March 24, 2012

Review: The Hunter by Theresa Meyers



March 24, 2012
The Hunter (The Legend Chronicles #1)
by Theresa Meyers
Genre: Paranormal Steampunk Western
Publisher: Kensington Publishing
Release Date: November 1st, 2011



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Author Summary
They're the Chosen—Winchester, Remington and Colt—brothers trained to hunt down supernatural beings using the latest steam-powered gadgetry. It's a hard legacy to shoulder, and it's about to get a lot more dangerous...
A Devil Of A Job
Colt Jackson has gotten his name on many a wanted poster with success in the family business: hunting supernaturals across the frontier. Lately, though, there's a sulfur stink in the wind and the Darkin population is exploding. A rift in the worlds is appearing. To close it, Colt will have to do the unthinkable and work with a demon to pass arcane boundaries no human alone can cross.
Except when he summons his demon, he doesn't get some horned monstrosity: he gets a curvy redheaded succubus named Lilly, who's willing to make a bargain to become human again. He also gets Lilly's secret expertise on the machinations on the dark side of the rift. And her charm and cleverness help to get them out of what his silver-loaded pistol and mechanical horse can't. Of course, when all hell breaks loose, he might have to sacrifice his soul. But what's adventure without a little risk?


My Thoughts
I chose this novel as part of a reading challenge to prepare for the Authors After Dark convention coming up in August.  I’ve never read anything in the increasingly popular steampunk genre and my curiosity lead me to choose this one to include in the challenge.  From what I heard, Meyers’ new Legend series was a great place to start.  

As my first steampunk novel, I had no expectations and I’m thrilled at how much I enjoyed it.  I found that I had to use my imagination more than with other genres.  Especially with the gadgets and machines being described.  The paranormal elements I was familiar with but when the author added all the mechanical doodads and eccentric inventor, I was spellbound.  I’m a gadget girl so I’m not sure why it took me so long to buy in.  I sure am glad now that I did.

It seems to me that the key to the success of a steampunk novel is in how well an author can incorporate the instruments and machines into the plot.  We need to appreciate the role they play in the story but not be overwhelmed or confused with the technical aspects.  It takes strong talent and I feel that Meyer’ skill is first-rate.  


So about the story…
The Hunter is the first book in a new series that follows the Jackson brothers - slayers of all supernatural beings.  The story is a western and takes place in 1887.   Being a hunter is an obligation that runs in the family and this first novel depicts the story of Colt, the youngest of the Jackson brothers. 

Legend says years ago, a book was used by the Hunters to banish demons from the world.  Afterward, the Book of Legend was torn into three pieces and hid in different parts of the world.  This was necessary since it was believed that demons could use the Book for evil. 

Now the demons have created a rift that allows demons to overrun the world.  The Jackson brothers must bring together the pages of the Book of Legend in order to close the rift.  Their father’s piece is believed hidden behind a door that can only be opened with the help of a demon.  Displeased as Colt is, he knows he must summon a demon.  When he finally does the unthinkable, he is sent is a beautiful red-haired succubus named Lilly that surprises the heck out of him.

They make an unsettling deal that Lilly will help Colt find what he’s looking for if he will help her get away from the arch demon, Rathe, and regain her mortality.  And so starts the adventure… 


Colt is a man’s man if you know what I mean.  He’s rough around the edges, tough as nails, and scared of nothing.  Well, except for his attraction to the demon he summoned.  He exudes charisma and sex and Lilly is absolutely enamored.  One thing that I found amusing is Colt’s constant erection throughout the entire novel.  His attraction to Lilly keeps him in an aroused state and how he managed to function, I don’t know!  It did make things interesting though.

The relationship between Colt and Lilly sizzles from the beginning and I was quite mesmerized by their passion.  From the moment they kiss to seal their contract, sparks flew off the pages.  That passion continued throughout the entire novel.  Meyers is very skillful at ensuring we felt what they felt and she splendidly took us along for the ride.  Colt’s overwhelming trust issues and Lilly’s extreme guilt of what she must do lead to severe obstacles in their partnership.


Bottom Line
In my opinion, this is a well-written novel and I was engaged through the entire thing.  The characters are compelling, the plot riveting and action-packed.  Definitely a page-turner!  I’m now a fan of steampunk novels and I need to buy a set of steampunk goggles!

The Slayer, Book #2 in the series, is due out in April 2012 and I can’t wait!!  I’m really looking forward to reading more in this series!

Happy Reading!!

4 Bad Boys – Really Enjoyed It!!!!




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3 comments:

  1. Awesome review hon. Congratulations on hitting 100 followers. I am so behind in everything LOL! I am so happy for you hon. I don't think I have heard of this book before. I love the idea of a Paranormal Western Steampunk book. Definitely something I am not use to. This book sounds very exciting and totally up my alley. Thanks hon and congrats again.

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    1. thanks Diana! This was totally different for me and was surprised by how much i liked it. i'll be getting the next in the series as soon as it comes out. take care luv!

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    2. I love finding books that take you by surprise. This definitely sounds like a winner. Thank you so much again hon. Hope you had an awesome weekend :)

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