Helpful Score: 43
Light and fluffy and fun, fun, fun! This is the first book in a series that you will enjoy every minute of, unless you just can't deal with your mysteries being tinged with the supernatural.
Charlaine Harris introduces a great cast of characters. As the series progresses, many of the characters introduced here are expanded on. Sookie is a natural detective, with her rare ability to read minds. She is drawn into the newly exposed community of supernaturals. After all, if vampires exist, then it is likely there are werewolves and fairies, and dryads, and all manner of things that go bump in the night.
The books blend the genres. This is a mystery, fantasy, romance, and comedy. The characters are really the stars of the show.
If you like this series, you should read the other Harris books. Also, the "rompiness" of these books is similar to the Stephanie Plum novels by Janet Evanovich. Another good series in this vein are the Harry Dresden books by Jim Butcher. I understand that many of the other vampire series out there are quite different than these light-hearted novels, so if you like the Hamilton series, this might not be your cup of tea.
Charlaine Harris introduces a great cast of characters. As the series progresses, many of the characters introduced here are expanded on. Sookie is a natural detective, with her rare ability to read minds. She is drawn into the newly exposed community of supernaturals. After all, if vampires exist, then it is likely there are werewolves and fairies, and dryads, and all manner of things that go bump in the night.
The books blend the genres. This is a mystery, fantasy, romance, and comedy. The characters are really the stars of the show.
If you like this series, you should read the other Harris books. Also, the "rompiness" of these books is similar to the Stephanie Plum novels by Janet Evanovich. Another good series in this vein are the Harry Dresden books by Jim Butcher. I understand that many of the other vampire series out there are quite different than these light-hearted novels, so if you like the Hamilton series, this might not be your cup of tea.
Helpful Score: 19
I love paranormal books and was excited when I sat down to read this new series. Unfortunately, I couldn't make it through the 1st chapter or two. I didn't like the style in which it was written because everything was told from Sookie's point of view, characters didn't seem to exist unless they were interacting with her. I'm very disappointed...especially because I know it has such a huge fan base and has actually been turned into a tv-series. I know I'm missing out.
Update: I recently watched the whole season one of "True Blood" and loved it. If it is true to the book, I was right about it being an awesome story. Oh well guess that's just how it goes sometimes.
Update: I recently watched the whole season one of "True Blood" and loved it. If it is true to the book, I was right about it being an awesome story. Oh well guess that's just how it goes sometimes.
Helpful Score: 16
After reading Twilight, I felt the need to purchase this boxed set. Sookie Stackhouse is a likeable character who can read minds and falls for a vampire. I do feel some of the events in her life are taken lightly (i.e. deaths, threats, etc.). Also, it was strange to see that being a vampire within the community was recognized and accomodated in this book. This was definately a quickly paced, fast read and i DO look forward to reading the rest of the series, however I do hope it takes on a less "frilly" feel as it progresses.
Matthew M. (Skylerdragon) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 33 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 12
Dead Until Dark is a great story! In it, Sookie Stackhouse, a young and eligible barmaid finds herself in the middle of a crime spree. On top of that, Sookie is attracted to unusual men. Her best friend is a wary confidant, and the men in her community are taking more and more interest in her.
Sookie lives with her doting grandmother, and constantly worries about her difficult brother who seems to be tangled in one mess after another. Then Bill shows up. Bill is a vampire. And Sookie's already confusing world becomes more and more complicated in a flash. Before long, Sookie finds herself in danger and not even Bill the vampire can properly protect her.
Charlaine Harris is an amazing author. She crafts familiar characters which are both endearing and a touch surprising. Though the book is primarily a mystery, Harris weaves enough steamy sex and rich romance to entertain lovesick readers. Events unfold quickly and details are vivid and strtong making this a quick and exciting read.
Though I can't recommend it to my students (because of mature content) Charlaine Harris is a fantastic writer and will appeal to so many readers. Dead Until Dark is just the first in a series of books that promises adventure, excitement, mystery, and romance. I can't wait to pick up another.
Sookie lives with her doting grandmother, and constantly worries about her difficult brother who seems to be tangled in one mess after another. Then Bill shows up. Bill is a vampire. And Sookie's already confusing world becomes more and more complicated in a flash. Before long, Sookie finds herself in danger and not even Bill the vampire can properly protect her.
Charlaine Harris is an amazing author. She crafts familiar characters which are both endearing and a touch surprising. Though the book is primarily a mystery, Harris weaves enough steamy sex and rich romance to entertain lovesick readers. Events unfold quickly and details are vivid and strtong making this a quick and exciting read.
Though I can't recommend it to my students (because of mature content) Charlaine Harris is a fantastic writer and will appeal to so many readers. Dead Until Dark is just the first in a series of books that promises adventure, excitement, mystery, and romance. I can't wait to pick up another.
Helpful Score: 10
Cheesy dialogue, moronic female lead (and I despise the name Sookie), juvenile writing, the list goes on and on about why I should hate this book...having said all that, I really liked it. I couldn't put it down. I have high hopes that the writing will get better as the books progress, although I fear "Sookie" will remain my least favorite character EVER! If a reader can get past the negatives, the story itself is interesting and does draw you in. We'll see how the next one reads. I'm also going to watch the HBO series - very curious to see how that coincides with the book?
Elizabeth V. (evievalois) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 8
Entertaining enough to finish, but not a favorite. The characters fell flat and I didn't find it humorous. Most of the writing is "telling" not "showing" so I wasn't emotionally involved. Interesting plot but, overall, reading the book made me miss the charismatic vampires written by Raven Hart and Jeaniene Frost. I'm scratching my head over why HBO picked this series for their show. The show, TrueBlood, is equally unimpressive.
I'll eventually read the next book because people say the series gets better.
I'll eventually read the next book because people say the series gets better.
Helpful Score: 6
I am pleasantly surprised at the Sookie Stackhouse books, so much so that I ordered HBO just so I could watch True Blood.
Bon Temps houses a telepathic bartender. There is no shortage of drama in this out-of-the-way Louisiana town since Vampires have become legalized residents. These newly recognized citizens are trying to mainstream themselves by surviving off of synthetic Japanese made blood.
When there are a series of murders, vampires become the main suspects. Sookie is enlisted to use her "disability" to find the murderer before they find her.
Harris is an amazing storyteller. She will leave you wanting for more (and her other books won't disappoint).
Bon Temps houses a telepathic bartender. There is no shortage of drama in this out-of-the-way Louisiana town since Vampires have become legalized residents. These newly recognized citizens are trying to mainstream themselves by surviving off of synthetic Japanese made blood.
When there are a series of murders, vampires become the main suspects. Sookie is enlisted to use her "disability" to find the murderer before they find her.
Harris is an amazing storyteller. She will leave you wanting for more (and her other books won't disappoint).
Helpful Score: 6
This is the first book in a series, and a wonderful introduction to several fascinating characters. I can't wait to get further into the series.
Helpful Score: 6
After first I did not want to read this book. I thought I already saw the series I know what this is about. But I was wrong. I love being pleasantly surprised. There were twists and turns and more romance. I even found myself reading in a accent to match the TV Sookie. Enjoyed this book. I read them all out of order and still loved it. Now I am on to the other short stories by Charlaine Harris.
Helpful Score: 5
This is a light read with a slightly different twist on vampires. They have come out of the coffin, so to speak, in an attempt to mainstream back into society, at least one of them. But when Sookie falls in love with Vampire Bill, she finds it quite different from any human boyfriend she might have had. Well, you can just imagine. Its a good story, not too deep, and a fast read. Sci-fi with mystery and romance intertwined with the unusual life of Sookie Stackhouse who can read minds whether she wants to or not. Not a lot of character development to bog you down just downright fun and simple to understand. It does have its gory parts, but they are not overly graphic. Some explicit sexual scenes cause me to hesitate recommending for teens.
Helpful Score: 4
I felt this was a sophomoric attempt to write a novel. The situations were many times corny and character development was lacking due to the author's insistence on writing first person. I think she was trying out too many different styles for one book. The worst part for me was trivialities. I don't care that the main character was trying a new shampoo and she does a poor job of describing "routine" rituals such as showering, getting dressed, etc. I understand what she was trying do with that style but it was done poorly and just didn't fit in this type of book.
I started reading this after I saw HBO's "True Blood" and I was surprised at the major differences between the book and the show. I honestly think the show is much better, but that being said I think it is an interesting premise.
I felt the writing was bad enough that I almost didn't finish it, but I am glad I did because I read the second book and it was better than this one. Book #2 is still kind of all over the place story-wise but still interesting.
I started reading this after I saw HBO's "True Blood" and I was surprised at the major differences between the book and the show. I honestly think the show is much better, but that being said I think it is an interesting premise.
I felt the writing was bad enough that I almost didn't finish it, but I am glad I did because I read the second book and it was better than this one. Book #2 is still kind of all over the place story-wise but still interesting.
Jennifer S. (ladydaungerous) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 21 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
Yet another story about the supernatural juxtaposed with real life -- vampires hanging out with the living. But this is loads of fun -- give it a try.
Helpful Score: 4
Vampire Bill and Sookie (the mind reader) are interesting characters who date. I enjoyed this book. It was a light read with shades of Anita Blake Vampire slayer. The book had everything from the obvious Vampires to crazy people, people with strange sexual proclivities, shapeshifters and even "The King". It certainly was not boring!
Stephanie S. (skywriter319) -
Helpful Score: 4
There's honestly nothing exceptionally literary about DEAD UNTIL DARK: it reads like many other poorly written pulp fiction mystery series. What makes it so popular, however, is its appeal to the secret dark sides of ourselves--the part of our minds that longs to read about vampires, stalker-like brooding male love interests, and heaps of lust and romance.
The characters are rather unbelievable in their predicaments, static until they are suddenly declared in a particular state of mind for the sake of plot and entertainment. There is an uneven development of romantic interest between Sookie and Bill, and much is left unexplained in Sookie's relationships with various people in her life.
However, I enjoyed DEAD UNTIL DARK much the same way I enjoy stupid, brain-numbing movies about characters I'll never be able to empathize with: because I can't relate to them, and instead am able to sit back and observe them through a microscope without their being able to object. I didn't feel close to any of the characters, and so I was able to secretly enjoy their dramas and love triangles and whirlwind emotions. And when you think about it that way, it's actually quite an enjoyable story. Despite the lackluster writing, I was unable to put it down, and had to read it straight through.
Definitely not quality vampire literature--turn to authors like Richelle Mead for that--but as pleasurable as watching MTV with a bowl of the most fattening ice cream in your lap.
The characters are rather unbelievable in their predicaments, static until they are suddenly declared in a particular state of mind for the sake of plot and entertainment. There is an uneven development of romantic interest between Sookie and Bill, and much is left unexplained in Sookie's relationships with various people in her life.
However, I enjoyed DEAD UNTIL DARK much the same way I enjoy stupid, brain-numbing movies about characters I'll never be able to empathize with: because I can't relate to them, and instead am able to sit back and observe them through a microscope without their being able to object. I didn't feel close to any of the characters, and so I was able to secretly enjoy their dramas and love triangles and whirlwind emotions. And when you think about it that way, it's actually quite an enjoyable story. Despite the lackluster writing, I was unable to put it down, and had to read it straight through.
Definitely not quality vampire literature--turn to authors like Richelle Mead for that--but as pleasurable as watching MTV with a bowl of the most fattening ice cream in your lap.
Helpful Score: 4
Thought this would be better. In general it is pretty adolescent. REALLY LIGHTWEIGHT FLUFF!Sounded good- murder, mayhem, tall dark man, etc; Don't waste your time.
Not sure I'd have read it if I knew how silly it would be.
Not sure I'd have read it if I knew how silly it would be.
Ericka H. (wildflower5150) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 15 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
I really liked this book, very different from most books I've read. It's heroine Sookie Stackhouse is a great character. I love the idea of vampires living among us. I can't wait to read the rest of the series. Fun, light read.
Helpful Score: 3
I didn't care for this book. I had planned to read the entire series but I almost didn't even finish this one. Someone told me to read these since I loved twilight but there is know comparison other than they both have vampires. Not my kind of book.
Helpful Score: 3
Sookie Stackhouse is a cocktail waitress in a small town in Louisiana. She has a "disability" in that she can read people's minds. She keeps this a secret, and most of the people in town think she is just crazy. One day, she meets a vampire named Bill. She is intrigued by him because she cannot read his mind. She falls in love with Bill, which causes all kinds of problems. There have been several murders around town and all the clues point to a vampire doing the killing. Sookie doesn't know if she is falling in love with a murderer. I enjoyed the pretend world of vampires mixed in with the murder mystery - and the mystery part of the book kept me guessing up until the very end.
Elissa (elissaslibrary) -
Helpful Score: 3
Like a lot of other reviews, I SO MUCH wanted to like this book. I LOVED Twilight, LOVED PC Cast's House of Night series, LOVE romance novels and young adult fiction. I believe I have a high tolerance for fluffy plots, angst, and sex.
I got to page 183 before I gave up. This book reads like a 9th grade wanna be novel. Everything - the characters, the plot, the dialogue, everything - is so thin that its hard to follow. I'm all for novels that use regional dialects, as in PC Cast's House of Night series, but this was gratingly hicksville.
And the sex - eeew. I've read hundreds, if not thousands, of romance novels so I've read a lot of sex scenes...some good, some bad. The first one in this book was gross...gross like the snake up the butt in Kiss the Girls. After Sookie and Bill have sex for the first time - her first time - Bill uses his vampire blood to heal her on the inside. Yeah. He cuts his finger and begins to finger her and they go at it again. Seriously. And its not much more romantically described than that, either.
This book had the worst of everything: the worst of the vampire angst from Twilight, the worst of the stupid heroine and country cliche dialogue of House of Night, the worst sex I've ever read, and the plot of a 9th grade literature assignment.
I got to page 183 before I gave up. This book reads like a 9th grade wanna be novel. Everything - the characters, the plot, the dialogue, everything - is so thin that its hard to follow. I'm all for novels that use regional dialects, as in PC Cast's House of Night series, but this was gratingly hicksville.
And the sex - eeew. I've read hundreds, if not thousands, of romance novels so I've read a lot of sex scenes...some good, some bad. The first one in this book was gross...gross like the snake up the butt in Kiss the Girls. After Sookie and Bill have sex for the first time - her first time - Bill uses his vampire blood to heal her on the inside. Yeah. He cuts his finger and begins to finger her and they go at it again. Seriously. And its not much more romantically described than that, either.
This book had the worst of everything: the worst of the vampire angst from Twilight, the worst of the stupid heroine and country cliche dialogue of House of Night, the worst sex I've ever read, and the plot of a 9th grade literature assignment.
Helpful Score: 3
Loved this book. It's different than the show but very entertaining
Helpful Score: 3
I've been told this is a fun series to read and boy, it sure is! The first book of the Sookie Stackhouse series (the basis of True Blood on HBO) is a book about a small town girl (who can read people's minds) and falls for a vampire. Not your typical vampire story, as these vamps are known to exist in society and are, for the most part, accepted. Some murder, mystery and love all wrapped up in one.
Desiree Bridgeford (earthlovinretromama) -
Helpful Score: 3
Loved this book, after watching the series on HBO I decided that I must read the books to see what was missing from the show. Which is a bit.
Very entertaining fast read. Can't wait to get the rest of the series..
Very entertaining fast read. Can't wait to get the rest of the series..
Nancy G. (ComfyReader) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 330 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Most vampire stories tend to fall into the same rut, but surprisingly, this one stands on its own feet. Not falling into the same clichés these funny and unique characters will keep you turning the pages.
Sookie Stackhouse is a naïve goodhearted southern girl minding her own business in Bon Temps, Lousiana when the vampires starting moving in. Being the south I guess that doesnt raise too many eyebrows, but when girls that start dating vampires, affectionately called fang-bangers are murdered, Sookie cant help getting involved.
Then Sookie meets Bill and even she has to question a vampire named Bill, shouldnt they have more exotic names, and life gets even more interesting. See Bills one of the only people that Sookie cant read. She calls it a disability; the ability to read other peoples minds, but how refreshing to actually find someone that isnt an open book to her. OK, Bill might only be a mid-level vampire, but she can work with that.
Sookies innocence really is what makes this book funny, well, that and having Elvis as a bodyguard, but over all, this is a very good vampire series. Good action, good dialogue and not your usual been there done that vampire thing.
Sookie Stackhouse is a naïve goodhearted southern girl minding her own business in Bon Temps, Lousiana when the vampires starting moving in. Being the south I guess that doesnt raise too many eyebrows, but when girls that start dating vampires, affectionately called fang-bangers are murdered, Sookie cant help getting involved.
Then Sookie meets Bill and even she has to question a vampire named Bill, shouldnt they have more exotic names, and life gets even more interesting. See Bills one of the only people that Sookie cant read. She calls it a disability; the ability to read other peoples minds, but how refreshing to actually find someone that isnt an open book to her. OK, Bill might only be a mid-level vampire, but she can work with that.
Sookies innocence really is what makes this book funny, well, that and having Elvis as a bodyguard, but over all, this is a very good vampire series. Good action, good dialogue and not your usual been there done that vampire thing.
Helpful Score: 2
A fun, entertaining, fast-paced mystery about an unlikely relationship between a telepathic Louisiana barmaid and a vampire from the Old South who moves back home to his old town. I've read other vampire stories, but this was so unlike any of the vampire stories out there. The vampires in this series are more or less integrated into modern society. They drive cars. They use telephones. They even appear on the Oprah show to bemoan their allergies to sunlight,garlic, and silver. They socialize. Some of them live openly amongst us. They order synthetic blood when they "eat out. But of course "unfortunate incidents" (i.e. biting) still happens, and this story has quite a bit of that, and more.
Helpful Score: 2
I love the Sookie Stackhouse series. Beginning with this book, "Dead Until Dark," the adventures of Sookie Stackhouse, the telepathic barmaid, unfold. Written with great humor, fascinating characters, and nicely detailed storytelling, Ms. Harris has crafted one of the best series I've seen in years.
For those who think it's just another vampire series, think again. This is the lead book in a series that I guarantee will provide hours and hours of wonderfully imaginative storytelling. If I'm wrong, you can punch me on the arm!
Five stars for a series I hope will continue on into the indefinite future.
For those who think it's just another vampire series, think again. This is the lead book in a series that I guarantee will provide hours and hours of wonderfully imaginative storytelling. If I'm wrong, you can punch me on the arm!
Five stars for a series I hope will continue on into the indefinite future.
Helpful Score: 2
A very fun read. I am a fan of Twilight and needed something to satiate my vampire, love story yearning, this fit the bill.
Michelle D. (HockeyChick) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I was disappointed in this book. The story was unique of vampires living among humans and the racisim between the two cultures. The quality of the writing was very disappointing. It appeared to be written at a high-school level of complexity, grammer, and vocabulary.
This is an adult novel...I would not let a pre-teen or teen read these.
A disappointment for me.
This is an adult novel...I would not let a pre-teen or teen read these.
A disappointment for me.
Helpful Score: 2
The first in the Sookie Stackhouse series. I think this is one of the better Vampire series around.
Helpful Score: 2
Dead Until Dark is one of the few books (and beginnings of a series) that I can honestly say I feel very little one way or another about. An enjoyable and fun read overall, I found myself lacking a connection to the main character, Sookie, and generally feeling that she was a lackluster lead despite her psychic abilities and quaint personality. I was, in the long run, more interested in the side characters such as her boss, Sam, and I found myself almost immediately "disliking" her love interest, whom seemed impersonal to the point of my wondering if she wasn't trying to attract him because he was so "different" (as noted by her immediate fascination with him at the beginning).
In the end, I'm happy that I finally got around to reading this book but I certainly wasn't heartbroken about posting it back up to the system and didn't feel that I would ever reread it again without some outside prompting.
In the end, I'm happy that I finally got around to reading this book but I certainly wasn't heartbroken about posting it back up to the system and didn't feel that I would ever reread it again without some outside prompting.
Helpful Score: 2
My Mom insisted I read this series so I went ahead and got myself on the wait list for most of the books. I read fast so I waited until I had the first 7 either here or on their way. It didn't pull me in right away but I thought it was a good introduction to the characters in this series and isn't hard to follow at all. I just finished the third book (Club Dead)in this series and it gets better with each book. It isn't anything like Twilight if that is what your are looking for. The characters are older and more mature, well not always:). Sookie is a fun girl and she is really starting to grow on me.
Elizabeth R. (reidwifemommy) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 67 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I must admit if it was not for the HBO series 'True Blood' I would not have attempted to read this book again. It is an enjoyable read but seems to lack that certain depth that takes a reader into the 'storyline'. I don't imagine myself in the story as Sookie, I feel like I have found her diary. If you were even slightly interested in this series, I strongly suggest you check out the HBO TV series based on these books. There are direct passages from the book, but in my opinion the way the tv production has developed the character of Layfette is incredible to watch.
Helpful Score: 2
I happen to be a fan of the True Blood t.v. series and when I heard that it was based on books written by the author Charlaine Harris I thought I'd read the books and see how they compare. Dead Until Dark was a very good read. I have to admit Vampire Bill in the series is more loving than the one in the book--they gave him more human qualities. Sookie is very independent and I love the way her character narrates. There are differences from the t.v. series and the book but both are equally enjoyable. If you want an insight on the characters than I'd recommend exploring this particular book.
Karen F. (cosmichomicide) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 134 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Just started this series after reading quite a few well deserved enthusiastic and positive reviews. Very much looking forward to reading the other books if they are as much fun as this one was to read. :)
Jennifer D. (JimberGiggles) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 19 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
As someone, maybe the only one, who has not seen the TV series I really loved this book. I like that some bad things in the book are not taken as seriously as they would be in real life or in other books, because I was able to read it and not be left feeling depressed by the situations experienced by the characters. It was a fun and fast read, and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
Helpful Score: 2
I love the True Blood HBO series and when I found out that they were a series to read. I jumped on it, and boy was I glad that I did. This book follows right along with the t.v. show, or rather the show does a great job at recreating Mrs. Harris's story. Love the dark humor, and the down home feeling. Ready to start on the next one. You will enjoy it.
Valorie T. (morbidromantic) -
Helpful Score: 2
It's been a long time since I've read a good vampire story. In fact, I don't read many vampire stories at all. I have high expectations... to high, I guess. But, I really enjoyed this one. And joy, none of the characters pissed me off or annoyed me. Dead Until Dark was funny, sexy, and interesting. I enjoyed the plot and really liked some of the characters. I overlooked my expectations for vampires to read this book and I found it worth my while. Though the Southern Vampires sort of defied some of what I think vampire should be, I liked the books enough to get past that superficial issue. I thought that the dialogue was especially good. Nothing can turn me off of a book faster than dialogue that seems forced or insincere... or just NOT the way that people talk. I am utterly charmed with the Southern Vampire Mysteries now. I finally found a series about vampires worth reading since Anne Rice. You want exciting and sexy? Read this series. In ways, it's even better than anything Anne Rice created since hers remain shrouded in mystery and lore. The Southern Vampire Mysteries make vampires part of this world; it rips from them a preternatural sense of otherness and puts them directly in the human world shamelessly. Simply wonderful.
Marianne S. (howlinarmadillo) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Disappointing. I had high hopes for this series of books, but Dead Until Dark (Book One) didn't live up to my expectations. Reasonably interesting story, but could have been so much better. Maybe Charlaine Harris gets better as she gets deeper in the series, but I may never find out. I wouldn't buy the rest of the series...
Helpful Score: 2
Great Series!!! Hooked again! AND, bonus, HBO is running a series based on this series by Charlaine Harris and from what I have seen so far is running pretty close to the written version! I love reading a book and then seeing the movie, series etc.!!!!
Worth the read!!! Read it NOW!
Worth the read!!! Read it NOW!
Helpful Score: 1
I had heard really great things about this series and author, but found the story to be a bit simple. I felt that the author tried overly hard to keep the characters as innocent as possible and it detracted from the story a bit for me. I plan on reading the next book in the series to see if it grabs more of my attention.
Helpful Score: 1
Just love Sookie. This book is a light enjoyable fun read.
Helpful Score: 1
Great book! An unexpected joy.
I'm not sure what I was expecting when I requested this book. I had it sitting in my TBR pile for about 2 weeks while I got into something else. One evening I wanted something different and pulled this one out. What a treat! I didn't put it down until I was done with it. It wasn't a romance, nor a horror... kind of a light mix of the two. It was too dark, but not too light either. I liked that there was a bit of demention to the vampires and they were still 'demon-like' but not evil... just different creatures than humans with different needs, instincts, and lifestyles. A series I'll definitely continue to read.
I haven't seen the TV show 'True Blood' so cannot comment on the book in relation to that.
I'm not sure what I was expecting when I requested this book. I had it sitting in my TBR pile for about 2 weeks while I got into something else. One evening I wanted something different and pulled this one out. What a treat! I didn't put it down until I was done with it. It wasn't a romance, nor a horror... kind of a light mix of the two. It was too dark, but not too light either. I liked that there was a bit of demention to the vampires and they were still 'demon-like' but not evil... just different creatures than humans with different needs, instincts, and lifestyles. A series I'll definitely continue to read.
I haven't seen the TV show 'True Blood' so cannot comment on the book in relation to that.
Great entertainment!I laughed through it!
Helpful Score: 1
If you're into vampires and you follow the transformation of this fascinating creature, Charlaine Harris' books offer a world full of rich and multi-layered characters. Do you like the HBO series True Blood? You'll love this book. There are differences between the two, but the differences are intriguing. A great read!
Helpful Score: 1
Very cute book, part of a series.
Helpful Score: 1
If the rest in the series are as good as this one, I'm going to lose myself till I've completed the series.. Charlaine's great at southern writing and the whole series is one to add to the library !!
I loved this book. It's a quick read and the story pulled me right in. I couldn't put it down until it was finished and then I instantly ordered the next book in the series!
Helpful Score: 1
Absolutely loved this book. Sookie is so believable as a character (even her specialness is written great) and I actually laughed out loud at parts in the book. This one is a keeper!
Helpful Score: 1
Unbelievably good! A fun start to a very fun series! So much better than the HBO True Blood Series. Fast paced, a quick and fun read. Gotta love Sookie and Bill!
Helpful Score: 1
A page turner, Ms. Harris keeps you turning the pages.
Ashley C. (blondiekittie) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun read and I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read the next book to see what happens.
Marna C. (feritgrrl) -
Helpful Score: 1
Loved this book! This is the book for the adult Twilight fan, especially if the reader also appreciates mystery and suspense thrown in. I avoided this series for quite awhile as I was soooo tired of the vampire/paranormal romance genre, with the same old cliches or Anne Rice-isms. The allusions to the "vampiric canon" are cleverly done, with a nod to the King of Rock and Roll as well. I can't recommend this one enough!
Helpful Score: 1
Meet Sookie Stackhouse, waitress extraordinaire. Unfortunately, having telepathic abilities hasn't been exactly fun so far in her life. Until now. Vampires can't be mind-read! Bill, the newest citizen of the town makes a dead-set for Sookie, and oh, my does her life just reel! A rip-roaring new series launched by Charlaine Harris, she's now got 6 in the series...the first 4 of which I'm willing to share. I've bought them in duplicate, accidentally.
Helpful Score: 1
I started this series because I have heard such good things about the TV show True Blood. I've read some various vampire books but not a huge fan.
I really struggled with this book. The characters felt really one-dimensional to me. I wasn't convinced of the whole Bill and Sookie romantic relationship because I didn't understand why it was so intense so quickly. I didn't really buy it.
But I thought that the world that the author built was interesting. So I'll read the next book to see what develops.
I really struggled with this book. The characters felt really one-dimensional to me. I wasn't convinced of the whole Bill and Sookie romantic relationship because I didn't understand why it was so intense so quickly. I didn't really buy it.
But I thought that the world that the author built was interesting. So I'll read the next book to see what develops.
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoy this series. It doesn't take a deep thinker. That's not saying it's simple. I find she really 'fleshes' out her characters. There are lot's of times when I'm just not interested in knowing the depth of the meaning of life (mine or any one else's.), or the universe, or being green, etc.
I find Charlaine's characters interesting. If you've spent any time in the south there's a good chance you'd have met some-one like them. (May-be not the vampires ;)) I like the fact that I didn't have to start at the beginning of the series. I did go back and read the entire series after I read this one.
Also, I like Ms. Harris' writing style. When I find an author I enjoy, I read every thing they've written. I've been well satisfied.
I find Charlaine's characters interesting. If you've spent any time in the south there's a good chance you'd have met some-one like them. (May-be not the vampires ;)) I like the fact that I didn't have to start at the beginning of the series. I did go back and read the entire series after I read this one.
Also, I like Ms. Harris' writing style. When I find an author I enjoy, I read every thing they've written. I've been well satisfied.
Crystal M. (dreamingtigress) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 41 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was fun. Has a hint of Romance, but keeps you on your toes with loads of humor, and great ways of looking at life. It is well written and for me it was more like watching a movie then reading a book because it drags you in so well. Diffently a keeper and well worth reading. Never seen the tv series; so can't relate the two.
Helpful Score: 1
Very refreshing story about a naive psychic and paranormals(vamps& shapeshifter.) This is the first time I have read Charlaine Harris but I look forward to the next book in the series. This is the first in the series.
4 stars
4 stars
Helpful Score: 1
I kept hearing how charming this series was, how funny and different, but most of the humor really didn't work for me. For a vampire, Bill was pretty boring - which I guess was the point since Sookie craves normalcy - but it meant I never really cared about the romance or what was going on with them.
Helpful Score: 1
I read this book due to the hype over the series, True Blood. Haven't seen the TV show yet, but the book was enjoyable enough. I was a bit disappointed in the writing and am surprised that its getting so much notoriety. I'm still curious, so I'll read the 2nd book and find out if I agree with the hype.
Susan R. (Sue-in-AZ) -
Helpful Score: 1
This was a great story. I was a little concerned about reading a vampire story (yes, I'm one of those few people who hated Twilight!), but I really liked this one.
Sookie is a wonderful heroine, and I liked the whole mystery aspect. I plan to read more of this series.
Sookie is a wonderful heroine, and I liked the whole mystery aspect. I plan to read more of this series.
Karina F. (FineLQQKn) -
Helpful Score: 1
Enjoyable read. But I still prefer the Anita Blake series.
Helpful Score: 1
Fun, scary and romantic. What else do you need?
Steffanie G. (luvinbooks) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I got hooked on this series after reading this book. It mixes together southern life, prejudice, humor, and the paranormal (vampires, werewolves, faires and shape-shifters) Seriously, the books are much better than the show.
Tiffany K. (tiffanyak) -
Helpful Score: 1
I can't believe I waited so long to start reading the book series. But, I think that being a long-time fan of the show actually made the book seem even better to me. The book was different, but just enough so to keep my interest. It seemed to add a new dimension to the characters that I already loved from the show. I definitely like "True Blood" better, at least for now, but I still have a lot of books in the series to get through, so who knows. I will say that enough was kept the same where if you know the plot of the TV show, you'll know the plot of the book. This book corresponds to season one of "True Blood", though as I already said, they certainly aren't completely alike.
Helpful Score: 1
The Show is a lot more detailed because it shows inside the lives of all the supporting characters.
Laura M. (fairylady1204) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book set off the series with a big bang!!
I am personally addicted to Charlaine Harris' Southern Vampire series.
Her witty humor just grabs you and drags you along for a wild ride. You just can't help stayin' up late to finish it once you have started.
Sookie's personality is great you just can't help but wish you were her while reading it so you could be involved with Bill.
I am so addicted thanks to my Husband since he bought me my copy of Dead Until Dark.
I can't think of a better addiction than these books.
I am personally addicted to Charlaine Harris' Southern Vampire series.
Her witty humor just grabs you and drags you along for a wild ride. You just can't help stayin' up late to finish it once you have started.
Sookie's personality is great you just can't help but wish you were her while reading it so you could be involved with Bill.
I am so addicted thanks to my Husband since he bought me my copy of Dead Until Dark.
I can't think of a better addiction than these books.
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this book, Sookie Stackhouse is a barmaid , who gets involved with a vampire who comes into the bar she is working at one nite, and her life is turned upside down, This book defintely left me wanting to know more about sookie and to read more of her adventures, i have since bought all the other books in this series, and Charlaine Harris is now one of my favorite authors.
Helpful Score: 1
I thought that this was a pretty good story. I had actually started watching the series first (even though I've had the first 6 of these books on my shelf for well over a year now--what can I say, lots of books to read! ;P) but figured I'd better get in gear because I HAD to know what was going to happen (generally) in the show and I have little to no patience sometimes. :) I actually like that I had seen a few episodes first because it made it a lot easier to visualize what the characters looked like and such since the author does a mediocre job of describing everyone and I just feel the characters are a little under-developed. (I guess I love those authors who tell you the littlest twitch someone has so you can see what they're doing in your head.)
It's a light read but will probably disappoint those into the darker vamp books, especially since parts of it remind me of series by other authors that have been out longer. The story does get better as it goes on, which could be a result of the author becoming more comfortable with her characters and such, but it did start out a bit slow.
It's a light read but will probably disappoint those into the darker vamp books, especially since parts of it remind me of series by other authors that have been out longer. The story does get better as it goes on, which could be a result of the author becoming more comfortable with her characters and such, but it did start out a bit slow.
Sarah B. (bookluvin-nurse) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 26 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Love this series. I could not put it down!!!I love vampire series, but this and Twilight series are my favorite out of the many thatI have read. The writer has such an amazing imagination. She keeps your mind on edge the entire book, and series for that matter. I have read all 9 in this series, and have never felt bored with the storyllines, or felt that they were preditable. Can not wait for book 10
Jennifer M. (medinaserpa) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 37 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Good book. Not overly romantic, though. Would have been better with more romance.
Helpful Score: 1
Fun and engaging read..best if read in sequence!
Elizabeth (elsasdaughter) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 115 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book was Ok. Sinc I love the series True Blood I thought I would read this so that I could get more insight on the characters. I was dissapointed. Bill's character has no depth. When the author described Sam as a shapeshifter she did not say why. I'm going to give the second book a chance because it might answer my questions.
Katie F. (roisindubh) -
Helpful Score: 1
This was a nice first introduction to Sookie. Despite her "gifts" she is a normal woman trying to live a normal life. Throwing her into the world of vampires doesn't change that, but it does make for some interesting reactions on her part. I find her funny and charming.
This book is a quick read, perfect for a rainy day!
This book is a quick read, perfect for a rainy day!
Sherrie J. (sherriej) - , reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 34 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Well, I haven't seen the HBO series, would love to now after reading about Sookie and her adventures with the vampires, werefolk ect. Unlike some of the other vampire type books the books have humor mixed in and the romance is there but not front and center to the entire book. Reminds me somewhat of the Janet Evanovich Stephanie Plum series. I have now read the entire series and am ready for another fix of Sookie.
Helpful Score: 1
I really wish I'd read this book before watching the HBO show True Blood. I am so disappointed in the show. This book is great - as most are. If you've never seen the show...
Helpful Score: 1
Finally I read this first book of her series... LAST. I think if I'd started with this book I wouldn't have picked up the rest of the books. Overall a good writer, so I like to read everything they've written. I'm struggling through her early murder mysteries now, as a swap request!
I read this book after watching the first season of "Trueblood". "Dead Until Dark" is fun, a good summer read, but it could be so much better. The problem is a lack of characterization; we only get to know Sookie, everyone else in the story is one dimensional. If she can read minds, why doesn't this give her any insight on what these other people are like that she could pass along to the reader? Even Bill remains a mystery throughout the first two books of the series. As a result, I found this not as engaging as I had hoped. The television series presents these complicated, intriguing characters, and the book does not.
Helpful Score: 1
The first in the series. I dont think Sookie believes she is as strong as she really is. It was a good book and I cant wait to find out more about the other people in Sookies world.
Amanda B. (ArmyWife4Life) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 32 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Absolutely wonderful. I recommend this seris to everyone. Its one of my favs.
Helpful Score: 1
Excellent first book of a series. Not quite the same as the TV series True Blood (taken from these books), but Sookie is quite a character, and following her life becomes addictive.
Helpful Score: 1
This is a great book. I read it before I knew it was part of the True Blood show, so I think it made it better. I've been following Charlaine's series and I still love it! I recommend it for sure.
Helpful Score: 1
The very first Sookie Stackhouse vampire mystery. I've read them all and so should you! A mixture of scary and funny with a little bit of sexy thrown in.
Helpful Score: 1
Great start to a down to earth Vampire mystery series. Full of twists and turns too!
Stephanie S. (skywriter319) -
Helpful Score: 1
There's honestly nothing exceptionally literary about DEAD UNTIL DARK: it reads like many other poorly written pulp fiction mystery series. What makes it so popular, however, is its appeal to the secret dark sides of ourselves--the part of our minds that longs to read about vampires, stalker-like brooding male love interests, and heaps of lust and romance.
The characters are rather unbelievable in their predicaments, static until they are suddenly declared in a particular state of mind for the sake of plot and entertainment. There is an uneven development of romantic interest between Sookie and Bill, and much is left unexplained in Sookie's relationships with various people in her life.
However, I enjoyed DEAD UNTIL DARK much the same way I enjoy stupid, brain-numbing movies about characters I'll never be able to empathize with: because I can't relate to them, and instead am able to sit back and observe them through a microscope without their being able to object. I didn't feel close to any of the characters, and so I was able to secretly enjoy their dramas and love triangles and whirlwind emotions. And when you think about it that way, it's actually quite an enjoyable story. Despite the lackluster writing, I was unable to put it down, and had to read it straight through.
Definitely not quality vampire literature--turn to authors like Richelle Mead for that--but as pleasurable as watching MTV with a bowl of the most fattening ice cream in your lap.
The characters are rather unbelievable in their predicaments, static until they are suddenly declared in a particular state of mind for the sake of plot and entertainment. There is an uneven development of romantic interest between Sookie and Bill, and much is left unexplained in Sookie's relationships with various people in her life.
However, I enjoyed DEAD UNTIL DARK much the same way I enjoy stupid, brain-numbing movies about characters I'll never be able to empathize with: because I can't relate to them, and instead am able to sit back and observe them through a microscope without their being able to object. I didn't feel close to any of the characters, and so I was able to secretly enjoy their dramas and love triangles and whirlwind emotions. And when you think about it that way, it's actually quite an enjoyable story. Despite the lackluster writing, I was unable to put it down, and had to read it straight through.
Definitely not quality vampire literature--turn to authors like Richelle Mead for that--but as pleasurable as watching MTV with a bowl of the most fattening ice cream in your lap.
Marge J. (MaplesFlowers) -
Helpful Score: 1
It was a cute story. A little strange but I guess you have to sort of put yourself into the character's shoes to really understand what life would be like as her. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed reading this book. Easy reading and hard to put down.
Helpful Score: 1
I had a hard time putting this one down. I usually enjoy vampire books, but Sookie, the main character, felt more real to me than most heroines do. This book is the first of a series.
Helpful Score: 1
I can't lie... I was very disappointed when I started reading this book... so much so that I actually skipped past several chapters which I never do! Sorry to all of you Sookie Stackhouse fans... !
I absolutely enjoy everything this author writes! She is so funny. Great humor throughout.
Helpful Score: 1
I really liked this book, it was easy to keep reading & kept me wondering & interested. Having seen True Blood on HBO 1st was awesome, I actually had faces to assign to each character & to me they are a perfect fit. The 1st season of the show keeps pretty close to the story line of this book although the show seems to have more sex & drugs than the book....but thats HBO for you. The thing I really liked about this vampire story vs. others is the time frame & world are present day & vamps have just "come out of the coffin". It's interesting to think about how something like that would be dealt with in todays society.
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoy Charlaine Harris's Southern Vampire books! I started out watching the True Blood tv series not even knowing it was based on a book series. I like the show a lot, so when I discovered the books I was estatic! I'd have to say that this is the Twilight series for adults. If you enjoy vampire stuff, you will really enjoy this series!
Helpful Score: 1
This book is really FUN!! A great summer read. Quirky, funny, down-home.
Helpful Score: 1
The first in a great series!
Helpful Score: 1
I felt this book was pretty entertaining. It kept me turning the pages. Sookie Stackhouse is definitly a down to earth, everyday heroine.
Helpful Score: 1
Very funny and different vampire book. Lighthearted and adorable, you'll want the whole series.
Helpful Score: 1
This is a very cute and different vampire novel.
Helpful Score: 1
I am a big fan of the the HBO series "True Blood" which is based on the Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris. So I thought I would give the books a try. Well, "Dead Until Dark" was just okay. Somehow HBO seemed to have much improved the written version of the story. The storyline of the book was close to the portrayal on HBO with some exceptions; however, while the TV series really sucked you in, the novel kind of dragged. In the series, HBO really developed the characters which was kind of lacking in the book. Especially, Lafayette, the gay African-American cook - in the HBO series he is one of the delights while in the book he is just barely mentioned. Another favorite character in the series, Tara, is not even in the book! I did enjoy the Sookie character in both the series and the novel and I will probably read one or two more in the series to see if there is improvement. Overall, a mild recommendation.
Helpful Score: 1
Loved this book! I waited forever to try this series out after my sisters and friends raved about it, and am really glad I gave it a chance. I have the entire set on its way to me and I can't wait to read them. A very fun read! You'll want access to the 2nd book as soon as you finish this one, so be warned. :)
Helpful Score: 1
I REALLY ENJOYED THIS BOOK BY CHARLAINE HARRIS. A FUN,FAST,FUNNY AND WONDERFUL BLEND OF VAMPIRE AND MYSTERY THAT'S HARD TO PUT DOWN.
Helpful Score: 1
Saw someone talking about the book on HBO, apparently there is going to be a vampire series on HBO this season that is based off of or similar in nature to Charlaine Harris' writings and stories of vampires. I never read this kind of book but its a great escape from the humdrum of life. The news is always bad on television, the war, everyday life with teenagers....if you need a good dose of non-reality and escaping from your own reality for a bit....READ THIS BOOK! It was so good I have ordered the rest of the series! My BF is bugging me to finish the second book because I passed the first one on and she loved it! So there you go! Give it a try!
Helpful Score: 1
Loved it!!! It's so much sexier and dark than those silly Twilight novels (which I realize are written for teens), yet lighter and more fun than Anita Blake. If you are looking for a fun yet sinister read, pick this one up.
Helpful Score: 1
I really could not read this book, I tried but quit half way. A friend brought all 10 books over to me! Thanks but NO THANKS.
Jennifer H. (jennypenny) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
keeps you interested throughout the whole book. Good read!
Brittany H. (poohbritt) -
Helpful Score: 1
After I ran through the twilight series and started to get bored with the Anita Blake series I decided on something different. And I'm really glad I did. I love the main character, Sookie Stackhouse, the apparently very desirable (Atleast to vampries) telepathic barmaid. She's kind of like a wry Alice in a very weird wonderland. I went through the book pretty quickly when I got it and I'm already on the fourth novel. By the way, the HBO show, while not as good as the book, is alright too.
Jeannie H. (ilovebooksanddogs) -
Helpful Score: 1
I started reading this series after watching TRUE BLOOD on HBO. I fell in love with Sookie and Bill on tv and the book only added to that. Charlaine Harris has a winner on her hands with this series. A fun and easy read with great touches of humor throughout, I couldn't put it down!
Helpful Score: 1
Love it! Love the whole series!! I started with this one and finished all 8 books in 1 month. Could not put down. Start with this one and read on.
Helpful Score: 1
Cute story, predictable but good read. I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series!
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this series! If you love Vampire books, this is the series for you...the characters are well developed and you look forward to each book...highly recommed
Helpful Score: 1
This is an excellent start to this set. This was my first book i have read by her and look forward to reading the rest
Lynne D. (dewfactor) -
Helpful Score: 1
This book introduces small-town Southern Sookie Stackhouse and her family and friends, who co-exist with vampires in Louisiana. A series of local murders which hit perilously close to home tests friendships and familial bonds, while Sookie's relationship with local vampire Bill Compton and his undead friends adds spice to the mix. Overall, a good introduction to new characters that leaves you wanting to read more. Fluffy and a little creepy, but fun and a good read. Slightly smutty, so don't pick this one if you object to sex scenes.
Helpful Score: 1
I love this book! Having read all of them in the series so far, there is an innocence in Sookie when we are first introduced to her that changes over time. I guess hanging out with vampires and other supernatural creatures will do that to you.
There are very few books that I consider keepers but all of the Sookie books are. I tried to watch the series based on the books but I can't stand it. I didn't care for the way the characters were portrayed and when you read books, you picture everyone and everything a certain way, and rarely do the actors live up to what you have imagined in your head.
I also enjoyed the humor in these books. Great series!
There are very few books that I consider keepers but all of the Sookie books are. I tried to watch the series based on the books but I can't stand it. I didn't care for the way the characters were portrayed and when you read books, you picture everyone and everything a certain way, and rarely do the actors live up to what you have imagined in your head.
I also enjoyed the humor in these books. Great series!
Helpful Score: 1
This series of books are just plain fun. "Dead Until Dark" introduces you to Sookie Stackhouse, the gorgeous, mind-reading bar waitress who falls for a vampire. Who wouldn't want to read about that? I highly recommend the entire series, called the Sookie Stackhouse series or the Southern Vampire series. It will take you on a hilarious, wild and sexy ride. Enjoy! ;0)
Helpful Score: 1
I really liked the book. Just hard to read after watching the show first. I think the show should have kept to the story more. This really is a great book to read if your into True Blood. I can't wait to get on to the next book.
Helpful Score: 1
I loved this book. It's a light, quirky view on the whole vampire thing. A lot different than all the "darker" vampire novels. Once I picked this book up I read the whole thing before I went to bed. Can't wait to read the other books in the series.
Helpful Score: 1
I could hardly put the book down. It was just the right amount of mystery, suspence, and romance tied into one. The fact that it involved vampires was just another plus. I literally have the next 4 lined up!!
Helpful Score: 1
Enjoyed the book.
Helpful Score: 1
Funny, scary, sexy... Just a plain good book.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a very enjoyable book. Along with being a good paranormal it also had a decent mystery and little romance (without going overboard). I really like Sookies charicter. If she were real and lived near me I would want to be her friend. She is sweet and a little inocent but she has back bone and doesn't take crap off of any one. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a light and entertaining read. A great distraction from the semester when I just want to not think about school for a moment. I'm definitely going to read the rest of the books in the series and I'm pretty sure that they wont disappoint either.
Helpful Score: 1
Fun read & a bit of light humor added to an otherwise dark genre. Sookie is well written & a fresh breeze.
Helpful Score: 1
The first in the Sookie Stackhouse series. Sookie, a cocktail waitress in a small town in north Louisiana has a gift. Or curse, depending on your point of view. She can read minds. Then one evening, Bill, the vampire walks into her bar and orders a bottle of synthetic blood. Sookie's life just took a major change. It seems she can't read the minds of vampires. Soon she is embroiled in a romance with Bill and then with vampires in general. This is a wonderful series that just keeps getting stronger and stronger as it goes.
Helpful Score: 1
The first book in the Southern Vampire Mysteries series. The series in which True Blood the HBO series is based on. Dead Until Dark is about Sookie Stackhouse and her ability to read minds. Sookie meets a vampire, Bill, who she's so excited to meet because he's new and she cannot read his mind. She saves him from uncertain death and he ultimately does the same for her.
What I really like about the books are that they're follow Sookie and only Sookie. They don't jump around from character to character which makes these a fast read as well as interesting. I feel as though too many books I read jump from person to person or from event to event. Where this book just reads straight through. I find that refreshing and fun and it's what keeps me going back for more.
What I really like about the books are that they're follow Sookie and only Sookie. They don't jump around from character to character which makes these a fast read as well as interesting. I feel as though too many books I read jump from person to person or from event to event. Where this book just reads straight through. I find that refreshing and fun and it's what keeps me going back for more.
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed reading this book and the series. It is full of twists and turns. However, I did notice alot of sexual energy and acts. Not for younger eyes! 5 out of 5!
Helpful Score: 1
Love Harris' style...chatty, witty and interesting twists! Really looking forward to more of the Southern Vampire series!
Helpful Score: 1
Easy read and a good companion to the show. Love the show!
Can hardly put this book down and can't wait to start the next in the series!
I didn't get a chance to see the series on tv but I do enjoy the book. Lately I've been caught up in vampire books so this appears to be a very good series.
I was back and forth with this book. One chapter I was loving it and then the next chapter I didn't like it and couldn't wait for the book to end. A friend suggested it to since I like the Twilight Saga. Let me say that it is nothing like the Twilight Saga. When I first started reading it, I was all excited about reading the rest of the series, but now they can wait. I'll eventually read them, but let's just say I'm in no hurry. There were parts of the book that I liked and thought were funny, but at a couple of points in it I had to put it down and ask "What is this...a vampire porn book?!" Overall it was okay, it just wasn't exactly my cup of tea.
I write this book review with no preconceived notion brought on by the show True Blood. I refused to watch that show until I read the books. I have just finished the first one.
Sookie Stackhouse is your typical disabled waitress in a small town bar in Northern Louisiana. Her disability is a far from common one; shes telepathic.
She was raised with her brother, Jason, by her aging grandmother after her parents died when she was young. While her older brother has moved out of the house a while ago, Sookie still lives with her grandmother.
Enter the Vampire Bill.
When vampires were allowed out of the coffin a few years back to be legally recognized citizens, theyve been received with curiosity, romanticism, and sometimes all out hatred; but Sookie couldnt wait to meet one.
When she met Bill, she was waitressing at Merlottes, the local pub and food stop in Bon Temps. She was taken with him, but she was Crazy Sookie after all, and Sookie doesnt date. Hearing other peoples thoughts at a constant rate kills that idea.
When Bill got up and left with the Rats, a local couple nicknamed that by Sookie due to their white trash status and last name, Sookie immediately knew they were up to no good. When she followed them out into the parking lot, they were draining him for his prized vampire blood, which has become the new it drug.
Sookie managed to get Bill away from them, and herself into a lot of mess.
Meanwhile; there is a serial killer in Bon Temps murdering young women, and the local detective has his sights on her older brother to fill the prison cell for it.
I cant get into all the different characters and aspects of this book so now its down to my final thoughts. Since I had not seen the show, I really genuinely loved this book. There were so many interesting characters and it really got into the vampire society aspect. Unlike books like Twilight, it isnt some sob story teen emo G rated romance but there isnt so much sex in it, as say Laurell K Hamilton, where you just groan and skip the five chapters it takes to complete one love scene. That is important to me. Romance scenes should only be included into a book when it benefits the story, not as a cover up for the writers lack of creativity to spin an actual storyline. This book delivers in this department. Harris is an excellent storyteller, and she did wonderfully by weaving in the whole Southern mentality youd expect from a story based in Louisiana.
Sookie Stackhouse is your typical disabled waitress in a small town bar in Northern Louisiana. Her disability is a far from common one; shes telepathic.
She was raised with her brother, Jason, by her aging grandmother after her parents died when she was young. While her older brother has moved out of the house a while ago, Sookie still lives with her grandmother.
Enter the Vampire Bill.
When vampires were allowed out of the coffin a few years back to be legally recognized citizens, theyve been received with curiosity, romanticism, and sometimes all out hatred; but Sookie couldnt wait to meet one.
When she met Bill, she was waitressing at Merlottes, the local pub and food stop in Bon Temps. She was taken with him, but she was Crazy Sookie after all, and Sookie doesnt date. Hearing other peoples thoughts at a constant rate kills that idea.
When Bill got up and left with the Rats, a local couple nicknamed that by Sookie due to their white trash status and last name, Sookie immediately knew they were up to no good. When she followed them out into the parking lot, they were draining him for his prized vampire blood, which has become the new it drug.
Sookie managed to get Bill away from them, and herself into a lot of mess.
Meanwhile; there is a serial killer in Bon Temps murdering young women, and the local detective has his sights on her older brother to fill the prison cell for it.
I cant get into all the different characters and aspects of this book so now its down to my final thoughts. Since I had not seen the show, I really genuinely loved this book. There were so many interesting characters and it really got into the vampire society aspect. Unlike books like Twilight, it isnt some sob story teen emo G rated romance but there isnt so much sex in it, as say Laurell K Hamilton, where you just groan and skip the five chapters it takes to complete one love scene. That is important to me. Romance scenes should only be included into a book when it benefits the story, not as a cover up for the writers lack of creativity to spin an actual storyline. This book delivers in this department. Harris is an excellent storyteller, and she did wonderfully by weaving in the whole Southern mentality youd expect from a story based in Louisiana.
So the first book in the series is good.. just don't expect the same type of story as you go along. After, oh, book four it gets really graphic and loses focus.
This whole series is well worth the read! I found myself rushing to the store to buy the next one.
Fun series to read! The first three books are a bit below average, but once the whole Sookie Stackhouse world is fleshed out, it proves to be interesting and exciting.
I enjoyed the books so much perhaps because Sookie in the books is a great role model- She is strong, independent, smart, inventive, self-sufficient: a great example of an independent woman. It is really too bad how opposite this portrayal is of Sookie in the True Blood series, although still enjoyable.
I enjoyed the books so much perhaps because Sookie in the books is a great role model- She is strong, independent, smart, inventive, self-sufficient: a great example of an independent woman. It is really too bad how opposite this portrayal is of Sookie in the True Blood series, although still enjoyable.
I usually go for darker supernatural books. This one is lighter and funny. Has a mystery component to it. Good start to a series.
For anyone that is a fan of True Blood, reading the series it based off of is required. Mostly so you can point out that's not how it was done in the book. Sookie is a fluffy character and it's written from her point of view, it's not as dark as the tv series.
I love this book. It got me hooked on the entire series. It was a quick and funny read and got me from the start!
Charlene B. (charlene) - , reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 76 more book reviews
This series is enchanted light-hearted reading. I enjoy Sookie Stackhouse's misadventures.
Warning: This will be surprisingly long for a book I didn't finish.
After pointing and laughing my way through "Twilight" (because "Twilight means never having to say you're kidding"--http://cleolinda.livejournal.com/630150.html), I was on the lookout for more goofy paranormal fluff. Alas, "Dead Until Dark" had all of the terrible writing with none of the inadvertent hilarity. It read like an emo middle-schooler's tale of vampires. Every other sentence started with "I", and entire paragraphs were devoted to describing people's appearances and clothing. Really, how many times do we need to hear that Sookie has long blond hair, and that her work uniform is a white t-shirt and black shorts?
There were also a few horrifically stereotyped minor characters, including a black, female cop named Kenya who was "built to weather hurricanes", and whose inner monologue at a murder scene was described by the narrator as "...she felt sorry for anyone who ended up with flies crawling on her face. Kenya was thinking she was sorry she'd eaten that extra doughnut that morning at the Nut Hut because it might come back up and that would shame her as a black woman police officer."
Really, Harris? REALLY really?
Sadly...yes, really. Harris earlier makes a point of how "funny" Kenya and her cop partner Kevin look together -- "When the town police chief had partnered Kenya and Kevin, he'd been indulging his sense of humor, the town figured". Why? Because she's a tall heavy-set black woman, and he's a short, thin white man. HIGH-larious, don't you agree?
Ugh.
Then there was the gay, fey "swarthy, maybe Latino" man, who -- OMG! -- turned out to have "sino-AIDS". Couldn't have been any of the other four people who dropped by to visit - no, it's the queer POC.
I kept hoping it would get better, but instead it got worse with each page, until I gave up at page 120 or so, after the following sentence, during the scene in which her coworkers are collectively disapproving her choice to date a vampire:
"I thought you were going to say you were dating a black, but you've gone one better, ain't you, girl?"
The only thing that kept me from literally throwing the book across the room at this point was knowing that the noise would wake up my husband. Instead I settled for picking my jaw up off the floor, and putting this book back on the shelf.
I think this book wins the Most Racist Book I've Ever Read award (Most Sexist goes to Where the Red Fern Grows).
Just...wow.
After pointing and laughing my way through "Twilight" (because "Twilight means never having to say you're kidding"--http://cleolinda.livejournal.com/630150.html), I was on the lookout for more goofy paranormal fluff. Alas, "Dead Until Dark" had all of the terrible writing with none of the inadvertent hilarity. It read like an emo middle-schooler's tale of vampires. Every other sentence started with "I", and entire paragraphs were devoted to describing people's appearances and clothing. Really, how many times do we need to hear that Sookie has long blond hair, and that her work uniform is a white t-shirt and black shorts?
There were also a few horrifically stereotyped minor characters, including a black, female cop named Kenya who was "built to weather hurricanes", and whose inner monologue at a murder scene was described by the narrator as "...she felt sorry for anyone who ended up with flies crawling on her face. Kenya was thinking she was sorry she'd eaten that extra doughnut that morning at the Nut Hut because it might come back up and that would shame her as a black woman police officer."
Really, Harris? REALLY really?
Sadly...yes, really. Harris earlier makes a point of how "funny" Kenya and her cop partner Kevin look together -- "When the town police chief had partnered Kenya and Kevin, he'd been indulging his sense of humor, the town figured". Why? Because she's a tall heavy-set black woman, and he's a short, thin white man. HIGH-larious, don't you agree?
Ugh.
Then there was the gay, fey "swarthy, maybe Latino" man, who -- OMG! -- turned out to have "sino-AIDS". Couldn't have been any of the other four people who dropped by to visit - no, it's the queer POC.
I kept hoping it would get better, but instead it got worse with each page, until I gave up at page 120 or so, after the following sentence, during the scene in which her coworkers are collectively disapproving her choice to date a vampire:
"I thought you were going to say you were dating a black, but you've gone one better, ain't you, girl?"
The only thing that kept me from literally throwing the book across the room at this point was knowing that the noise would wake up my husband. Instead I settled for picking my jaw up off the floor, and putting this book back on the shelf.
I think this book wins the Most Racist Book I've Ever Read award (Most Sexist goes to Where the Red Fern Grows).
Just...wow.
Sheryl O. (Everett-Reader) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 216 more book reviews
Good fun in the whole vampire romance genre! Much better then Twilight, much better then other "lightweight" vampy stories. Looking forward to reading more of the series.
Heather E. (herwine75) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 116 more book reviews
This is a humorous, amusing story of a community of people living with vampires. There are some great characters that lead strange lives or they could be your neighbor.
Karen T. (luvs-chicago) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 65 more book reviews
Very fun, fluffy vampire read. :-) First in the Sookie Stackhouse series, it's very addicting.
Love the series. The first book is much like the HBO series, but that is where the similarity ends. The 2nd and 3rd books become more serious, I have not read the 4th but it is on my nightstand.
Charlene (ATraveler) -
Interesting and enjoyable light read. First of a series and a nice setup for supernatural murder mystery series . . . where the traditional bad guys (vampires, etc.) aren't bad. Rather the normal humans turn out to be the worst monster. Sookie, the female main character, has abilities of her own which lead her into empathic relationships to the non-human element.
Too much sex. I don't really think everyone thinks about sex all the time. Could have been much better.
awesome read (especially if you like vampires) :)
2 years ago the vampire community had its coming out, acknowledging to the world it is true, they are there and "alive". Since then Sookie Stackhouse has been waiting for the first vampire to enter her place of work, the "Merlotte's" in Bon Temps, Louisiana. She recognizes him instantly only because of his gorgeous looks but also because he is so quiet in his head. Sookie has this ability that makes her life very difficult at times: She read peoples thoughts. When they slowly get to know each other they both have to learn the other persons live is as difficult as their own although Sookie fears Bill's live is one of blood and murder.
Their love is tested when two women in town are found strangled. They both were too vampire friendly and had them suck their blood in the past. Sookie's relationship to Bill doesn't stay unnoticed by the towns people and when her grandmother is killed in a gruesome way it becomes clear that this relationship doesn't seem to sit well with someone vampire or human.
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I got to read the first book of this series because I saw it on TV. I found it very frustrating how the TV series and book differ from each other and this fact alone took a lot of the fun away. Ultimately it was the series that made me want to read the book.
That aside, I think Dead until Dark is a fine read if you don't expect too much action but rather the difficulties between a mind reader and newly legalized vampire.
Good enough to pick up the second novel some time.
Their love is tested when two women in town are found strangled. They both were too vampire friendly and had them suck their blood in the past. Sookie's relationship to Bill doesn't stay unnoticed by the towns people and when her grandmother is killed in a gruesome way it becomes clear that this relationship doesn't seem to sit well with someone vampire or human.
-
I got to read the first book of this series because I saw it on TV. I found it very frustrating how the TV series and book differ from each other and this fact alone took a lot of the fun away. Ultimately it was the series that made me want to read the book.
That aside, I think Dead until Dark is a fine read if you don't expect too much action but rather the difficulties between a mind reader and newly legalized vampire.
Good enough to pick up the second novel some time.
Easy read gotta have a open mind to these kinds of thingh.
I listened to this book on audio and I was hooked. Then I watched the True Blood series and got addicted along with my 21 yr old daughter! She resisted at first and then found herself waiting for the next episode on TV! This book is silly, poorly written and ridiculous. However, it is pure fun and kind of like candy - you know its not increasing your IQ but you have to have it anyway!
Laugh out lous funny. Really easy read but hard to put down.
I didn't know what I should rate the book because I love the show, so I got the book and started reading it, and the book is pretty much word for word the same as the show. Would have prefered to have read the books prior to seeing the show, but now that I've seen the first season there's really no reason to go on reading...Great story though. Very original.
While I can't say it was the best of the Vampire stuff that's out there that I have read, I can't say it's the worst either. The first two chapters appeared to have been overlooked grammerically. It drove me nuts. The story improved as the characters developed. I picked this up after catching one episode of the HBO series. The Sookie Stackhouse character is great. There is a delight of southern personalities in this story. I could not put this one down. Vampire Bill propelled the story further than the serial killer plot. I prefered the absence of the Tara character in this book that was created for the TV series. Looking forward to more in the book series.
Laura S. (nisforneville) -
Even though I read book 5 a few years ago, without knowing it was part of a series, and therefore wasn't too impressed with that book, I really enjoyed this book, the first in the series. I'm a fan of True Blood (the TV show), and I think this is a really good supplement to season one. I plan to read book 2 as soon as I can get it, and if that is good, read the next, and so on.
Ok, so I watched True Blood on tv and had never heard of Charlaine Harris. I started this series out of boredom and read the whole series straight through in less than a week. Can't wait for the next one. All of the books are a tad repetitive on the character description (how many times do I have to hear about Sam's halo of strawberry blonde hair or Eric's Nordic good looks?) but very entertaining, light hearted and thoroughly addictive. You won't be sorry.
I like this book and is a fun light read.
This was a lot of fun! Of course, the mystery was no surprise since I watched _TrueBlood_, but that didn't detract from the fun of reading this book! Sookie's mind-reading was much more interesting in the book. And there were several differences between the show and the book. Tara wasn't even in this book at all, which was a shock considering her large role in the show. While I would say that the show is more exciting - ending on cliffhangers, more action - the book is just so much more fascinating. I still like Sam better than Vampire Bill. And I am very curious about where the books will go since it seems that they, like the Dexter books, will go in a very different direction than the show.
I have read and I am writing a book that falls into this genre'. Holds your interest enough.. If you are looking for light reading. I might have enjoyed it more if I hadnt seen the first episode on HBO first...
The 1st book in the series (aka the Sookie Stackhouse books):
Dead Until Dark
Living Dead in Dallas
Club Dead
Dead to the World
Powers of Detection (Ace 2004), an anthology which includes "Fairy Dust," a Sookie short story
Night's Edge (Harlequin 2004), a Sookie-universe novella
Bite, an anthology which includes "One Word Answer," a Sookie short story
Dead as a Doornail
I love these books--they're a mix of vampire, mystery, and romance genres with lots of humor. Read more at http://www.charlaineharris.com
Dead Until Dark
Living Dead in Dallas
Club Dead
Dead to the World
Powers of Detection (Ace 2004), an anthology which includes "Fairy Dust," a Sookie short story
Night's Edge (Harlequin 2004), a Sookie-universe novella
Bite, an anthology which includes "One Word Answer," a Sookie short story
Dead as a Doornail
I love these books--they're a mix of vampire, mystery, and romance genres with lots of humor. Read more at http://www.charlaineharris.com
This was a great book, once i got started, i could hardly set it down. I read all 9 books one right after another, if you like paranormal, i would highly recommend this series.
The only thing I didn't like about "Dead Until Dark" was the leading character's name. Sookie? Really? I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a light, easy read that's entertaining. Not as dark or dramatic as "Twilight". I'm looking forward to finishing this series.
After reading all the Twilight books (which I loved) this was a much different spin on the vampire world. It was a very light, quick read. It was a welcome change to the "deepness" of the Twilight series. I ordered the second book before I even finished the first!
I thought that this was a pretty good story. I had actually started watching the series first but don't get HBO any more. So I HAD to know what was going to happen . :) I actually like that I had seen a few episodes first because it made it a lot easier to visualize what the characters looked like and such since the author does a mediocre job of describing everyone and I just feel the characters are a little under-developed, or then thers the best friend in theshow thats not even in the book.
This is a very quick read that is my afternoon, guilty pleasure.
the back cover says...
Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability". She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark, handsome--and Sookie can't hear a word he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy she's been waiting for all her life . . . But Bill has a disability of his own: He's a vampire with a bad reputation. He hands with a seriously creepy crowd, all suspected of--big surprise--murder. And when one of Sookie's coworkers is killed, she fears she's next . . .
the back cover says...
Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability". She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark, handsome--and Sookie can't hear a word he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy she's been waiting for all her life . . . But Bill has a disability of his own: He's a vampire with a bad reputation. He hands with a seriously creepy crowd, all suspected of--big surprise--murder. And when one of Sookie's coworkers is killed, she fears she's next . . .
I'd you can get past the barely 9th grade reading level and vampire cliches, the story line is actually not bad. Set in the South in a time when vampires are commonly known of and frequent local establishments, this vampire romance meets murder mystery kept my attention. Complete with mind readers and shape shifters. Something for everyone! :)
If you've seen Season 1 of the HBO series "True Blood", you'll find that this book is an excellent guide with very similar storyline. Season 1 includes this entire book and the first chapter or two of the 2nd book.
If you've seen Season 1 of the HBO series "True Blood", you'll find that this book is an excellent guide with very similar storyline. Season 1 includes this entire book and the first chapter or two of the 2nd book.
I initially discovered this series by watching an episode of "TrueBlood," which is based on this. Since I live near the author, I decided to pick up the book (I like the HBO series enough that I have ordered the first 2 seasons and am EAGERLY awaiting the 3rd). I must say I sat down and read this book in one day. The plot is fast-paced, interesting, and the whole premise is new. The main character, Sookie Stackhouse, is plucky, believable, and funny. On occasions when you would like to read something that is sheer fun "fluff," and you happen to be a fan of vampire books, this is a MUST READ. I thoroughly enjoyed this, and subsequently purchased every book currently available in the series.
Very enjoyable read. Interesting at all times
This series is one of the best paranormal series to date. If you are a twilight fan well, this is twilight on drugs. There is drama, action, sex, and romance. What more could you ask for?
This was a fun read... Sookie is hilarious!
I'd seen the True Blood series, but still found this book a delight.
I loved this book. I thought it was a fun read, I could get an easy visual of the places written about and I enjoyed it from cover to cover.
I really like this book. I don't know if I would have like it as much if I were not a fan of the show.
I wanted to read the book to see how it compared to the show. One noticeble difference is that her best friend on the show, Tara, is not mentioned in the book but all of the other characters are present.
All in all, it was a good and easy read.
I wanted to read the book to see how it compared to the show. One noticeble difference is that her best friend on the show, Tara, is not mentioned in the book but all of the other characters are present.
All in all, it was a good and easy read.
I can't say what makes this good except all the Sookie books are wonderful except the last one she wrote and I'm very disappointed about that one. I've loved them all. When the last one came out I was so happy I bought the hard copy and paid nearly full price for it. Now, you know we don't do that but i did and I really lost my money on it. She wrote it as if she was forced to write another one of "those books". It wasn't edited, I don't think anyone at her publisher ever read it. It looks like the copy before it is shaped up.
However, Dead Until Dark is as good as all the rest. I loved it. I am a big fan of Sookie and am distraught when the last program ran. I think they should work year round and not just 13 weeks. Now I know they work really hard, all of them and they need the rest but I miss them.
I actuallly bought this to replace the one that I lost. I can't find it anywhere so i had to have another one to fill out my collection. The book hooks you, the TV show is different but wonderful. I read the books, all of them first and then watched the shows. Loved it.
Cynthia
However, Dead Until Dark is as good as all the rest. I loved it. I am a big fan of Sookie and am distraught when the last program ran. I think they should work year round and not just 13 weeks. Now I know they work really hard, all of them and they need the rest but I miss them.
I actuallly bought this to replace the one that I lost. I can't find it anywhere so i had to have another one to fill out my collection. The book hooks you, the TV show is different but wonderful. I read the books, all of them first and then watched the shows. Loved it.
Cynthia
Quick, easy read. A little love, a little suspense, murder, and some steamy sex. A lot like the HBO series True Blood.
Denise K. (denisemarie) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 16 more book reviews
Honestly, I ordered this entire series of books before reading the first one, as is my habit. I was drawn to them because of the HBO series True Blood, of which I am a huge fan. I really expected to revisit the first season of True Blood in book form, but my expectations were completely off. This book is very, very different than the first season of True Blood, as are the following two. I am a little ashamed to admit, I prefer the books to the series. I would however recommend not actively watching the series at the same time as reading the books as I found myself a bit confused. Charlaine Harris has created an amazing world where vampires are legal and recognized citizens due in part to the creation of a blood substitute that fulfills all their nutritional requirements without the need to feed on living creatures. Just this storyline would have been enough to provide an excellent book, but Ms. Harris throws in a love story (or should I dare mention a love triangle, or maybe a love hexagon???) and a mystery. She draws us in with a sharp witted, strong, beautiful and kind heroine, and keeps our interest by including all manner of supernatural creatures surrounding her. I was completely addicted by the time I finished this, the first of 10 novels and completed the entire series inside of two weeks. The only drawback, is now I have to wait until 2011 to have more time with my favorite characters.
I loved this book! I could not put it down!
GREAT BOOK! I always like the books better than the movie or show :)
I loved this book and I am addicted to the series. I enjoy reading about vampires for some reason.
Melissa B. (dragoneyes) -
I'll have to start off by letting you know this is not my type of book. I'm not much in to the paranormal romance stuff but I do give it a try once in a while. I have a friend though who reads nothing but this kind of genre. She told me about this series a long time ago and has declared it one of her favorites. I decided to give it a try (seriously doubting I would enjoy it). Boy! I am so glad I did. This book is absolute fun! It was suspenseful but at the same time made me laugh throughout the whole book. I would have to say that the best part of the book is the main character... Sookie Stackhouse. She is smart, pretty, sarcastic and pure southern. She would be someone I would want to hang out with. She has one "problem" though. She's telepathic. Even though we might think that would be cool, a lot of the time it isn't. Sometimes you just don't want to know what people are thinking! Sookie is a small time waitress at a bar and she always wanted to meet a vampire now that they are accepted in the real world. Soon she gets her chance. Not only does she get to meet him but saves his life as well. This puts a bond between them that keeps the book rolling with action and adventure. If you love vampires, southern hospitality, good laughs and a book that keeps you going then I highly recommend this one for you!
I was not sure if I would really like thi sort of book. But I found I enjoyed the reading so much I did not want to put down the book. Great story with a different twist.
Fun, light reading. Like a harlequin romance but with interesting characters and scenarios. The details are different than the tv series and that is interesting too.
I am officially HOOKED
Wife loved it
Fast read, but I didn't really like the book too much. I have no idea why Sookie and Bill fell "in love" so fast, and I didn't think the answer to the big murder mystery of the book made much sense. I don't think I'll be reading the next book in the series.
Brandon J. (bran-flakes14) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 72 more book reviews
I fell in-love with HBO's fantastically-realized hit show "TrueBlood", and was overjoyed to learn that it's based on a series of equally-popular books. I grabbed the first in the multiple-book series, "Dead Until Dark", as soon as I could and devoured it pretty quickly. A book which defies genre-assigning, the novel explores the life of telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse, who lives in a small, deep-South Louisiana town called Bon Temps. Plagued with her "curse" of hearing other people's private thoughts, Sookie is soon overjoyed when the town's first vampire, amusingly named Bill, moves to Bon Temps. The books most interesting idea comes from the fact that vampires have recently "come out of the coffin" because of a synthetic, bottled blood that allows them to get their nourishment without having to feed from humans, but the characters are well-written and rounded, and Sookie makes for a plucky, innocent, and all-together wonderful heroine. The book combines different genres, ranging from fantasy to comedy to horror to romance, and gives the reader a great mystery to boot. All in all, this is a must-read!
Michelle R. (mreneerouser) -
I could not get into the book. I tried but the writing was not my style AND I read many books so I'm not sure what it was about this book that I did not like.
Started eading this series on the recommendation of a friend. I am so glad that I listend. Fun easy read that kept me from wantng to put the book down. I guess I better hurry up and get the next few books so I can keep going!
I thought it was alot fo fun. I read most of the other books before reading this one so it was nice to see how it all started out. It's fun to see the differences between the True Blood series and the books as well. If you like the supernatural, who-done-it, sexy type of a book~ this is a good one:)
This is one of the series that sucked me back into reading. I really love this series, much better than the HBO series on TV. Sookie is always in some kind of trouble!
The first story about Sookie Stackhouse, a mindreading waitress whose first love is found in this book. This series now has 9 books to it, and in my opinion, they're about average in story telling and picture painting. I don't care that HBO is making a series, about Sookie: after what was done to Jim Butcher's Dresden Files I don't trust them not to ruin this interesting tale like they did Harry's. I enjoyed the series but will enjoy them more when I read them for the 2nd time in order, now that I have all of the books.
BROOKLYN RUSSELL (brooklynrussell) -
If you like Vampire novels this one is great. I'm a huge fan of the Twilight Series. This, to me, is kind of the grown up version. More graphic sexual content, language and situations. I love that Charlaine Harris is from Arkansas (so am I) so I understand the souther style of the book. Sookie is hilarious. I can't wait to read the rest of the Sookie Stackhouse series.
I enjoyed the tv series and am thinking the book is pretty darn good too.
This is a different twist on the boy-meets-girl story. Get ready for vampires and other supernaturals that will change Sookie Stackhouse's life forever.
If you are in to Vampires, you will probably love this one. It just doesn't appeal to me. Promised dear friend I would give them a try as she loves the series. I read the first two, so figure I gave it a fair chance to win me over.
This was a great light-hearted read. If you like vampires and stories of them being real this will really delight you. You can't help but love Sookie and Bill! This book is nothing like the HBO series so don't go into it thinking you already know what comes next. I love the series True Blood, but I love these books even more. There are some correlations, but not enough to ruin the story.
I read this book in like two days, but that was just because I had to work and take care of kids. I had a hard time putting it down. I just wanted to know what came next.
I read this book in like two days, but that was just because I had to work and take care of kids. I had a hard time putting it down. I just wanted to know what came next.
I enjoyed this book. Borders romance a little. Think summer reading at the pool.
I liked it and I bought the set. HOWEVER - After reading the first three books in the series - I felt like it was all the same. Haven't picked up the rest.
The HBO show looked to graphic for me. I like the book better.
Does not compare to the Twilight series. ---- very different--- except that there are vampires in both. Twilight is the best.
-----One that I think is better than Sookie (and along the same lines) is "Undead and Unwed"
I liked it and I bought the set. HOWEVER - After reading the first three books in the series - I felt like it was all the same. Haven't picked up the rest.
The HBO show looked to graphic for me. I like the book better.
Does not compare to the Twilight series. ---- very different--- except that there are vampires in both. Twilight is the best.
-----One that I think is better than Sookie (and along the same lines) is "Undead and Unwed"
Christina P. (christinajoann) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 11 more book reviews
I like this book enough to continue on with the series with the second book: Living Dead in Dallas. Dead Until Dark was written well and witty enough to keep me interested. I thought some parts was a little too goofy though like when Bill and her are on then off again. The charaters did develope well and I hope this is a good start for this series. I am on the second book right now.
After reading this book (my first vampire book ever) I am unsure if I want to read any more Sookie books. Charlaine Harris writes fairly well and I did enjoy the book somewhat. Like others, I thought that the characters could have been described in more detail. I didn't know what to expect, so I wasn't disappointed, but not thrilled either. I will have to think about ordering the next book. Other reviewers said that the series gets better. Guess I may have to find out.
I thought this was a great book. Sookie is a strong character that you have to love. I'm hooked on this series. I haven't enjoyed a book this much since Twilight. I'm already on book six. Each book in the series is better than the last.
Harris is a great author. In Dead Until Dark there is a combination of mythology, mystery and a little bit of horror. It as if some one put Dracula in the blender with Pulp Fiction
Welcome to my library, Sookie Stackhouse! Your unique talents, naive yet open outlook on life, and adventures have pulled me in and kept the pages turning. Book after book through the entire series. Maybe not an intellectual read, but certainly something to ponder with statements about prejudice and life on the fringes of "normal" society.
I enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and I like little of the the supernatural. At the end I found myself rushing for the next one in the series to see what happens. I thought it was a lot of fun. I did not get as involved in the characters as I believed I would. I think they need to be developed a little better.
Chelsey W. (cmoonlight) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 47 more book reviews
This book was just okay. I felt the characters were flat.
I didn't feel connected to any of them. Everything is told through
Sookie's point of view. I don't think I will bother reading the
rest of the series.
I didn't feel connected to any of them. Everything is told through
Sookie's point of view. I don't think I will bother reading the
rest of the series.
I liked it! It was so much like the tv show. Aside from occasionally feeling like I was reading a cheesy romance novel, it was quite entertaining.
Amanda B. (TextAddict) -
I'm not normally into vampire books because they tend to have a historical feel to them. This book was modern and in todays time with humor in the plot that makes the Charlaine Harris books so good. I rushed and added all of Charlaine's books to my wish list and can't wait to read them all. So funny.
Stephanie W. (twilightgirl) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
Another hook for me! I have read the series of books and watched the tv series on hbo and it is awesome! A must read for vamp lovers or twilight fans!
Destiny C. (destinyj) -
I did not think the novel had as well put together story as the TV show True Blood, but it was a perfectly light and easy way to spend a few hours. I will be reading the next in the series and hopefully it will keep me as entertained.
If you're looking for a romatnic, humerous, surprising, mysterious, sexy, scary, or just a fantastic book - look no further! Dead Until Dark, the first in Charlaine Harris' "Southern Vampire" series, is a must read for any fans of good literature.
A fun, sexy and imaginative take on vampire love!
This book was just okat to me. It was less exciting and a lttle more smutty than I expecte. It was entertaining and I sent for the next one to give it one more chance. We'll see.
I'l a late-comer to this series... totally love it!
I found it really hard to get into. I'm a few chapters in and still not super interested, despite the fact that I love vampire stuff. Unusual for me, but the truth.
Lilia S. (finaestampa) -
The story is very thrilling and keeps engaged the whole book and you can not wait to start the second book.Sookie Stackhouse is a witty and funny heroine that you follow through the whole series, rooting for her like she is your best friend.
I loved this book! I had watched True Blood on HBO sporadically, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I fully intend to read the next one in the series. I thought it was very much like Twilight for adults, without quite so much gushy romance and much more mystery. 5 Stars!
great book!!
of course being a HUGE True Blood Fan.. I simply had to read the books that started the entire brouhaha. It is a delightfully fun romp in a world that Charlaine created.
Dead Until Dark was so bad I couldn't even finish the flimsy, 300-page book. I could not get over the writing to even allow myself to get into the story. Plus, the dialog was cheesy. Does anyone talk like this?
I don't have a problem with first person, but Sookie goes around describing everyone around her like they're police suspects. Blond hair, blue eyes, 5' 9". No one thinks like that, well, maybe people in law enforcement, but that's how all her descriptions are.
Then, it's hard to get into a book when all the characters are two-dimensional and not even that likeable. Some are just a waste of space. The plot is interesting, but not when seen through Sookie's bubble-headed brain.
It's too bad. I bought the first three books expecting that I'd really like them, but was so disappointed :-( All my friends kept telling me how great the series was. Also, I watched a few episodes of True Blood and did not care for it as well, but at least the story moved a lot more smoothly than it did in the book.
Final thought, if you liked True Blood and can get past Sookie's narration and the weak characters, you'll probably enjoy Dead Until Dark.
I don't have a problem with first person, but Sookie goes around describing everyone around her like they're police suspects. Blond hair, blue eyes, 5' 9". No one thinks like that, well, maybe people in law enforcement, but that's how all her descriptions are.
Then, it's hard to get into a book when all the characters are two-dimensional and not even that likeable. Some are just a waste of space. The plot is interesting, but not when seen through Sookie's bubble-headed brain.
It's too bad. I bought the first three books expecting that I'd really like them, but was so disappointed :-( All my friends kept telling me how great the series was. Also, I watched a few episodes of True Blood and did not care for it as well, but at least the story moved a lot more smoothly than it did in the book.
Final thought, if you liked True Blood and can get past Sookie's narration and the weak characters, you'll probably enjoy Dead Until Dark.
Cherilyn R. (MadeOfStars) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
I love this book. I think it was the best of the series, actually, though the rest are good too. It reads quickly and keeps your interest all the way through. I love that you never forget that vampires are not human, are not like humans, and really don't follow the same rules/mores as humans do.
This was a great read. I am a huge fan of the show and could not wait to get the books. To read Charlaine's characters is amazing. I just loved how she fit "Bubba" into the story! I am looking forward to all her "Sookie Stackhouse" novels!
Angela P. (thirstyvampire82) -
The first time I picked the book up, I could deal with the idea that vampires were in society as regular people, so I put the book back on the shelf.Fast forward a couple months and I ran out of stuff to read. I picked it back up with an open-mind. I was literally (OK maybe figuratively) "sucked in" (pun intended :). I read each book quicker that any other series! Now I'm 29 and I read the "Twilight" series way before this and got into the whole 'vampire thing'. I even bought the seasons 1&2, and can't wait to buy season 3. One word or two about the seasons compared to the books. This is the part that drew me in. I read the books first then watched the series. I didn't have an idea where it would turn! Alan Ball made it is "own", while loosely sticking to the plot line. I'm 29 so while I appreciate the "teenage" writing style for the "Twilight Series", I wanted something a little more grown up. the "Sookie Stackhouse" series really had me reeled in. I beleive others feel the same or they wouldn't have bothered making a 4th season of True Blood, and Charlaine Harris would wrap up the series. Thanks for your patience reading this. I know it's a lot to take in.However, I firmly believe everyone is entitled to there one opinion, I'm just posting mine.
Entertaining book!
This entire series is great! I have all nine books (not posted because I am not yet ready to part with them!) The books are a quick, fun and interesting reads. The HBO series follows it pretty well. The characters and settings are the same. The biggest difference between the books and the show is the romance/sex. The books have romance and the show has a lot of sex. Some of my friends refer to the show as a Vampire porno. :( Anyway, all of them are great reads!
Author Charlaine Harris does a great job keeping the reader enchanted. This was one fun ride! Sookie Stackhouse is a real heroine - even though she does have this "disability".
And the woman on the front of the cover - isn't that Anna - from the TV series "V"?? Sure looks like her....
And the woman on the front of the cover - isn't that Anna - from the TV series "V"?? Sure looks like her....
Caitlin B. (penmage007) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Quick read, interesting series concept!
Fun, easy read
It's good but lacking some serious character development. Leaves you wanting more- and so you find more on TV!!
Christine H. (solarawynn) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 724 more book reviews
Liked Sookie from the beginnng,she is unique and will anxiously await the second
Fun book! Great if you like Twilight...little more adult
I've seen bits of True Blood and now I can put the pieces together. I enjoyed this book. Sookie is a likeable character and I'll probably go for Volume 2 now. Vampires seem to be the rage!
Excellent series by this author. First book in the Southern Vampire Series.
Having an affair with a vampire has one main benefit for Sookie. Her predilection for reading minds doesn't seem to work with him. But as is common with vampires, violence follows in his wake, and she becomes afraid that she might be more than just a spectator.
Katherine S. (kathyk519) -
I wanted to see what the hype was about with this series, so I used a credit to get the first one. While I can honestly say that it was not the best book ever or not the best paranormal book ever, it kept my attention. I read it in a couple of days, which means for me, the pace was good and the story moved along. (If it takes me more than that to read a book - I am either having a hectic week or the story is not grabbing me). Sookie is a likable character as are her male protagonists. I am curious to read more and have gotten the second book from PBS. At this point, this series is not a must read, but I am willing a credit or two for the next books to see where it goes.
Since I like the Twilight series I thought I would try this series out. I love Charlaine Harris' writing style and the main character Sookie Stackhouse. She is very down to earth, but has a special gift that has not always been seen as a blessing. Sexy vampires, funny lines, and southern drawls - what more can a girl ask for.
Enjoyed the introduction of the primary characters. A girl introduced to interesting situations. Taking events in stride. Business as usual. Oh myyyyyyy.
Victoria N. (vickyredhead) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
Thought I would laugh more. It's really dark and more then a little strange, but a good read overall. I will continue to read the series.
This is the first in a series. It's light-hearted, fun, with generous amounts of romance and mystery. Charlaine Harris writes well and you feel drawn into the small-town Southern lives of the characters. It's well worth reading and a very pleasant diversion from everyday life. It's certainly 'lighter' than any of the other Vampire series currently popular.
I read this many years ago and found it to be just as fun the 2nd time around.
Laura S. (nisforneville) -
I really enjoyed this book, the first in the series. I'm a fan of True Blood (the TV show), and I think this is a really good supplement to season one
Ok, so I watched True Blood on tv and had never heard of Charlaine Harris. I started this series out of boredom and read the whole series straight through in less than a week. Can't wait for the next one. All of the books are a tad repetitive on the character description (how many times do I have to hear about Sam's halo of strawberry blonde hair or Eric's Nordic good looks?) but very entertaining, light hearted and thoroughly addictive. You won't be sorry.
After devouring season one of the HBO series I wanted more of these great characters in this quirky little town. I think I may have appreciated the book more since I am so obsessed with the show right now, but it was a fun and sexy little mystery. After all the twists and turns of the show, the plot line of the book seemed very straight forward, which actually worked well because it allowed me to just enjoy the romance between Sookie and Bill. I hope the other books in the series are just as good!
The story made me want to read Bk 2. It was fun to read. The main character, Sookie Stackhouse is a very interesting, fun character who makes each new adventure that she has more exciting than the last.
A good read.
A good read.
Tongue-in-cheek vampire adventures.
This was great! Haven't been sucked into a story in ages, mindless fun! Hmmm... dating a vampire, might be neat! Can't wait to see what happens next!
LOVED IT! Was recommended to me by a friend, who described it as the Mother of the Vampire Love books genre and throughly enjoyed it. Can't wait to read the next one!
Oh, and my friend also recommended that I don't watch the TV series based on it - that the books are much better. (Which I find is usually the case.)
I do see a few similiarities to the Twilight series, which was a little disappointing to see those were not as original as I had thought.
Oh, and my friend also recommended that I don't watch the TV series based on it - that the books are much better. (Which I find is usually the case.)
I do see a few similiarities to the Twilight series, which was a little disappointing to see those were not as original as I had thought.
I finished the book to find out who the murderer was. Otherwise, it got tiresome. Detailed sex, some swearing, lots of characters to not like, maybe too many, and not enough of them for me to want to like, and of course, because this is about vampires, there's violence. Some humor, some good characterizations, too many unlikely situations- when there's a sudden murder and a character stumbles upon it, you'd think they'd be affected by that for awhile. No, I guess it's just something to think about once in awhile when you aren't wondering who's sleeping with who.
Crystal J. (dorolerium) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 212 more book reviews
This was my first foray into the Sookie Stackhouse books, all my previous experience with her was on TV in the form of True Blood. Ill admit that I was a little reluctant about this series because, if Im being honest, I dislike the show more and more with each progressive season. The only thing that kept me watching during the last season was naked men.
That being said, I didnt like this book much at first. I felt sort of cheated becauseIve seen this all before. It was hard for me throughout much of the book to set that aside because I kept losing focus, since I knew basically what was going to happen.
To read the rest of my review, please visit:
http://www.dorolerium.com/?p=3109
That being said, I didnt like this book much at first. I felt sort of cheated becauseIve seen this all before. It was hard for me throughout much of the book to set that aside because I kept losing focus, since I knew basically what was going to happen.
To read the rest of my review, please visit:
http://www.dorolerium.com/?p=3109
Shannon M. (confuzzledbooks) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 486 more book reviews
Unlike most humans, Sookie Stackhouse can read peoples minds. And having supernatural ability like hers attracts other supernatural beings, like Bill, who is a vampire. Sookie is very attracted to Bill, and he is attracted to her. As their relationship blossoms, deaths begin to surround Sookie and Bill Many think the murderer is a vampire.
I completely understand the magnetic pull to this series. Sookie is an interesting, almost-normal character with an ability she doesnt want. Bill is an awkward, blood-thirsty vampire. Like Bill, I thought his relationship with Sookie was strange. I could not understand why they felt the need for each other, but that feeling wore off as I kept reading and accepted their relationship ... sort of.
This is not a teenage vampire romance. So if you are looking for another Twilight, this may not be for you. There are adult situations and I would recommend no one under 16 read.
I completely understand the magnetic pull to this series. Sookie is an interesting, almost-normal character with an ability she doesnt want. Bill is an awkward, blood-thirsty vampire. Like Bill, I thought his relationship with Sookie was strange. I could not understand why they felt the need for each other, but that feeling wore off as I kept reading and accepted their relationship ... sort of.
This is not a teenage vampire romance. So if you are looking for another Twilight, this may not be for you. There are adult situations and I would recommend no one under 16 read.
Fun, light, amusing book. I wanted to read the books after watching the HBO series based on the novels. I will read the others in the series to see what happens.
Read this book after watching season 1 of HBO's True Blood and had to keep remembering that the series is based off the book, not the other way around.
I enjoyed the book. As in any first of the series book you get introduced to many different characters and you get a lot of back story and history, but it flowed well and never seemed like the author put something in just to fill space. I'm looking forward to reading the series to see how things develop with Sookie and those around her.
I enjoyed the book. As in any first of the series book you get introduced to many different characters and you get a lot of back story and history, but it flowed well and never seemed like the author put something in just to fill space. I'm looking forward to reading the series to see how things develop with Sookie and those around her.
a fun read for the escapist in you. you'll learn nothing, nothing deep here, but a whole lot of fun.
I thought it started off a little slow, but after first first 50 pages or so, I really got into it. I saw a lot of similarities between this book and Twilight. But I thought this was much better, more adult, I guess. Will be picking up the other books in this series, but have to catch up with my other swaps first.
If you like vamps, you'll like this.
If you like vamps, you'll like this.
Interesting little book. Sort of a campy Anita Blake. Bill is likable and Sooky is ditzy. Nice mix of comedy and violence.
I read these before I saw the tv show. I love the books so much more. I can not wait to read more of this series. Charlaine Harris has written a great series of books that are intersting and hard to put down.
I got about 1/2 through and could not finish. The storyline seemed interesting enough but the main character was boring and the story being told in first person just threw me off.
could not get past page 30.
I have to say, that I had bought the book before the show came out, but not started reading it. After starting to watch the show, I decided to start the book. I was so glad that I did! Not only was the book good, but it was in my opinion even better than the show True Blood! I highly recomend this book. I am a HUGE Twilight fan, but this series may yet to bee better, and become my fav!
Fun series!
Really fun book, engaging, well written, and lovely characters. I really enjoyed it.
Excellent story, I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
Sookie Stackhouse lives in a world like ours - except for one difference, 4 years ago Vampires "came out of the coffin" and are now a legal part of USA society. In this way it's somewhat like the situation in the Anita Blake (author Laurel Hamilton) novels, but in someways I think better written in this book.
Sookie herself is unusual with a disability that makes dating a virtual impossiblity until a vampire comes to town and she discovers he's her (almost) perfect man. Unfortunatley, at the same time people start getting killed, which most of the locals see as an unlikely co-incidence, and in a small town that can almost be deadly itself.
The author has written a very readable book here. I'm not sure if it's the start of a series or not - if it's not - then it's still an enjoyable stand alone novel. Her characters are believable and likeable, and I don't remember any slow patches that make your attention wander. In fact, I read this in a day - the sign of a very good book for me.
Sookie herself is unusual with a disability that makes dating a virtual impossiblity until a vampire comes to town and she discovers he's her (almost) perfect man. Unfortunatley, at the same time people start getting killed, which most of the locals see as an unlikely co-incidence, and in a small town that can almost be deadly itself.
The author has written a very readable book here. I'm not sure if it's the start of a series or not - if it's not - then it's still an enjoyable stand alone novel. Her characters are believable and likeable, and I don't remember any slow patches that make your attention wander. In fact, I read this in a day - the sign of a very good book for me.
Justine B. (BooksForever) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 37 more book reviews
It's different, that's for sure. I enjoyed it though.
I just love Sookie's world. Think Laurell K. Hamilton with a big dash of humour!
Robin M. (robinmy) -
Hilarious first book in the Southern Vampire Mystery series. Highly recommended.
If you like vampire stories, you like this. It's not your traditional blood-sucking novel. Harris created some of her own rules.
I was skeptical of this series due to all the hype but I loved this book and can't wait to read the rest!! Sookie is a great character!
Great series! Cute and fresh.
Loved it! A cute take on vampire stories - can't wait to read more by this author.
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Wow. I read the reviews here and ordered the book. After an obligatory wait list delay, it showed up. I read it immediately. It is unlike anything I've ever read before. While the structure, prose, and flow are like a traditional cozy mystery, there are vampires and other supernatural things going on. Sookie Stackhouse, the main character, for instance, can read minds. (She refers to it as her "disability.")
I'm listing the book without saving it for my wife to read--as I do with most mysteries--because of some rather explicit sexual activity. Vampires, it seems, are unusual folks with some rather distressing habits.
If you can suspend your disbelief for vampires and such and can work through some sexual low-jinks (I prefer high-jinks; but some of this is definitely low), then read this book. What an experience!
I'm listing the book without saving it for my wife to read--as I do with most mysteries--because of some rather explicit sexual activity. Vampires, it seems, are unusual folks with some rather distressing habits.
If you can suspend your disbelief for vampires and such and can work through some sexual low-jinks (I prefer high-jinks; but some of this is definitely low), then read this book. What an experience!
Laura P. (sfreadergrl) - , reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 146 more book reviews
Funny novel about a down-to-earth waitress in a world where vampires are part of the population. She herself has the ability to hear people's thoughts. Interesting when she meets a vampire that becomes her boyfriend.
vampires become legal citizens in the world, think that is bad enough, people are dating them, partying with them and draining them for there blood, now ain't that a switch
What a great book! A sexy, undead guy and a sassy, spunky telepath heroine and their quest to have a "normal" relationship. I actually read the latest one (Definitely Dead) and liked it so well that I thought I would see how the series started. Read the first one over a weekend and now can't wait for the second book in the series to find me...
This series is very well written and highly entertaining! Once I bought the first 6 books I read them in a matter of two days. Now I'm up to date and craving more! I don't always like who Sookie dates but I'm always wanting to know what's going on!
Starts out kinda silly but by the end you want to read more... I guess that's what makes a good storyline written by a good author.
This was a good read. Easy to get into the story and the characters. Sookie Stackhouse is fun to get to know. The mystery was written well.
A great starting book for a series. Sookie is a good heroine, one smart and sassy who has a brain and uses it too.
Plus having vampires and shapeshifters around only adds to the "fun"
Add in mysterious murders and you've got a good book.
Plus having vampires and shapeshifters around only adds to the "fun"
Add in mysterious murders and you've got a good book.
Great paranormal!
Read it in one sitting - very easy and the characters were funny!
A new side of vampires!
This is the first in a series. It is a fantasy/mystery with supernatural characters. It is an enjoyable, quick read.
Incredibly good book that is different from any other vampire book I've read. This book is the first in the series and was recommended to me by a friend. Very funny and fast read.
Christine H. (solarawynn) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 724 more book reviews
Really enjoyed Sookie and her friends and family. Awesome start to a new series.
Robyn H. (arklatexangel) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 5 more book reviews
I bought this simply because the author is from my hometown. I love vampire books but couldn't get into this one. I prefer the "Undead" series....those are just more enjoyable for me. However, I know others love this book and I'm sure it's great. I just couldn't get into it and was bored.
good book. holds your interest. not steamy like the show.
The first Sookie adventure. Who says vampires are bad? Great light read.
I got a kick out of reading a book set in the area where I grew up. I found the overall tone of the book a little disturbing, so I'm not sure the entire series is for me, but I can see why many people like it. I especially liked the grandmother's historical society--Southerners are quite attached to their history, and I thought poking fun at this endearing/annoying quirk was hilarious.
Great read!
Lilia S. (finaestampa) -
Suki stackhouse is a telepathic waitress at a, she meets a Vampire and hell lets loose. I really enjoyed this book and I really hope you enjoy this book as well.
This is very intertaining. Not for the teen/young reader because it inculdes sexual encounters. Also, it is not like the "Twilight" series, a different type of vampire.
good read, Fan of the show and now a fan of the books.
the sookie stackhouse books get better and better as the series goes on. this one is not as good as the later books, but it is still so much fun!!
Amanda D. (sandwhichofEVIL) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 12 more book reviews
I picked this book up expecting a more elaborate version of the television series, but what I got was the exact oppisite. To be fair, if I had been expecting the light-hearted, simple read this was, I may have enjoyed it a lot more. It's exclusively told from Sookie's point of view, so any interesting sub-plots involving Jason, Sam, Tara, or Lafeyette are non-existant--Tara isn't even mentioned, which I found disappointing, and Lafeyette is just a filler character that hardly comes up at all. The only plus here, in fact, was Bill and Sookie no longer have that pathetic, trendy, throwing-yourself-at-innocient-emo-vampire edge: Bill is a lot more dark and frank about his nature, and Sookie, for the most part, is a lot less needy.
I guess what I'm trying to say is, if you pick up this book, don't do it as a fan of the tv series: forget what you all ready know about Bon Temps, and just approach it as Sookie telling the story.
I guess what I'm trying to say is, if you pick up this book, don't do it as a fan of the tv series: forget what you all ready know about Bon Temps, and just approach it as Sookie telling the story.
I love this book. I have read it three times.
I loved this story!
Brandy (familygogreen) - reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 26 more book reviews
i am not a normal fan of "horror" or violent books- I don't even like mysteries. However, I got hooked on "True Blood" on HBO and after the 2nd season hooked me in hard.
So I picked up the entire series in 2 weeks. This one almost identically mimics the series so it was somewhat boring but better than the tv series. I loved each book more than the last until dead and gone. Didn't care for that one as much but will write a review for that.
So I picked up the entire series in 2 weeks. This one almost identically mimics the series so it was somewhat boring but better than the tv series. I loved each book more than the last until dead and gone. Didn't care for that one as much but will write a review for that.
Enjoyable, quick read.
I really enjoyed this book. Prior to ordering it, I had read the reviews and noticed a lot of people commented on the fact that they didn't like it because the story was told from Sookie's point of view. I didn't really understand why this was a problem, because a LOT of books are written that way. Perhaps books in this particular genre about vampires and what tend not to be written that way? Anyway, I decided if that was the only negative thing I really saw about the book it was worth a try. It had been turned into a TV show after all so it's couldn't be all bad.
I'm definitely glad I did decide to order this book. In my opinion is was a great read. I couldn't put it down and just ordered the second and third book in the series. I actually really enjoyed that Sookie acted pretty normal (with the exception of being able to read minds). Many of the other books out there about Vampires are way over the top melodramatic. I liked the way this story plot has the extraordinary being part of the ordinary life. Small town Louisiana being shook up a little bit. This is especially entertaining because I recently moved to such a town last year. Anyway, I would suggest giving this book a try if you are like a nice mix of comedy, romance, and adventure!
I'm definitely glad I did decide to order this book. In my opinion is was a great read. I couldn't put it down and just ordered the second and third book in the series. I actually really enjoyed that Sookie acted pretty normal (with the exception of being able to read minds). Many of the other books out there about Vampires are way over the top melodramatic. I liked the way this story plot has the extraordinary being part of the ordinary life. Small town Louisiana being shook up a little bit. This is especially entertaining because I recently moved to such a town last year. Anyway, I would suggest giving this book a try if you are like a nice mix of comedy, romance, and adventure!
Liked this first book although I had already seen True Blood and couldn't stop comparing them. I decided not to watch the show until after completing the books. I am now enjoying the series much more.
This is the very first book of the Sookie Stackhouse books and got me hooked from the very beginning. I love the characters and this series.
The first season on HBO is fairly accurate to the first book. I'm glad they took some artistic liberties, but in the next couple books they had some other characters that made up for it :D
Good book, if you have seen the show it follows the book almost exactly. Good read.
Kelly J. (kywildcats1969) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
I loved this book. I can't wait to read the rest of the series. This book would be good for anyone 20 or older. If you like thrill with romance and throw in a little bit of suspense and mystery, then you will love this book. If you like the Twilight Series then you need to read these.
Interesting story line. Wasn't sure at first if I would like it, but the characters grow on you. I haven't read any of the Twilight series but have seen the movie and thnk it would be very similair. Plan to read more in the series.
This book is AMAZING! I like twilight but I believe this series blows Twilight away. This book certainly is for adults. It has a more believable feel to it.
An interesting concept that is masterfully portrayed, this book has many great aspects. However, it is a book meant for entertainment and little else. There are also some rather doubtful choices in character development and action sequences. Highly suggested to female readers.
I LOVED this book!! I ran out the day I finished it to buy the second one in the series. It is a short read that is packed with page turning suspense. If you like Twilight (I am a huge fan) you will love this book. Just as good but more of an "adult" vampire series. (:
It was hard for me get interested in this book. The author's writing is simple and plain. For me it felt like a teenager had written the book. The descriptions and dialogue were lacking for me. The characters annoyed me. Sookie was just about most annoying, boring and plain character.
This book is considered to be a "lighter" vampire novel. None of the vampire lore was original. I've read many vampire books and this book just isn't anything special.
This book is considered to be a "lighter" vampire novel. None of the vampire lore was original. I've read many vampire books and this book just isn't anything special.
This was a very enjoyable book, Sookie Stackhouse is quite the character. This was my first book about her I have read and I really enjoyed it.
Started reading this series after I started watching the show on HBO. The books of course are different, but I really liked them. Just waiting for book #9 to come off my wish list!
Heather A. (heatheranding) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 18 more book reviews
If you are looking for the HBO True Blood series in book format then buy a transcript. If you want to enjoy a light hearted fun novel series that can be read quickly then this is perfect. I read each of the ten books- one a night for a week of vacation. They are endering and very entertaining. The characters are strightforward with a fun and twisting plot- but simply enough that they make really quick reads. Its a nice escape read when you only have a little time. It is a very modern series with characters and love stories friendships that work in todays society rather then magical mysterious crazy love stories that would never occur in reality. Well worth the time.
not being familiar with this author it compelled me to finish series and wait for more
Very enjoyable fantasy
I've never watched the HBO series, and I don't plan on it anytime soon. I've loved the book series so much, the TV show is guaranteed to disappoint me.
The 1st book made me fall for Sookie and her men, and after I finished it, I immediately ordered every other book in the series. I just finished Dead in the Family (Book 9, I believe?) and I can't wait until Charlaine publishes her next one. I hope they go on for at least several more. I'm so involved in these books that when I finish one, I don't read anything else for days so I can just think about the one I've finished.
And I'm very much Team Eric.
The 1st book made me fall for Sookie and her men, and after I finished it, I immediately ordered every other book in the series. I just finished Dead in the Family (Book 9, I believe?) and I can't wait until Charlaine publishes her next one. I hope they go on for at least several more. I'm so involved in these books that when I finish one, I don't read anything else for days so I can just think about the one I've finished.
And I'm very much Team Eric.
I was listening to the audio book and got to disc 4 before I had to stop.
Warning: Spoilers in this review!
I liked the fact that her telepathy was seen as a disability. People either thought she was crazy or told her to stay out of their thoughts. It wasn't considered normal, unlike in most supernatural books where people seem to just take it in stride if they know about it. The author seemed to sometimes forget that Sookie could do that, though. When she interviews people (humans, at any rate) in certain parts of the book, Sookie only says what they say, forgetting to also note what they were thinking.
Sookie and the characters around her were interesting. The plot was interesting, but it wasn't compelling. I think I was supposed to feel like I was in suspense when she starts questioning people, but I felt bored.
The thing that finally made me stop listening though was the fact that she had sex on her dead grandmother's bed right after her death. It just creeped me out. The description of the act was just really corny, too.
I just couldn't get into this book.
Warning: Spoilers in this review!
I liked the fact that her telepathy was seen as a disability. People either thought she was crazy or told her to stay out of their thoughts. It wasn't considered normal, unlike in most supernatural books where people seem to just take it in stride if they know about it. The author seemed to sometimes forget that Sookie could do that, though. When she interviews people (humans, at any rate) in certain parts of the book, Sookie only says what they say, forgetting to also note what they were thinking.
Sookie and the characters around her were interesting. The plot was interesting, but it wasn't compelling. I think I was supposed to feel like I was in suspense when she starts questioning people, but I felt bored.
The thing that finally made me stop listening though was the fact that she had sex on her dead grandmother's bed right after her death. It just creeped me out. The description of the act was just really corny, too.
I just couldn't get into this book.
I decided to get this book through PaperBackSwap, because I had watched and enjoyed the first season of True Blood on DVD.
If I hadn't enjoyed the show so much, I probably would have stopped reading this book after the first or second chapter. If you have already watched the show, but not read the books, there's a good chance that you will feel the same way.
Virtually everything that I liked about the show was absent here: the subplots and development of secondary and minor characters, the mystery/detective story feel about the murders (lots of misdirection thrown in), the cheeky social commentary about vampires seeking involvement in politics and the vampire rights movement.
The book is basically a romance novel with some vampire fiction packaging (women's vampire softcore porn?). It really shows up in the often clunky prose that Harris employs. All of the characters who aren't Bill or Sookie have virtually no dimension. They're cardboard cutouts. (On the show, Sam, Jason, and even Lafayette have really great side stories--not so here. Heck, Lafayette only exists in the book to be both a token black and token gay character. And to start every brief piece of dialogue he gets with, "Girl..." The show also had Tara, who doesn't exist in the book.)
I like schlocky vampire fiction. It's a guilty pleasure. I read the Anne Rice Vampire Chronicles as a teenager, well past the point that the stories got a little thin and boring and I probably should have stopped. I read all of the Twilight series, even though I rolled my eyes at the sexual morality messages that were jammed in there without any subtlety. But I just can't bring myself to continue reading the Sookie Stackhouse series.
I'll stick to the TV show, where the writers take some interesting plot ideas that Harris penned and expand and improve them into a truly enjoyable story.
If I hadn't enjoyed the show so much, I probably would have stopped reading this book after the first or second chapter. If you have already watched the show, but not read the books, there's a good chance that you will feel the same way.
Virtually everything that I liked about the show was absent here: the subplots and development of secondary and minor characters, the mystery/detective story feel about the murders (lots of misdirection thrown in), the cheeky social commentary about vampires seeking involvement in politics and the vampire rights movement.
The book is basically a romance novel with some vampire fiction packaging (women's vampire softcore porn?). It really shows up in the often clunky prose that Harris employs. All of the characters who aren't Bill or Sookie have virtually no dimension. They're cardboard cutouts. (On the show, Sam, Jason, and even Lafayette have really great side stories--not so here. Heck, Lafayette only exists in the book to be both a token black and token gay character. And to start every brief piece of dialogue he gets with, "Girl..." The show also had Tara, who doesn't exist in the book.)
I like schlocky vampire fiction. It's a guilty pleasure. I read the Anne Rice Vampire Chronicles as a teenager, well past the point that the stories got a little thin and boring and I probably should have stopped. I read all of the Twilight series, even though I rolled my eyes at the sexual morality messages that were jammed in there without any subtlety. But I just can't bring myself to continue reading the Sookie Stackhouse series.
I'll stick to the TV show, where the writers take some interesting plot ideas that Harris penned and expand and improve them into a truly enjoyable story.
This book was an entertaining, eye candy read. I did like that the vampires mixed between the good and bad of mortality. It reminded me of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I would be entertained by the others in the series I think.
This is one of the worst books I've ever read. After watching the first few episodes of the TV show it spawned, 'True Blood,' I thought it would be fun to see what this series was like. It wasn't fun, it was more... what's a good antonym for fun? Something worse than tedious. Trying, let's say.
The author has no idea how to focus on things of value to the story - most of the text is superficial and uninteresting, with long descriptions of what the main character is wearing. Entire scenes are devoted to clothes, the most glaring example being one in the first half of the book where the heroine goes home, changes into her pajamas and falls asleep. She isn't wearing them on the next page. I can only imagine this was done because the material wasn't imagined in terms of action and reaction, or character motivations, but as some kind of daydream about being a lonely, attractive waitress with lots of supernatural paramours. Who looks good in lots of outfits, naturally.
There's nothing deeply wrong with that - romance novels have their place in the world. Wish-fulfillment is always going to be a part of fiction. The problem with Dead Until Dark is that it doesn't back up that fantasy with a good plot, capable diction or even real humor. About three pages in, anyone who appreciates literary style is going to be scratching their head, wondering how a fellow human being, who's probably read a decent novel at some point in her life, put these paragraphs together.
Okay, if all that whining was too long to read, then take this sentence home: Dead Until Dark is nothing like True Blood, and the quality of the writing is so awful it may induce nausea, vomiting, dizziness or blackouts. You shouldn't read it, but if you must, consult your physician before attempting the strain of reading this junk.
The author has no idea how to focus on things of value to the story - most of the text is superficial and uninteresting, with long descriptions of what the main character is wearing. Entire scenes are devoted to clothes, the most glaring example being one in the first half of the book where the heroine goes home, changes into her pajamas and falls asleep. She isn't wearing them on the next page. I can only imagine this was done because the material wasn't imagined in terms of action and reaction, or character motivations, but as some kind of daydream about being a lonely, attractive waitress with lots of supernatural paramours. Who looks good in lots of outfits, naturally.
There's nothing deeply wrong with that - romance novels have their place in the world. Wish-fulfillment is always going to be a part of fiction. The problem with Dead Until Dark is that it doesn't back up that fantasy with a good plot, capable diction or even real humor. About three pages in, anyone who appreciates literary style is going to be scratching their head, wondering how a fellow human being, who's probably read a decent novel at some point in her life, put these paragraphs together.
Okay, if all that whining was too long to read, then take this sentence home: Dead Until Dark is nothing like True Blood, and the quality of the writing is so awful it may induce nausea, vomiting, dizziness or blackouts. You shouldn't read it, but if you must, consult your physician before attempting the strain of reading this junk.
The book was great fun to read
It took me precisely 79 pages to determine that I can't stand the main character. For me, this is a fatal flaw in a book told from a first-person viewpoint.
I like a lot of the author's other stuff, especially the "Grave" series. Just, not the series that everyone else seems to love so much. Maybe I'm just once and for all sick and tired of vampires.
I like a lot of the author's other stuff, especially the "Grave" series. Just, not the series that everyone else seems to love so much. Maybe I'm just once and for all sick and tired of vampires.
Very cute book - I recommend this whole series. Fast, easy reads that are entertaining with creative dialogue and action.
If you are a fan of the HBO series TRUE BLOOD, you will love this book. Sookie Stackhouse is a sweet, naive barmaid in the small town of Bon Temps Louisiana, but she's not afraid to kick some ass. A sexy tale of girl meets vampire and the complications of dating the undead. Add in a serial killer who seems to be targeting young women with a thing for vamps and you've got a face paced, exciting ride through the first book in the Sookie Stackhouse series.
Lots of fun to read.
The first in Harris Southern Vampire series, Dead Until Dark introduces us to Sookie, a telepathic small-town waitress who is plagued by her unusual ability hearing peoples thoughts all the time drives her nuts! But when a handsome vampire moves into town and Sookie realizes that her telepathy doesnt work on the undead well, she falls for vampire Bill hook, fangs, and sinker
A very light, fun read for fans of Laurell Hamilton and Robin McKinleys Sunshine, with which it shares a very similar premise (vampires joining mainstream society).
A very light, fun read for fans of Laurell Hamilton and Robin McKinleys Sunshine, with which it shares a very similar premise (vampires joining mainstream society).
Excellent book and a great beginning to a series.
Beginning to a fun vampire series. Great!
Amazing book!
Enjoyable series. Different & interesting.
My girlfriend is a huge fan of this series, I have been working on getting them all for her, she loves them!
Great start to this funny series.
Two thumbs up.
Brittany S. (beachbum71) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 36 more book reviews
I loved this series, and Sookie, right til the end...and then the end of the entire series disappointed me so much that I am now posting all of my Charlaine Harris collection. Bleah!
Love all the Sookie Stackhouse books.
Briefly, the story involved a mind-reading waitress who becomes involved with a vampire in the midst of a murder spree in her small Southern town. The story was funny while still being interesting, the best part were the quirky characters. I would call it a good light read.
June R. (coppermouse) - reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 109 more book reviews
great read
Maybe having a vampire for a boyfriend isn't such a bright idea...
Sookie Stackhouse is just a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. Until the vampire of her dreams walks into her life-and one of her coworkers checks out....
Maybe having a vampire for a boyfriend isn't such a bright idea.
Maybe having a vampire for a boyfriend isn't such a bright idea.
Love this series!
ok i did like it but wished for more conflict
A few friends recommended this series to me after I finished and enjoyed the Twilight Saga, so I pick up this first book of the series to give it a try. While it was not the worst thing I've ever read, it was very unappealing to me. I did not care for any of the characters (especially Sookie and Bill), and the B-horror movie depiction of vampires just left me cold. Perhaps I was expecting too much, being on a post-Twilight high, but I found the sex crude, the action boring, and the entire book from beginning to end just very lacking. Perhaps I am just a bit old-fashioned, but I found most of the characters in the book to be crass and/or common, and that, coupled with the writing style (which seemed to rushed or forced to me just made for an overall disappointing book.
This was a cute Vampire type book, a funny and heartfelt read at the same time.
great series...
Really love this series, the books are a lot better than the show! Can't wait to read all of them!
Tina A. (paintnmynails) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 25 more book reviews
Loved the HBO series but so happy I read this book. It is much more interesting and exciting than the TV show.
This just wasn't my kind of book. I found the romance boring and the mystery nearly nonexistent.
Angela C. (rolltide1al) -
A good vampire read. Not quite as good as I expected though.
Leslie Jane F. (LeslieJane) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 63 more book reviews
From the back cover:
Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louixiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability." She can read minds. And that doesn;t make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark handsom - and Sookie can't hear a work he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy she's been waiting for all her life...
But Bill has a disability of his own: He's a vampire with a bad reputation. He hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, all suspected of - big surprise - murder. And when one of Sookie's Coworkers is killed, she fears she's next...
Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louixiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability." She can read minds. And that doesn;t make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark handsom - and Sookie can't hear a work he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy she's been waiting for all her life...
But Bill has a disability of his own: He's a vampire with a bad reputation. He hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, all suspected of - big surprise - murder. And when one of Sookie's Coworkers is killed, she fears she's next...
Decided I would finally find out what all the hype was about. First few chapters were a little slow, so it took me awhile to get into this book. It was decent, but I still am not so sure what the big deal about this book is. Maybe I need to watch the t.v. series to understand.
very good southern vampire book
This ia a fun Vampire series,a must read.
Michelle C. (michellemc) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Of all of the series the 1st is my favorite!
Beth H. (suburbanalien) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 63 more book reviews
I did not like the book at all, but to be honest, I am probably not the target audience. I have not seen the series on HBO or actually any TV vampire shows, not even Buffy or Angel, or any of the others out there. I'm not into this whole new direction that vampires seem to be going. I guess I'm an old fuddy-duddy, but I don't think of vampires at all the way this book does. My entire history of vampires goes like this: in the 70's, there was Count Chocula breakfast cereal, and The Count from Sesame Street; in the 80's there was The Lost Boys and I had many years in a row dressing up as Morticia; in the 90's there was From Dusk Till Dawn, many Anne Rice novels and a movie called Interview With the Vampire, plus another fantastic movie called Bram Stoker's Dracula, and a less fantastic series but still true to the old-school vampire rules Blade trilogy; then in the early 2000's there was the whole Underworld series which was great, Van Helsing, and what to me was the best vampire movie ever Rise with Lucy Liu. In the vampire stories and movies I've liked, the vampires are violent, scary, murderous cursed demonic bloodthirsty beings who don't play well with others. In this book, vampires are pretty much reduced to a threat level of the annoying neighbor who stays up too late and has weird people visit at all hours. I don't get this new characterization, and I haven't seen Twilight, and I have no desire to. The reason I got this book was because I heard about the series on HBO, which I have not seen, and I wanted to read the first book before watching the series. Now, I'm not going to bother. I like the old-school vampires, scary and antisocial, the stuff of good ghost stories. Maybe there's a new generation out there who wants their own friendly pet vampire boyfriend, but if you prefer the old school terror and violence, you're better off watching Rise and reading Anne Rice again.
This was a really good book. I had watched the first season of True Blood on HBO before reading this book. The story line is pretty close to the book. Can't wait to ready the second book in this series.
OK, but not as good as I thought. I hope the next book is better.
This was a good book to start the series but left me feeling a bit lacking. I hope the nwext book is better.
I'm a fan of the True Blood Series of HBO and enjoyed the book. It's an imaginative, fun read and I got through it in just a couple days. Now on to book 2...
Sharon K. (Pletchersmom) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
Love the Book....Love Sookie, Love the series!!!
Thoroughly enjoyable. Kept me guessing and kept me intrigued.
Love this series!
Shanna V. (shanna71) -
good, quick read.
I loved this book and can't wait to sink my teeth into the entire series!
This book was so, so. I read it because of all the hype around the HBO series "True Blood." It was a slow start, but once I got into it,it went fast. I read it in about two days. I'm hoping that after I read the second in the series I will connect to the characters.
I wasnt sure as I started this book because it comes on a bit slow but it sure does pick up and now I want to read the rest of them!
This book came recommended by several people and it did not disappoint! I've been reading vampire books for almost 20 yrs now and these were actually different! I love the quirky characters and the authors style of writing. I can't wait to read the rest!
Funny and quite interesting.
Sheri C. (sheriqueenbee) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 14 more book reviews
This was a great book, cute an unexpected twists throughout the book.
Loved it! Read this one and then ordered the series.
I did like this book. I read other reviews that mentioned that it was poorly written. In my opinion, it might have seemed that way, but I think that it was the writer's way of representing Sookie as a relatively naive small town girl. I have read a significant amount of vampire fiction and the traits of the vampires in this book are consistant. At least they don't "sparkle in the sunlight". A good combination of humor and seriousness. I enjoyed the book enough that I am reading the second one.
I couldn't put the book down. I'm excited to start the 2nd!
If you are watching the TRU BLOOD series on HBO, you will be amazed how this book is word for word with their script! I loved the book and the show. I can't wait to get the next book in the series or until HBO starts the series again.
The author has an excellent grasp of the southern language. I live in the Dallas area, and am amazed to hear the same slang and timing in C. Harris's books.
An excellent read!
The author has an excellent grasp of the southern language. I live in the Dallas area, and am amazed to hear the same slang and timing in C. Harris's books.
An excellent read!
Witty... romance between a mind-reading waitress and a vampire with a bad reputation.
Finished this today, now I refuse to watch True Blood until I read them all. Not the best book ever written, but still...fun! Usually vamp books seem to take themselves too seriously, even when they get ridiculous. That means YOU Stephenie Meyer & Anne Rice.
somewhat tedious & slow to start. hope #2 is better.
'A Southern Vampire Mystery' featuring Lousiana waitress sookie Stackhouse. Like Anita Blake, but way less intense and with more humor.
Love all the Sookie Stackhouse books!
Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability." She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark, handsome--and Sookie can't hear a word he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy she's been waiting for all her life...
But Bill has a disability of his own: He
is a vampire with a bad reputation. He hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, all suspected of--big surprise--murder. And when one of Sookies's coworkers is killed, she fears she's next......
But Bill has a disability of his own: He
is a vampire with a bad reputation. He hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, all suspected of--big surprise--murder. And when one of Sookies's coworkers is killed, she fears she's next......
cute fun read!!!
It's labeled as a "Southern vampire novel", which normally means I would have inhaled the book over lunch. I just couldn't get into it. The story was just not strong enough to hold my attention. This series would probably be good if you wanted something to read through in one sitting at the beach or something.
This is the first Harris book I've read, and I really enjoyed it. Will be looking for the rest of the series.
As surprising as it is I ended up enjoying Dead Until Dark. It kept me interested and truly caring for the fate of the characters. Having said that I did see a lot of similarities between this and Twilight and while I can appreciate that this was published before Twilight I think I liked Twilight more. A few negative points that bothered me were the fact that the author would present a plot twist & never expand on the how's or why's of that. It left a lot of questions unresolved or unexplained in my mind. The other drawback is the writing itself. I am not from the South so perhaps I may not truly appreciate the way of speaking down there but it did madden me at times.
Really good story.
A fun read. Great for summer.
I liked it very much, and found it a e-z read.
My sister got me hooked on these books.
It took a little while for me to get into this one. I know its silly, but I cringed at the mention of banana clips (remembering the horrid days in middle school when people actually thought those things were cool). I was quite happy that it didn't turn into LKH style lovin' once Sookie and Bill hooked up. At least intrigued enough to continue the series.
Reprint of the first book in the Sookie Stackhouse series.
I had high hopes for the Sookie Stackhouse series, but I was a little disappointed. I don't think it lived up to all the hype. It was good enough that I'll continue reading the series, but I have't been wowed yet. Maybe it will get better as the series goes on.
Regina B. (skybluepink73) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 2 more book reviews
I absolutely loved this book. I read it in about a day and a half. Its an easy read. I cant wait to read the rest of the Sookie Stackhouse books.
Good story
Very interesting book. Can't wait to start reading the rest of the series!
bought the wrong book, wanted the CD version.
book is very good
Michelle F. (CarolinaBlue) reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
Awesome. I really feel like quite a few very important details from this book were lifted by Stephanie Myers.
"A fun, fast, funny and wonderfully intriguing blend of vampire and mystery that's hard to put down, and should not be missed."- Susan Sizemore
ANDRIA V. (AVincent69) - , reviewed Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, Bk 1) on + 12 more book reviews
Ended up with two copies of this book somehow. Really good story and the beginning of a series. Looking forward to reading the rest of the stories in the series
I wish this book would of been better, I paid full price for it... UG!!!!
I love this series. This is the first in this series. Bought second hand and it is well read, yellow pages but no loose or missing.
From the back cover:
"Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that she has this sort of "disability". She can read minds...And then along comes Bill.
he's tall, dark, handsome..."[and a vampire.]
"Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that she has this sort of "disability". She can read minds...And then along comes Bill.
he's tall, dark, handsome..."[and a vampire.]
