Description: Sookie’s beginning to get used to being surrounded by all varieties of undead, changeling, shapeshifting and other supernatural beings – but even she has her limits. She’d really like to take a while to get over being betrayed by Bill, her long-time vampire lover, and get used to her new relationship with the sexy shapeshifter Quinn – but instead, she finds herself attending the long-planned vampire summit, the destination of choice for every undead power player around, as a sort-of human ‘Geiger counter’ for Sophie-Anne Leclerq, vampire queen of Louisiana. But the job is fraught with difficulties. Sophie-Anne’s power base has been severely weakened by Hurricane Katrina, and she’s about to be put on trial during the event for murdering her king. Sookie knows the queen is innocent, but she’s hardly prepared for other shocking murders: it looks like there are some vamps who would like to finish what nature started. With secret alliances and backroom deals the order of the day – and night – Sookie must decide which side she’ll stand with, and quickly, for her choice may mean the difference between survival and all-out catastrophe.
If I were to provide a summary of All Together Dead in Charlaine Harris style I would say it is “Definitely Darker” (all puns intended). Sure, Sookie has never really had it easier, being faced with danger at every step but there is a definitely step up to the mark in this one – and I cannot say it bodes for an easier future for our favourite telepathic waitress.
Although I enjoyed the book I do feel the author is trying to drag out a series of books way beyond their natural conclusion. The Sookieverse could have been far stronger if it had been kept to maybe 6 – 8 books, maybe even less. Its a bit like TV shows or movie franchises which attempt sequel after sequel only to find their fanbase dwindles almost as rapidly as their storylines weaken. Later books are a little stronger and I feel sure she could have found a way to produce fewer but stronger books.
That said I admire Charlaine´s drive and writing style. If I could be half as succesful in my writing career as she has been I would be one happy wee lassy!
Get back to the nitty gritty stuff and stop them vampires yacking about politics Charlaine! We want more sookie nookie.
