very end. I loved Claudine, Sookie's fairy godmother, she and her twin brother Calude were so much fun. I also enjoyed the glimpses into the were community, Calvin and Alcide's packs.

Lightweight, disposable, but enjoyable almost mystery about a telepathic waitress with a taste for highly exotic boys. Definitely something you can read while doing two other things at the same time. The female protagonist comes across as a pretty normal woman, stuck in a waitress job at a garden variety American standard bar/burger joint, that is quite recognisable.

Okay this seems to be the trend with authors this book is trade paperback size or book club size and it's in bookstores for $22.95 do yourself a favor and either get it at the Library, your local Used Bookstore or here on the store where you can save on the shipping cost if you purchase more than one book. On to my review...

Again I am plaqued by the fact that EVERY supernatural man in this book is attracted to and WANTS Sookie she in turn has been kissing on everyone of these men that seems to show some interest with the exception of 2. 2 out of 6 is not a good ratio in my book LOL I am confused as to where her heart lies. At the beginning you think they are going to do something with the whole Jason thing but they don't they address it once or twice in the book and that's it. This one was kind of sort of all over the place from Alcid's Dad fighting for Alpha Male Werewolf and how is this got ANYTHING to do with Sookie is beyond me, Lily Bard (from Charlaine Harris other series) shows up to investigate with her friend/mentor/lover regarding Debbie's death (which BTW is never really laid to rest) There is something going on with a debt Eric owes and somehow this is tied into what has been going on in Bon Temps there is a killer of "were" people on the loose and that is tied to the bar.

URGHHHH!!! I just was dissapointed because the story didn't have me engaged I didn't care about it I wanted to hear about Bill and Sookie or Eric and Sookie and how that whole thing was going to work out. So if I'm not going to get satisfied with Eric/Bill/Sookie love triangle then give me a story line that is plausible and not 5 different storylines that weren't strong it just felt like the plots were empty fillers, that really didn't jibe.

What I did get was Alcid and Sookie thrown in there and then Sam and Sookie to add to the flavor, to befuddle me Charles and Sookie and top it off Quinn and Sookie. In this it reminded me of the direction of {{{Laurell K. Hamilton Anita Blake Series}}}although without all the raunchy sex. I have heard from fellow readers that they really love this book so it may be me who missed the boat but I still think at $22.95 in the book stores it doesn't warrant it for me.

Respectfully Reviewed

First up, this is the first book by Charlaine Harris that i have read, so maybe reading them outor order is the reason I'm not thrilled with it. For the most part, i liked it. The whole, supernatural world is well done and well written. In fact, I enjoyed most of the story line quite a bit.

The big problem I have with it is that all of these supernatural men seem to have fallen in love with the lead character. Since that isn't what the story was about, it just became an increasingly annoying group of sidestories that kept making me detach from the story.

I like a story that I get so involved with that I feel as if i am there, and all of these supernatural, beautiful, powerful men falling all over our heroine made the story unbelivable (and that's saying a lot when the story is about vampires and shapeshifters). Too many times, I was forced back into reality in the middle of a storyline because of this. I really wanted to love these books, but now I don't know that I will read another one.

This follows the story after the events of the fifth book. AN important thing happens almost at the end, not to spoil, but it has to do with Eric and Sookie. Very good and entertaining read, and as always the mystery was very good.

Sookie Stackhouse was a character who stood out as interesting in so many categories she was in the very top percentage of my favorite female fantasy characters, and Charlaine Harris as an author, equally so. Each book was a pleasure and a delight.

Until this one.

I was deeply disappointed. The biggest shortcoming (and cheat)? How can a character and series go from such a delightful range of sensually embarrassing, astonishing, amusing situations to ....what happened in this book. Which is none, basically.

None.

I will wait for further novels about Sookie to come out in paperback. Or read a copy owned by the library or the bookstore. And I am terribly disappointed in having purchased the hard-cover. My money was wasted.

In the past, when reading the plot summary of Sookie's book, I was skeptical I would be engaged by the story. And each time I was very simply and happily wrong. This time, feeling I have learned my lesson, and whatever unravels for Sookie would be delightful, I was stunned. The opposite was true. My confidence was misplaced.

My favorite characters were Eric and Bill, in that order. And the tension, uncertainty and complete surprise in how their relationships unfolded. Too little progress on either was made in this book. And that something to fill the vacuum? If it happened, it fell far short. It did not cut the mustard.

The only thing consistent here is my surprise. In the past my surprise was expecting 'not' to like Ms. Harris's characters or plot, and being very very wrong.

Now, confident to expect a thoroughly enjoyable and wickedly sensual story unfold, my surprise was to find?

It did not.

I am not an avid reader. I really don't have time. However when I picked up the first Sookie Stackhouse book "Dead until Dark", I could not stop reading. I read the whole series in 14 days, there are 11 books. Love this series. Can't wait for the next one.

I enjoying this one quite a bit even though I haven't read the book (or two?) released prior to this one. Apparently, I missed out on some big, shocking happenin's with Sookie and Bill. Despite all that, there was enough back-story to get me up to date and I had a lot of fun with all of the new characters. Sookie was still a very likeable and down to earth character which was nice ;)

and Sookie's brother is the one everybody thinks may be doing it. Add problems within the werewolf pack, Bill being back and the sniper thinking Sookie is a were and you have a grand old time in the old town.
Get it, read it, enjoy it. Not as good as the others, but all the characters you love to read about are in it, so you should enjoy it.

I could not put the books down! My friend refered them to me and i picked up the first one Feb. 2011. I read all 10 in a series in 2 weeks. I can't wait for the next one in May. There are some editing mishaps like repeating and contridicting facts but the books are very easy to read. I'm not usually a supernatural fan but Sookie is a comical character and a hopeless romantic so I was instantly drawn in by her. Harris is a great story teller!

I had a chance to read this book a few months ago when I got hold of an advanced review copy. I'm a big fan of Charlaine Harris and all her books, but I was really disappointed with this installment. While I enjoy the characters, there are just TOO many of them, and I feel that the main ideas of the series are slipping away under so much supernatural chaos.

Biggest problem - where are the vampires? It is a Southern Vampire mystery series after all, but you wouldn't know it from this book. We've got shifters, werewolves, werepanthers, and even fairies all over the palce, and the vampires are a distant last place. Even Sookie the main character just seems like a catalyst for events. And Alcide, who I thought was great, has turned into a whiny puppy!

Let's get back to Bill, Erice, Pam and Bubba!

This is my least favorite installment so far out of 1-5 that i've read. I don't like how Eric and Bill took a back seat in this book (come back!). There was practically zero romance (for lack of a better word). The story line was all about finding out the sniper shooter and more development of the Weres (snooze). The ending was surprising though. Random but still surprising. Hopefully the next installment will be better.

I love these books. They are campy and fun and easy to read. The perfect books for the beach, or when you just want to read something entertaining that doesn't make your brain hurt! The characters are interesting and the story lines original. Worth the money.

I was pleased that this installment of Souther Vamp. series was less raunchy than previous titles & focused more on the characters. I would really hate to see Sookie go down the Anita Blake road & was pleased that she kept a cool head throughout the book. Yes, it is odd that all the supernatural males are romantically interested in Sookie but at least this gives her plenty of options. I did think paying over $20 for a hardcover edition (and one that wasn't that think to boot) was a bit pricey. But that didn't stop me from pre-ordering. Can't wait for the next installment. Hopefully, Quinn will reappear.

I picked up this series after the Anita Blake stories started going down hill. These are great books. Sookie has always been an outcast because of her abilities. Now that vampires are out she has a whole new life and new importance to the "other" worldly people, the vamps and werewolves. She is beautiful and has something they want from her so of course the males are all enamored with her.

After getting into Charlaine Harris' books--thank's to HBO's True Blood tv series--I was immediately impressed by how quickly the action moves along in the novels. This book is no different; Sookie's life grows increasingly complicated and dangerous as she is further enmeshed in vampire struggles. Fans of the tv series will be pleased to see familiar characters, like Sophie Anne and Claudine the fairy. This is an excellent addition to the series. Fans will be pleased, and newcomers might get addicted.

For me, Charlaine Harris writes fun little reads that I can relax with. I loved this last installment, because Sookie has grown to become so much stronger than the naive young women she was in the first women. In this book, there are no sex scenes, although there's sill sexual innuendo and potential partners, since the focus switches to the world of shifters and weres. I loved learning about the politics among the different groups, and seeing a new side to Alcide's character. What's most inportant to me though, is how the main storyline is about the snipers, and not vampire sex.

I accidentally fell into this series by reading this book first, without having known it. I really enjoyed this book. Its not complicated to follow, even though it does reference the previous books but not so much that you can't read without understanding what's going on. I really liked it and have just started the next book that follows.

this seems to be the "empire strikes back" of the southern vamp series. I felt like I was reading it just to get through the story & on to the next. Has Charlaine Harris lost the magic? I'll read the next book before I decide.

Of course, I am not as fond of the shifters & their storylines as I am the vamps, so that could have something to do with me not enjoying this as much.

Sookie is back along with the vampiric/shifter/were gangs.

In this book, however, Sookie is never happy, always yelling at others and is generally unlikeable. Ms. Harris has thrown in too many new creatures/people without interesting, worthwhile reason. It needs more vampire and less strange. I look forward to the next book, in hopes that Ms. Harris will help Sookie find a more engaging kookiness in which to live. More southern vampire, please, less random creatures of the night.

Not your best book, Ms. Harris. I will give you this, we only had to read about the Word Of The Day twice and you didn't dress Sookie in any off the wall, Wal-Mart, backwoods clothes. If you're looking for action like the past few books, you're not going to find it here. DAADN was mild with a few hot chiles thrown in.

Ms. Harris also needs to speak to her publisher about the awful covers on her books. They look like some 12 year old fantasy book instead of the blood,sex and shapeshifting books that they are.

I think this book was long on potential suitors and short on plot and action. I like Quinn, but Sookie did not seem to be using alot of common sense. She should have told Alcide to take a hike after Colonel Floods funeral. I'll still read the series I am addicted. This just wasn't my favorite.

A very much anticipated read for a major Sookie/Harris fan, and quite disappointing. The main "mystery" is weak and resolved almost as an afterthought. The usually charming and sensible Sookie is cranky, frenetic and unlikeable (gasp! I can't believe I just wrote that!), yet mysteriously alluring to almost every supernatural being in Louisiana.

The reader is thrown into the complex, yet deeply boring world of werewolf politics for no apparent reason. Yawn.

The most enjoyable parts of the book for me were the cameos by Jack and Lily Leeds from the Shakespeare series (and even that subplot just petered away) and the always, always entertaining Pam.

I assume all of this "sound and fury" is set-up for the next book, which seems more promising. Go library on this one and save up your cash for Book Six.

I bought the Kindle version, and though it might be a formatting problem, there were a lot of grammatical errors. The book isn't the most interesting, and definitely has a lot of long inner dialogue paragraphs, but the story is so good! You just have to kind of push your way through the book sometimes.

Wonderful book that I couldn't put down, even though I was in Italy on vacation! I even wanted to take it to the wedding I went to!

Doesn't matter if you've read any of the other books, this is a definite page turner and must read

I've started reading the Sookie Stackhouse books and have found them to be my guilty pleasure. I enjoy the characters and the world they're set in, but there are just too many logic flaws for my continued enjoyment. It started in me in the first book, when Sookie is being stalked by a serial killer. Her friends all know about her predicament, but seem alright with letting her babysit. I've met plenty of stupid people in my life, but non dumb enough to leave their kids with a woman who is admittedly being stalked by a murder. Also, in the third book, she learns that werewolves or shape shifter can only have one werewolf/shifter child when two mate. This means that the werewolf/shifter population is cut in half each generation, and if they have been around for hundreds, or maybe thousands of years, there should be practically none left at all, yet they're everywhere in the story. I enjoy the characters and the plot lines, but there are just too many flaws, unexplained foolish decisions by characters, and general inconsistencies with the fictional world they live in to get through to completely enjoy this series. Where as Ann Rice seriously needs an editor to cut, Harris needs an editor to critique.

Harris also has a vary limited bag of tricks to drive the action forwards. In between times of action or intrigue, there is almost always a sex scene, or description of a rock hard body Sookie wants. The writing is fun, but not crafted well enough to hold the readers attention without this. Some say it's a blend of several genres, but the romance is lacking, the mystery is full of illogic plots and character motivation, which in turn makes it very hard to suspend disbelief for the fantasy. My recommendation for anyone looking to crack into this series is look elsewhere.

Charlaine Harris gives you an excellent story that never fails to engross the reader. All of the Sookie books roll together so well and provide such detail. I am from north Louisiana so I can reference a lot of the places she talks about which helps. I read these books over and over again. A definite must read.

You have got to read this book! If you have not read the previous ones, take the time to go back and read those too. Whenever I have read the adventures of Sookie, I get strange looks because I always laugh out loud! I will not spoil it for you by telling you any details. This is a must read! I can't wait for the next installment!

I've read all the books in this series, and have found all of them a fun read. Dead as a Doornail unfortunately is the exception. There is no storyline, no mystery, no excitement.

In the very beginning of the book we discover three shifters have been shot, and then we pretty much spend the rest of the book following Sookie around as the men of her little part of Louisiana declare their love or lust for her. No mystery solving. No feeling of danger. Really nothing at all.

If you enjoy romance novels maybe you'll find this enjoyable, but if you are looking for another Sookie adventure then definitely skip this installment of the series.

If you're reading this, Charlaine Harris, please stop and head right back to the computer or laptop or wherever it is you create Sookie et.al. These are my faves since I discovered them. Sookie is so decent and down to earth and these books just never fail to engross. By far the best of the "vamp fiction" out there.

This book is so good and it will keep you at the edge of your seat. As soon as you are done reading it you will want to re-read it and no only that you will be wanting to read the rest of the series. I highly recommend it.

Every may, i wait for the newest book in the series. this book is full of surprises and funny and full of "Sookieisms" she once again saves the day, and her friends. This book deals with mostly the shifters. for any bill fans, well... maybe next book? cause he doesnt have a big part. the Weres are back including the big strong alcide.

all in all it was pretty great. it left me wanting more.

This book is a good book in the series. I am now waiting on the next book to hit the stores. I like this series because it is funny and the story is still unfolding. Once I read a book in this series, it just makes me impatient for the next book!

Lacked the strong developed plots of the previous books with undervelopement of intercharacter relationships. Disturbingly remeniscent of the later Anita Blake books with regard to excessive male attention that is annoyingly distracting of the main plot and its clear development.

This 5th book is a great and fun read.

Sookie is in fabulous form and we meet everybody we already know plus some new and mouth-watering gyus ; )

I laughed out loud on several occasions and cant wait to read the next one.

I am very unhappy with Charlaine Harris. She writes very strong words. I loved her books up until this one. I don't get it what was she thinking? There was no closure, no satisfaction. After wasting $24.00 I was extremly disappointed. I'll wait for her next book to be in paperback.

Ms. Sookie do beware...between the weres, the vamps and unknown enemy(IES) who wants to kill you...please be careful! This is book number five in the Southern Vamp Mystery Series and it doesn't disappoint.

I love the Southern Vampire Series, and was so excited as I waited for this latest to be released.

I read it in 2 days and was so let down I wanted to cry!!!! What happened????????? By far, the worst book in the series. No substance, no fun, no adventure.

Save your money on this one. If you must read it, wait for the paperback. I hope and pray the next one will be better, and will redeem this otherwise fun series.

This book was a little off. Sookie did not seem to have her usual down to earth Southern charm. Her relationship with Eric, which had been addressed over the last several books, was underplayed. There was not much of a plot. Wait for the paperback.

I really liked the previous books in this series a whole lot so was very excited when this book came out. I read it and there was no eric or bill, so no romance involving sookie. That is what I like so I was very disappointed with this book. I hope definately dead is better but it doesn't sound like it will be.

If I had the option of forfeiting all stars I would have. This book was poorly written and hard to read. I haven't read any of this authors previous books, nor will I ever. This was like reading a 4th graders epic fictional final. BAD, BAD, BAD!!!