Hunter (A Hunter Novel, 1)

I've been a fan of Mercedes Lackey for years. She does a great job writing in the Fantasy genre, and HUNTER is no exception. Set in a post-apocalyptic future, it's difficult to say what caused the most damage: plagues, volcanoes, earthquakes, storms, bombs... or the Breakthrough, which brought the Othersiders and magic through to the world. After the Diseray, humans banded together to stay protected against the Othersiders, monsters from fairy tales and legend brought to live. Only the Hunters can stand against the Othersiders.HUNTER is the story of Joyeaux Charmand, a Hunter trained by the Masters at the Monastery, and ordered to Apex City to join the Hunters there in protecting the Cits. While this book is technically a YA book, I think that had more to do with the age of the main character (sixteen) rather than the story, and I think this is a book that would be enjoyed by readers of all ages. While the basic plot can be seen as a "coming of age" novel for Joy, it is more complex, layered with a detailed history, magic, and even the twists of politics. Hunters are not only protectors, but also entertainment to distract the citizens from the horrors surrounding them. It's also nice to see that the author has included a healthy friendship between characters, instead of just romance. The characters themselves are well-developed, with each of the main characters having a backstory and an individual personality. The characters interact as real people would in a similar situation, without it feeling forced or contrived.HUNTER is the first book in a new series, and holds the promise of hours of enjoyment. While the ending doesn't answer all of the questions you might have, it wraps up the correct story line with only a few dangling threads to lead you into the next story, leaving the reader satisfied but still wanting to learn more about Joy and the world she lives in.I received an uncorrected proof through NetGalley in exchange for a review, however I also bought the hardcover book once I realized how much I enjoyed it!

This is the first of a three book series by Mercedes’ Lackey. The other two books are “Exile” and “Apex.” I have read almost all of the books by Lackey. This is one of the best. Some of her other series are Valdamar , Elemental Masters , and Dragon Quest.Some of these books are in the Young Adult Category, but still amazing reads.The “Hunter Series” is a bit different from Lackey’s usual books , because it has some aspects of current reality in it. Some people think it is a slow starter for the series. Some other readers seem to find these books boring. I vehemently disagree with that opinion. The series is well worth reading so you can make your own decision about them. Personally I can hardly wait for the next book! Hopefully Mercedes’ Lackey will publish it soon.KS 😀🙃

This is the Misty Lackey I love.The book has all her hallmarks. The young hero, a female as is often her wont, thrust into unfamiliar surroundings with unknown enemies.Her hero character is, as usual, well drawn and likable. Her other main characters are also well developed.This is Lackey's main strength. Her stories are sometimes a bit obvious, although she often throws you some curves.But the thing that draws you in are her characters. You actually care what happens to them.I won't bother describing the story, you can get that here easily enough. I will however say that this promises to be a series I will love as much as the early Valdemar books. I am already anxious to get the next one.You'll note I only gave it four stars, even though I said nothing negative. That is because I am always reluctant to give anything a perfect score.I'll just say this. As someone who has been reading fantasy for forty years, and reading Lackey ever since she teamed with Anne McCaffrey for a "Ship Who Sang" book, I have no trouble recommending this to other fantasy and/or Lackey fans.

This was an amazing introduction to this world. I fell in love with the characters almost instantly and the story has political intrigue without slowing the pace.

Skilled post-apocalyptic world building for this new series connected with folklore. Good character development and some interesting surprises. Worth reading 😎

Loved this book so much

Würde man am Liebsten in einem Rutsch lesen

J'ai eu plaisir à lire ce livre et attend la suite avec impatience.On retrouve les thèmes de Mercedes Lackey, avec un personnage féminin fort.

I really enjoyed Hunter. It was different, new concepts and as usual, seriously kickass characters. Another win for Mercedes Lackey fans.