Review: Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs

Marsilia, the local vampire queen, has learned that Mercy crossed her by slaying a member of her clan. Now, she’s out for blood. But since Mercy is protected from direct reprisal by the werewolf pack-and her relationship with its sexy Alpha-it’s not Mercy’s blood Marsilia is after…

Bone Crossed is the 4^th installment of the Mercy Thompson series.  Following the events of Iron Kissed, Mercy is struggling to cope with the aftermath of being a rape victim and her new role as the local Alpha’s mate.  Although she’s realized that she loves Adam deeply, they are having difficulty moving forward with their physical relationship because of the side effects from her previous ordeal.  She takes a night to spend at her own place in hopes that she can shake some of her fears off when Marsilia unceremoniously dumps Stefan in Mercy’s livingroom in a state that is barely a shadow of his former self.  Hardly able to make a sound, Stefan whispers two words that chill Mercy to the bone – “She knows.” 

Once again, Patricia Briggs has left me wanting more!  This book has several great simultaneous story arcs and they just keep getting better and better.  I love – and I mean LOVE – the idea of Adam and Mercy together.  There is no one else that could possibly deal with her crap, keep her safe, understand that she can hold her own, and love her all at the same time.  I sort of saw their relationship coming after the first book and I’ll be honest, I wasn’t terribly thrilled with the idea.  Me being the vampire story junkie that I am, I thought sure that she was going to end up with Stefan.  Although she does love Stefan on a friend level, her ethical dilemma with his dietary needs will never allow them to be together.  And surprisingly, I’m ok with that!  Adam is a fantastic character and I’m glad to see that she finally gave in and is trying a relationship with him. 

My only issue (and it’s not really an issue) with this book is I am really starting to fester a hatred for the fae.  I understand that is sort of the point but I have always been one to enjoy the fae “attitude” in stories and Patricia Briggs does a great job of not letting anyone forget that when it really comes down to it, Tinkerbell is a conniving little bitch with a penance for vengeance. 

One of my favorite things about the Mercy Thompson series is the references to the “old ways” and the differences between reality and what current pop culture will have you believe (i.e. wiccan doth not equal “witch”). 

My other favorite thing is the non-stop energy and momentum.  There is so much action in these books and Bone Crossed didn’t disappoint.  Patricia Briggs – you are officially one of my favorites!  Bone Crossed gets 5 stars!!