Fair Game (Alpha and Omega)

Once again, I had an action filled Patricia Briggs book that I couldn't put down. The only reason I gave a 4 is there were a few characters I would have love to know more about. But other than that. I loved it!!

This book was well worth the wait. The ending of the book was just amazing and I can't wait to read the next book. I am glad that the timeline in A&O has caught up to the timeline in the Mercy books and now I can't wait until the next Mercy book comes out next year to see how the end of A&O affects Mercy!

Patricia Briggs is one of my favorite, if not my favorite authors. She comes up with such interesting characters and scenarios. This book is packed full of action and surprises. I just love her! Can't wait for the next one.

I'm a huge fan of the Mercy Thompson and the Alpha and Omega series, but this is the best of all of them since the first Mercy Thompson book. Excellent writing, finely drawn characters you care about and root for and a hum dinger of an ending that has me DYING for the next book to come out.

Any fan of Patricia Briggs would love this book, and those new to this series wouldn't beable to put the book down until the last page is read. Each one of these series, you learn something new about the characters and there is no way of not falling in love with those characters all over again. The only bad thing about this book is the ending! It will make you want to throttle the woman and force her in front of her pc to write the next book to find out what happens next! lol. But all in all, excellent book and I highly reccomend this series. It is easily to become addicted to Charles, Anna, Bran and all of the other main characters these books. If possible I'd give it a 11/10.

A fabulous addition to my library and I can't wait for Patricia's next book. I was a little disappointed with River Marked and wondered if the author was running out of steam. However, this book puts that worry to rest. The ending was perfect and I look foward to seeing the consequences in The Mercy Thompson series and the Alpha and Omega series. The only fault would be that the book was too short. Although, maybe that was because I read it so quickly! I would definitely recommend the book but readers should start from the beginning of the series. I would also strongly recommend the Mercy Thompson series which is interlinked with this one.

Charles has helped her heal and trained her now all he has to do is learn to trust her. Anna is in the lead in most of this book but Charles is the one that get healed and learns a lot in the process. Book deals with serial killers and politics sometime is difficult to tell the difference.

I love Patricia Briggs's books and this one is also an excellent read. The people are beliveable evn though they are warewolves. Patricia Briggs writes books that you can't put down. The ending was a real surprise and I didn't see that coming. I would recommend this book to everyone.

This book is just as good as the first to. My only slight upset was that it was to short, It just seemed shorter than the others. But the storyline makes up for it. If you liked the first two or any of patricia briggs' other books than you should read this one.

Patrica Briggs is a phenom! I m so impressed with her ability to create, to balance her stories and to enthrall her audience. With the rich text that she creates her characters world never seems phony or out of touch with the reader(me). She trully is a great story teller.

I'm relatively new to the fantasy genre but I've loved each of Patricia Briggs' Alpha and Omega series (also her Mercy series which has some of the same characters). 'Fair Game' nicely developed both Anna and Charles' characters and had me holding my breath to see how they would overcome the challenges they faced. The ending left me wanting the next installation of this story right now. I've read both of these series more than once because the characters are genuine and believable - even if they are fantasy based.

finish fair game and really hope that the series continues - Briggs characters are the great and i have fallen for this series - i really hope that it continues - once you think you have something figured out it takes a little spin on things to keep it interesting - i am looking forward to reading the Mercy Thompson novels - keep it up Briggs well written books

Patty does it again! Another fabulous book in her Alpha and Omega series. I absolutely love reading her works and have difficulty putting them down until they are finished. :) Can't wait for her next piece of work.

This was, in my opinion, the darkest novel that Briggs has written to date. It was a difficult read for me because the killers were so brutal. It was like reading Law and Order: SVU - Paranormal Division, or something. I generally like the Alpha and Omega series better than the Mercy Thompson series, though I love them both, but this novel reminded me more of the Mercy series. This is my least favorite of the Alpha and Omega series, for sure, and my third least favorite by Briggs. It was pretty obvious who the bad guy was, and Briggs is usually better at keeping me guessing. I just didn't feel the level of suspense that I'm used to when reading a Briggs novel. To me, this was one of those books that was necessary to move the story forward, and that usually makes for a less than amazing story. However, I still enjoyed the book, and it was still well-written. I just hope the next one is better.

Charles and Anna have hit a rift in their marriage, so they weren't as close as they have been in previous novels. This isn't because they don't like each other anymore; it's simply because Charles' guilt at being his father's unquestioning assassin is taking a toll on Charles since he's more about justice than mindless killing. Since the chemistry between them is non-existent for most of this novel, and the majority of the book was set in Boston, this crossed over into the realm of Urban Fantasy rather than Paranormal Romance. The sweet romance of this series is supposed to be what sets it apart from the Mercy series. I'm sure you see the problem with this crossing over. However, there were some extremely interesting developments in the story.

One of the newer things I noticed is that Charles and Anna are working with humans to solve a crime. Now that the werewolves have come out, it's important to have good public relations with the humans. I really liked Leslie, and I hope to see more of her in future books. She was a fantastic character. She was strong, intelligent, and open-minded. Also, Charles grew a lot in Fair Game. He developed more than I expected him to, and I can't wait to see what these developments mean for his and Anna's relationship, as well as his relationship his father. Bran changed a little as well, and Anna really stood on her own two feet. She has become much stronger and will not let herself be victimized again. She's healing by leaps and bounds.

I liked the developments with the fae, and the ending has ensured that there will be a lot of turbulence in the Mercy/Alpha and Omega world. I'm interested to see how these developments affect Mercy and company in Seattle, as well as how they affect Bran and the Marrok's pack in Montana. These two series just got a lot more complicated, and the next few books for each series are going to be intense. One thing about the ending really bothered me, though, and I just feel like more people should have died. I know that sounds harsh, but once you read the book, you'll probably understand what I mean. Of course, maybe death was too good for the bigots. Yea, I got angry at quite a few people while reading this, haha.

The pacing of the book was done pretty well, though it did drag and some places. I felt like some of the parts were a bit uncalled for and just used for padding to make sure the book was long enough, and parts that would have shown Anna and Charles trying to fix their relationship or developments in the serial killer case were skipped over. I think that maybe some of those parts could have also been replaced with parts from Leslie's perspective, since Briggs did 3rd person limited with switching viewpoints. The POV wasn't confusing though, and it added some depth to the story. I'd also like to know why I was able to figure out who the killer was before a centuries old werewolf. Maybe Charles needs to watch more of Anna's detective shows. Because I knew who the killer was, the big reveal wasn't a big reveal, but it was still suspenseful because of how brutal the killer was.

Overall, this book was well done, but it just didn't live up to what I am used to when it comes to Briggs' writing. Usually, she'd get an A+ instead of an A-. Still, there was tons of character growth, the plot was intriguing, and the pacing wasn't too terribly off. Even when I'm not as blown away as I should be, Briggs is still better than most of the authors out there today. I'd definitely recommend this book to any adult who enjoys suspenseful werewolf stories, and especially to fans of the Alpha and Omega and Mercy Thompson series. Because of how dark this book was, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone under 18.

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I really liked the first books in this series and have read them more than once, this one not so much. It was a lot more of the weird fae's story than I would have liked and not enough of Anna & Charles. Maybe it's just me, but even the Mercy Thompson last book had the monster in the river that was a fae, to me a series about werewolf's should stick to werewolf's, I was expecting more of a story about them coming out to the humans. Enough said about what I would have liked, I bought it for my Kindle and will more than likely buy the next one too.

This review is not so much as what happened as an overall impression - the intensity of this entry of A&O series cannot be understated. Patricia Briggs has evolved as an author, this is worth the hardback pricing. I don't want to say anymore as I don't want to spoil the book, but this book takes the series from another urban paranormal to the best sci-fi/fantasy type, the kind that essentializes the essence of a truth. And it does it in a non-preachy, highly entertaining manner.

I was so upset that I had to go to work and couldn't sit home and read. Anna and Charles are back and still working through their relationship problems. I love the Mercy Thompson novels and this spin off series has grown on me. I truly enjoy the too brief inclusion of Bran and the Moor. This book set in Boston had mystery, banter and action. The shock and awe ending demanded several re-reads.

So many series start to suffer several book in. Not Ms. Briggs' series! I was impressed at the continued development of the series' plots, characters, and dialogue. All were top-rate.

If you're a fan of intelligent urban fantasy with strong characters, especially strong female characters, I would highly recommend reading these books. Patricia Briggs sets the bar very high in the modern urban fantasy genre! I'm thoroughly enjoying this series, as well as the "Mercy" books.

Can't wait for the next one!

A serial killer who has evaded capture for decades has now turned an eye to werewolves and Fae. In Boston there has been a slew of murders; women and children abducted, raped and tortured before being killed. The suspected killer continues to run circles around the FBI, but when a number of werewolves fall victim the Marrok steps in and sends his best to aid the authorities.

Normally Charles Cornick would be the last person to help the FBI in their investigations. The werewolf `boogeyman', Charles is less than hospitable at the best of times ... but he has grown worse in recent months, with the ghosts of vengeful werewolves haunting him. Charles is not the best man to finesse this job with the FBI, but his wife is.

Anna Cornick, a precious Omega werewolf, knows a thing or two about being a victim. It is her intention to make sure she and Charles aid the FBI in catching this deranged killer, and ensure no more people (werewolf, Fae and human alike) are never again made to be victims of a madman.

`Fair Game' is the third book in Patricia Brigg's `Alpha & Omega' urban fantasy series, a spin-off of her original `Mercedes Thompson' series.

`Fair Game' is one of the most anticipated paranormal novels of 2012, but I can safely assume that fans of Patricia Briggs have been counting down to the book's release for quite a few years. Fans have not read a Charles & Anna book since the 2009 instalment, `Hunting Ground'. A new contract for Briggs negotiated that she would have alternate release years between `Alpha & Omega' and `Mercedes Thompson' - so while 2011 gave us `River Marked', we will have to wait until 2013 for a new Mercy instalment. Alternatively, we won't be revisiting Charles & Anna again until 2014 (if at all?). That makes `Fair Game' about as precious as hen's teeth, and places a high level of expectation on a novel that has been so long in coming, and will be a while in returning ... so it's lucky then that Briggs delivers, ten-fold!

Readers pick up the story when times for North American werewolves are tough. Since being `outed' to the public, the wolves have had to partake of some serious PR campaigns, to convince humans (and more importantly; law-makers and the media) that they are not the monsters of comic books and horror films. To this end a tough love initiative has been enforced by Bran Cornick, Marrok of the wolves. Any misbehaving wolves that step out of line are not given three strikes or warnings - instead they are dealt with harshly and swiftly, and the deathblow comes from Bran's son and executioner, Charles Cornick.

Charles has always been the North American werewolf law enforcement - but this public awareness and PR campaign has seen his job increase exponentially. He no longer has his mate, Anna, accompany him on interstate missions that see him enter pack territories and kill misbehaving werewolves (whose actions could lead to explosive news stories on the violence of the species). As a result of an increased kill-load and strict `show no mercy' hard line approach, Charles's mind is slowly buckling under the pressure. He sees ghosts when he looks in the mirror and has turned away from Anna's comfort, silencing their mate bond for fearing of infecting her with his darkness.

When the Boston killing spree (which includes the murder of innocent werewolves) is bought to Bran's attention, he sends Charles along with Anna on her advice - to give Charles a chance to be the `good guy', and remind him who the bad guys really are.

When `Fair Game' begins, a few months have passed since the events of `Hunting Ground'. In that second book Anna was only just starting to come into her own, to stand up for herself, learn to fight and move on from the horrors of her past. When `Fair Game' begins Anna is a whole new person, and Charles is the emotionally weaker of the two. The altered dynamics are instantly recognized, and alarming for their switch.

From the moment we met him in Mercy's first book, `Moon Called', Charles has been the stoic warrior. He has always done what needs to be done, his father's right-hand-man. Charles is executioner to Bran's judge and jury. So to read his altered mind-set in `Fair Game' is disarming, and illustrates just how far the fracture goes. He has locked down his mate bond with Anna, he doesn't sing anymore and is seriously thinking that his time as a sane werewolf is at an end. And, really, his love for Anna is all that is keeping Charles afloat in his dark days... he sees it as a selfish love, knowing that his soul is deteriorating, but he holds on to Anna because she is the only peace he has ever known, and he loves her too much to let her go.

Anna, meanwhile, has transformed into a fierce and feisty young woman. She does not bend before Bran's stubbornness, and while Charles's dark outlook has been sending other people scurrying, Anna meets his despair with unwavering loyalty and the steadfast belief in her ability to help him. Anna is such a wonderful character - and with `Fair Game' Briggs is illustrating her character arc and transformation. From Anna's beaten and terrified introduction in `On the Prowl', to this sweet and tough mate in `Fair Game'. I have always thought that Anna and her character path was sort of running in the opposite direction to Mercedes. Anna started out beaten and downtrodden, and over the course of her series she is learning to rebuild and not be fearful... Mercedes, meanwhile, was bought up a coyote amongst wolves and learned to hold her own against bigger predators. For a long time, Mercedes was a little cocky ... until the events of `Iron Kissed' saw her confidence shattered and her soul wounded. It's only now, with Anna in `Fair Game' and Mercedes in `River Marked', that both women are feeling whole again; ready to face down the demons of their past and rebuild. I'm interested to know what happens next - when the internal conflicts are (mostly) overcome, what will be the next hurdle that these characters have to overcome...

And, on that note, there is a hint, in `Fair Game', of a possible direction that Anna & Charles's story could go in the near future... Anna is thinking about the werewolf cause, now that her kind is out in the open, and what benefits werewolves will reap from being in the public domain. No werewolf female can reproduce - the change is too harsh on the foetus and remaining wolf for nine months is too risky on one's psyche. So what about adoption rights for werewolves? Surrogacy? These are all very interesting topics that Briggs is bringing up, and I do hope that even though it's a passing thought in `Fair Game', that it's a hint of things to come...

I will warn that a lot of `Fair Game' is police procedural. Charles and Anna are involved in an FBI investigation, so a lot of `Fair Game' is concentrated on catching the killer, looking for clues. Each Briggs book is a `whodunit' in some sense, but `Fair Game' more than most feels crime-heavy, with Charles's emotional state the real focus of the book. That being said, `Alpha & Omega' is very much a romance, and there is plenty of Charles & Anna sweetness in `Fair Game', reminding me why these two are one of my all-time favourite couples in urban fantasy!

The end of `Fair Game' is a game-changer for the series... which will also impact the `Mercedes Thompson' world. I refuse to give anything away because the shocking finale is too draw-droppingly good to spoil. The end also has me salivating for the next Mercy book (hurry up 2013!) and crossing my fingers for at least one more Charles & Anna book (2014? Pretty please?).

Patricia Briggs is one of the best urban fantasy writers around at the moment. Both her `Mercedes Thompson' and `Alpha & Omega' series are sublimely sensational spins on the old werewolf folklore, and `Fair Game' is a highly anticipated instalment in a much-missed spin-off series. Charles & Anna's relationship is as complex and epically romantic as always, and the character transformations in this novel are incredible and unsettling. There is upheaval in Briggs's werewolf world, and I can't wait to read what happens next.

Very fast paced, and fun. This book has a good balance of drama and action. This book may put Anna as my top Heroin character. She is the strongest character I've read in a while, and keeps getting better. LOVE IT!!!

This offering is very much a formula. It is very exciting when authors find a new premise. However, like many other series, each book there after becomes more and more of a formula, rather than a development of characters. I agree with other reviewers about the typos and editing errors. Generally, it seems to be an epidemic in certain authors of lack of quality. I will probably continue to read the series, as the author has done a good early job of creating reader caring about Charles and Anna. However, likely will not continue to purchase on Kindle, but rather purchased used or wait for the library. Definitely not a series where I will jump to get the next one as soon as available.

It's Patricia Briggs, so still worth reading, I suppose. But this was reminiscent of her early novels. The witty banter, wildly imaginative scenarios, and fast pace are noticable absent. Instead we have a slow-moving, predictable and unsatisfying piece of fiction. I fervently hope her next novel is up to her usual standards.

I just finished reading "Fair Game" on my Kindle Fire (something else I highly recommend)... I preordered it after I had started the first Alpha and Omega book series. All I can say is run, don't walk, to pick up a copy of this book. I loved it, and the ending is a knock out. Patricia leaves the door open down the road for future stories, and I'm looking forward to all of them...

Fair Game is a great addition to the Alpha & Omega series. Anna, normally a passive character, really shows her teeth when it comes to defending Charles (her mate). The plot is solid and you even see a more relateable Charles, but you're always reminded of the strength and power under his calm exterior. A very enjoyable read.

I loved this book! The ending gave me chills and if you've read it you know the scene I mean and if you are going to read it you'll know the scene when you get there....If you like this genre this is a MUST read!!

This was a great addition to the Alpha and Omega series. The characters were so captivating and alive. Could not put this book down until the final sentence. I felt like I just emerged from a refreshing trip into another world. Please keep the Alpha and Omega series coming! I have become a rabid fan!

This book was great! I can't wait for the next in the series! I like the evolution of the relationship between Anna and Charles. They are still trying to understand each other, but fit perfectly together.

I LOVED the first 3 installments of this series and was a bit disappointed by this one. That's not to say it isn't a good book, just not on level with the other three. Charles and Anna took the back seat to most of the rest of the story. I feel more could have happened between them towards the end of the story. I felt unfulfilled in relation to Charles and Anna's interaction.

The latest installment of Patricia Briggs' Mercy-Thompson-off-shoot series, Alpha and Omega, falls somewhat short of the author's usual standard--the funny, sexy fantasy for which she is so deservedly known--but it's still more cleverly orchestrated and better written than the vast majority of the competition, and offers the promise of a new and exciting future for the series.

In this installment, werewolves Anna and Charles find themselves partnering with the FBI and a made-up paranormal governmental agency to track a serial killer who has been targeting their kind. Their mission and their relationship are hampered by the fact that Charles is secretly haunted by ghosts--but not to worry--they can be dispelled via cell phone. Anna, meanwhile, is concerned because she and Charles haven't had sex lately. Fortunately, midway through the novel, the couple go ahead and go for it in the woods in front of the FBI and a bunch of other werewolves, so that gets resolved, too. Happy endings all around. And, you know, they catch the killer and all.

Of course, there comes an inevitable moment when Charles has to save Anna. All the passion of their relationship is wound up with the desperate threat of loss, and it's sort of hilarious watching as Briggs tries to balance her signature themes of domination and romantic possessiveness with feminism. It's not that these things are inherently incompatible. Rather, the author's own internal tension is palpable in the work. Anna, like all Briggs' female leads, walks a thin line between resilience and strength, luck and wit; her greatest asset is the fact that she is beloved of someone far more dangerous and far more deeply damaged than herself.

Like "River Marked" before it, this is in many way a series-building novel, occupied more with plot than with character development. We don't learn much about anyone in this book--but that doesn't mean it isn't fun.

So many series start to suffer several book in. Not Ms. Briggs' series! I was impressed at the continued development of the series' plots, characters, and dialogue. All were top-rate.

If you're a fan of intelligent urban fantasy with strong characters, especially strong female characters, I would highly recommend reading these books. Patricia Briggs sets the bar very high in the modern urban fantasy genre! I'm thoroughly enjoying this series, as well as the "Mercy" books.

Can't wait for the next one!

A serial killer who has evaded capture for decades has now turned an eye to werewolves and Fae. In Boston there has been a slew of murders; women and children abducted, raped and tortured before being killed. The suspected killer continues to run circles around the FBI, but when a number of werewolves fall victim the Marrok steps in and sends his best to aid the authorities.

Normally Charles Cornick would be the last person to help the FBI in their investigations. The werewolf `boogeyman', Charles is less than hospitable at the best of times ... but he has grown worse in recent months, with the ghosts of vengeful werewolves haunting him. Charles is not the best man to finesse this job with the FBI, but his wife is.

Anna Cornick, a precious Omega werewolf, knows a thing or two about being a victim. It is her intention to make sure she and Charles aid the FBI in catching this deranged killer, and ensure no more people (werewolf, Fae and human alike) are never again made to be victims of a madman.

`Fair Game' is the third book in Patricia Brigg's `Alpha & Omega' urban fantasy series, a spin-off of her original `Mercedes Thompson' series.

`Fair Game' is one of the most anticipated paranormal novels of 2012, but I can safely assume that fans of Patricia Briggs have been counting down to the book's release for quite a few years. Fans have not read a Charles & Anna book since the 2009 instalment, `Hunting Ground'. A new contract for Briggs negotiated that she would have alternate release years between `Alpha & Omega' and `Mercedes Thompson' - so while 2011 gave us `River Marked', we will have to wait until 2013 for a new Mercy instalment. Alternatively, we won't be revisiting Charles & Anna again until 2014 (if at all?). That makes `Fair Game' about as precious as hen's teeth, and places a high level of expectation on a novel that has been so long in coming, and will be a while in returning ... so it's lucky then that Briggs delivers, ten-fold!

Readers pick up the story when times for North American werewolves are tough. Since being `outed' to the public, the wolves have had to partake of some serious PR campaigns, to convince humans (and more importantly; law-makers and the media) that they are not the monsters of comic books and horror films. To this end a tough love initiative has been enforced by Bran Cornick, Marrok of the wolves. Any misbehaving wolves that step out of line are not given three strikes or warnings - instead they are dealt with harshly and swiftly, and the deathblow comes from Bran's son and executioner, Charles Cornick.

Charles has always been the North American werewolf law enforcement - but this public awareness and PR campaign has seen his job increase exponentially. He no longer has his mate, Anna, accompany him on interstate missions that see him enter pack territories and kill misbehaving werewolves (whose actions could lead to explosive news stories on the violence of the species). As a result of an increased kill-load and strict `show no mercy' hard line approach, Charles's mind is slowly buckling under the pressure. He sees ghosts when he looks in the mirror and has turned away from Anna's comfort, silencing their mate bond for fearing of infecting her with his darkness.

When the Boston killing spree (which includes the murder of innocent werewolves) is bought to Bran's attention, he sends Charles along with Anna on her advice - to give Charles a chance to be the `good guy', and remind him who the bad guys really are.

When `Fair Game' begins, a few months have passed since the events of `Hunting Ground'. In that second book Anna was only just starting to come into her own, to stand up for herself, learn to fight and move on from the horrors of her past. When `Fair Game' begins Anna is a whole new person, and Charles is the emotionally weaker of the two. The altered dynamics are instantly recognized, and alarming for their switch.

From the moment we met him in Mercy's first book, `Moon Called', Charles has been the stoic warrior. He has always done what needs to be done, his father's right-hand-man. Charles is executioner to Bran's judge and jury. So to read his altered mind-set in `Fair Game' is disarming, and illustrates just how far the fracture goes. He has locked down his mate bond with Anna, he doesn't sing anymore and is seriously thinking that his time as a sane werewolf is at an end. And, really, his love for Anna is all that is keeping Charles afloat in his dark days... he sees it as a selfish love, knowing that his soul is deteriorating, but he holds on to Anna because she is the only peace he has ever known, and he loves her too much to let her go.

Anna, meanwhile, has transformed into a fierce and feisty young woman. She does not bend before Bran's stubbornness, and while Charles's dark outlook has been sending other people scurrying, Anna meets his despair with unwavering loyalty and the steadfast belief in her ability to help him. Anna is such a wonderful character - and with `Fair Game' Briggs is illustrating her character arc and transformation. From Anna's beaten and terrified introduction in `On the Prowl', to this sweet and tough mate in `Fair Game'. I have always thought that Anna and her character path was sort of running in the opposite direction to Mercedes. Anna started out beaten and downtrodden, and over the course of her series she is learning to rebuild and not be fearful... Mercedes, meanwhile, was bought up a coyote amongst wolves and learned to hold her own against bigger predators. For a long time, Mercedes was a little cocky ... until the events of `Iron Kissed' saw her confidence shattered and her soul wounded. It's only now, with Anna in `Fair Game' and Mercedes in `River Marked', that both women are feeling whole again; ready to face down the demons of their past and rebuild. I'm interested to know what happens next - when the internal conflicts are (mostly) overcome, what will be the next hurdle that these characters have to overcome...

And, on that note, there is a hint, in `Fair Game', of a possible direction that Anna & Charles's story could go in the near future... Anna is thinking about the werewolf cause, now that her kind is out in the open, and what benefits werewolves will reap from being in the public domain. No werewolf female can reproduce - the change is too harsh on the foetus and remaining wolf for nine months is too risky on one's psyche. So what about adoption rights for werewolves? Surrogacy? These are all very interesting topics that Briggs is bringing up, and I do hope that even though it's a passing thought in `Fair Game', that it's a hint of things to come...

I will warn that a lot of `Fair Game' is police procedural. Charles and Anna are involved in an FBI investigation, so a lot of `Fair Game' is concentrated on catching the killer, looking for clues. Each Briggs book is a `whodunit' in some sense, but `Fair Game' more than most feels crime-heavy, with Charles's emotional state the real focus of the book. That being said, `Alpha & Omega' is very much a romance, and there is plenty of Charles & Anna sweetness in `Fair Game', reminding me why these two are one of my all-time favourite couples in urban fantasy!

The end of `Fair Game' is a game-changer for the series... which will also impact the `Mercedes Thompson' world. I refuse to give anything away because the shocking finale is too draw-droppingly good to spoil. The end also has me salivating for the next Mercy book (hurry up 2013!) and crossing my fingers for at least one more Charles & Anna book (2014? Pretty please?).

Patricia Briggs is one of the best urban fantasy writers around at the moment. Both her `Mercedes Thompson' and `Alpha & Omega' series are sublimely sensational spins on the old werewolf folklore, and `Fair Game' is a highly anticipated instalment in a much-missed spin-off series. Charles & Anna's relationship is as complex and epically romantic as always, and the character transformations in this novel are incredible and unsettling. There is upheaval in Briggs's werewolf world, and I can't wait to read what happens next.

Very fast paced, and fun. This book has a good balance of drama and action. This book may put Anna as my top Heroin character. She is the strongest character I've read in a while, and keeps getting better. LOVE IT!!!

This offering is very much a formula. It is very exciting when authors find a new premise. However, like many other series, each book there after becomes more and more of a formula, rather than a development of characters. I agree with other reviewers about the typos and editing errors. Generally, it seems to be an epidemic in certain authors of lack of quality. I will probably continue to read the series, as the author has done a good early job of creating reader caring about Charles and Anna. However, likely will not continue to purchase on Kindle, but rather purchased used or wait for the library. Definitely not a series where I will jump to get the next one as soon as available.

It's Patricia Briggs, so still worth reading, I suppose. But this was reminiscent of her early novels. The witty banter, wildly imaginative scenarios, and fast pace are noticable absent. Instead we have a slow-moving, predictable and unsatisfying piece of fiction. I fervently hope her next novel is up to her usual standards.

I just finished reading "Fair Game" on my Kindle Fire (something else I highly recommend)... I preordered it after I had started the first Alpha and Omega book series. All I can say is run, don't walk, to pick up a copy of this book. I loved it, and the ending is a knock out. Patricia leaves the door open down the road for future stories, and I'm looking forward to all of them...

Fair Game is a great addition to the Alpha & Omega series. Anna, normally a passive character, really shows her teeth when it comes to defending Charles (her mate). The plot is solid and you even see a more relateable Charles, but you're always reminded of the strength and power under his calm exterior. A very enjoyable read.

I loved this book! The ending gave me chills and if you've read it you know the scene I mean and if you are going to read it you'll know the scene when you get there....If you like this genre this is a MUST read!!

This was a great addition to the Alpha and Omega series. The characters were so captivating and alive. Could not put this book down until the final sentence. I felt like I just emerged from a refreshing trip into another world. Please keep the Alpha and Omega series coming! I have become a rabid fan!

This book was great! I can't wait for the next in the series! I like the evolution of the relationship between Anna and Charles. They are still trying to understand each other, but fit perfectly together.

I LOVED the first 3 installments of this series and was a bit disappointed by this one. That's not to say it isn't a good book, just not on level with the other three. Charles and Anna took the back seat to most of the rest of the story. I feel more could have happened between them towards the end of the story. I felt unfulfilled in relation to Charles and Anna's interaction.

Anna and Charles might be my favorite couple in this book universe. They are the perfect balance of strength and patience and thought and action. I love watching them grow together, even if they have to struggle through some tough times.

The book starts with Charles in a really bad place. He’s been forced to kill a lot of wolves lately, and most of them would’ve been let off with a warning a few years ago. Since the wolves came out, there’s a lot more pressure on Bran to police their own to avoid the public seeing the danger that werewolves really are. He’s being plagued by the ghosts of his kills and has isolated himself from Anna to protect her. Anna, being the tough Omega wolf that she’s grown to be, has been ranting at anyone who will listen that things have to change. Charles cannot keep doing his job without breaking, especially now that he’s cut Anna out. Asil, always the meddler, manages to convince Bran to send Anna and Charles out to do some good instead of the “evil” Charles is always tasked with.

When the FBI asks for a werewolf advisor (and Adam is still taking care of Mercy), Anna and Charles get sent out to hunt down a serial killer. Of course, nothing is straight forward with the case, and way more paranormals (and evil humans) are involved than they originally assumed. Luckily, even when everything else gets crazy, Anna and Charles begin to find their way back to one another. Maybe it was the dangerous situations, maybe it was the fear, but Charles accepts that he needs Anna to help fight his demons, and Anna accepts that she is tougher than she originally thought.

I love these two and cannot wait for more of them! While the Mercy series is more action than romance, this series definitely centers on their relationship. Watching these two unlikely people find a way to make their life together work is really great.

I came late to the game for the Mercy Thompson series, but that's OK because I love immersing myself in a series and being able to read the books back to back. Which I did, from Moon Called to Night Broken, I got to read them back to back.

Then I read the anthology Shifting Shadows which is a collection of shorts from the Mercy Thompson world, and I found Alpha and Omega the story of Charles and Anna's meeting. Instantly I knew I had to read the Alpha and Omega series as well.

I love this series. Absolutely love it.

If you've read the Mercy books you'll find many familiar characters in these- Bran, Charles, Samuel, Asil...and you'll get a much more in depth look at these characters because not only do we learn more about them the stories also feature some of their POV's where in the Mercy books we only get hers.

It coincides with the Mercy Thompson series and we get to see a lot of things that are on the sidelines in Mercy's series. The Mercy series we only get to know what she knows and she's left in the dark about many things because she's not on the frontline with Bran who has ties to everything.

We learn more about the wolves coming out and why the Fae went against the grain and rebelled against humans, which is a big mystery in the Mercy books.

You really need to read both series to get "the whole picture" of this world.

In Fair Game Charles and Anna are tracking a serial killer. Charles is battling his own ghosts and his conscience about being a soldier, a killer, the hand of justice for the wolves. The ghosts of all those he's killed haunt him and leave him distracted, which puts a target on his mate's back. The serial killer decides Anna will make a perfect victim.

Fast paced and excellently written, Briggs pulls you into her world and makes you never want to leave. Action, adventure, mystery, love and romance. Briggs seamlessly weaves all these elements together creating the perfect books for urban fantasy and paranormal romance lovers.

I can't wait to dive into the book in this series, Dead Heat.

The more I know of Ms. Briggs werewolves, the more convinced I am I rather like them. Well, most of them.

Ms. Briggs does a marvelous job of world building in her books, her characters are believable, and how the humans react to the were, the fae, etc. is also believable.

This exciting book takes place in Boston, and Anna, the Omega mate to Charles, the Alpha and son/enforcer of the Marrock is coming into her own. She trusts Charles, and she learns to use her Omega and pack magic. Anna, like a 'real' person, may never totally trust after all the abuse she's been through, but she works at it, and receives a great deal of support from Charles, and even her father in law, Bran, the Marrock.

There are some cross-over comments and plot lines between this book and River Marked ( a Mercy Thompson book) that might be a bit of a spoiler. I'm not sure, as I read River Marked before I read this one, and enjoyed the references.

This time Charles and Anna are helping the FBI find a serial killer, who turns out to be much older than originally thought. I read it in one sitting. Too much fun to put down.

4.5 Stars... Anna and Charles travel to Boston to aid the FBI in tracking down a serial killer whose targeting the werewolves... They get more than they bargain for when the fae and witches become involved, not to mention Charles' personal ghosts... Once again the powerful connection between Anna and Charles lies at the forefront of this story; we also continue to witness Anna coming in to her own in confidence, wit, and loyalty... Another intense read from Patricia Briggs in this fantastic supernatural series:)

Charles is struggling with how brutal his role as Bram's axe-man is, now that people know werewolves exist. Anna, noticing disturbing changes in Charles' state of mind, brings her concern to Bram who harshly brushes her off. Unfortunately, everyone seems to think that Anna is bitching because she can't handle what Charles does anymore. After Bram finally recognizes that Charles is struggling, he decides to send Charles and Anna out to solve a spree of serial murders. Bram and Anna both hope that giving Charles this opportunity to help people rather than act as an executioner will help him overcome whatever he's struggling with.

Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this one as much as others in the series, but it was still a great addition. My main problem stemmed from the fact that too much time had passed in Anna and Charles' world. In second book, Hunting Ground, Anna was still struggling with her place in Charles' life and with her past. At the end of the second book, there were still a lot of emotional issues that Anna needed to overcome and I looked forward to watching her do that in future books. However, as Fair Game opens, it looks like Anna has solved all those issues. Suddenly she's confident enough to not only face-off with Bram (the alpha) but to argue with him while he's in a rage. I was thrown by this because it's a huge difference from Anna in the first two books. In Hunting Ground she couldn't even sit in a room with alpha wolves, but now she can stand her ground against one of the most powerful ones out there? This huge leap in Anna's progress really made it feel like I somehow missed a short story or novel before this book that would explain where this new confidence came from.

Aside from the sudden change in Anna's mental state, I really loved the storyline here. Seeing her and Charles' relationship flipped from what it was in previous books, with Anna acting as the rock and Charles the emotionally unstable one, was really great. I loved the feeling of equality and balance it added to their relationship. The side-characters were also intriguing here, especially in regards to the ending. Seriously, that ending was pretty bad-ass and I can't wait to see what Briggs does with the fall-out from it in future books.

I have loved Charles and Anna since we first met them in Alpha & Omega and I've enjoyed seeing their relationship develop as the series has continued. They are still fairly new mates and have issues to work through on both sides but they've come a long way since they first met. Anna now trusts Charles implicitly, she knows without a doubt that he would never hurt her and she also trusts him to keep her safe around other wolves which is a big thing for her. In this instalment it is Charles who has issues that cause a bump in their relationship but I never once doubted that they would be able to work things out between them.

For centuries Charles has been his father's right hand man, he is the one that Bran sends out whenever there are problems and Charles is the one who has to issue any punishments to problem werewolves. Werewolf justice has always been swift and severe but now that the wolves have come out to the public it is more important than ever that they don't let the humans see the monsters they can become if they're out of control. This has meant that Charles has been spending more and more time as the Pack executioner and it's taking a toll on him physically and mentally. He hates what he has to do and he worries that it will make Anna think of him as a monster so he tries to hide things from her for her protection. Of course this has the opposite effect because Anna thinks he doesn't trust her enough to let her help him. While I could see where both sides were coming from I was totally behind Anna as she fought to get through to Charles and make him let her in.

I absolutely loved the way Anna went to bat for Charles and put Bran straight on a few things, as an Omega she is outside the Pack hierarchy so she is able to put Bran in his place like no other wolf can. She had an unlikely ally in the form of Asil and I have to admit I loved the scene where he points out a few home truths to Bran. I've loved Bran since we met him in the Mercy series but he definitely had a blind spot when it came to Charles and what being the Pack enforcer was doing to him emotionally. It takes Charles a while but he gradually comes to realise what is important to him and seeing him open up to Anna was fabulous. My favourite quote from the book is this one from when Charles has a major epiphany:

Honor, duty, and love. He would not sacrifice Anna for his father and all the other werewolves in existence. Given a choice, he chose love.

I'm deliberately not going to say too much about the plot of Fair Game in this review. Charles and Anna are sent to assist the FBI with an investigation into a serial killer and they quickly discover that the killer is targeting the supernatural community. There are some major developments towards the end of the book that are going to have a massive knock on effect in both the Alpha & Omega and Mercy Thompson series and I can't wait to see how things play out. This series just keeps getting better and better with every book and I think this is my new favourite instalment. I'm just gutted that I'm now up to date with both series and will have to wait until next year for the next book to be published. Patricia Briggs is without a doubt an auto buy author for me and I can't recommend her books highly enough!

Patricia Briggs made another incredible book. Suspense, supernatural, intrigue, and a dab of humor and you have Fair Game. It was a great sequel and I can't wait to read the next. Patricia Briggs is one of my favorite authors. This story was well written, and kept you riveted from the first word. The relationship dynamics in this series is great and just keeps getting better. Briggs has always been good at characterization.

Plot: Anna Latham and Charles Cornick are about as opposite as they can be. Anna is an abused Omega with confidence issues, although in this book she pretty much got over them. Charles is old, very old, and he is his father's hit man. These two are werewolves and they mate. Werewolves have just revealed themselves to the humans and can't afford bad publicity, so when the FBI requests their help solving a serial killer case they go to Boston. Only to find out that the serial killer is killing supernaturals werewolves included and he is supernatural himself. With Anna and Charles on the case they must put themselves in his sights and might even be taken...

As I was saying very suspenseful plot line with great character dynamics and intriguing twists that keep you enchanted through the whole book. The FBI agent Leslie was a great addition to the group and I hope we see her again. I liked her aggressive yet carefree attitude towards everything. She's protective and doesn't judge Anna and Charles just because they are werewolves. The villain in this one took me by surprise I was not expecting it. Anna and Charles' relationship is so beautiful and romantic I love it. I also love that Anna finally gets a backbone big enough to take on the Marrok about Charles. That girl's got guts.

I've loved Ms. Briggs' books since 'Moon Called', and am glad she has found her stride in 3rd person with the Alpha and Omega series, as the first novel in this series was not as vibrant as this one. Kind of 'firsty', if you know what I mean.

I figured out the bad guy very early. Maybe this is because I am also a novelist, and I understand the dropping of hints at strategic points, or maybe it was just not quite subtle enough. At one point I caught myself saying aloud, "And I would've gotten away with it, too, if it hadn't been for you meddling kids!"

But - and I am afraid I must throw down a flag on the play - I could really have done without the explicit sex. Yes, they're married and it's totally legit (except, perhaps, as another reviewer noted, that the timing was execrable).. But for me, it was a huge departure from her previous style of delicate glossing or fade-to-black - even in the book where Mercy is raped by a madman - and I found it jarring rather than titillating.

I loved the ending with the Fae announcement. Beauclaire is the highest ranking Fae we've met to date, and that includes Zee - and I love the way she emphasizes this. Talk about a cliffhanger! I expect Big Bad Things in books to come.

4.5-5 stars

This is a great book. Charles and Anna are such a great couple and I always enjoy seeing their continuing adventures. I love this series and this was another good addition to it.

Anna and Charles are a married couple and also werewolves. Anna is an Omega werewolf (a rare type of werewolf hat calms other werewolves). Charles is the enforcer for his Father, Bran, who is the Marrok (the leader of all the werewolves in North America). Charles usually doesn't have a problem when he has to mete out justice to werewolves that break the laws. Unfortunately, things have been getting worse recently and Charles' responsibilities are started wearing on him and causing problems between him and Anna.

Charles and Anna have been together for a while now and they were doing fine but recently, strain on Charles has caused problems with their marriage and mate bond. When the werewolves came out to the public, harsher laws were put in to affect in an effort to keep the public unaware of the problems that werewolves can bring. Charles, as his father's enforcer, has had to go out and execute the perpetrators and, because he's feeling guilty for his job, he's starting to be haunted by the ghosts of those he killed. Because of the ghosts, he pulls away from Anna, convinced that the ghosts will be able to get to her and hurt her through their mate bond. Anna knows the strain Charles is under but doesn't understand completely what's going on. She tries to help by getting his father to find other ways to handle the law breakers but Bran wont listen at first. When Bran finally stops turning a blind eye to the problem he decides that Charles needs to get away and work on something else. Bran ends up sending Anna and Charles to Boston to help the FBI with a serial killer case in which 3 werewolves have been killed.

Charles and Anna go to Boston and pretty quickly get brought in to the search for the serial killer. They meet with FBI and a few other agencies to help and end up finding the serial killer has been killing Fae for years and has since started recently on werewolves. They have a heck of a time trying to figure out who could and would do such a thing. While this is going on, Anna tried to get her and Charles back on solid ground. This isn't easy because, although Charles misses their closeness a lot, he's afraid to let her get too close because of his haunting. He tends to go back and forth in his closeness to Anna during this time, as his instincts tell him to hold her close but his fears tell him to push her away.

Soon after they start helping with the investigation, a girl is kidnapped and Charles and Anna are able to help in the effort to find and save her. Unfortunately, the villains get away and decide to train their attention on Anna as their next victim. When Anna is kidnapped, Charles has major issues trying to find her because his issues have caused a blockage on their mate bond. Charles is forced to work through things quickly in order to find and save Anna. The villains are taken care of and Anna is saved but there is a rather shocking ending of the story which will cause ripples in the storyline of both this series and Briggs' Mercy Thompson series.

This is a great book. I really love Anna and Charles...such a great couple that compliment each other very well. I love this series, the characters are great and the stories are always interesting and engaging. I can't wait until the next book in the series comes out. I'd recommend this book. 2 thumbs up! :D

* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator did a very good job.

Oh Anna and Charles, I love you so much. From the very first Alpha and Omega novella, Patricia Briggs has given this hero and heroine such depth of character, that I feel like I know them. They are flawed, brave, loyal, insecure, and violent. But above and beyond all that, they always love one other.

This book may be my favorite yet in the series. I was surprised at the onset to see how much time had passed since the events of Hunting Ground. While it's not spelled out precisely, it's been a few years. (Events from River Marked are referenced and we know the first two books take place roughly around the same time as Moon Called.) But what's interesting is that Charles and Anna have changed very little with the passage of time. I would have expected that with a love like theirs, a few years would find these two in the happiest place they've ever been. But things are harder than ever.

Charles has always been his father's sword of justice. But now that the werewolves are "out" to human society, it's vital to keep a lid on werewolf violence. So Bran's sending Charles out to kill their misbehaving brethren in record numbers. It's wearing on Charles; breaking his spirit; and driving him to cut himself off from Anna. He's haunted by the ghosts of his prey. To give him a reprieve, Bran sends Charles and Anna to Boston to help human investigators solve a serial killer case.

Details of the killer's depravity were disturbing at times, but it was really a captivating case. The mystery introduces us to new characters, like Leslie, a tough human FBI agent; Isaac, the Alpha of the Boston pack; and Beauclaire, a fascinating Fae whose daughter was among the abducted. I won't spoil all the amazing twists and turns, but I can say that it was unpredictable and kept me on the edge of my seat.

The world-building is flawless and merges seamlessly with the Mercy Thompson series. I love the effortless way I can sink back into these books. But most of all, I love unfailing way that Charles and Anna love each other. It baffles me that either one can still manage to question their worth to the other, when it's so obvious how deep their love runs. But it's gratifying to see them prove that love over and over again.

I give the book extra points for giving me a little peek inside Bran's head. And double bonus points for a spectacular ending, guaranteed to bring repercussions into future books in this series and the Mercy Thompson one. I can't wait to see what happens next. 4 1/2 stars.

Patricia Briggs was one of the first authors I read in the urban fantasy sub-genre, her Mercy Thompson series still remains among my favorites within it. Alpha and Omega is the companion series set in the same universe as Mercy Thompson, even sharing some of the same characters. The Alpha and Omega series is different, so it's not for every urban fantasy fan, but it adds good value to the universe. It's been my understanding that Alpha and Omega has a bigger focus on romance than Mercy Thompson, so while I hesitated to give this series a try, I ended up reading it anyways and I'm glad I did.

Fair Game is the third novel in the series that feature Anna Latham, a rare Omega werewolf, and her husband Charles Cornick a native-american werewolf, shaman, enforcer, assassin, and executioner. Their marriage has hit a rough patch, Charles has become withdrawn because he's haunted by the ghosts of all the werewolves he's had to kill. He can't make peace with it, some of the kills are weighing heavily on him. Since the werewolves came out publicly, the tolerance for misbehavior is at an all-time low, which has meant non-stop work for Charles. The latest he had to kill a few werewolves because they lost a bit of control as they killed a pedophile, and Charles is having trouble justifying the need to kill those werewolves under these circumstances. The Marrock, who is also Charles' dad, is worried about his son's stability and assigns him and Anna a case in Boston were he'll be assisting several government agencies in hunting down a serial killer who's targeting supernatural beings, and the latest victim is a werewolf, in the hope that doing this good deed might help Charles cope and get his mental health righted.

Against all odds, I've quite enjoyed Alpha and Omega and I have to say that Fair Game is the best novel Patricia Briggs has written in a while. It had good character interaction, and it really pleased me that we had a very strong focus with the government agencies, which included the FBI and Homeland among others. I don't know how much of a role they'll have in future novels, but we got introduced to some good characters which I hope will become series regulars in the future.

There was one particular scene though that was ridiculous and terrible and took me out of the novel completely, until I managed to regroup later on and continue. And it will be to no surprise that it was a sex scene. One of the worst I've read. Keep in mind that I came into this novel with the full understanding that there'll be a romantic focus, and I had read the previous two novels too, so I wasn't going to come here and complain about the amount of romance this novel had. By the way, there romance in this novel was very well balanced, and quite welcomed, so I have no problem with that. In fact, I'd say it has less love drama than many of my latest urban fantasy reads.

Getting back to the sex scene, picture this. The serial killer has abducted a fey's daughter, and they have to find her and save her before she's killed. Oh, and considering the evidence from past victims, she's most probably currently being tortured in the worst of ways and raped repeatedly. After all the searching, they find the location and when they get to the vicinity of her location, for one reason or another the author concocted a scenario in which Anna and Charles just had to screw right then and there. Not in a dark corner or in a car while alone, no they decided to screw out in the open with the rest of the search party around. What the heck? It made no sense from a good storytelling perspective or from a romance perspective or from an erotic perspective, in all irrespective to any elements you like in your stories. This kind of scene is only welcomed in a porn movie, but was just a terrible decision and had no place in the story. Just didn't make any kind of sense, and I would think that even romance readers will agree with me. The sad thing of it was that everything else in the novel was going very well.

If I recall correctly, there was just this one sex scene, poorly executed as it was. Aside from it becoming a bit predictable in regards as to the identity of the mystery, the rest of the novel was pretty good and thoroughly enjoyed it. We had some good action, and Charles kicked major ass. Seriously, he was awesome. I lament though that Anna wasn't given much to do in this novel, particularly from an action perspective. I hope that she'll be more active in future novels. Not that she wasn't taking part of the action, but most of the action scenes we experienced via Charles' POV, so we didn't get to see much of Anna, so maybe it would be as simple as having Anna take some of that burden, even when they're sharing the same scene.

The supporting cast was a good one overall, particular the werewolves from the Boston pack, the FBI agents, a powerful witch, and an apparent fey noble. The thing I liked the most was the ending. There was a trial though that the outcome didn't feel right with me, but what ensued was worth it. One of the best endings I've encountered, and very excited to see where the story goes next as we see the repercussions of what occurred.

Fair Game is simply good read, I might even say great if it wasn't for the sex scene. As mentioned, one of the best urban fantasy stories Patricia Briggs has written, and a very welcomed addition to the Alpha and Omega series and to the Mercy Thompson universe. I'm sure fans of the series will love this one.

As a long time avid fan of the Mercy Thompson series, I was excited when this series came out. It is set in the same world with most of the same people, but I just couldn't seem to get into it at first. After going back and rereading the first one, I am finding that this series is growing on me.
Fair Game, the third book in the series, really kept my interest. Although I guessed the "who done it" way at the beginning. And only one of the multiple, so I still had to find out who they were working with.
But even with that, I still enjoyed the book immensely.

North American werewolf leader Bran Cornick brought his race out of hiding. However, he also understood by doing this, his pack needed stricter enforcement so as to avoid negative publicity of being out of control murderous beasts. His son Charles the alpha is his prime enforcer. However, execution of his kind (even murderers and being sanctioned by his dad) has disturbed Charles. Only his mate omega Anna Latham calms his raging demeanor (See "Alpha and Omega" in On the Prowl anthology for how they met). Recently he has rejected her.

The FBI asks for assistance with a serial killer case in Boston. Charles and Anna arrive in town and look at the evidence. Both realize that most of the victims were either fae or werewolves. An abduction has the werewolf couple and a law enforcement task force on a massive predatory hunt to prevent another homicide.

The latest super Alpha and Omega investigative urban fantasy (see Cry Wolf and Hunting Ground) is a fantastic thriller that plays out on two levels. First there is the paranormal police procedural as a hunt reminiscent of the Fritz Lang classic movie M occurs. Second there is the personal issue between the Alpha and the Omega as she refuses to allow him to stonewall her while he feels she deserves better since he is losing his mind to guilt and remorse. Overarching remains the X-Men theme of de facto and perhaps de jure racism. This is another winner by the fabulous fantasist Patricia Briggs.

Harriet Klausner

I liked that this series connected with Mercy. We already knew what Bran was like but this one we got to know when the werewolves came out.

Anna's character development was really good. She was a different person from the prequel. Still a caring person but more confident and strong. I have a clear picture of her character. And as for Charles, he was more human than wolf than the prequel. I remember Mercy mention that she was afraid of Charles and when Mercy said that I would have think that he was a person you shouldn't come near but I thought he wouldn’t be that bad. I knew that there were books featured Charles and his mate so I thought that there must be a reason behind his creepy. As for the story, it wasn't like Charles who would guilty over the justice he had on the Minnesota. I guess he reached the end point and it made him vulnerable and haunted by the ghost.

I really enjoy their story and hope that it will be more.

I usually spend these reviews talking about what a hottie Bran is. But not this time. I have not liked the Alpha and Omega series as much as the Mercy books, not before now. This book was awesome, it made me love and hate! It made me love Anna and Charles as couple, now I truly saw it. And it made me hate humankind. Ignorant asses all of them. We are the real monsters.

Charles is having trouble with his job. Anna is fearing for him and the Marrok sends them both on a mission. A serial killer is loose. Fae, were and humans have tried to live together, but it will surely all come crashing down. If we can't tolerate each other then how could we tolerate other beings? As they search for the killer I sit in the edge of my seat, and when the ends grows close I fear. Because Briggs is not kind to her characters.

But the end, what an ending. It made me cheer and fear.

I do hope there will be more, I finally love the ALpha and Omega books.

Oh and Bran, well even if we did not see him much I still love him and hate his wife. He needs someone else, pleeeease Briggs.

In this story people and non people are being attacked, tortured and brutally killed. Charles and Anna are the main characters. Charles is very dominant. Anna is an omega which is calming and very unusual. The story is about finding this brutal killer in time to save a young woman who is part fey and about Charles and Anna coming to grips with his job in the pack and their relationship. Love this series.

Charles is battling his inner demons brought on by being his father's executioner. He refuses to let Anna help for fear of hurting her. As a break of the grizzly duties Bran sends Anna and Charles to Assist the FBI in a multiple murder case. Werewolves and fey are being kidnapped, tortured and murdered in a horrible way.
In the end the world changes in a scary way. I loved this book as I have loved all the other Anna and Charles books.

Fair Game begins with Anna trying to convince Bran that her mate is unwell due to his current job. When that fails, Bran sends Anna and Charles to Boston to help the FBI with a serial killer case. Things take a turn for the worse when they find out the Fae are involved in the killings. Anna also can't seem to get through to Charles no matter what she does but she is determined to get her mate back.

I think this is the best book of the series so far. I really loved getting to see more emotion and interaction between Anna and Charles. They are amazing together. And I loved how Anna wasn't going to be afraid any more, and how she was willing to do anything to get her mate back to normal. I really like this one. It was really good!

Another excellent addition to this series. The story lines between the two series set in this world merge nicely I almost wish I had read them combines in written order instead of separately. This book sets up the events that lead to the Fae's leaving the "human world" and declaring war with the U.S. This was a very well written story and chop full of drama and turmoil not only in Anna and Charles's personal lives but in the recently 'out of the closet' were community. I desperately hope there is many more books to come featuring Anna and Charles as well as Mercy and Adam, heck featuring anyone in this world. I just want to know more... there are so many story lines to explore and wrap up that there has to be more...right...

This review is beyond bias considering that Patricia Briggs is my absolute favorite author other than JK Rowling. She could write a collection of essays on laxatives and I'd give it five stars, that's how far my love goes. One of the reasons I love this particular series so much (and Mercy's, of course) is that Briggs is able to wreak havoc on my emotions so easily and I actually don't mind. I like that it would totally destroy me if a character were to be killed off because often times I don't feel involved enough when it comes to urban fantasy. I love the genre but no other author is able to immerse me like Briggs does. The first chapter of Fair Game was so emotional and conflicting for me which was a dream come true. It's been ages since I've read about Anna and Charles (and Bran, eep!) so I was a little worried that I might not connect with them as well as I used to. The beginning of the book totally broke my heart. That is my true measure of an author's ability.

The storyline, characters, world... everything is so unbelievably well developed. I love knowing characters so well that I can anticipate certain reactions. For example Anna teases Charles to lighten his mood; even without her being an omega you can always count on Anna to look out for others in her own special way. Briggs is also constantly surprising me. Just when I think I have a firm grasp, something completely unexpected will happen but it always fits so perfectly. I read over and over again Bran's line where he uses the word 'bejeebers'.

The Alpha and Omega series has a wonderful quality of emotion driven stories, usually ones where a character is breaking and needs Anna's tranquility. Fair Game is my favorite thus far because it's Charles who needs fixing. I loved how their dynamic changes yet didn't because both Anna and Charles are too strong to let something like that overcome them. Charles' issue was so perfectly melded into the plot; I never knew which I was furiously nibbling at my fingernails for. Was I beyond anxious because I needed for one of my favorite werewolves to get better or was I freaking out over what was quite possibly the most intense plot Briggs has written thus far? I don't know but I loved every page of it.

I found Alpha & Omega via the Mercy Thompson series, and as much as I appreciate a tough as nails heroine like Mercy, this is the book where Anna edged her out as my favorite. She has finally come into her own as a werewolf, an Omega, and Charles's mate. It's so satisfying to see a female lead who is allowed to be soft and strong, and whose strength comes in no small part from her empathy. This time, the plot revolves around the kidnapping of a powerful fae's daughter, as well as the consequences of werewolves and fae going public. Bonus: we get to meet another werewolf pack located in Boston. The ending is crazy in a good way. Can't wait for the next installment!

I received this audiobook for review from the publisher. I did not receive any compensation for my review, and the views expressed herein are my own.

Fair Game takes place close to a year after Hunting Ground ends. Not just the wolves have been "outed" to the public, but also fae. As a result, CNTRP (pronounced can-trip) has been created, which is a new agency formed to deal with preternaturals. The acronym stands for Combined Nonhuman and Transhuman Relations Provisors.

A serial killer has been on the loose in Boston, and the FBI has invited CNTRP and the spokesperson for the wolves, Adam Hauptman, to consult with them to see whether they can aid in the investigation. Adam is the Alpha of the Tri-Cities pack and, because his mate has been injured, Bran decides to send Anna as a replacement to act as their spokesperson. Anna is very perceptive and highly skilled at reading people, and she also gives off a non-threatening presence. From the forensic photographs, Charles recognizes not just wolves as some of the victims but also fae. Charles and Anna must work with the local Boston Alpha, Isaac, who was Changed about the same time as Anna. When another fae is kidnapped, it is a race against the clock as Charles and Anna try to uncover who is responsible for these hideous crimes.

Fair Game is quite a bit darker than the rest of the books in the Alpha & Omega series. The violence is more graphic, and the book just has an overall darker feel to it. It matched the change in Anna's and Charles' relationship, which has also become riddled with problems. Because the wolves are no longer a secret, Bran has put tighter reins on the packs and cannot allow any wolves to behave in a manner that is out of control. Problematic wolves are dealt with much more severely, which means that Charles is sent out more and more often to carry out the Marrok's sentences. Where before newly-Changed wolves may have been let off with a warning, they are now being eliminated by Charles. With so many kills, his guilt is getting the better of him and he is plagued by the souls of those he has punished. To keep Anna safe, he shuts down his bond to her so that they troubled souls cannot harm her. However, by doing so, he has severed the part of him that gives him peace. Anna and Charles are both suffering from his withdrawal, and she even is at odds with Bran because she blames him for his part in making Charles the way that he is now. When her pleas fall on deaf ears, she turns to Asil to see if he can intervene.

Despite the increased tension between Anna and Charles, there are some tender moments like this one:

""I need to go," she said to his chest. "I need - " His mouth closed over hers, hot and hungry, warming her mouth as his body warmed her body. "Me," Charles said, his voice dark and gravelly as if it had traveled up from the bottom of the earth, his eyes a bright gold. "You need me.""

This book ends with what promises to be excitement in the next chapter of the Alpha & Omega series! Briggs is going to really shake things up!

With each book, I feel as though I am getting to know all of the key players on a deeper level. I love that. Briggs doesn't create one-dimensional characters; they are multifaceted. I also like how she changed up the relationship a bit between Anna and Charles. Until now, their relationship has evolved in a healthy way. Because of the nature of Charles' responsibilities, his change was unavoidable. And his reaction was so...Charles - sacrificing his own mental health because of his love for Anna. I like how Anna is not afraid to give Bran a piece of her mind! She is the only one that can get away with that.

I'm so sad that I am caught up now in the series! I now have to go and read Briggs' sister series, Mercy Thompson. That will have to satisfy me until the next installment in the Alpha & Omega series comes out.

I was so pleased that Narrator Holter Graham reverted back to his original vocalizations for Bran and Charles as first portrayed in Cry Wolf! Graham's narration is the right blend of emotion and intensity, and he really is a delight to listen to!

MY RATING: 5 stars!! It was superb! I loved it, and I will likely re-read it again in the future! You should definitely read it! Thanks to Penguin Audio for the review copy!

Another fabulous series from Patricia Briggs. This is a spin-off from the Mercedes Thompson, but gives more insight into side characters from the Mercy series. I love being able to see more from them. This series focuses more on romance than Mercy’s world, but it still delivers a solid story. I love the hero and heroine and find their story super endearing.

I feel compelled to start my review by talking about the end of the book. During the penultimate chapter of the book, I think I had to rewind three times (I listened on audio) to fully appreciate what happened. Nothing so mundane as a cliffhanger. Not with this series. Briggs always delivers on a great climactic scene (the climactic scene toward the end of Iron Kissed (Mercy Thompson) comes immediately to mind). This book, imo, does even better than that. It ends on a note that very cleverly (and literally) changes boundaries is the world of this series. These changes will resonate not just in the Alpha & Omega series, but also in the Mercy Thompson series as well. As a bonus, it was an exciting and a well choreographed piece of writing and scene setting. I am very excited and more intrigued than usual to get back to the next Mercy Thompson book.

The end of the book was just the cherry on the top of an great, great read.

Anna and Charles are dispatched to Boston to help the FBI, local cops and other Fed agencies to track a serial killer. This one is special because this killer has been killing for decades and has managed to take out a werewolf. Not easy. Law enforcement are so determined to get this person and sort of at a dead end that they are willing to work with the wolves if it means learning something new.

The Anna in this book is so far from the timid, abused creature you first meet in the On the Prowl. She is confident, both in her abilities as the Omega of the her pack but also in her relationship with Charles. I loved all things Anna in this one.

It was Charles who was the utter mess. Charles is still struggling with his role as Bran's executioner and it is taking a toll on him. This struggle is incorporated well in the fabric of the story and it is a nice to see the script flipped so to speak with Anna so together and Charles needing her to heal him.

There are also a couple of very interesting walk-on characters who stood out in the narrative. I enjoyed Isaac the Alpha of the Olde Towne Boston pack. He was a little cocky, a little annoying but still really smart and came through like gangbusters when it counted.

Also I enjoyed Leslie the FBI agent who was so competent and together that I hope she makes another appearance in the series.

I listed to this on audio and I have to reserve one whole star for the narrator. Holter Graham was fabulous with the voice performance!

Though I have enjoyed the Alpha & Omega spin-off series, it wasn't must-read for me the way Mercy Thompson is. That is why I waited so long to read this installment. However, this book has changed that. Mercy is urban fantasy with a touch of paranormal romance. Alpha & Omega was just the reverse, until Fair Game blurred the line.

Charles is the Marrok's executioner, called on more than ever before now that werewolves are out to humans. But, Charles is wrestling with guilt and ghosts over those deaths, and pushing Anna away as a result. She forces Bran to see how much trouble Charles is in and he decides to send them both on a mission to track a serial killer who has started hunting werewolves. A simple mission that is way more than it seems, especially when fae enter the plot.

This story was engaging, with a good mystery at the center of it to anchor the now mostly stable romantic relationship between Anna and Charles. Though the serial killer suddenly targeting them was definitely a contrivance, it didn't take away from the story. That is mainly due to the fact that Anna has come into her own (including correctly deducing Charles' issues rather than whining that he doesn't love her anymore) and it is Charles who needs to find self-acceptance, with a little help. The new FBI character, Leslie, is a good addition and I hope to see more of her in future installments. But, it was the conclusion that really made this stand out with a world-changing event that will have repercussions throughout both series. Patricia Briggs has written another winner. Highly recommended.

this book was AMAZING. I have been trying this and that - decided to go BACK and catch up on my established series. I ADORE Charles and Anna - love this related series to Mercy Thompson. It was pulse pounding mystery. They are called in to consult on kidnap murder - and there is a new kidnapping. WOW - what a ride. Next please.

So how many of you out there follow Patricia Briggs' Alpha and Omega series as well as her Mercy Thompson one? I'm always curious about how many followers the offshoot series get as compared to the flagship ones. This has been on my mind, especially in light of Ilona Andrews' Gunmetal Magic recently making its debut (more to come on that one soon). I was torn at first with the notion of this series, though. First of all, I love the tiny glimpses of Charles we get in Mercy's world. And I was insanely curious about the Marrok's hit man son and how he would fare in his own story. At the same time, no Mercy? No Adam? But potentially more Bran . . . THE EMOTIONS! I have them. So back when the introductory novella first came out, I picked it up in a Barnes & Noble and stood there reading the first pages. Just to see. You understand. Well, I ended up finishing it right there. Standing in the bookstore. I immediately purchased it and began counting down the days until the release of Cry Wolf, the first full-length novel in the series. I was not disappointed, and I enjoyed the next book well enough, though Mercy still held a place of honor in my heart. So I guess I had somewhat moderate expectations for the third book in the series. I was expecting good. But, you guys, I got amazing.

Anna hasn't been happy in some time now. She loves her adopted home in Montana. She loves being part of a pack that's positively civilized in comparison to the one she belonged to in Chicago. And she loves her mate. But Charles hasn't been present for months. He's there next to her. He goes through the motions. And he carries out his father's will with an implacable determination. But despite all this, Charles is missing. And Anna has had enough. As an Omega, she alone has the ability to face the Marrok and not cow to his power. But Bran, in all his wisdom, cannot see another way to mete out the necessary justice across the packs of North America without using Charles as his enforcer. Nevertheless, Anna is determined to destroy whatever is haunting Charles and see their bond restored once more. And then Bran sends them on a mission to Boston. Missions are nothing new to Charles. But this one is different. This time Anna is in charge. She will be the face of the Marrok in dealing with the FBI, the fae, and other federal agencies in regards to a string of murders stretching over decades and involving the deaths of wolves, fae, and humans alike. Charles is to be merely the "backup." Both Anna and Bran hope this reprieve will provide some much needed downtime for the Marrok's dreaded Wolfkiller. That, in time, he will begin to heal.

Truthfully? FAIR GAME is utterly fantastic, the best urban fantasy I've read this year by a long shot. I was swept away by the story instantly, and I had honestly sort of reached the point where I thought there might not be much more for me with this series. I was so wrong, the kind of wrong that puts a big fat smile on my face for being proved wrong in the best kind of way. I connected with Anna in book one. I've always liked her. But she blew me away here. She's so smart. She's learned so much and grown incredibly savvy when it comes to werewolf politics and dealing with the Marrok. And she puts her considerable skill and wit to work here in such subtle ways that I simply could not contain my admiration for her. And then there's Charles. It's impossible not to love Charles. If you are at all affected by the strong, silent type then you and Charles will get along just fine. This installment sees him at the end of his rope, if you will. His job as the Marrok's enforcer has taken the kind of toll no other wolf could withstand and remain sane, and Charles himself is on the brink of disaster. A favorite passage:

***

Charles let his hand linger on Anna's back. She wore a sweater and a light jacket, but he pretended he could feel the heat of her through the clothing that covered her.

Brother Wolf wanted her off this island and somewhere far away from killers who hunted werewolves and left no scent behind for them to discover. But Charles knew better. To try to encase his Anna in Bubble Wrap would be to kill the woman who protected him with her grandmother's marble rolling pin. She was the woman he fell in love with.

Then why are you hiding your ghosts from her? Brother Wolf asked.

Because I am afraid, Charles answered his brother, as he would have answered no one else. He had lived a very long time, and only since he gained Anna had he learned to fear. He'd discovered that he had never been brave before--just indifferent. She had taught him that to be brave, you have to fear losing something. I am afraid I will lose her. That they will take her from me--or that I will drive her away when she sees what I really am.

Beauclaire had addressed that. Charles couldn't remember the fae's exact words, but he felt them. People as old and powerful as he should never be given someone to love.

For Anna he would destroy the world.

***

The emotional play at work in this book is complex and riveting and every character shone. More than any of Briggs' other works, this one is a police procedural at heart. The investigation is relentless and filled with the darkest of killers. In fact, this is the darkest book in the series by far. But it is also the most sophisticated, the most compelling, the most rife with emotional payoff, development, and excitement. I was shocked at the outcome and almost painfully eager to find out just exactly how Ms. Briggs is going to address the fallout in both the next Alpha and Omega book and the next Mercy Thompson book. I love how the two are intertwined, and I will be knocking on my local bookstore's door the day the next one comes out. Well played, Ms. Briggs. FAIR GAME is going on my Best of 2012 list no question.

As with the two prior books in this series, the characterization and story world are amazing. The story is dangerous and exciting to read. I particularly enjoy the completeness of the story. This series fills in some background holes in the Mercy Thompson series...world events that impacted that series but were not explained in detail. In this story...the retreat of the Fae to reservations is explained.

As with the other stories in this series, the love relationship between Anna and her Charles provides the heart of the story. It's extremely well done, and is a series that definitely should not be missed!

4.5 stars

Patricia Briggs is one of my all-time favorite authors, the one I turn to when I want to plunge myself into the warmth and familiarity of layered characters working through emotional issues to the backdrop of Urban Fantasy a la werewolves. (with the occasional witch/fae/vampire thrown in)

Fair Game is the third book in the Anna/Charles Alpha/Omega series that intertwines with Briggs' Mercy Thompson series.

Charles is the son of the Marrok, the Alpha of Alphas among all the werewolves in the US. The Marrok uses Charles, also an Alpha, as his executioner, sending him out to kill out-of-control werewolves. Up until the recent reveal to normal humans of the existence of werewolves, this killing was an infrequent occurence. But the Marrok has to crack down for PR reasons and Charles, half-Salish, half-Welch, is now needing to cope with the many ghosts of those werewolves he's killed.

His solitary solution is killing his mating bond to Anna, an Omega wolf (an exception to pack hierarchy and possessing the ability to calm the wolf-part of werewolves.)

The Marrok's solution (with the advice of the Mercy Thompson's series Adam Hauptman) is to send Anna (with Charles as bodyguard) to consult on a serial murder case in Boston whose recent victims include werewolves.

For any fan, this is a delicious and satisfying development of Anna and Charles' relationship as well as politics whose implications crossover into the Mercy Thompson world.

We get to see Anna strong, and allowing herself to get help, Charles wrestling with ghosts and who he should be, and meeting truly interesting minor characters in Boston. Like always, Brigg's minor characters are often as interesting and layered as the main, and thus it is a little painful to say goodbye to them at the end of the book knowing there's no guarantee we'll see them again (Isaac the Boston Alpha and Leslie Fisher human FBI agent in particular were very enjoyable.)

The serial killer is horrific, and unraveling the puzzle of how a murderer who seems to be human can take down werewolves is a sick, can't-stop-looking-at-the-accident kind of fascination. Briggs pulls no punches (without describing explicit details) with what happens to the murderer's victims.

There is a TON of internal thinking about what kind of person the POV character is talking to, what their posture tells about them, how they would likely react to such and such an action or statement, etc.

Part of this is the nature of the beast, werewolves, that is. Since so much is non-verbal and instinctual, a lot of "dialogue" is non-verbal. In fact, the reason I took away half a star is that in the beginning of the novel when Anna is running around trying to find someone to listen to her concerns about Charles the book is slow, partially because of the backstory and internal thinking.

However, the book definitely picks up a bit once Anna and Charles hit Boston.

This Book's Snack Rating: Garlic Parmesan Kettle Chips for the full-bodied, crunch character development and the flavorful serial killer storyline.

I am loving this series. Great story, characters and writing. Mystery, suspense, action and romance. With each book I get pulled further in to their world and i can't wait to see what happens next. I love that Anna and Charles continue to grow as characters and with each other. Definitely will be continuing this series.

Actually 4.5stars

This is such an easy series to read and this third entry was no different. Anna & Charles are dispatched by the Marrock to aid Boston's finest & the FBI stop a serial killer this time out. This killer also counts werewolves among his victims. Werewolves and Fae are also now common knowledge and I didn't agree that so much information about them should or would be given so freely (even in the guise of Public Relations) so there quite a bit more interaction with the human world. Anna's conflicted because she feels Charles' recent withdrawal from their mating and fears his pack assignment is slowly destroying him. Extremely steady navigation is required to avoid the strategically designed minefield of intimacy and emotional issues with their mating plus the public relations & political arenas involved with resolving this case.

As ever, Charles and Anna make new friends as well as encounter new and dangerous enemies while they carefully love each other and include the reader in their wolf magic. The story may seem to start a little slow but before you're done with the first chapter you'll find you've been treated to a dose of Omega magic yourself. While Anna befriends a local FBI agent and stretches her Omega muscles to enlighten the local Alpha, Charles wrestles inwardly personal demons that he can't quite come to grips with alone. While as a whole I see a lot of character growth in the series, I wasn't overly impressed with Fair Game. The mechanics are fine and I adore the leads; but I was able to guess the villain of the piece well before the denouement, which stole some of the enjoyment.

I am excited for the next installment to see who falls under the Charles & Ann enchantment next.

I have loved the Alpha and Omega series from the first time we met Anna and Charles. Briggs is such a great author, she is able to create a side series and not have any of her characters sound like mimics of one another. Anna though has grown up and this book really show cased her abilities and strengths.

WIthout rehashing the plot Anna and Charles are helping out a very disturbing FBI case, one where both werewolves and Fae are the victims.

Anna is the one in 'charge' while Charles is the 'muscle' The problem is, with the new harsher rules in place (since the werewolves came out) Charles is having to kill more and more new werewolves and it's taking a toll. He sees their ghosts in mirrors, he hears their voices and he's closed the mate bond to protect Anna. What's worse? He hasn't made music of any kind in a few months. Anna is at her wits end. Bran and Ansil both believe that she's underestimating her mate, until the music is mentioned. Anna must save Charles and deal with his ghosts.

Whew, while that doesn't even come close to encompassing the plot and all sub plots, Anna and Charles' love for one another is the driving force. Briggs is an excellent author and has had many books to refine her use of violence, plot and prose. I always enjoy her books, but this one was especially good. Fair Game (especially the ending) will be reverberating in both Anna's and Mercy's stories for books to come. It was bloody, it was action packed, and we got to see inside Bran's head! There are new characters who will be important to the future, and old characters we get to see more of. If you love the A&O books this one will please, if you love the Mercy series, you should pick this series up! Enjoy.

The Boston setting provided an air of antiquity, perfect for ageless paranormals encountered in this novel, and their history. As with many of these modern fantasy fictional books, one can clearly see the sub text beneath that links them to our present-day societal ills. Anna and Charles with the Montana werewolves may or may not soon be battling the humans, alongside the fae and other preeternals, for their very existence. An brutally, interesting novel that shows humans as the greatest monsters inhabiting this planet.

I don't know what i was expecting, after Cry Wolf & Hunting Ground, but this book wasn't it. Charles and Anna seemed at a pretty good place at the end of those books, but they were NOT okay here.

This book was truly about the story, and not about Charles and Anna. Charles had some issues to deal with and it was affecting his relationship with Anna because Charles chose to deal with his issues alone. Anna was hurt because he was hurt and wouldn't share or wouldn't let her help him. Anna blamed Charles' withdrawal and his pain on his duty as the enforcer of justice. What could they do for Charles' pain?

Well Bran tried a new approach. Bran sent Anna to be the point to be the Wolf "PR" & help on a Serial Killer case in Boston that included 3 werewolves. Charles was ordered to be her muscle and bodyguard. A serial killer had been killing boys and girls for over 25 years and no one could figure out who. Anna and Charles began helping the law enforcement by profiling the serial killer. This book was dark for most of the story but there was a light at the end of the tunnel. The highlight for me was that this case helped Charles and Anna begin to work together as a team again.

The story was well written and intricate. I enjoyed the addition of various players such as Leslie, Beauclaire, Issac etc. I wonder where Briggs is taking us next.

Don't read this story for romance because there is very very little in this book. But if you like a well written Thriller and Suspense story in your UF, then this is the book for you

I prefer the Mercy Thompson series over Alpha & Omega, however with the latter series I love exploring more of the werewolf world, especially Charles & Bran. This latest A&O book, Fair Game, is better than your average book but left me feeling less invested in the characters.

The initial plot & mystery is a good, albeit gruesome, base to the storyline. It was initially confusing with all the POV changes (Leslie the FBI agent, Bran, Anna, Charles, the Moor) and made slightly worse with all the new characters - mind you, some Patricia Briggs did get me to like (Issac the new Boston Alpha) but others I still didn't care about (like Leslie - maybe I'm biased against 'normal' people & prefer the supes?).

The personal issues between Charles & Anna are a good development. Considering Charles' role as his father's 'arm of justice', it makes sense that he would have issues with killing misbehaving werewolves yet still caring about what Anna thinks about him. I love Charles - he's very unique in his origins and thought processes. But...I don't know, I just didn't feel as 'into' their issues as I do with Mercy & Adam.

And on some critiques...the copy editor didn't do a great job. I found a lot of mistakes that made my reading more confusing (lack of commas that would have made sentences MUCH more understandable and missing words). So that kind of sucked & was annoying.

However, the end of the book made me LOVE everything overall and where Briggs is taking the series. To be honest, I really had no idea what crazy things she was going to keep throwing at her protagonists because, let's be honest, you can only send so many bad guys at a girl before the Reader is like "okay, this is getting completely unrealistic."

But now? Brilliant move by the fae, Ms. Briggs. I cannot wait to see where she takes things next year.

This book had a rocky start. There was something a little off about the characters until the third chapter. I don't know if it's because there are such long breaks between the release of books in this series, or if the characterization was just off until Ms Briggs got into the swing of things, but I had to push through until things settled and moved more seamlessly. In particular, Bran did not sound like himself until much later in the book, which was a little grating.

The plot is good; a serial killer has been on the loose since the 70s, and a break in the case comes when they realise he's targeting the Fae and now werewolves. Anna and Charles are sent to help the FBI, and what follows is an enthralling 'whodunnit' with lots of good character building along the way.

Some parts were a little predictable. Anna goes off alone without Charles for the first time and is immediately kidnapped by the killers. Who didn't see that coming? However, I liked how she made her own opportunity and was not relying on being rescued. In fact, I really loved Anna in this book. She has come such a long way from the woman/wolf we were first introduced to, and it's absolutely heartwarming. Anna has always been a great character but now that she has come into her own, we get to see the witty, funny, confident woman she truly is. I love how she no longer shies away from Charles' touch, and how she sweetly and calmly diffuses situations that others would just try to bowl through inelegantly.

One of the new characters we met in this story, the FBI agent Leslie, had a wonderful back and forth with Anna; so much so that I hope we meet her again. Leslie is strong and a good ally, and I think she'd be a great addition to the series.

The ending is a little surprising but I believe there have been hints made that this is the way things would go. I am excited to see what Ms Briggs has in store for her little universe!

Oh how I love this series. Its been some time since I read the last Alpha and Omega book but I was able to jump right back into this world effortlessly. It has been some time since we have seen Anna and Charles and even in their world its been a while. It does not pick up right where we left out but that is just fine with me. Poor Charles is battling his ghosts and by trying to protect Anna he is shutting her out. Anna is scared she is going to lose him. Bran finally seeing how he is breaking his son sends him and Anna out to try and catch a serial killer who is haunting fae and werewolves.

Fair Game is just addicting. I read it in one sitting. Anna and Charles are two characters you can just connect with. I loved getting into their heads and a few other characters heads as well. I think this is my favorite book of the series. The action is intense, the mystery is deep but Anna and Charles love is the best of it all.

Patrica Briggs world building is just amazing. It is so easy to get sucked in. Not only are we dealing with the wolves we also have the Fae, and witches too. If you have not started these books then you must! And if you are not familiar with Patricia Briggs books then please click HERE! Because Mercy series and the Alpha and Omega series are definitely something to check out.

I can not wait to read the next book. After the ending in this book its obvious everything in their world is about to change and who knows exactly what is going to happen!

The only other book I read by Patricia Briggs was Cry Wolf (Alpha and Omega #1) featuring Anna, a damaged and abused woman who was forcibly made into a werewolf, and her savior and eventual mate, Charles Cornick. For some reason I failed to read Hunting Ground, the second book in this series, but when Ace sent me the third book, Fair Game, I started reading, and WOW! Fair Games totes of awesome. Patricia is one of the few authors who can write a great married couple. Anna and Charles rate very highly for me for best married couple in a series like Roarke and Eve (In Death series) and Cat and Bones (Night Huntress series). Also if you're a fan of Ilona Andrews, you must read Patricia's Alpha and Omega series.

Fair Game is about Charles and Anna working with the FBI to track an elusive serial killer who may or may not be a werewolf or may or may not be some other supernatural creature like a Fae. Charles is going through a rough time because as enforcer for his father Bran, who I adore immensely, expects his son to give out punishment which usually ends up with Charles killing the guilty parties. Charles is haunted by these deaths and ghosts are literally haunting him, expecting him to embrace his dark side. Because of this he has cut off his bond with Anna, who wants to help him, but doesn't know how to reach him. Anna has really healed and become well adjusted after the horrors she has endured because of Charles and Bran's love and devotion to her.

While in Boston helping the FBI, Anna and Charles try to reconnect by doing touristy things and allowing Charles's wolf, to protect him from his demons. But then the killer or killers strike again and the victim is part fae, whose father is very powerful and could bring down a firestorm of destruction if his daughter is murdered. It's up to Charles and Anna to find the woman before it's too late.

Fair Game hits high marks for me as a reader. It has a bit of everything from humor, to jaw dropping action, to a few sweet moments, including one hot lovemaking scene between Charles and Anna after Anna tells Charles she's not good enough for him. Charles' reaction is not only priceless but shows how an alpha male reacts when his mate is close to rejecting him. Charles reaction is swoon worthy, dominate but also very tender:

"His mouth closed over hers, hot and hungry, warming her mouth as his body warmed her body.

"Me," Charles said, his voice dark and gravelly as if it had traveled up from the bottom of the earth, his eyes a bright gold. "You need me."

He kissed her again, his hands roaming from her jaw down her neck and s up until his shoulders. His hips pressed forward, and he released her mouth as he slid his body up and his sex pressed forward, hard and full, against hers. She jerked involuntary, and he laughed in the same deep way that he had spoken. She growled at him, wolf to wolf.

"There you are, there you are," he said. "Are you just going to let me do this alone?"

Anna doesn't let Charles do it alone. ;)

I also love the relationship Charles and Bran have together. Both father and son love each other deeply. And Bran is quite the cook with his special shaped pancakes he makes for his family.

Fair Game is a total winner and I look forward to more with Anna and Charles in the future.

Katiebabs

Werewolves have recently come out of the closet, sparking prejudice among their human neighbors. Bran, leader of all North American werewolves, is cracking down on anyone who breaks Pack law, as these transgressions engender more bad feeling between humans and werewolves. Thus, the use of capital punishment has increased. Bran's son, Charles, is the designated executioner, and his grim task (and his guilt about it) is battering his psyche and driving a wedge between him and his wife, Anna.

So, to help Charles's mental health by giving him something more heroic to do, Bran sends Anna to help the FBI crack a tough case with Charles as her backup muscle. The case is that of a serial killer and rapist who has evaded capture for decades. The murderer initially targeted human victims, later killing fae as well, and the last few victims have been werewolves. Anna and Charles have information and skills that might help finally catch this killer, with the help of human agents such as the awesome Leslie Fisher. But there are political undercurrents and conflicts among the agents, and continuing tension between Charles and Anna... not to mention a killer on the loose, hunting for werewolves...

I had only read a little of the Mercy Thompson series previous to picking up Fair Game, and hadn't read any of Alpha and Omega. However, I was never lost or confused, and had no trouble getting into the story. If you're behind on these series, or new to them, Fair Game will still make sense to you. The Anna/Charles dynamic, I'm sure, gains extra emotional heft when you've followed them through the first two books, but their arc is compelling even if you haven't, and the mystery plot is self-contained (though it will have big ramifications going forward). The one caveat is that Fair Game contains some spoilers for River Marked in the Mercy series.

The mystery is dark, disturbing, and suspenseful, and provides Anna and Charles with plenty of moments to shine both individually and as a team. The romantic plotline is refreshing, delving into territory that too few authors explore: not the courtship stage of a relationship, but the problems that fall under "for better or for worse." They also have great banter that provides some needed levity to the story. There's a bit of a political aspect to the novel as well. Some of the rhetoric spouted by Fair Game's bigots is all too similar to the way some people in real life react to those who are different.

Fair Game is tense and emotionally moving. I recommend it to urban fantasy fans. It definitely makes me want to go back and read more of Alpha and Omega and see what I've missed.

Okay, this series just gets better and better! I absolutely loved this book! Anna is definitely a character I totally adore and Charles has grown on me quite a lot. This book was one I cruised through in no time. Partly because it was a mystery I was dying to figure out and partly because I just wanted to read more of Anna's story!

This book takes place a couple years after the last one and in the meantime the werewolves have come out to the world. That's not really a spoiler cause in the previous book it was discussed and none of that happens in any of the books. Well, maybe the Mercy Thompson series, but not this one. But with the wolves having come out means they have to keep them under a tighter leash. There's no room for mistakes because they need the human population to grow to like them, not fear them. And Charles is the enforcer. His deeds have started haunting him and this has caused a strain in his and Anna's relationship. While this is important to the story it's the mystery they have gone to Boston to solve that is the real meat of the story. Because fae and werewolves have been turning up murdered and they are needed to help figure it out. This distraction is what they are hoping will help Charles snap out of his funk.

Anna is a bold and powerful character. She has found her strength and no longer cowers behind Charles. She's able to talk to the humans in such a way she can actually make humans trust them. She practically radiates kindness but at the same time is able to say what needs to be said even if it is scary. I really didn't see or feel any weakness from her and even when she got in a deadly situation she was able to keep her head and not cower in fear. This Anna is one I'll want to read about forever. She definitely stood out to me.

One thing that really stood out to me in this one is the world that the author has created. It's become absolutely amazing to me. It's filled with supernatural creatures of all types and in each book we seem to get introduced to more. But it's not so many it's overwhelming. And the way things work with the werewolves and everything else just seems real. Obviously I know it's not, but when an author has created a world that is so convincing you believe it, well, that's what I love and Patricia Briggs has certainly done that!

If you haven't read the series and prefer to only read this one you can. It wouldn't really be confusing because it's pretty much it's own story. But if you want to know Anna's journey and see what they've gone through then you'll want to start with the first book. Either way, I can definitely say that I very highly recommend you read this series!

Fair Game: Alpha & Omega Book 3

Patricia Briggs

Orbit

Anna and Charles are asked to be consultants to the FBI task force set up to catch a serial killer. They discover that while some victims were werewolves, most of the others were fae. While they are helping, a new victim goes missing, sparking a desperate race against time to find her and the killer before it's too late. The human daughter of a high-ranking fae is then kidnapped, and the taskforce has only hours to find her. Witches and extinct fae may be involved in the crime, and Anna is the next target.

Tightly plotted, the story moved at a fast pace, and had a lot of action. There were some tender moments but not too many. The characters were strong and interesting, with most of them newcomers. It was interesting to see how much Anna has changed from the scared, timid werewolf in On The Prowl. She's now a confident, Omega that doesn't need rescuing.

This is a must read for any Patricia Briggs fans. It gives important information in the outing of werewolves and this sets things up for the next in the Mercedes Thompson series. I did not see that ending coming! This book is set directly after River Marked and can be read alone though, as enough information is given to grasp the world its set in. The ending is both satisfying and realistic, altering the fragile dynamic of human/supernatural relations. Things won't be the same again.

From my blog:

I started reading the Mercy Thompson series close to when it first came out, and so as soon as the Alpha and Omega series was started, I had to start those as well. One of my favorite things about Patricia Briggs is that she is using the multiple series approach to really build her world. There are a lot of werewolf/vampire/shapeshifter/fairie stories out there, but Briggs is telling the stories about her world from multiple view points to really explore everything this new world has to offer. I hope she continues!

Title: Fair Game
Author: Patricia Briggs
Pages: 293 hardcover
Genre-ish: Classic Urban Fantasy (Adult)
Setting: Alternate US where werewolves and fae have outted themselves and proven to the world that the stories are real. There also happens to be a whole lot of other monsters hiding in the closet still, but the public doesn't need to know that. This story mostly takes place in Boston.
Premise: Anna and Charles are werewolves, but they are definitely not your typical werewolf mated and married couple. Anna is an Omega, meaning that she is completely removed from the dominance structure, a fact that makes her a very soothing presence on dominant wolves, but also makes them want to fiercely protect her because she is so rare. Charles is her mate and is extremely dominant, but not an Alpha (which would be a normal place for a very dominant wolf) because he is the son of the Alpha of Alphas in the USA, the Marrok. He is also unique in that he was born a werewolf instead of changed, so he is much more in control and skilled with his wolf counterpart. This means that he has become his father's hitman for when wolves break the laws, but that is destroying Charles now. To ease his pain at the horrible things he must do, his father sends him and Anna to help the FBI stop a serial killer who has been killing for decades and is starting to kill wolves.

Strengths:

As I said above, I love that Briggs is developing her world so much further with this spin off series, and trust me, the series stands on its own just fine
Anna and Charles have a wonderful dynamic that is so much more compelling than the typical romance story, they are a real married couple with problems and deep deep love for each other
Anna is a great female lead, because her Omega status makes her so spunky! She went through hell before being discovered by the Marrok, but she realistically overcame those experiences and is turning into a wonderful person.
We get to learn a whole lot more about the fae and specifically the Grey Lords (the uber fae that rule over all the others) which is very exciting and makes me hope for a fae spin off series, hint hint
OMG you will never see the ending coming, it's so crazy and I'm soooo excited for the next books in both series!

Weaknesses:

The plot follows the typical crime solving TV shows, and since I watch way too many of those, it didn't captivate me very much. It was less about the cool supernatural things involved and more about, well, insane criminals doing horrible things....
Charles is a little whiny at times, since he basically can no longer deal with the jobs his father is giving him, and while it didn't bother me, it could bother others who are more sensitive to man whining, ha.
The criminals do rape and torture their victims, so if you are sensitive to that stuff, be warned.
Briggs' witches are generally black witches, because white witches simply can't be as powerful as black witches, which is disappointing if you are into the good witch concept.

Summary:
I love this series so much as well as the original Mercy Thompson series, and highly recommend them both to people who like Urban Fantasy. I think they are very well written, compelling books. I didn't get as into this one as I'd hoped because it seemed more focused on humans being crazy than cool supernatural stuff, but it set up the next book to be intensely about the awesome supernatural world, so I'm very excited for that. It was a very fast read, and would be perfect for an airplane book.

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As good as anticipated!! Sometimes books involving The Fae can become too complicated and far fetched for me. This book was great! -Am eagerly looking forward to the following read in the series to see what comes next.

4.5 stars

I thought this was a great addition to the Alpha & Omega series that happens a few years after Hunting Ground.

In this one we see Anna and Charles try to work through the consequences of having the werewolves known to humans because Charles' job as the Marrok's enforcer becomes more prominent causing a bit of strain on their relationship. We also get a lovely mystery about multiple murders (of the magic kind) which drew me in from the start. It had me guessing who could be doing it all and I found it fascinating especially with the suspense thrown in.

I loved Anna and Charles. Anna totally kicks butt in this one (again) and she's gotten the hang of her powers so it's pretty awesome. She's much more confident in herself so there's no trace of the insecure wolf she used to be. Charles is even more closemouthed than he usually is. He goes through a lot and the fact the Marrok makes him do his job so much is taking its toll on Charles. :(

I adored the story but I did have a problem with it. I didn't much like how we got POVs from other people beside Anna and Charles. While I enjoyed them I did get a little frustrated because there seemed to be more from other people than from Anna and Charles and all I wanted was to go back to them. I think that's my only complaint.

I loved how we got more information about the mate bond between Anna and Charles and were able to see them actually as a couple who are (mostly) comfortable with each other. I got a kick out of Anna reconfirming her status with her mate and I liked that Anna is more comfortable with sex now because there was definitely a hot scene or two XP. And I never realized how snarky and how much black humor Charles had. He gave me a few chuckles especially since Anna was the only one who knew when he was joking.

The ending was a total shocker. One that I really had no idea was going to happen but will definitely shake up this series and the Mercy Thompson series. Definitely looking forward to the next book by Patricia Briggs!

Fair Game by Patricia Briggs
'''''

Anna was mated to Charles Cornick, a werewolf who also took the responsibility of being his father Bran's enforcer. His father was the Marrok, which was the leader of the North American pack of werewolves. Since the werewolves came out to the public, they had to be kept in check with stricter rules than before. This meant Charles was doing a lot more killing, which was tearing him apart. Anna worried about him and even stood up to the Marrok, which was always a risky thing to do. Bran decided to send Anna, who was an Omega werewolf and had the power to calm other werewolves, making her valuable to Boston, to help the FBI with a case. Charles was going with her, and it was supposed to be an easy case to show that werewolves were helpful and let Charles be in a situation that was helping instead of enforcing more werewolves. However, they soon found out the case wasn't what it had seemed, and trouble for Anna and Charles escalated quickly.

Patricia Briggs is one of my favorite authors, and she did not disappoint me one bit. I loved how the characters had grown from the previous books in the series, especially Anna. She had been through a lot and was timid and scared. In this book, she was a lot more confident and outspoken, and I loved it. She seemed to have a fierceness to her in this book. I felt like she broke out of her shell, and it was really nice to see.

The author always does a fantastic job at creating a wonderful fantasy world that I love to get lost in. She created strong, vivid characters that stick with me well after I finish the book. I always highly recommend her books. They are exciting and fresh from the vampire/werewolf craze that has been going on since Twilight came out. She wrote the Mercy Thompson series before the Twilight series came out, and they are not anything alike.

4.5
What I like most about the Alpha and Omega series is how soft and gentle Anna's voice is. She had been abused and beaten and left with a shaky self-estem. She has grown into a stronger more confident person with the love Charles has given her. Her past and her growth makes the stories all the more interesting. She is not the tough ready to fight to the death type.
Charles has been pulling away. The connection between them is off and on. His job has gotten more brutal, less forgiving and it is haunting him. He must keep doing what he does even when he thinks it's not right. The lives and freedoms of the wolves depend on it. The Marrock has only him to keep the peace. The Marrock does not see the damage being done.
Anna can see the changes, she gets a glimpse of pain from Charles when he is unguarded. She tries to talk to Bran,and is brushed aside. Even if there was a real problem Charles can handle it right ?
Anna and Charles go to Boston to help the FBI hunt a serial killer. This killer has been killing wolves. Bran hopes that becoming the hero might bring Charles back to a better balance. He moves farther away from Anna, his ghosts are dangerous. He cannot hurt her, ever. The hunt starts and everything is changed. This hunt is more than anyone thought. New connections and revelations are made.
I love her Fae characters. She has the most unique and well developed Fae in any series. This one was a doozy. I would love to see Beauclaire in the next book or even his own series.
The ending was amazing. The whole courthouse scene made me gasp and cheer. I can't say more. (Sorry, can't spoil it for you.) Twists and turns with every new development.
The next book will be a game changer ! Wahoo. Thank you for bringing this great series back Ms. Briggs.

I've learned over the years than an ending can make or break a book. I've read books I loved until the end and was left feeling completely letdown. I've read books that were decent and only good because the ending stood out. Fair Game, the third book in Patricia Brigg's incredible Alpha & Omega series was great and had an ending that had me saying OMFG I can't believe that just happened.

Because it has been so long since a new Alpha & Omega book as been out I had forgotten just how much I loved Charles. For me it's always been more about Samuel and Bran as they are by far my favorite werewolves in any series. Fair Game shows a very broken Charles who is dealing with the ghosts of his past. It isn't easy being the Marrok's Wolfkiller and after being the one to bring justice to the werewolves for so many years it has taken a huge toll on Charles. So much so that it's damaged the bond he shares with his mate and wife, the Omega wolf, Anna.

To distract Charles, Bran sends him off to Boston with Anna to help the FBI find a serial killer. Turns out the serial killer has been killing people for decades and has primarily been focused on the Fae. Only recent did the killer start slaughtering wolves as well. Seeing Charles struggle to keep his nature in check while hunting down a serial killer and protect his wife gave an insight to the werewolf bogeyman that we haven't seen before. Anna, being his mate and an Omega would help him if only he would let her.

This book was by far the best book in the series. Those of you who are into the Mercy Thompson series but haven't stepped into the Alpha & Omega world will need to read these books before reading Frost Burned as the shocking ending in Fair Game will have a HUGE impact on the next Mercy Thompson book.

For me, all the characters in this series - and in Mercy's - are like my literary best friends. I care for each of them so much and each time I pick up a new release, it's like visiting all my friends that I've greatly missed. And I've missed Anna and Charles more than I knew!

I enjoyed the mystery in this story, as well as the new characters introduced as a result. It had a similar feel to Iron Kissed, in my opinion. Which isn't a bad thing at all. Two very different tales but similar themes. Patty has always had a talent for handling the darker aspects with gentle hands.

As for our H/h, there is growth and there are setbacks. A lot of time might have gone by since Hunting Grounds, but Anna had three years of abuse. She's healed and healing but she is still affected by the trauma. And Charles, who is a very old wolf, has old habits he has yet to break... You can't expect a 200+ year old wolf to instantaneously let go of his independent ways. They are still very much working on their relationship, which I find completely realistic.

A huge, HUGE game changer does take place toward the end. Completely unexpected and yet, I gotta say, it should make for a pretty awesome next few books. I cannot wait to see how it affects both the A&O world as well as Mercy's. Can't wait to see what Patty does next.

This book flows so well that I read in a matter of hours, staying up till the wee hours to get to the end. Ms. Briggs once again has written a story that lets you melt into the story and you feel like you're there with them the whole time.
I had been looking forward to reading FAIR GAME and I was not disappointed! I love that this story delves into the personal lives of Anna and Charles and how a relationship evolves and grows, along with an thrilling mystery.

Two plot lines are prominent in this story: A serial killer is lose on the East Coast and when they find that werewolves are being targeted Bran needs to have someone represent the werewolves and consult on the case. On the other side of the story, Charles is struggling to keep his demons from taking him over as he struggles to uphold Pack Law. Anna is concerned for her mate and decides she needs to find any way possible to help her mate. She's convinced that he needs a break from being the 'enforcer' and she hopes she can reach him before it's too late.

Bran needs to send a representative to the East coast; his choice is to send Anna and Charles. Charles can have a break from enforcing as Anna takes the lead in helping solving the case. The story lines collide beautifully and the story moves rapidly as the task force finds that not only are werewolves targeted but the fae as well. As they get closer to finding the serial killer, Charles demons try to separate him from Anna, leaving him vulnerable and unable to help Anna when she is targeted by the killer...

Fair Game (Alpha And Omega)

I've been a Mercy Thompson fan for some time. I love every single tiny thing about that series. Sadly the first couple books in the Alpha & Omega spin-off series never really did much for me. I confess to picking them up in hopes of catching of glimpse of the Mercy gang or Bran(!) between books but never really investing much in the story itself. Well, I can honestly say that Ms. Briggs changed all that with Fair Game. It it truly one fantastic book and I am now fully on board with Anna and Charles.

Since the werewolves went public and thus penalties for wolves stepping out of line have become harsher, the Marrok's enforcer (who also happens to be his son), Charles, has been putting in more hours as the pack's assassin and is starting to feel the strain. Anna has watched him pull away from her for almost a year but still feels powerless, despite her abilities as an Omega, to help soothe his guilt. Knowing her husband is in trouble, Anna confronts Bran hoping that he can figure out some way to keep Charles sane. So it happens that Anna and Charles are sent to Boston to work with the FBI and Homeland Security on a serial killer case who recently added a few werewolves to his list of victims. Charles is on such a slim thread that the least provocation in this tightrope case could send him over the edge, but Anna is determined to remind her husband that he is the hero and not a villain.

I think some of my previous issues with this series was that for some reason, Anna still seemed to carry around the 'victim' vibe. Now, I know she fought off some major baddies (with the help of Charles) but I never just felt like she was truly standing up for herself. But from the very first chapter of Fair Game (at least the first one she appears in) she's laying down the law (to Bran no less) and fighting for those she loves. I don't know how to put it other than it's like Ms. Briggs finally became comfortable with her characters in Fair Game. The story flowed, the characters sparkled (I'm looking at you Anna and yes, you Leslie), and the action was pitch-perfect. Most of all I did't feel like Charles and Anna were so unbalanced as a couple -- despite facing some serious issues. They stood up for each other (Anna especially), they relied on each other. They just seemed to finally work as a believable couple. Friends, this book was just so...perfect. I don't know how else to say it other than that. It was perfect. Go read it and have your mind changed too.

And Ms. Briggs? If you happen to read this review know that I'd pay really, really, really good money to read a book about Bran. Really good. Anybody else with me here?

You can read this alone but it is part of a series. I really like the books that this author writes. In this book there are werewolves, Fae and witches. The heroine is an Omega wolf with good character.

I have read every single book Patricia has written... so now you know I'm not stranger to her writing style or these characters. The last Mercy book, "Rivermarked" kind of let me down, but happily this Alpha and Omega "Fair Game" book has restored the faith. Charles is plagued by some issues he won't share with Anna which puts a strain on their relationship, but it goes deeper than that. His self torture at being the Marrock's enforcer is beginning to show it's wear so Bran sends him and Anna out elsewhere to give him a break to try and help him find his ground again and recover. They are tossed in the midst of a terrible serial killer mystery, and introduced to a wealth of new characters, including a very powerful fae. It's a slick and quick ride, and her prose and dialogue are just as enjoyable as ever. Taking the wolves out of their normal stomping grounds and dropping them in Boston with something new to chew on helped to up the interest factor as well. The book is more plot centered than a romance/relationship type novel, but there are literally hundreds of those out there by other authors, so it is refreshing to see an author that continues to weave the relationship around the plot point rather than making it the sole point of the book. The ending is quite explosive and satisfactory, wrapping up the mystery but also manages to set the stage for her next novels. If you have enjoyed Briggs' books in the past, this should be no exception.

Wow! I have been a fan of Patricia Briggs since her very first book and I do have to say that FAIR GAME has to be her best book yet. And with such a stunning ending, I am already impatient for the next book in this series.

I think what really made this book so spectacular to me was the characters. Charles is usually the tough guy but he was really dealing with a lot of issues in this book. One that could have severe consequences on his relationship with Anna. Seeing him so vulnerable (at least in his thoughts) really was an eye opener about this strong man. And Anna is a character that I have always loved from the get-go.

There were also some characters introduced that I wouldn't mind seeing in other books such as Lucas, the Boston Alpha, and the FBI agent Leslie Fisher who should be appointed to work with the werewolves as needed. There was also an interesting fae character that you will learn more of when you read the book.

This book blew me away enough that even though I do run across one glaring content error I would still have to say that it is the best book I have read in 2012.

I rate this book a 5.

**I borrowed this book from the public library.

Holy crap! I just finished reading Fair Game, book 3 in the Alpha and Omega series, and man was it ever the most satisfying read! I laughed, held my breath, became angry, and even experienced chills while reading it, lol.
If you have not read the Mercy Thompson series and the corresponding Alpha & Omega series by Patricia Briggs then you HAVE TO READ THEM NOW! I cannot even begin to explain how awesomely intricate the world is and how gorgeously detailed and nuanced the characters are in these books :D

It's as if they are real people, and Ms. Briggs is beautifully relaying their deeds and adventures to us much like a good friend who has the best way of sharing gossip without it having any seemly qualities to it, lol!

In this A&O series, Anna and Charles are the main characters. Charles is the second son of Bran (the Marrock whom we know from Mercy's tales) and Anna is his mate and a very special woman. She is an Omega, which is something rare and very valuable type of person because of the special abilities they bring to the table in strengthening a pack. This is explained very well in the first books and while entertaining and fun, the first 2 books give way for Briggs to really make the A&O story come alive in Fair Game. It's a lotta bit mystery/suspense, a little bit urban fantasy/romance, and of course the scifi and paranormal all mixed into a divinely fantastic tale. I loved it and once again can't wait for my next hit of Brigg's master storytelling!

What can one say when a series moves into areas that are even more satisfying than what one could have hoped for. I love the world that Mercy and Anna live in. It isn't a safe world, but it is a complex one.

Charles has always been the enforcer for all of the US Wolfpacks, but he has also always been the detective as well. He didn't just hand out justice as ordered. He found out what was really happening and really handed out justice. But lately all he has been doing is killing people, some of whom didn't need killing. Or wouldn't have under the old rules. And it is killing him, and causing all kinds of trouble in his relationship with Anna.

The decision is made that the two of them will go to Boston and do some old fashioned detective work on a serial killer case because some of the victims have been werewolves, and the daughter of an important fae seems to be the most recent victim. One they hope is really alive.

It is interesting watching Anna work her magic on humans as well as high level paranormals, because it turns out that she can and she does. The case is interesting and the abilities of everyone becomes important during the book.

Recommended

Really liking the Patricia Biggs series. Even though its been out for awhile, I just recently came upon it. It reminds me just a little of the Mercy Thompson series (although Mercy is so much more of a badass). What I like about this series is that the reader gets to see and read more about Bran than in the Mercy Thompson series. I am so fascinated by Bran and I love reading more about him and his lifestory.

What I Loved
Characters
Anna: She is pretty awesome character. I love how well Anna takes care of Charles, I love that she isn't going to let herself ever be the victim again and she will fight. I enjoy reading how others can be so protective of her because of her omega "powers". She is one of those genuinely loving and caring characters that even as a reader never want anything bad to happen to her.
Charles: Truly the Big Bad Werewolf, not the one to ever mess with. I love reading how vulnerable he is with Anna, they truly are the best mated pair for each other.
Story
Years of murders, now the fae and werewolves are being targeted, a big mystery to be solved and Anna and Charles are here to help. The victims are being raped, carved up with magical symbols and being harvested by blood magic. There is never a dull moment in this awesome book, something interesting in always happening.

Didn't Like
I have to wait forever for another Briggs book <sob>

Recommendation
Part of a series that is awesome, must read both this series and the Mercy Thompson series. Awesome urban fantasy series

Courtesy of Happy Endings Reviews
[...]

I really enjoy this series very. Anna and Charles relationship is different from most, mainly because they are Shapeshifters but also because Anna is an Omega. While her mate is a Dominant.

Their love story is what makes this series so amazing, because it may not have the happy ever after effect at first but they work towards this goal and eventually make it through - they are so perfect for each other. Opposites do attract but they also balance.

Anna has the calming aspect, the one who wants to explore and have. While Charles has a need for control and being his father's Assassin makes having fun a little difficult. They bring out the best but yet they bring out the worst in each other.

The story line was not the best but I understand it was needed to set up the next part - it was the type of book that is setting up the next one, not really necessary but - the author felt it needed to be said. I can understand and I am very happy to have any story with some of my favorite characters. But ... (yes you knew it was coming)! I felt it was more focused on just Charles and not them as a mated pair. I did not like it one bit, I wanted more of them - or at least balance it between Charles and Anna. That could of made it a little bit more.

The coming out to the world and having to be more strict to show humans that werewolves and other such creatures are really not monsters is very difficult and tiresome and someone must deal with the punishment of those who step out of line. But when a murderer starts killing those such creatures, keeping everything is order is not so simple but yet makes everything so much better. Especially when you have no idea who you may kidnap and what consequences you have for those actions.This cause a ripple in the paranormal world and now creatures of all kinds may have to start taking sides -and who knows has the battle will end.

I just hope I do not have to wait as long as I did for this one and that the next one does focus more on them as a couple and not just Charles and partly Anna. I read it in about a day - It was satisfying - for now!

Rant: I was not pleased I had to wait for this book to be released while she decided to re-write a book she had previous published. Things like this make me stop reading/supporting authors. I am a fan among many who enjoy this new and current series, why should we have to wait on a book already completed by the author? That should of been a side project she was working on and not a major one.

This is book 3 of 3
Anthology: On The Prowl - Novella: Alpha and Omega
Cry Wolf
Hunting Grounds
Fair Game

I enjoyed this quite a lot. Charles and Anna's is a beautiful love story. They each have their own emotional problems and their relationship heals and regenerates them. It's never a mushy relationship, it feels real and plausible. Anna is the real thing, she's strong because she's had to face and get over the worst experiences. Charles has saved her, but she keeps saving him back, keeping him sane.

This story had a few little flaws that made it less intense. Charles' problems at the beginning of the book were solved a bit too easily, in my opinion, and I had the impression that they would plague him a bit longer. I also felt that Leslie Fisher's character had more potential, but it got lost as the story went on, instead of becoming stronger. I also think that the whole issue with the Fae people came a bit out of left field, I get it, but in the whole world building - which comprises both this series and Mercedes Thompson's one - it's such a huge thing and it was squeezed in few pages. I was also a bit surprised of the grimy and violent theme, but it never got dark enough. I am also afraid the main plot was predictable as a whole.

Maybe it's a little less than 4 stars, but I adore these two.

$12.99 for the digital version, for ~300 pages of text, when books 1-2 only cost $7.99 ? That's just wrong. I prefer e-reading, but it was cheaper to buy a used copy. Sheesh!! If you want us to "go green" then don't make pulp fiction less costly than the digital alternative.

Fair Game was okay, but I liked it the least of the first three books, including the shorter prequel.

What did I like? The setting, Boston. I liked all the secondary good guys, especially Leslie and Isaac. The ending Fae announcement was a cliff hanger, for sure, but this story still felt finished, which I appreciated. Loved the final pages, with Bran serving deer-shaped pancakes for breakfast.

It's hard to go wrong with Charles and Anna. But there were a few things that bothered me. See below.

++++Spoilers++++

A quasi-public sex scene. Ugh. Hello!!???

BIG let down towards the end: After the mating bond channels were re-opened, near the end of the book, there was no fanfare. Since the WHOLE BOOK was about how Charles was shutting out Anna (to protect her from his guilt-driven psychic ghosts), and we had to read SO MUCH about their stifled bond and compromised relationship, this LACK of CELEBRATION was just wrong. Charles simply gets breathless for a moment, when he realizes the bond is now wide open?? He then fixes Anna's broken nose, and-- voilà!--on to the next chapter, which takes place three months later??!! Major disappointment. A lost opportunity. I think Briggs -- who is amazing-- is probably writing too much, too fast, and needs time to let the story simmer.

Two things were left unresolved:

1-- we never found out, after 3 books, what their mating bond gift or talent is ??

2-- how did the Fae's gift card come into play? I know Leslie ripped it and made her wish, but....nothing happened but a few sparks and the ringing of the cell phone. Not immediately, and not ever, as far as I could tell. Did I miss something? Was the gift the phone call from Bran, helping Charles confront his guilt, with Isaac there to offer another perspective?

As you may gather from my name, I love paranormals. Maybe love is too light of a term. I adore paranormals and have read hundreds of them. Over the years most have blurred together and fewer and fewer have stood out. Fair Game didn't just stand out, it stood up and kicked all of the other books off the pedestal it now stands on. Not many others can build on a series and make it as exciting and entertaining as the first installment. Ms. Briggs did that and more. She once said that her Alpha and Omega books take longer than her other books and I imagine the Sistine Chapel took longer Michelangelo's other masterpieces. Masterpieces aren't created over night.

Anna's Charles is going through something and he's hiding it from her to protect her. Little does he realize that Anna no longer needs protection. There'll be no spoilers in my review but I will say this, this book kept me on edge throughout the entire thing yet I couldn't stop reading. Fair Game is easily the best Paranormal book I've read in 2012 and definitely one of my favorites.

Once again Briggs has given us a story of intricate detail and marvelous action. The deep love the characters of Charles and Anna is a constant thread that binds this tale of crime and punishment into a deeply satisfying adventure. All of the various characters are beautifully constructed and believable
as well as fitting seamlessly in to the fabric of Brigg's Mercy Thompson universe. The inclusion of the character of Leslie Fisher is a terrific nod to an inside fanish joke without being intrusive on the plot.

I would recommend this book to any reader of urban fantasy or mysteries.

It is vastly enjoyable to get to "know" each character as the series continues and these books are easy to get lost in. I love these books, and also eagerly devour the Mercy Thompson ones which have more books written but tie in thru storylines with the Alpha Omega series. I re-read them often and highly recommend them to all. Thank you P.B. & please, please write faster, My daughter and I just can't get enough!!

The only problem with reading one of these books and that the instant it's over I want the next one. I've actually reread this series quite a few times, it's my favorite of hers. I just love Charles and Anna, their relationship dynamics and the mysteries that Briggs creates for them.

At the start of this book Charles is suffering, he is his father's enforcer and since the wolves have come out, his 'services' are more and more in demand and it is wearying him. His solution is to protect Anna at all costs and shut down their mating bond.

They are sent to Boston to help solve a crime, but also to give Charles a change of scenery. I loved the magic that pervaded the mystery, loved the strong, powerful ending, loved the new characters and the old... and now I'm sulking because it will be 2 years or so till a new adventure comes out..

Guess I'll have to go reread my books from the start...

I love Patricia Briggs and wish there were more series out there with characters like hers.

Things I liked: The story was a great read and kept with the relationship building from all the other books.

Things I didn't like:
- The book seemed darker then her other books - the subject matter seemed to go towards the Mercy Thompson series rather then stick with the Alpha and Omega series.
- The love scene were more graphic and strange - It just seemed like it was in the wrong place and at the wrong time. One thing I love about the Alpha and Omega series is that you know the characters love each other and are bonded but there was no blow by blow descriptions of their love-making... Briggs seemed to allude to it but never described it. I didn't like that you were brought into their bedroom in this book.

Overall if you are a Patrica Briggs fan you will like this book.

Sometime there comes a novel that defines an industry and there comes a novel, which raises the line of excellence for all writers of fantasy and romance, and this novel by author Patricia Briggs, "FAIR GAME: (Alpha & Omega)" is such a novel.

I found the storyline of this novel to be breathtakingly beautiful and hard to read all at the same time; not because it was bad, but because the author is just that good and really take you into the story as if you are actually there experiencing each scene with the characters.

I would recommend this novel for all ages and walks of life. This story is bursting with inner and deeper meanings that are worth molding into everyone's walk of life, and I for one cannot wait for the author to once again take us back to this world of romance and intrigue.

The book starts off with Anna arguing to Bran (Marrok) that Charles' job as his enforcer is weighing on him. Charles has been pulling away from her and everything around him and she has a feeling that it is connected to all the "jobs" his father sends him out on. So when a werewolf is required to help the FBI in Boston for a serial killer case, Bran decides to send Anna and Charles. However, when they get out there they realize that the serial killer isn't targeting humans but rather werewolves.

This story wasn't as strong for me as the others. Maybe it's due to the fact that there isn't a lot of romance building between Charles and Anna. Half of the story is about the case and the other half is about Charles battling his ghosts. He shuts Anna out for the majority of the book and just when it looks like they are starting to get back to themselves there is another twist in the book that rips them apart. I fell in love with the story between these two and this book focused on their troubles, which wasn't a bad thing. It just wasn't what I was hoping for after a 3 yr break in the books.

Fair Game by Patricia Briggs reads like a detective novel engraved with phenomenal paranormal magic! Exciting doesn't even come close to describing the journey Fair Game takes you on. Anna and Charles ensnare you with the chase, every second counts from beginning to end. This book delves deep into the mind of a serial killer, a captivating psychological mental autopsy of a monster. We join the team behind the scenes to piece together the clues needed to catch the monster, killing fae. Anna and Charles are a force to be reckoned with, taking their relationship to the next level. Briggs' has outdone herself with book 3, if I wasn't a hardcore fan already, I'm even more so after reading Fair Game. I highly recommend this book and all of Briggs' work.

Briggs is such a wonderful writer. I love her characters and plot. I've read all her books, but really was impressed when she created the Mercy's series. Now we have this off-shoot with the Alpha and Omega, and it has never failed to impress me. The reader is led through seamlessly through the story beginning with Charles, who is having severe trouble coping with his job as enforcer. Ghost are literally haunting him over his guilt of having to kill so many werewolves who break the law. His wife, an omega, is determined to save him.

Charles's father, Bran, decides to send the both of them off to lend their knowledge to the FBI to solve a serial killer case that is now stalking werewolves. Superb book. Very much recommended read.

Review Courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales

Quick & Dirty: An intense manhunt for a serial killer. A story about people, or werewolves, who are haunted by their ghosts, sometimes literally.

Opening Sentence: "Go home," Bran Cornick growled at Anna.

The Review:

At last! The third installment of the Alpha and Omega series is here. Oh, how I have longed to find out how Charles and Anna are doing. Well folks, let me tell you that not that much has changed. Charles still is trying to protect Anna from himself; not believing in her enough to trust her not to freak out and leave him. Anna is still haunted, though not as much as before, by the events described in the novella "Alpha and Omega" found in the On the Prowl Anthology. Her abuse still shapes her emotional reactions. Given that...

It's been a few years in the timeline from the last book, Hunting Ground. The wolves are known to the humans now and werewolf rules are strictly enforced. They cannot seem out of control to the humans and no longer allow small transgressions to go without punishment. Charles has been sent on more "enforcer" jobs than ever before, and they are taking a toll on him. Bran, the Marrok and Charles's father, won't give Charles a break and Anna is pissed about it. Can no one but Anna see that anymore kills might just break Charles?

A chance arises for Anna to play consultant for the FBI on a serial killer case and Charles goes along to play bodyguard. Their relationship seems to have hit a rough patch and Anna hopes this is an opportunity to reconnect with her husband and mate. She pushes Charles to confide in her throughout the story but he takes his sweet time doing so. She wants him to view her as an equal, and not someone to coddle. Can Charles give Anna what she needs? Can Anna stay strong and not bend to Charles' will?

Charles is being haunted, literally, by his ghosts. His guilt has allowed the spirits of those he feels he has killed unjustly to follow him around. He worries that these spirits and their doubts will attack Anna through their mate bond and hurt her. He is forced to rely on his inner wolf, aptly named Brother Wolf, for help in controlling the spirits and protecting those around him. Normally, werewolves who let their wolves take over is usually considered a bad idea, but the relationship/bond between Brother Wolf and Charles is anything but. Is it truly a good idea to let the wolf take over in the middle of a manhunt? Is this the only way Charles can take care of business? I think not. In his misguided attempt to protect Anna, he instead alienates her from himself. Oh the tangled webs we weave, Charles. I just want to yell at the book, "Don't do it, man! You're gonna lose her that way!" Usually, I only get this worked up with horror movies so in my opinion that means; God Job, Ms. Briggs!!

If Charles and Anna's relationship woes are not enough for you to go out and read this book, the creepy serial killer should do it. According to the FBI, the man known as the Big Game Hunter, has been on a killing spree since 1975. His latest victims have all been werewolves and the FBI need a little help to catch him. With the help of Anna, and therefore Charles as well, they finally feel like they have a chance to catch this psycho and his possible accomplices. But at every turn, they are foiled. Does that mean there is an insider that's helping the Big Game Hunter? Which one of their inner circle is a bad guy in disguise?

Interesting new characters of note include Issac Owens, Alpha of the Olde Towne Pack, and Alistair Beauclaire. Issac is rash and impetuous for an Alpha but is a good guy to have around. He tries to do right by his pack and that's good enough for Charles. Alistair is another fish entirely. His daughter is the latest victim to be taken by the Big Game Hunter and he will do anything to get her back. He has his own secrets, one of which is that he is a powerful fae. Not a bad guy to have on your side when hunting something that can take out werewolves. The alliance of the FBI, fae, and werewolves adds a wonderful dynamic to the book as a whole. I love it when people band together to fight evil; makes me tear up every time. *sniff*

What a worthy sequel to an equally worthy series. If you can't seem to get enough, I recommend picking up the sister series, Mercy Thompson. A mischievous coyote shifter raised in the Marrok's werewolf pack that is now mated to an Alpha of another? A woman that constantly challenges men that no one else in their right mind would? Good times.

The Alpha and Omega Series:

1. Cry Wolf

2. Hunting Ground

3. Fair Game

FTC Advisory: Penguin/Ace Books provided me a copy of Fair Game. No goody bags, sponsorships, "material connections," or bribes were exchanged for my review. The only payment I received were hugs and kisses from my two little boys.

Werewolves have come out to the world and Bran is allowing for no mistakes among anyone. Alphas aren't handing down the punishments that Bran is demanding, so he's been turning to Charles to "take care" of the wolves that bring too much press and too much notice to themselves. It feels like Bran is taking the, kill first, question things second, attitude and there's never a doubt that the wolves who find their lives over at the hand of Charles aren't deserving of that, they may have committed an act that before would have gotten them a warning, but no more. Charles is suffering, as he becomes haunted by the ghosts of the wolves he's killed. Is he doing the wolves as a whole justice? Has he just become a killing machine and is slowly losing himself in the process? He's in a very dark place when FAIR GAME starts and even Anna can't help. He's withdrawn from her completely, not touching her at all for a month and never taking her with on his trips anymore. Anna goes to Bran and Asil trying anything to get Charles away from being surrounded by death. It takes a phone call between Bran and one of my favorite alphas, Adam, and a new case to give Charles something else to think about for a bit and it gives him some distance from the downward spiral he's on.

There are murders in Boston that the local law enforcement wants the werewolves opinion on. Bran sends Anna as his representative and Charles as her bodyguard. There are members of the FBI, Homeland Security and CNTRP (Combined Nonhuman and Transhuman Relations Provisors) which is a newly formed agency. The murders they're meeting about cover many years and many victims within each year. The most recent missing woman is the daughter of a Fae and Anna, Charles and crew, which includes the alpha of the local Boston pack, follow clues to not only find the missing woman, but to take care of the killer(s) before they hit again.

As a huge fan of Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson series, I'm ashamed to say that I only recently found the Alpha & Omega series. One thing that stands out in a great way for me is the different point of views we get in this series. I love switching between all the players and finding out not only through their eyes what's going on, but what they're each thinking and how it relates or doesn't to their actions. There's a lot of emotion in this series, especially from Anna and not only in how she's continually dealing with her past, which will be a struggle for the rest of her life, but in her position in the pack as the Omega. FAIR GAME is no different in that deep emotion drives the wolves, and we see Charles in an almost vulnerable position. He's being haunted by ghosts that are threatening to destroy the people he loves most and they succeed in disrupting his mate bond with Anna. I loved seeing Anna, at first unsure, but slowly stand up and support her man fully. We know she loves him completely, but they really felt like they had a true partnership going on in this book, Charles was down and struggling, she stood by him, like he has for her in the past. They have a strong, solid relationship and with them, you know we're not going to be forced to see them together, then break up, and on and on. It just feels deeper with these two characters and no matter what gets thrown at them, they and their wolves will face it united.

Anna grows so much in this story. She still deals with the terror of the memories that were her first years as a shifter, but you can see the progress she's making with each new story. The things the murderer is doing in the story hits so close to home for her, she can't escape her past when trying to stop them. She's stronger and even when she finds herself in a horrible situation and without the mate bond, she does what she can to stay alive. It's so easy to love a character like Anna, sweet and strong and the heart of the pack.

I liked taking the story outside of pack territory and moving it into a new city in Boston for the murder investigation. Much to Charles's dismay, it gave Anna a reason to make them play tourists while they were there. On the flip side, I did miss the pack interactions with the characters we've gotten to know in the first two books. I'm of the belief that we can never have too much Bran in a story *grin*, and his presence wasn't as strong as it's been in past books. That's my one little issue with an otherwise wonderful story.

Our team tracks the bad guys, which ends in a bloody fight that extends beyond the big showdown and into one final, jaw dropping chapter. The Fae I mentioned earlier is out for his own justice, with good reason and he brings about a change in the world that the humans and wolves live in. I finished the chapter and book hating the humans, cheering the Fae and wondering what in the world is going to happen next.

Blog rating: 4.5/5

Our Review [by Shawnie - LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer]:

PATRICIA BRIGGS, HAS DONE IT AGAIN.

The wait is over. Fair Game, the newest installment in the Alpha and Omega series, is here, and let me be the first to tell you all that it is AWESOME!

The first thing you'll notice when you begin this book, is that it's a lot darker than the first two novels. When I read the Prologue, I was expecting something lovey dovey between Charles and Anna (probably because that is what I wanted to see from them), but that is so not what we get - Mrs. Briggs hits us hard with despair and loneliness in the shape of a small child, and then death to top it all off. I found myself trying to figure out what this all had to do with the story, but once the prologue is done, we meet Anna... Briggs keeps us on the edge of our seats with this one, because you never know which way the story will go.

Charles has dealt more deaths in the short amount of time since his father - The Marrok - brought the North American Wolves out to the public than in his entire two hundred years of life. And wouldn't you know, it's starting to take a toll on our Alpha male, who would never ask for help from his Anna because he wants to protect her. HOW DO YOU THINK THAT'S GOING FOR HIM? *laughs* It's sad though really, because he is pushing her away, and we - the readers - start thinking that they aren't going to last. Brother wolf isn't having that though. *GRINS* No I will not tell you what he does because that would be cheating, but Bran, our cool and calm Marrok, has a plan now that he is seeing what is happening. (WARNING! YOU WILL WANT TO SHOOT HIM IN THE BEGINNING.)

Charles needs a buffer, so what does Bran do? He sends Anna, out as a consultant for the F.B.I, which makes Charles her muscle on this latest adventure of theirs. Soon, because nothing ever goes smoothly for these two, they find themselves knee deep in a situation that can either spiral out of control or mend something that is broken. I will let you guys decide which one it is or is it both? Hmmm *GRINS*

Within this installment we meet some interesting new characters and get a taste of some old oness too; like Asil who is a personal favorite of mine. Briggs gives you everything with this book - just like Cry Wolf and Hunting Ground.

We get to see Anna as she grows and becomes the women she and Charles believe she can and will be. She isn't all the way there, but a certain situation sure makes her see herself differently, and she will make you want to cheer her on. GO ANNA!

There is so much in this book: romance (you have to wait for it), action (what's a Patricia Briggs novel without some action), plus a lot of humor in this one too. I swear I was laughing so hard at times I had to go back and reread those sections again. ' Trust me when I tell you that this book is worth every second it takes you to read it and then some. The ending leaves you drooling for more... so much more.

I cannot wait for the fourth book, which we all know isn't going to be out any time soon, which sucks, but we have Mercy Thompson to look forward to in the beginning of next year.

P.S. THERE BE GHOST IS THIS BOOK, AND THEY AREN'T NICE. *Laughs*

LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer gives Fair Game 5 Skulls and would give it another ½ if there were one to give.

Pick up Fair Game if you haven't already, and if you haven't started this series yet, go and get the first 2 as well because you are missing out.

I truly enjoy Patricia Briggs. All of her books are engaging and enjoyable, regardless of the series. This book was no different and a must read for readers who follow either her Mercy Thompson or Alpha and Omega books.

In this installment of the Alpha and Omega series, we find Charles and Anna struggling with the strain Charles is under being the designated "assassin" for the Marrok. I'm relieved that this was addressed in depth and resolved without having the characters deviating from who they are. It should be difficult to kill - never easy.

There are many new ideas and changes happening in this series and the Mercy series. The conclusion of this book drops a huge story bomb and I'm really excited to see what Patricia Briggs does next.

I was a little disappointed that due to reading the mercy Thompson series I already knew the basic parts of the book. I wish we would see more mercy in these series, but this author always writes a wonderful story and it was great.

I really liked this book, had trouble 'putting' it down. The story is tense and sweeps you away right from the start.
The world and the werewolves Briggs creates are amazing, sometimes so close it almost feels as if you could touch their fur.
But...yes, one notices Charles problem, that he really wanted to discuss with Anna...and well, that conversation never came up...it's true, it was something major regarding their bond and it should have been handled differently. For some that might be a buffer with a look at the Anna-Charles relationship.
Well, it didn't bother me that much that the discussion was a victim of circumstances.
The story, the book is so suspense-packed...I forgot all about it, just like Charles. ;)

Fair Game by Patricia Briggs
Alpha and Omega #3
Urban Fantasy

This third installment to Charles and Anna's story was impatiently waited for by several people- me included. I began years ago with the first Mercy Thompson story and ever since I have devoured that series and this spin-off series. Patricia Briggs is a world builder and story teller par excellence.

A quick word to any newbies to Patricia Briggs-
This series can be read without having read Mercy's series, but personally I get more out of these stories when I read both. The time lines are slightly different, but there are references in both to the other series in fact there were a couple of mini spoilers to the last Mercy book.

Fair Game begins about six months after book two, Hunting Ground. The wolves have just come out of the closet to join the already out fae to the human public and it has made their every action much more important because the humans are understandably uneasy. Charles, as the enforcer, has been forced to go out time and again and put down any wolves who have broken the rules. Before the coming out, certain infractions were left as a warning. Now, it is a killing issue and these killings occur more frequently than ever never leaving Charles time to recover from what he must do. Charles' has always done his duty and performed in the name of justice, but as of late he is weighted down heavily by guilt and remorse. He cuts himself off from Anna and she is terrified that they are losing him.
A creative solution is found. Bran decides to send Anna and Charles to liaison with the FBI in Boston to stop a serial killer who has targeted humans, fae, and werewolves. The killer has just taken another victim.
Anna and Charles find that the FBI team also includes people from two other agencies who can barely tolerate each other (surprised?) let alone the idea of working with werewolves. Some of the team consider them as nothing other than monsters (yay team). They are joined by the fae father of this last victim. Time is running out as they all work to find the answers. In the meantime, Anna and Charles have Charles' inner demons to work on too.

The plot was as intriguing and captivating as what one can usually expect in this series. It is multi-layered and kept me on my toes. The relationship between Charles and Anna is obviously a keystone to the story, but the action was exciting too. I was bouncing up and down enthusiastically in the end to know that I had guessed who the bad guys were before being told (obviously it was not meant to be difficult or I wouldn't have figured it out). This did not make it boring because knowing who they were and knowing how to stop them especially when they took another victim was the exciting part. Something big happens at the end that will have repercussions on both series.

The characters were well written. I loved the introduction to the new characters in Boston. The Boston alpha, Isaac, was amusing the way he deliberately tried to irritate Charles and soon learned that he had a tiger by the tail. The FBI agent, Leslie Fisher is tough, skillful, but has intellect and humor too. Charles and Anna as individuals and together have such depth. I felt their pain when Charles kept his distance and shut down their mate bond to protect Anna while only succeeding in leaving Anna bewildered and a little scared for him. The small scenes with Bran and Asil are always good.

But as great as the plot and characters are, it is the world building that takes these books from just the `great' to the abso-fabulous level. Now I'll be impatiently waiting for the next installment.

Like the title of my review says, within the urban fantasy genre, Patricia Briggs can do no wrong. Although Charlaine Harris introduced me to urban fantasy with her sookie stackhouse books, Patricia Briggs has since became my favorite urban fantasy novelist. Her imaginative storytelling, attention to detail, and skill at building a climactic fight scene make her a reliable author who always delivers in the entertainment department. Briggs builds characters that readers are sure to love from the first page, and is constantly developing them, so that although there may be multiple books in a series, the characters never fall flat or become one dimensional.
This book is no exception. If you area fan of the series, then Fair Game will not disappoint!

Third in the Alpha & Omega series; tenth of the combined Alpha & Omega and Mercy Thompson series (that's counting all the shorts as well). Essentially, Charles is in crisis and Anna is terrified. The werewolves have been outed for a year and Mercy is still in a wheelchair recovering from events in River Marked (Mercy Thompson, #6; #9 in the combined A&O & MT series). And the fae are still a part of society.

My Take
Fascinating, yet somewhat hollow. I was so excited to pick up Fair Game. I put a good movie on the telly, fixed an easy all-fingers dinner, and retired to the couch with it. I'd put off reading it for a couple days because I knew I'd blow through it too fast.

And the magic was missing. Oh, there was definitely fae, wolf, and Charles' particular magics. What was missing was Briggs' special magic.

Still, it was an absorbing tale of serial killers and doubt. The doubt of a good man only trying to do the right thing. Please his father. Love his wife. Be true to himself.

It's confusing as to why Anna and Charles are doing this two-step at first as they step into the case and back out again. It's like a series of introductions where no one fully commits. Beauclaire provides some uncomfortable background on the fae and on their protective instincts. Then the witches. Yuck. They were pretty disgusting and I just loved Charles' warning. I also loved his invulnerability...bitchy witch. Oh, brother. That scene of doubt on the island was just too lame. What? Briggs got a sudden urge to include a sex scene and this was the easiest way to make it happen?

Hmmm, I'm wondering if Charles and Anna will find themselves helping out the FBI more often??

The Story
Bran was being an ass, too condescending for words when Anna came to him with her fears. But when those same fears were couched in terms of music, it broke through. Enough that Bran realized what he had allowed to wither.
Then the perfect opportunity, a change in mission focus comes up. The FBI needs werewolf help on a case in Boston and Bran decides to send Anna with her personal bodyguard. Which raises all sorts of etiquette issues, especially when you consider how extremely protective Charles will be of anyone getting near his Anna.

The serial killer case could be the opposite end of that murderous spectrum. Maybe it could be enough to right the wrongs and help his son.

The investigation is certainly enough to force Charles to start taking a different approach with what is haunting him. And Leslie Fisher finally has the occasion to use the Gift card granted her back when she was a child. But it's Isaac's perspective that clears up Charles' predicament.

Only, it seems that hate and fear continue to rule...

The Characters
Charles is the Marrok's Enforcer, the Wolfkiller. He kills bad wolves and it's been too bad ever since the werewolves came out of the closet. Brother Wolf is his other half and he has a mischievous sense of humor. Anna is married to Charles and she is the Omega wolf. Part of her purpose as such is to calm the emotions of wolves. That includes not being overpowered by Alphas. Including the Marrok. Part of her makeup is protection and it is never so strong as when she is protecting her mate.

Bran Cornick is the Marrok of all werewolves and the Alpha of this particular pack. He's also Charles' father and Anna's father-in-law. Leah is his mate. Samuel is his oldest son and Charles' brother. Tag is a berserker and Anna's friend. Asil is a retired, widowed Alpha who had been married to an Omega.

Isaac Owens is the new local Alpha for the Olde Towne Pack (of Boston). Caitlin is a witch Isaac knows who is willing to view the child's body that was found and interpret the markings found on him. And she is nutso-cuckoo. Another witch, Sally Reilly, proves to have played a part long ago. Hally Smith is the black witch Isaac warns everyone about; that she expects payment and not to trust her. Oddly enough, he trusts her enough to sleep with her...a trust Charles is careful to knock down. Malcolm is the Boston wolf who pilots the boat.

Special Agent Leslie Fisher of the FBI Violent Crimes Unit is not looking forward to working with this consultant, but too many are dead and she'll work with the devil himself to stop this rampage. It does help that her husband Jude was a linebacker and a really big guy. Nick Salvador is her boss and he points out to her the many reasons why she is the ideal choice. Reps from other agencies include two people from CNTRP, a.k.a., Trippers, which sends Special Agent Patrick Morris and Agent Les Heuter, their poster boy (his dad is a senator); Homeland Security sends Jim Pierce and Dr. Steven Singh who believes the fae and wolves are domestic terrorists; and, the local Boston Special Agent Craig Goldstein with their Violent Crimes Unit. All these agencies are interested because Hauptman, their usual go-to guy, said they were sending someone higher up than him. And they all thought you couldn't get higher up than an Alpha.
Alistair Beauclaire is a lawyer whose daughter Lizzie is abducted. Her abduction has all the hallmarks of their serial killer. Treasach was a very powerful and wonderful fae who gave the young Leslie a wish as "poor compensation" for her loss. The Gwyn ap Lugh, Prince of the Gray Lords, proclaims against the mockery of justice.

Mrs. Cullinan knows something of the fair folk. Adam Hauptman is another Alpha and Mercy Thompson is his mate.
Bright Future is a hate group against all shifters and fae. Benedict is a crazed half-fae who shifts as a deer. Uncle Travis leads this small group of killers with a most hateful intent.

The Cover
The cover is a metallic orange-y burgundy with leaves flitting through the air and the focus is on Charles as Brother Wolf and a freckled, yellow-eyed Anna in black leather and a choker with a burgundy scoop neck on underneath. She has on a very nice amber, black, and silver earring.

The title is a play on another term for the fae, the fair folk. And it seems that they have become Fair Game in this hunt.

"When I grow up I want to be just like Charles"

Per usually with Patricia Briggs books I was not able to put Fair Game down! I started it and HAD to finish it before I went to sleep. My problem here is that I read in the dark, at night. Fair Game has some black magic in it that game me some serious hebegeebees! I had to turn on a night light to sleep! This being said, Fair Game was AWESOME! I love that you get to see more of Ana being an empowered woman and comfortable in herself. The changes that have occurred in the Marrocks territory and Charles and Ana's lives since Hunting Ground are staggering. I also love that Patricia gives us a small dose of Mercy and Adam from her Mercedes Thompson series.

Patricia Briggs has created a convincing world where the monsters are real. Her characters are not one dimensional baddies or saints. The good guys struggle with their dark sides, and the bad guys have complicated motivations. These books are not always easy to read because the characters go through a lot of pain. But I find I come back again and again, because underneath it all these stories are empowering. Her wonderful female protagonists do more than survive, they overcome.

I've been reading the Alpha and Omega series and each book is better than the last. I just love the characters of Charles and Anna. They are so well developed and very "real." The storyline in this book is about Anna and Charles assisting in finding a serial killer, and it's fascinating, quite the page turner. I couldn't put the book down and it kept me guessing. Charles also has to deal with some personal issues which is affecting his relationship with Anna and their bond. I haven't read any of the Mercy Thomson books, but think I need to start on them while I wait for Alpha and Omega #4, because the way this book ended, things are really getting interesting in this world.

This book was totally captivating. I reread the climax at the court house several times, savoring the changes that's going to bring to the series. So many times these urban fantasies tend to get dull and boring, repetitions on the same theme, or ended after the heroine gets her man (cause we all know that is the pinnacle of feminine existence right? *insert eye roll here*) I just might have to go back and reread the whole thing from Moon Called on before the next book comes out.

While I adore Mercy, I really like this series a lot more. Anna just seems more real and believable somehow, and it's wonderful to see her character growth as the books progress.

This book is set in the fantasy world that Briggs began in the Mercy Thompson Series (Moon Called). In my opinion, this is a must-read for both series. Briggs takes her interesting ideas to a new level by the end.

This book begins with the problem of Charles' job and how it wears on his soul now that the werewolves have gone public. Anna is rightly concerned. He cuts himself off from her and his own attempts at healing aren't working. Anna and Charles' relationship is an interesting and compelling part of the storyline.

The mystery of the supernatural killings is another plotline that reveals a lot about Briggs' witches, werewolves, and fae characters.

I look forward to Briggs' next novel.

This is a continuation of the story of Anna and Charles set in the world of Briggs's Far and Werewolf infused world. It's very entertaining and suspenseful. I like having another story line to follow in this world. I really enjoy this author Mercy Thompson series and especially like the way this dovetails into that thread.

Book three of a three book series. Note that this is not a trilogy as there will be more.

OK, aspiring writers, here is your model. This is how you write urban fantasy so well that guys like it too. I am really looking forward to the next few (ten or so) books in this series. And the loose tie-in to the Mercy Thompson books is excellent also.

I am a huge fan of Patricia Briggs and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of Fair Game. As always, reading about Anna, Charles, Bran and Asil was a treat. Unfortunately, this book has an increased yuck factor to it that I personally found a bit off putting. The villians are despicable. I get that without hearing about their torture and sexual assault of an eight year old. I was routing for Anna and Charles from the beginning.

I've always like that Patricia Briggs doesn't have yuck in her books - explicit sex or language. Unfortunately this one has one scene that's a bit too adult for my personal tastes. I'd rather read about how much they were happy to be back together than what body parts are involved. (Now that I know it's there, I'll skip it the next time I read the book which I am sure to do.) It also has the f word - just once, but still. Her books have never needed that word and still don't.

The characters are wonderful - as always. The tension and suspence are taut and pitch perfect. It'll be very interesting to see what goes on from here - there's a great surprise at the end, but you'll have to read the book to find out what it is.

Overall, a very good read.

This story was so fantastic. Every word was integral to the greater whole that completed the story so well. I liked these characters and enjoyed their depth and personalities. The author has a clear and skillful grasp of the tale.

I am so glad I discovered this series. While I do not recommend this as a stand alone book, it is a really good book with intriguing characters, a well developed plot, and touches of humor and romance.

This was a solid addition to the Alpha and Omega series. I've always loved the dynamic between Charles and Anna and this novel really stays true to their relationship. They're tested in this book more than they were in other books. Charles is pulling away in his misguided attempt to protect Anna, but in the end, they come out with a stronger relationship. Hunting a serial killer together brings a couple together...who knew?

Another fine book from Patricia Briggs and I look forward to reading more from her.

Love it. Another great entertaining book.
I had read some reviews that had made me wonder. I cant wait for the next book.
Anna is making Bran angry. She won't give up and go like he tells her. than she goes to Asil he tells her to grow up and accept charles as a killer. but her parting last words convince him.
Asil gets through to Bran but does not know the way out either.
Charles gets told to go help the FBI but that Anna was the one out in front.
Their is a serial killer that has been killing for decades and last 3 where werewolfs. So Anna meets with 6 goverment agents and tells a little about them. Anna & Charles get more involved and a Fae and fbi all work together to stop them. Others do not want to work with them.
Anne and Charles work on their relationship but need more time. Charles will do anything so he won't loose Anna.

This is a well written, thoughtful story that continues the story of Charles and Ana. Respectively Alpha and Omega wolves, Charles is the son of Bran, who sent them to solve a serial murder case. The plot was well designed with a twist that surprises. All Patricia Briggs fans will like this story.

YES! this is the Charles and Anna i knew they could be. I like that it's years into their future and you see the results of the time they have shared. I was 100% invested in this book and I really, really enjoyed it!

I can't explain how much I love Charles and Anna, they're my favourite charachters in the "Mercyvers".
I've already re-read three times the trilogy and it seems I can't get tired of them.
But I ABSOLUTELY want a next new story...please, Patricia!!!

There is a special excitement that comes around every time Patricia Briggs publishes a new book whether in her genre defining Mercy Thompson urban fantasy series, or more recently in her more romantic spin-off series, Alpha and Omega. Briggs is a master storyteller and her deft handling of mythology makes even the most fantastical supernatural worlds feel not just plausible, but every bit as real as our own.

It's taken me a bit of time to warm up to Anna and Charles and not begrudge them for taking the place of a new Mercy book, but after FAIR GAME, this series has really distinguished itself--in a good way--from Mercy. While characters and certain large scale events do overlap between the two series, the Alpha and Omega series is really a paranormal procedural, and a good one at that. In FAIR GAME, by far my favorite installment to date, Anna and Charles join forces with the FBI to help track down a supernatural serial killer. The investigation is intelligent, and the hunt and mystery of the killer is both scary and gripping. Readers looking for a greater focus on the werewolf pack may be disappointed, but I actually preferred the subtle shift away from pack politics.

My only real gripe with FAIR GAME is that it feels like the relationship with Anna and Charles is stuck on repeat. They don't seem to grow as a couple, and any progress they may make in one book doesn't carry over into the next. Anna is still relying on her wolf to allow intimacy with her husband, Charles is still shutting down their bond in order to protect Anna from his problems...The serial killer plot and an epically powerful ending that's going to affect the Mercy Thompson series just as much as this one, was strong enough to mostly compensate for this romantic shortcoming, but I'll be hoping for some serious developments between these two in the next book. There is no info yet about the next Alpha and Omega book, but based on the previous publishing schedule which alternates one Mercy book with one A&O book each year, we can expect it sometime in 2014.

Sexual Content:
A couple brief sex scenes. References to rape, sodomy, molestation & torture

I love how Patricia expanded Mercy's backstory and then kept on going!

Charles is the ultimate alpha male and Anna is the perfect compliment to him, without being pathetically submissive.

The story is engaging and keeps you right until the last shock.

Another fantastic addition to the series. I started reading alpa and omega because I was addicted to the Mercy Thompson series. I was worried that I wouldn't like it as much but Briggs does not disappoint. The story is complex and interesting the whole way through.

I am a BIG fan of Patricia Briggs...Fair Game did not dissapoint... I loved getting more of a glimpse of all the characters...Anna's growth as an indiviual was refreshing...the ending was AWESOME, can not wait to see what happens next...both in this series and Mercy's. ONLY ISSUE with this book was KINDLE pricing...was not thrilled with paying 12.99 for a Kindle edition...own full Mercy series...as well as others in this series....checked it out at the library instead.

While I love the Mercy Thompson books, there is something really special about the Alpha and Omega series. Right from the start, these characters draw you in. As another reviewer commented, you want to spend more time in this world. While a few aspects of the mystery were a bit predictable, the development of the characters and their powerful love for each other make this a wonderful story. I really enjoyed Anna taking such a lead role in the plot and the relationship.

Patricia Brigg's writing get's better and better; I've just finished "Fair Game" from the "Alpha And Omega" series and like the "Mercedes Thompson" series her writing get's better and better with each book. The two series, written with the same background and in some cases including the same characters, is as good as urban fantasy gets and is highly recommended. Especially well done is the depth of character development and the logic behind the series.

Slight Spoiler Alert: At first I was a little annoyed that the main female character managed to get herself kidnapped again, but I was satisfied with the resolution to the book.

The books are a good read or listen(audiobooks yea!)

Patricia Briggs does great with her Alpha and Omega. The character of Charles keeps revealing himself in layers like an onion. Good story, good development of side characters, and an interesting read. You learn much about werewolves in this story.

I've loved Patricia Briggs' series and have been eagerly anticipating this latest installment. Unfortuantely, it fell somewhat flat. There was no character development and the first prelude seemed somewhat tacked on. The characters could have been interesting but we never really get to see their backstories and understand their motivations. Charles and Anna were done a disservice in this book, often acting out of character. Everything is tied up in a neat bow in the last 20 pages with very little understanding of how we got there. Did Ms Briggs have a short deadline? Just not what I expected or hoped for.

I enjoyed the book but it was a much easier and faster read than I anticipated based on the other books in the series. I liked the interaction with the FBI and seeing the development of Anna and her Omega skills. I know that Anna and Charles will never have an easy relationship but it would have been nice to see at the end if exorcising his ghosts helped deepen their relationship (especially since it will be forever before we get another book!). I was very shocked by the ending - the decision the fae made - and intriqued to see how it plays out in future Mercy Thompson and Alpha and Omega books. Patricia Briggs definitely shook up her series with this fae decision and I hope it breathes some fresh life into her future books.

I am now an Alpha and Omega fan. I bought all 3 books in the series at the same time as I knew I'd enjoy them since they're written by Patricia Briggs. Her Mercy Thompson series is one of my favorites. She is doing a good job with this new series in developing the new characters as well as having a few crossovers from the MT series. The only reason it gets 4 stars instead of 5 is I'm judging it by the MT books--which is probably unfair.

I think Briggs is a wonderful storyteller. She makes you care about the characters. However, I think it is exceptionally greedy to pop ebooks cost to so much. Ms Briggs should be loyal to he readers who made her popular rather than trying to gouge us.

What a terrific addition to the series. Patricia Briggs is a top notch storyteller and her characters are rich and complex and they stay with me long after the story is finished. The timeline matches Mercy's world now, I'm so excited for Mercy's book which I'm sure will deal with the events that happened at the end of this book. Awesome and amazing and everything in between.

I really enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I've enjoyed Charles and Anna from their first short story and always look forward to their next book, but this one really wowed me! It was engaging and interesting from the start, but I admit the ending just blew me away. It was a complete and consistent ending and yet it left so many exciting question about what is coming next. How will Bran deal with it? And Adam and Mercy? And Zee and Tad!?

I thought the book was excellent. Truly. Which is why a day after reading it one big loose end is bugging me.

The dead boy child. I don't want to give too much away, so I'm not going to go into detail. But my issue is that I don't think a jury of 12 humans, no matter how scared, would really ignore the fact that the villain raped, tortured and killed a that boy-- regardless of the identity of any of the other victims. The facts of the story are that the boy was what he was different from the other victims, and any competent prosecutor would not have allowed the jury to forget that fact, and would have had a chance to remind them on closing remarks. That kept things at the end from being 'clean' for me.

Which is too bad because with just a few sentences the author could have addressed that creatively, and made it work.

I absolutely love this book! I wish I had my own Charles and that I was as strong as Anna.

Whether facing angry alphas, federal agents, crazy witches, powerful fae or ghosts, Anna keeps her cool and does her best to protect herself and her mate. Charles almost loses it but he makes peace with himself in time to save Anna and take out the bad guys. And holy cow, the fae at the end! I can't wait for the next book.

OK, I am taking this out on a novel by one of my all time favorite authors and it is probably inappropriate, but I do not know where else to vent. I bought a kindle thinking I would save a bit of money in the long run given the volume of books I read. Tons of books + Cheaper price for digital copy = long term savings that overcomes the cost of the kindle. Today I went online to buy this book for my kindle and see that a brand new paperback is CHEAPER than the digital copy for the kindle. How can that possibly be justified? Charging more for a digital copy than an actual new book?

Now, I have no doubt this book will be fantastic like every other story by P.B. The only difference is I will now stop at Border's Books on the way home today to buy a real copy instead of ordering one here for my kindle. A presumptive 5 stars for the book and 0 stars for the kindle.

So I don't usually write reviews but I just finished reading this book and I couldn't help myself, I love this series and this book was well written and left me wanting more towards the end. I feel like if you are a fan of the series or of Patricia Briggs then you should definitely read this book. I loved it and I hope you love it too.

I cannot say enough good things about Patricia Briggs. Her heroines are real women with real strengths, not Buffy the Vampire Slayer cookie-cutter tough girls. Read her Mercedes Thompson series as well as the Alpha and Omega series- they are set in the same world and overlap a bit- if you want to get the whole story.

For this novel specifically- the end is absolutely the best!! I can't wait to see what happens next.

Upfront I should point out I love the Mercy & Alpha & Omega books. Fair game was lots of fun, it reads in a similar style to her other works which I would recomend you read first. The Alpha & Omega series is starting to run more concurrently with the Mercy ones, and I expect in the future will become more entwinned.

I won't say anything more except that I was super excited when it ended- it really uped the stakes.

It is so easy to imagine that their are things really like this in the world, because of how well this book was written. This book had a lot of grisly seriel killer stuff. It was pretty gritty in some spots, but it went with the minds of these killers. Very good book. Looked forward to the next. This series will ease my Mercy longing.

First of all, I love Patricia Briggs. I adore her Mercy series and the Alpha/Omega series. This book is right on par with her other works and is a complete page turner. I couldn't put the book down and had to read it in one sitting because I had to know how it ended. The only problem is that now I have to wait for the next book in the series to come out. This book is a little different in terms of content and plot from the other Alpha/Omega books. It really reminded me of a criminal minds episode in terms of suspense and content. So, if you enjoyed any of Patricia Briggs's other books, definitely get this one. You won't be disappointed!

Briggs is exceptionally good at storytelling. She has turned her hand again to the Alpha and Omega story, and it is a good one. I'm personally looking forward to a crossover book with the Mercy Thompson storyline.

The book sets up some incredibly predictable scenes, so I almost marked it as a 3. I hate it when I know what is going to happen. Somehow, despite being predictable, it was still an exciting, fun read. The ending is strong and will drive future books and help avoid stagnation in the series.

Patricia Briggs is one of my go-to authors and her latest is another winner. It took me awhile to warm up to Charles and Anna but by this book they are both favorites. The mystery is divine, the romance engrossing and the end hook has me impatiently waiting for more. A stellar read all the way around.

The book was interesting, but it just didn't make me think, "Wow!" like a lot of her other books. Charles's problem just seemed a big excuse by the author to make their mate-bond malfunction, so she can cause them the same trouble again, after they just did a good job of getting over that in the last book.

The overall plot bits, showing world changing events were interesting, but I felt like the story of the book was lacking.

Overall: Important events happen you don't want to miss, but doesn't really grab my interest like the other books.

I thought the book was excellent. Truly. Which is why a day after reading it one big loose end is bugging me.

The dead boy child. I don't want to give too much away, so I'm not going to go into detail. But my issue is that I don't think a jury of 12 humans, no matter how scared, would really ignore the fact that the villain raped, tortured and killed a that boy-- regardless of the identity of any of the other victims. The facts of the story are that the boy was what he was different from the other victims, and any competent prosecutor would not have allowed the jury to forget that fact, and would have had a chance to remind them on closing remarks. That kept things at the end from being 'clean' for me.

Which is too bad because with just a few sentences the author could have addressed that creatively, and made it work.

I absolutely love this book! I wish I had my own Charles and that I was as strong as Anna.

Whether facing angry alphas, federal agents, crazy witches, powerful fae or ghosts, Anna keeps her cool and does her best to protect herself and her mate. Charles almost loses it but he makes peace with himself in time to save Anna and take out the bad guys. And holy cow, the fae at the end! I can't wait for the next book.

OK, I am taking this out on a novel by one of my all time favorite authors and it is probably inappropriate, but I do not know where else to vent. I bought a kindle thinking I would save a bit of money in the long run given the volume of books I read. Tons of books + Cheaper price for digital copy = long term savings that overcomes the cost of the kindle. Today I went online to buy this book for my kindle and see that a brand new paperback is CHEAPER than the digital copy for the kindle. How can that possibly be justified? Charging more for a digital copy than an actual new book?

Now, I have no doubt this book will be fantastic like every other story by P.B. The only difference is I will now stop at Border's Books on the way home today to buy a real copy instead of ordering one here for my kindle. A presumptive 5 stars for the book and 0 stars for the kindle.

So I don't usually write reviews but I just finished reading this book and I couldn't help myself, I love this series and this book was well written and left me wanting more towards the end. I feel like if you are a fan of the series or of Patricia Briggs then you should definitely read this book. I loved it and I hope you love it too.

I cannot say enough good things about Patricia Briggs. Her heroines are real women with real strengths, not Buffy the Vampire Slayer cookie-cutter tough girls. Read her Mercedes Thompson series as well as the Alpha and Omega series- they are set in the same world and overlap a bit- if you want to get the whole story.

For this novel specifically- the end is absolutely the best!! I can't wait to see what happens next.

Upfront I should point out I love the Mercy & Alpha & Omega books. Fair game was lots of fun, it reads in a similar style to her other works which I would recomend you read first. The Alpha & Omega series is starting to run more concurrently with the Mercy ones, and I expect in the future will become more entwinned.

I won't say anything more except that I was super excited when it ended- it really uped the stakes.

It is so easy to imagine that their are things really like this in the world, because of how well this book was written. This book had a lot of grisly seriel killer stuff. It was pretty gritty in some spots, but it went with the minds of these killers. Very good book. Looked forward to the next. This series will ease my Mercy longing.

First of all, I love Patricia Briggs. I adore her Mercy series and the Alpha/Omega series. This book is right on par with her other works and is a complete page turner. I couldn't put the book down and had to read it in one sitting because I had to know how it ended. The only problem is that now I have to wait for the next book in the series to come out. This book is a little different in terms of content and plot from the other Alpha/Omega books. It really reminded me of a criminal minds episode in terms of suspense and content. So, if you enjoyed any of Patricia Briggs's other books, definitely get this one. You won't be disappointed!

Briggs is exceptionally good at storytelling. She has turned her hand again to the Alpha and Omega story, and it is a good one. I'm personally looking forward to a crossover book with the Mercy Thompson storyline.

The book sets up some incredibly predictable scenes, so I almost marked it as a 3. I hate it when I know what is going to happen. Somehow, despite being predictable, it was still an exciting, fun read. The ending is strong and will drive future books and help avoid stagnation in the series.

I was eagerly awaiting the newest book in the Alpha & Omega series. I am very sorry to report that it fell far short of my expectations. The writing was flat. We learn nothing new about Anna or Charles (the main characters) and the novel is quite predictable. Further, the public sex scene was unnecessary and added little to the story. In summary, no plot, no character development - don't bother reading this one.

I love pretty much everything PB has ever written, but I won't lie and say I'm a fan of the Alpha & Omega series. I have never cared for the character of Anna. I thought she was weak, uninteresting, and pretty much a big wuss. Feel free to add a grain of salt to this feedback, since I know I'm not objective.

**AS AN ASIDE**

Some may wonder why I choose to read the A&O books if I don't like the heroine. My response is that I've been blackmailed into buying them. I cannot go two years without a word from Mercy Thompson. I must know something, even if it's a repeat of information from the last book in the MT series adapted to force a dilemma/resolution in the A&O series.

**COURSE CORRECTION**

I liked Anna--for the most part--in this third book. I didn't like that she seems to have too quickly gotten to a place within herself and her relationship with Charles that took Mercy longer to get to with Adam--and Mercy had a stronger start in the supernatural world. Still, I liked the fact that Anna got to journey into areas of Mercy's world that Mercy seems disinclined to explore. Anna's adventures are bridges for MT world-building (yes--I'm fixated on Mercy, so what?), especially in this narrative.

I enjoyed Anna being given more purpose via her approachability, thus leveraging the option to make her "a face" for the werewolf community. I didn't think it could fly until I was reminded of Anna's background (and the fact that Adam Hauptmann is spread thin as werewolf spokesperson). I had also forgotten that Anna was changed while in college majoring in music. I'm not much of a music appreciator, which might explain my assessment of Anna as a weak and purposeless--as well as annoying--heroine. This book went a long way towards redefining her for me--which I hope will engage my interest in future Charles/Anna stories.

I've never been big on witches, but they're always entertaining in MT's world. I thought they were even more so in A&O encounters. I love the inherent distrust of witches by the wolves. The way the species is handled is markedly different from that of MT's series. It's only to be expected given the resident expert Anna has at her disposal, I suppose. I just liked it. I liked it A LOT!

Having pointed out the upsides, let me get to some downsides in the story. (Sigh) Charles annoyed the heck out of me--and, sexist that I am, that is just unacceptable. I can struggle with--but accept--a weak woman, but I cannot abide a weak man. I hated every moment of his angst-y, self-pitying, whiney-but-protective, macho bull-spit. I tolerated it for eight-ninths of the book thinking it would be resolved in some essential yet unexpected or thought-provoking way. Instead the resolution was so lame I had to re-read the book to figure out the purpose it served in the first place. It was reminiscent of the suffering occasioned upon angst-y vampires who reluctantly/accidentally convert a romantic interest into a `monster'. You know the flavor--cheesy. The whole ghost thing--wow! It would have been more dignified to simply spell out the dilemma without including the over-the-top histrionics. I thought it diminished the dignity that is alluded to when characterizing Charles in all the previous books. This was my biggest disappointment.

The next downside was related to the villain. I don't even know what to say. (Sigh) To be honest, the story overall was just meh, predictable--pat. Nothing unexpected happened except what I assume was meant to launch the next Mercy book. Yes, it all comes back to Mercy Thompson for me--suck it up.

This was so unlike the majority of PB stories. I say the majority because it's sister story, "River Marked", had a similar feel to it. These last two PB entries have utilized an excess of supernatural to explain/resolve what used to be done by smart characterizations. Mercy is smart. Anna is finally acting smart. I'd be so disappointed if these heroines continue to have their smarts out-maneuvered by native powers. If it becomes typical/necessary for stronger characters than they to regularly take on the bigger fish in these series, does it mean that PB is opening the door for a romance classification (e.g., PNR) rather than broadening her position in UF?

I truly hope not.

Way to go Patricia Briggs!! Brilliant and as always a page turner. Though I do have one issue to bring up! How long do we have to wait for the next book!!! This is already good I am soooo looking forward to the next:D SOOO mandy questions!:D WOOOHOOOO!!! Good work!!

Patricia Briggs never disappoints. Fair Game was another book that I just could not put down. I read it in one sitting. This series just keeps getting better. The twists and turns of Anna and Charles relationship will keep the pages turning.

hmmm.... I enjoyed this but not as much as the first two books. For me this was okay...

I just like it when Charles is on point... and he was dealing with some stuff so I'll cut him a break.

Anna was cool so that was good.

Overall, this was just okay... not my typical lose-sleep-patricia-briggs-novel!

I am a fan of Patricia Briggs. I have loved the Mercy Thompson and Alpha & Omega series. I am very frustrated however, Mrs. Briggs seems to becoming too predictable. Is it time for the series to come to a natural end?
My cpmplaint, several books in this and in the Mercy Thompson series end nearly the same. We have either Anna or Mercy trapped (in some kind of cage) being held by either a Fae or a Vampire. I don't like it. Be creative, put them in mortal danger some other way please or find a way to end it.
I love this series. I love the Mercy Thompson series. The writing is great. The plots are great. I love love love the infusion of so many old fairie tales. I want more.

Don't give the bad reviews too much credit.

The story is told from ether Anna's or Charles' point of view so they are through out the book and thier relationship with each other natualy follows.

I didn't see the ending coming ether. Good book. :) Well done.

There was indeed new things that happened and that we the readers learn about Brigg's little world. Well done. Well done.

There was 2 things that bugged me:
1: The use of the word UNSUB. It did not flow. I was trying to think wolves and fae but getting Criminal Minds instead. I like to get into my reading and BE there. This was a distraction. I'd reather "killer" or "suspect".
2: Sex in graphic detail. I'm reading for adventure, not porn. I almost stopped reading and returned the book to the library. If you MUST put sex in a story put it behind something or say they did it. Close the door. If they are giggling and teasing each other we know what's going on.

Other then that I'd have given this book 4 stars.

I have loved all of Briggs' stories until this one. I would give a 0 if the store would let me. Lady Patricia this is for you. Most people simply log the story no matter what side of the political slant you fall on. Most people don't even know what that side is. I wouldn't even normally care. But the minute you blatantly begin to pour the sickly sour syrup of your own bias and beliefs all over your once lovable and honorable characters I begin to taste the tinge of bile in my throat. I am willing to bet most never noticed the taint, but I for one could barely read and enjoy the nature of the book because of th thick cloud that covered it. You actually believe that the side you are propping up would be the side to protect theme people in the world you have created. I happen to know that is as far from truth as even a delusional person could get. Congrats though because you have earned at lest a half a dozen readers that only I know Not even counting the ones they know. You should look more closely in the mirror because your bias is showing. And for those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about then don't worry your pretty pretty head you will likely loc this story in the continuing saga and be none the wiser. I envy you. I on the other hand can't ignore it and must vote with my pocket book. Disgusting.

These books are spellbinding and impossible to put down. I gobble them up as fast as I am able. I am only sad, now seeing that I have only two books left until either it ends or the waiting game starts. Considering the fifth book was just released this month, most likely the waiting game.

In this book, Anna is concerned because Charles has been having to act as the Marrok’s sword, killing werewolves who are out of line. Since coming out to the humans, Bran is not giving the wolves second chances and some of the kills are weighing heavily on Charles, and Anna seems to be the only one who sees it. She is scared of the torment Charles is inflicting on himself and he is not letting her share in his burden.

They are sent to help the FBI on a serial killer case, where three werewolves were among the most recent victims, but the killings have spanned several decades. Bran hopes that by giving Charles a chance to solve this and be a hero that his weight may be lessened.

I don’t want to give away any details and that is enough about the story to get you going. If you want to read more, buy a copy! You won’t be disappointed!! Patricia Briggs stories are gold!!

I loved Fair Game. Anna and Charles start out a bit estranged. This worried me, but after I reread the first two books in Briggs' Alpha and Omega series, I could see why this was natural. When they are first mated, Anna accidentally sees Charles' deepest fear: that she will see the monster he is. In this book, it becomes a major part of their lives.

Anna and Charles sally forth to Boston to hunt down a serial killer who specializes in offing paranormals. For me, it was a fantastic twist that one of their colleagues turned out to be a serial rapist and killer. I expect nothing less from Patricia Briggs and she definitely delivered. If you like the Mercy Thompson books, you should pick up the Alpha and Omega series. For one thing, there's interplay. Frost Burned happens after this book, and this book gives context that you would not otherwise have.

I am thoroughly enjoying this series as well as mercy Thompson. There aren't enough superlatives to describe my experience with the well developed characters, plot twists and imagery in Briggs books. Hoorah!!!!!

very nice love it amaizon is a god sent we buy stuff all the time and there pricedf great with everything in stock or we can pre order will continue to buy more and keep up the great prices and keep in stock thanks gene and mary hulsey