Status
Available
Call number
Genres
Publication
New York : Del Rey/Ballantine Books, 2011.
Description
Atticus O'Sullivan, the last of the Druids, finds his peaceful life in Arizona shattered by the arrival of an angry Celtic god who wants Atticus's magical sword, forcing Atticus to call upon some unlikely allies for help.
User reviews
LibraryThing member beserene
This urban fantasy novel, the first in The Iron Druid Chronicles, a series much along the lines of Jim Butcher's Dresden Files, was recommended to me by several friends. Having read this book, I can see why they recommended it. High on my list of enjoyable things about this book is its immersion in
That said, there are some things about this book that might drive a reader nuts, and certainly distracted me from the fun. Hearne has some bad writing habits, including an apparent need to harp on the things he either knows or has researched. The details and descriptions of fight scenes and weapons frequently stretch past the point of necessity here -- and the reader is treated to turn-by-turn directions every time the main character walks anywhere (which is often, as he doesn't own a car). I'm pretty sure I could take this novel as a guidebook if ever I visit Tempe. The predictable scene patterns can feel redundant, as though the author had found his preferred template and used it whenever he needed to insert a dialogue scene. But, in truth, all of these are issues that we might refer to as "first book problems" -- and could easily be resolved once the author has had a chance to stretch his imaginative muscles a little further with subsequent volumes.
It says much, too, that I kept reading even through the distractions. The novel's adventure is bold enough and the characterizations clever enough that I enjoyed myself most of the time. Some of Hearne's invented characters steal the show -- Oberon the wolfhound, for example, throws the funniest one-liners -- and make the whole experience worthwhile.
Overall, I would call this inventive popcorn-reading -- fluffy, not terribly nutritious, but made tasty with the salt of wry humor and rich source material. I have already started reading the second installment in the series, so you might gather my recommendation from that. I look forward to seeing the series get better as it goes along. Also, I kind of want Oberon for my very own.
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Irish myth. The hero of the story -- a much-older-than-he-looks transplanted Druid -- worships and deals with the divine race of the Tuatha De Danaan, while living in modern day Arizona. The incorporation of other mythic pantheons, often with a tongue-in-cheek flair (everyone hates Thor, for example -- he's referred to as a "major asshat" as early as page 2), also keeps me chuckling and turning pages. That said, there are some things about this book that might drive a reader nuts, and certainly distracted me from the fun. Hearne has some bad writing habits, including an apparent need to harp on the things he either knows or has researched. The details and descriptions of fight scenes and weapons frequently stretch past the point of necessity here -- and the reader is treated to turn-by-turn directions every time the main character walks anywhere (which is often, as he doesn't own a car). I'm pretty sure I could take this novel as a guidebook if ever I visit Tempe. The predictable scene patterns can feel redundant, as though the author had found his preferred template and used it whenever he needed to insert a dialogue scene. But, in truth, all of these are issues that we might refer to as "first book problems" -- and could easily be resolved once the author has had a chance to stretch his imaginative muscles a little further with subsequent volumes.
It says much, too, that I kept reading even through the distractions. The novel's adventure is bold enough and the characterizations clever enough that I enjoyed myself most of the time. Some of Hearne's invented characters steal the show -- Oberon the wolfhound, for example, throws the funniest one-liners -- and make the whole experience worthwhile.
Overall, I would call this inventive popcorn-reading -- fluffy, not terribly nutritious, but made tasty with the salt of wry humor and rich source material. I have already started reading the second installment in the series, so you might gather my recommendation from that. I look forward to seeing the series get better as it goes along. Also, I kind of want Oberon for my very own.
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LibraryThing member ReginaR
Okay, I feel sort of like the odd woman out here. Most of my friends loved this book and are gushing about it. But I just did not see what was so special about this book. I feel bad writing this review and saying this, but no this book is not a favorite.
Okay, the good things first. The writing is
This book reads to me like “urban fantasy lite”. The character development is not overly deep, the relationships are not thoroughly flushed out, and the plot is pretty simplistic: Bad guy is chasing hero for centuries. Bad guy wants to defeat hero and take possession of powerful item that hero possesses. Hero has a lot of power, he can use it almost indefinitely and he is funny. Oh, and most women who see hero WANT him. Hey, I probably would want Atticus too by the way he was described. Hearne tells the readers rather than shows them the world building and the history of the characters. And he utilizes Atticus’s conversations with people he meets as a method to do this. I just find this as a weak plot device to teach the readers and further the plot. Plus it just isn’t as interesting. My favorite urban fantasy books have characters who have access to power or have supernatural traits, but they can only wield their power with a heavy cost. That makes sense to me and the cost seems to balance things. Books such as Mercy Thompson by Briggs and the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher are great examples of this. Power is not easy to come by. And those that carry such power, not only have to make sacrifices but they also wear heavy battle scars – emotionally and physically. Well, there are no such costs or scars in this book. Atticus (the hero) appears to have access to an unending source of power and quite a bit of supernatural support – but at what cost? None, so it appears. Sleeping on the grass? Breathing fresh air? Those things are not a true cost. I never doubted that Atticus would win/succeed/make it away fast. I enjoy wondering in my books if everything will work out and I like it when authors surprise me sometimes and not all works out. Suspense and tension are a positive for me in books I read. For me, this book had neither.
Atticus has been alive for 21 centuries, he references having a son yet he is light hearted and does not appear to be affected by the passage of time or the loss of those he loved. He acts like a man from this time period, he acts like maybe not a 21 year old, but a 28 year old. He loves watching sports on Sunday? He loves Kevin Costner movies? I just found this not to be believable. I also thought it was a weak plot device to have Atticus surprised and manipulated so easily. For example, by Flittish during the opening hunt scene or by the coven of witches. Why does he give Malina so much information? Why does he give the bar maid so much information during their first full conversation? This openness and lack of vetting people wasn’t consistent with a guy who had been alive for 21 centuries. I saw that they were not trustworthy early on and I am much younger than Atticus. I understand why Kevin Hearne used these characters in a way to titillate and then surprise the readers, but couldn’t have it been done in a more convincing way? Oddly enough (perhaps this says more about me than the book), I just did not think the book was too funny. It might just be me, but I don’t think it is funny to get revenge on a neighbor by sending your dog over to poop on his lawn, repeatedly. Yes, I know the neighbor was mean and reported him to the police. But hey, in the neighbor’s defense usually the stuff reported was dangerous and illegal. And then to talk about the revenge tactic, repeatedly, just not funny for me. Nor do I think it is funny to read dialogue that includes making fun of the way somebody looks. I understand that the witch really didn’t look that beautiful and was wearing fake skin, but why go there? But I may just be uptight. Another example of mean humor that I just did not enjoy, was the giving of wedgies to the paramedic. Why was Atticus doing this? Why is this funny? The entire discussion of suing the police was ridiculous. Atticus knows that he has committed crimes by modern day standards. The police are rightly investigating Atticus. And then Atticus learns that the police and a specific officer are under the control of his enemy. Why would he sue them? Just for revenge and money? When in reality, the policy either had no control over their actions and/or were acting on legitimate tips! This entire discussion was really distasteful for me, yes sue when you have been wronged but this wasn’t one of those situations.
What I liked about the book. The pacing is fast, it is refreshing to read an urban fantasy from a male point of view, the cast of characters – despite being one dimensional, a few were interesting and I want to know more about them. I plan on moving on to Book 2, because, well I bought it, I signed up for a buddy read and I am slightly intrigued as to whether the series will get stronger. Many urban fantasy books start out with a great premise, like this book, and need a few books to get really strong. So because it was not a bad book and because I somewhat enjoyed it, I will read it again.
I recommend this book to people who are interested in a light read.
Okay, the good things first. The writing is
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solid in Hounded and the pacing is good. The characters are interesting. There is not any chapter that drags or is slow. This is a unique thing in this genre, particularly for a first book! I went into this book with high expectations and I have learned that is usually not going to be a good thing for the book I am reading, with a few exceptions. This review concentrates on what disappointed me about this book. It seems that lately, with a few exceptions, it is hard for me to read an urban fantasy book and not find problems with the plot or storyline. I did enjoy the book somewhat, so ……This book reads to me like “urban fantasy lite”. The character development is not overly deep, the relationships are not thoroughly flushed out, and the plot is pretty simplistic: Bad guy is chasing hero for centuries. Bad guy wants to defeat hero and take possession of powerful item that hero possesses. Hero has a lot of power, he can use it almost indefinitely and he is funny. Oh, and most women who see hero WANT him. Hey, I probably would want Atticus too by the way he was described. Hearne tells the readers rather than shows them the world building and the history of the characters. And he utilizes Atticus’s conversations with people he meets as a method to do this. I just find this as a weak plot device to teach the readers and further the plot. Plus it just isn’t as interesting. My favorite urban fantasy books have characters who have access to power or have supernatural traits, but they can only wield their power with a heavy cost. That makes sense to me and the cost seems to balance things. Books such as Mercy Thompson by Briggs and the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher are great examples of this. Power is not easy to come by. And those that carry such power, not only have to make sacrifices but they also wear heavy battle scars – emotionally and physically. Well, there are no such costs or scars in this book. Atticus (the hero) appears to have access to an unending source of power and quite a bit of supernatural support – but at what cost? None, so it appears. Sleeping on the grass? Breathing fresh air? Those things are not a true cost. I never doubted that Atticus would win/succeed/make it away fast. I enjoy wondering in my books if everything will work out and I like it when authors surprise me sometimes and not all works out. Suspense and tension are a positive for me in books I read. For me, this book had neither.
Atticus has been alive for 21 centuries, he references having a son yet he is light hearted and does not appear to be affected by the passage of time or the loss of those he loved. He acts like a man from this time period, he acts like maybe not a 21 year old, but a 28 year old. He loves watching sports on Sunday? He loves Kevin Costner movies? I just found this not to be believable. I also thought it was a weak plot device to have Atticus surprised and manipulated so easily. For example, by Flittish during the opening hunt scene or by the coven of witches. Why does he give Malina so much information? Why does he give the bar maid so much information during their first full conversation? This openness and lack of vetting people wasn’t consistent with a guy who had been alive for 21 centuries. I saw that they were not trustworthy early on and I am much younger than Atticus. I understand why Kevin Hearne used these characters in a way to titillate and then surprise the readers, but couldn’t have it been done in a more convincing way? Oddly enough (perhaps this says more about me than the book), I just did not think the book was too funny. It might just be me, but I don’t think it is funny to get revenge on a neighbor by sending your dog over to poop on his lawn, repeatedly. Yes, I know the neighbor was mean and reported him to the police. But hey, in the neighbor’s defense usually the stuff reported was dangerous and illegal. And then to talk about the revenge tactic, repeatedly, just not funny for me. Nor do I think it is funny to read dialogue that includes making fun of the way somebody looks. I understand that the witch really didn’t look that beautiful and was wearing fake skin, but why go there? But I may just be uptight. Another example of mean humor that I just did not enjoy, was the giving of wedgies to the paramedic. Why was Atticus doing this? Why is this funny? The entire discussion of suing the police was ridiculous. Atticus knows that he has committed crimes by modern day standards. The police are rightly investigating Atticus. And then Atticus learns that the police and a specific officer are under the control of his enemy. Why would he sue them? Just for revenge and money? When in reality, the policy either had no control over their actions and/or were acting on legitimate tips! This entire discussion was really distasteful for me, yes sue when you have been wronged but this wasn’t one of those situations.
What I liked about the book. The pacing is fast, it is refreshing to read an urban fantasy from a male point of view, the cast of characters – despite being one dimensional, a few were interesting and I want to know more about them. I plan on moving on to Book 2, because, well I bought it, I signed up for a buddy read and I am slightly intrigued as to whether the series will get stronger. Many urban fantasy books start out with a great premise, like this book, and need a few books to get really strong. So because it was not a bad book and because I somewhat enjoyed it, I will read it again.
I recommend this book to people who are interested in a light read.
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LibraryThing member rivkat
Ancient Druid hanging out as twentysomething in Arizona fights other superpowered beings from multiple cultures over a sword he has and they want. Too powerful for me to worry about, too self-satisfied for me to care about. But if you like dogs, he has an Irish wolfhound who he talks to a lot,
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often about food and sex. Show Less
LibraryThing member Cynical_Ames
I jinxed myself. I read the first 5 pages and thought I might actually like it after procrastinating over the decision of: to read, or not to read? I blame myself for settling on the former, as many have compared it to Jim Butcher's writing. Me and that dude do not get on. We are chalk and cheese.
The humour is unfunny; it's forced. The info-dump is off-putting; too much, too fast. Dialogue-overload. Not enough description.
Atticus claims to be 2,100 or just 21 to humans. He lies to everyone but the humans. He ain't two thousand years old. There's no way. He brags about the famous historical events he's witnessed, the powerful and dangerous gods he knows, and thinks his physical prowess is that of a ninja. He sounds like an immature boy. Show me you've lived longer than most, don't just tell me. He also feels too modern and "down with the kids".
These gods care enough to warn Atticus of an impending threat on his life but he doesn't take them seriously. Even after he is attacked. I don't understand why they care if he never listens to them.
One of said gods has promised not to let Atticus die. So if he's in terrible agony from multiple wounds, he won't die. That's awful. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy, and this woman is supposed to be an ally. Some ally. No thanks.
I wasn't impressed with the gods we met in the beginning. Not much intelligence or wisdom to be found in them. They were only concerned with petty grievances and vengeance. The norm for gods generally, though some semblance of substance or the ability to champion a worthwhile cause would've been nice, anything to show some depth of character to engender interest from me as the reader.
I hear Oberon is a hoot and an adorable sidekick. Well, I met him but he doesn't seem terribly dog-like.
I've never given up after so few pages read before, but I can't force myself to read any more.
Not for me.
36/292 pages read.
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The humour is unfunny; it's forced. The info-dump is off-putting; too much, too fast. Dialogue-overload. Not enough description.
Atticus claims to be 2,100 or just 21 to humans. He lies to everyone but the humans. He ain't two thousand years old. There's no way. He brags about the famous historical events he's witnessed, the powerful and dangerous gods he knows, and thinks his physical prowess is that of a ninja. He sounds like an immature boy. Show me you've lived longer than most, don't just tell me. He also feels too modern and "down with the kids".
These gods care enough to warn Atticus of an impending threat on his life but he doesn't take them seriously. Even after he is attacked. I don't understand why they care if he never listens to them.
One of said gods has promised not to let Atticus die. So if he's in terrible agony from multiple wounds, he won't die. That's awful. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy, and this woman is supposed to be an ally. Some ally. No thanks.
I wasn't impressed with the gods we met in the beginning. Not much intelligence or wisdom to be found in them. They were only concerned with petty grievances and vengeance. The norm for gods generally, though some semblance of substance or the ability to champion a worthwhile cause would've been nice, anything to show some depth of character to engender interest from me as the reader.
I hear Oberon is a hoot and an adorable sidekick. Well, I met him but he doesn't seem terribly dog-like.
I've never given up after so few pages read before, but I can't force myself to read any more.
Not for me.
36/292 pages read.
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LibraryThing member enrique_molinero
Hounded by Kevin Hearne is a good urban fantasy debut; but not a great one and one that I think has issues that will prevent it from becoming a great series. Atticus O’Sullivan is one of the last, if not the last druid on Earth; fleeing some wrathful Irish god/fae he packs up and moves to Tempe,
The book is relatively entertaining, fast-paced, and packed with action which makes for an easy read but I must admit to preferring the noir/mystery styling of early Dresden and the recently released Midnight Riot when it comes down to it. Mostly because while those books are parts of larger series their individual books seem to matter more since the problem has to be identified before the solution can be found. In Hounded, the problem is evident from the beginning and it’s simply a matter of building to the climax.
O’Sullivan’s sidekick is his Irish wolfhound, Oberon, and in contrast to other reviewers I can’t say I cared for the dog. I think the problem for me is that it feels like Hearne tries to get Oberon to fill too many roles and ends us missing more than he ends up hitting with them. The other big problem that I have is that it feels like O’Sullivan has started on the wrong side of the power curve and he casually slaps down witches, demons, giants, and gods all in the first book. There’s not much tension in your book when your protagonist is the baddest guy on the block and it makes me wonder what the author will have to conjure in later books to interject some real danger.
Hounded is a solid book and you can do much worse in the urban fantasy genre so fans of the genre shouldn’t feel bad about picking it up but unless you’re a complete freak for the genre who has read everything you can probably also do plenty better as well.
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Arizona where he runs his own new-age store/tea-shop. Eventually said old world deity tracks him down and tries to off him which leads to O’Sullivan seeking to return the favor.The book is relatively entertaining, fast-paced, and packed with action which makes for an easy read but I must admit to preferring the noir/mystery styling of early Dresden and the recently released Midnight Riot when it comes down to it. Mostly because while those books are parts of larger series their individual books seem to matter more since the problem has to be identified before the solution can be found. In Hounded, the problem is evident from the beginning and it’s simply a matter of building to the climax.
O’Sullivan’s sidekick is his Irish wolfhound, Oberon, and in contrast to other reviewers I can’t say I cared for the dog. I think the problem for me is that it feels like Hearne tries to get Oberon to fill too many roles and ends us missing more than he ends up hitting with them. The other big problem that I have is that it feels like O’Sullivan has started on the wrong side of the power curve and he casually slaps down witches, demons, giants, and gods all in the first book. There’s not much tension in your book when your protagonist is the baddest guy on the block and it makes me wonder what the author will have to conjure in later books to interject some real danger.
Hounded is a solid book and you can do much worse in the urban fantasy genre so fans of the genre shouldn’t feel bad about picking it up but unless you’re a complete freak for the genre who has read everything you can probably also do plenty better as well.
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LibraryThing member leahsimone
Atticus is a 2000 year old Druid who decides to finally come out of hiding to fight an old nemesis, Aenghus the God of Love. Centuries ago, Atticus took the magical sword Fragarah from the God and Aenghus wants it back. After fighting off several assassination attempts from Fae creatures, another
Unfortunately, the plot doesn't get much more complicated than that and the characters were were a bit one dimensional. I liked Atticus but I was never terribly impressed by him. He tends to lose IQ points every time he is around a hot woman (be it a goddess, fae or bartender possessed by an old witch) and he ends up doing exactly what they want him to do. The Gods come across arrogant and a bit stupid. The women were the movers and shakers in this story but most of them were either beautiful, crazy, and/or hot-for-druid.
The story moved along well but there were several pop culture references and jokes (especially by his dog) that jarred a bit. If you enjoy reading Jim Butcher give it a try. It missed the mark for me though.
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God and a nasty coven of witches, Atticus realizes he will have to confront Aenghus directly to settle the matter.Unfortunately, the plot doesn't get much more complicated than that and the characters were were a bit one dimensional. I liked Atticus but I was never terribly impressed by him. He tends to lose IQ points every time he is around a hot woman (be it a goddess, fae or bartender possessed by an old witch) and he ends up doing exactly what they want him to do. The Gods come across arrogant and a bit stupid. The women were the movers and shakers in this story but most of them were either beautiful, crazy, and/or hot-for-druid.
The story moved along well but there were several pop culture references and jokes (especially by his dog) that jarred a bit. If you enjoy reading Jim Butcher give it a try. It missed the mark for me though.
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LibraryThing member Cats57
"Hounded" is a perfectly adequate and entertaining new book in the speculative fiction genre. While I realize that it is getting raves from most readers, I for one, found it to be a bit too much like Jim Butcher's "Harry Dresden" with a dash of C E Murphy's series. The saving grace would be that it
The aspects I did find intriguing was the idea that Artticus looks like a college kid but is in reality 2100 years old Druid,and the other is his somewhat odd neighbors. I do see further books may be very interesting in that Atticus has taken an apprentice who may or may not become a love interest for him. That would put in interesting spin on things.
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has a bit of a younger, hipper crowd of antagonists and protagonists. I think the problem is, is that the genre has gotten so over- saturated that any one author is starting to read like most of the rest. And when someone says this is a "fresh new voice", it is just the same story with a different author. The aspects I did find intriguing was the idea that Artticus looks like a college kid but is in reality 2100 years old Druid,and the other is his somewhat odd neighbors. I do see further books may be very interesting in that Atticus has taken an apprentice who may or may not become a love interest for him. That would put in interesting spin on things.
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LibraryThing member melydia
Atticus looks 21 years old, but is actually closer to 21 centuries old, thanks to a deal with a certain god of death. He runs a small bookstore in Arizona in between dealing with a number of gods, werewolves, vampires, witches, and other unexpected characters. The basic idea is that every deity
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from every religion actually exists, though Atticus mostly has to deal with those of the Celtic variety, since he is Irish himself. In this tale, Atticus must face Aenghus Og, an angry god who has been after him to retrieve a certain magical sword for centuries. I got a huge kick out of this book. Atticus is snarky and sarcastic, and the constant play on mythological archetypes never failed to entertain. I would not hesitate to read the rest of the series. If you’re a fan of The Dresden Files, you’ll probably enjoy this one as well. Show Less
LibraryThing member akhelene
There's quite a bit of action in this urban fantasy about a 2000+ year old Druid living in the southwest. The author introduces you to the world quite well, laying out the rules and mythology without making it seem like you are being lectured to. It was entertaining enough but I never really felt
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like Atticus was in any sense of danger. Unlike the Dresden Files, where you are always wondering how Harry Dresden is going to get out of trouble he's in, it always felt like Atticus had everything under control, which can be a little dull at times. Show Less
LibraryThing member strigine
The narrative voice is very engaging, and there are a lot of clever and/or funny bits courtesy of the main character and his telepathic dog. But I reached the end and felt a bit disappointed that the character didn't really grow or learn anything over the course of the book. He's sort of an eternal
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magical fratboy. This may just be the downside of having a two-century-old main character; whatever growing he hasn't done by now, he's not likely to do, I guess. Friends I've spoken with who also read the book weren't bothered by this and have all expressed an interest in continuing with the series, so it's definitely a YMMV thing. Show Less
LibraryThing member cay250
Atticus O'Sullivan, last of the Druids, lives peacefully in Arizona, running an occult bookshop and shape-shifting in his spare time to hunt with his Irish wolfhound. His neighbors and customers think that this handsome, tattooed Irish dude is about twenty-one years old--when in actuality, he's
Unfortunately, a very angry Celtic god wants that sword, and he's hounded Atticus for centuries. Now the determined deity has tracked him down, and Atticus will need all his power--plus the help of a seductive goddess of death, his vampire and werewolf team of attorneys, a bartender possessed by a Hindu witch, and some good old-fashioned luck of the Irish--to kick some Celtic arse and deliver himself from evil.
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twenty-one "centuries" old. Not to mention: He draws his power from the earth, possesses a sharp wit, and wields an even sharper magical sword known as Fragarach, the Answerer. Unfortunately, a very angry Celtic god wants that sword, and he's hounded Atticus for centuries. Now the determined deity has tracked him down, and Atticus will need all his power--plus the help of a seductive goddess of death, his vampire and werewolf team of attorneys, a bartender possessed by a Hindu witch, and some good old-fashioned luck of the Irish--to kick some Celtic arse and deliver himself from evil.
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LibraryThing member EowynA
Our hero, Atticus O'Sullivan, is a 2000-year -old Druid currently living in Arizona. He has a sword that some of the Tuatha de Danann think he should return to them. He runs a New Age bookstore, and looks like he's in his early twenties.
Like most urban fantasies, this one has our hero talking in
This book has a lot going for it. It is aptly named - he is being pursued relentlessly, his lawyer is a werewolf, he can shapeshift into a wolfhound, and his companion Irish Wolfhound, Oberon, is a distinctive, original character. The Irish pantheon is nicely drawn, and like Neil Gaimon's American Gods, they are not the only supernatural beings in this universe. There are gods from all over, and Coyote laughs when things do not go as Atticus might wish. There is a lot of action. There is even a reference to the SCA as a cover for talking about historical-sounding feuds.
But there are drawbacks, too. The narrative was not compelling. Everyone had motivations that read like D&D game (or current equivalent) - one layer deep. The action was too much telling, not showing. As the action got hotter, the narrator still talked in long complex sentences that slowed down the story. For instance, in the climactic battle, Atticus says, "You've hounded me for centuries. And you might have hounded me for many more, but your petty jealously of Brighid has brought you to this end!" The dialog is not bad, per se, but it does not read like something one would actually say in the midst of a sword fight. It's not a taunt - it is a summation for the reader.
A story gains energy from the introduction of new characters. But the author constantly introduced new characters, each with a backstory, so there's constant exposition. Before the character is fully absorbed, then his or her moment on the stage was over, and someone new shows up.
The story was eventually all tied up, with just enough loose ends to leave room for a sequel. I might even read it. The series has potential, and room for growth.
Like most urban fantasies, this one has our hero talking in
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the first person, as a kind of running commentary on his life. It starts with a battle outside his bookstore, in which we learn of Atticus's powers, and something of the forces arrayed against him. This book has a lot going for it. It is aptly named - he is being pursued relentlessly, his lawyer is a werewolf, he can shapeshift into a wolfhound, and his companion Irish Wolfhound, Oberon, is a distinctive, original character. The Irish pantheon is nicely drawn, and like Neil Gaimon's American Gods, they are not the only supernatural beings in this universe. There are gods from all over, and Coyote laughs when things do not go as Atticus might wish. There is a lot of action. There is even a reference to the SCA as a cover for talking about historical-sounding feuds.
But there are drawbacks, too. The narrative was not compelling. Everyone had motivations that read like D&D game (or current equivalent) - one layer deep. The action was too much telling, not showing. As the action got hotter, the narrator still talked in long complex sentences that slowed down the story. For instance, in the climactic battle, Atticus says, "You've hounded me for centuries. And you might have hounded me for many more, but your petty jealously of Brighid has brought you to this end!" The dialog is not bad, per se, but it does not read like something one would actually say in the midst of a sword fight. It's not a taunt - it is a summation for the reader.
A story gains energy from the introduction of new characters. But the author constantly introduced new characters, each with a backstory, so there's constant exposition. Before the character is fully absorbed, then his or her moment on the stage was over, and someone new shows up.
The story was eventually all tied up, with just enough loose ends to leave room for a sequel. I might even read it. The series has potential, and room for growth.
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LibraryThing member ladycato
This is probably one of the best debut urban fantasies I've read in a while. It has everything the genre asks for: a crazy, back-stabbing pantheon of gods; a witty hero who is hunky in a realistic way; magic, both good and evil; and sword fights that bring to mind the battle manners of Indiana
Atticus shines as the protagonist. Hearne really uses his Phoenix and Tempe setting to the fullest, and it was great to recognize so many of the places. A good bit of action takes places in and around the Phoenix Zoo, and I could picture everything perfectly from my visits there. As great as Atticus is, the supporting cast threatens to take over the show. His wolfhound, Oberon, speaks telepathically with him. I'm not a dog lover, but I loved Oberon. He's everything a good dog should be. There's also his neighbor, the widow MacDonagh, whose Irish sensibilities made me cackle out loud more than once.
Above all, the book just plain feels balanced. There is wit, but not too much. The action is consistent but is paced just right. The plots all twine together in just the right way, making it cozy but not predictable. It's a great book. Del Rey is doing a new release scheme on this series, too; HOUNDED came out in May, and the next two books come out in June and July. I think it's a good move on their part. Even though I have 80-some books in my to-read pile and I'm trying to avoid buying more (haha), I definitely want to complete this series in the coming months.
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Jones. It's also a book that is great for male or female readers, which can't be said for many urban fantasies.Atticus shines as the protagonist. Hearne really uses his Phoenix and Tempe setting to the fullest, and it was great to recognize so many of the places. A good bit of action takes places in and around the Phoenix Zoo, and I could picture everything perfectly from my visits there. As great as Atticus is, the supporting cast threatens to take over the show. His wolfhound, Oberon, speaks telepathically with him. I'm not a dog lover, but I loved Oberon. He's everything a good dog should be. There's also his neighbor, the widow MacDonagh, whose Irish sensibilities made me cackle out loud more than once.
Above all, the book just plain feels balanced. There is wit, but not too much. The action is consistent but is paced just right. The plots all twine together in just the right way, making it cozy but not predictable. It's a great book. Del Rey is doing a new release scheme on this series, too; HOUNDED came out in May, and the next two books come out in June and July. I think it's a good move on their part. Even though I have 80-some books in my to-read pile and I'm trying to avoid buying more (haha), I definitely want to complete this series in the coming months.
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LibraryThing member Narilka
Atticus O'Sullivan is the last of the ancient druids. He's done a good job of staying off the radar of other supernatural beings for the last two thousand years and is now living in in Tempe, Arizona, as far away from the Fae as he can get. It's a place were many other paranormals have taken refuge
Hounded by Kevin Hearne is the first in the Iron Druid Chronicles. This book was pure fun and very light hearted. Living for 2100 years will give a person a different perspective on life. Atticus has made some interesting friends and even more interesting enemies. Living in Arizona with his Irish wolfhound Oberon, Atticus keeps busy by running an apothecary/book store. His lawyer is literally a blood sucking vampire that has ghouls available on call just in case some bodies need clearing up. He has an understanding with the local werewolf pack and has been burned by witches so many times he no longer trusts them. Widow MacDonagh is Atticus's neighbor who is originally from Ireland and so much fun. I wish I had a neighbor like her in real life!
The book spends a lot of time world building to give us a background on the Tuatha Dé Danann and the Fae that Atticus is trying to avoid. While this includes a lot of info dumping, I thought this part is really great and I love the world that Hearne has created using Irish mythology as the backdrop. We are introduced to several members of the pantheon, some of whom I suspect will feature prominently in later installments. The magic system is also based on this mythology and well done.
I listened to the audio book narrated by Luke Daniels. Luke gives an excellent performance. His accents are wonderful as are his female character voices. I was highly impressed. I will definitely be continuing this series on audio since I enjoyed Luke's performance so much.
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from the Old World, everyone from an Icelandic vampire holding a grudge against Thor to a coven of Polish witches who ran from the German Blitzkrieg. Things are going pretty well for Atticus until an old Celtic god tracks him down who wants the sword back that Atticus "stole" centuries ago. Atticus will need all his power and a little help from his friends if he is to survive the ancient God's plots.Hounded by Kevin Hearne is the first in the Iron Druid Chronicles. This book was pure fun and very light hearted. Living for 2100 years will give a person a different perspective on life. Atticus has made some interesting friends and even more interesting enemies. Living in Arizona with his Irish wolfhound Oberon, Atticus keeps busy by running an apothecary/book store. His lawyer is literally a blood sucking vampire that has ghouls available on call just in case some bodies need clearing up. He has an understanding with the local werewolf pack and has been burned by witches so many times he no longer trusts them. Widow MacDonagh is Atticus's neighbor who is originally from Ireland and so much fun. I wish I had a neighbor like her in real life!
The book spends a lot of time world building to give us a background on the Tuatha Dé Danann and the Fae that Atticus is trying to avoid. While this includes a lot of info dumping, I thought this part is really great and I love the world that Hearne has created using Irish mythology as the backdrop. We are introduced to several members of the pantheon, some of whom I suspect will feature prominently in later installments. The magic system is also based on this mythology and well done.
I listened to the audio book narrated by Luke Daniels. Luke gives an excellent performance. His accents are wonderful as are his female character voices. I was highly impressed. I will definitely be continuing this series on audio since I enjoyed Luke's performance so much.
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LibraryThing member Storeetllr
Really enjoyed, and thanks to ronincats, luvamystery65 and msf59 for nattering on about it so much that I had to read it if only to stop them from going on and on about it. (Just kidding; I'm so grateful for all the reccies and am now reading #3 (Hammered), having gone straight from #1 (Hounded) to
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#2 (Hexed) almost without taking a breath.) Reminded me a bit of The Dresden Files, but with a lot more humor and a bit less angst. And yes, Oberon is wonderful! Show Less
LibraryThing member jjmcgaffey
I like. I got this as a volunteer at Worldcon, and I'll definitely be looking for the next two. A very interesting and, I think, unique setup - an ancient Druid passing in the modern world, and still dealing with beings from the Celtic pantheon (among others). I enjoy secret history books - ones
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where of course there are witches and vampires and werewolves and so on, they just keep themselves out of sight except in emergencies. This story has that in spades. And a nice handling of something that is often a problem - most of the (more or less) good guys (as well as the bad ones) have the purely pragmatic attitude toward death that was common until quite recently - an enemy should be killed; a pawn or tool should also be killed so that he or she can't be this used again. However, the hero, Atticus, has a more modern attitude - or possibly just a better grasp of modern police methods. In either case, it's easier to align/sympathize with him than with most of his allies. And oddly enough, although Atticus is manipulated and lied to all over the place, it didn't put me off as manipulation usually does. Good story, complete in itself while leaving excellent hooks for further adventures. This is his first published book, and I'll be looking for the next one(s). Show Less
LibraryThing member coachsully
Hounded is a bit of a disappointment. The character, O'Sullivan- a Druid, who has a most eclectic bunch of friends and acquaintances, seems very appealing. Who wouldn't like a handsome, tattooed, gifted tree-hugger? He hangs out with gods, goddess, werewolves, witches, vampires and a wise-cracking
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dog. The story line is the typical hero versus bad-boy love god. I enjoyed reading the battle scenes against the forces of evil. The only down side was the dialogue. It was a bit smarmy and it pushed too hard. Some of the quips were funny, but it seemed as if Oberon the wolfhound is a character that is developed as a lazy way to add humor. Also Druid O'Sullivan told us too much about himself instead of showing us. Nevertheless, I am going to read the second novel in the Iron Druid Chronicles to see if it gets better.(I had already bought it.) Show Less
LibraryThing member candlemark
I really wanted to like this book much more than I did. I'd read very positive reviews and I loved the concept - I mean, really, a near-immortal Druid going up against the gods? With proper Irish names and everything? And a wisecracking Irish Wolfhound sidekick? Awesome.Only...not.The plot was
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entirely serviceable, and the characters were interesting enough - I want to know more about the Icelanding Viking vampire lawyer, which might be the only reason I'd stick around to read Hexed - but the dialogue. Oh god, the dialogue. The writing in GENERAL. Oh, it pained me so. Atticus kept switching back and forth between the modern vernacular and ancient constructions - which would make sense for an ancient Druid, if it weren't for the fact that HE CONSTANTLY POINTED THIS OUT, and made reference to his own use of modern slang, and insulted other ancients for NOT using slang...then immediately mixed quotes from Hamlet with talking about "muthafuckas." It was jarring, it was off-putting, and it really yanked me out of the story. Mostly because it wasn't just in Atticus's spoken commentary - it was in the first-person narrative, too. Every paragraph was threaded with this jarring, confusing mix of formal, elegant wording and...awkward modern phrasings. Which is a terrible pity, because some of the characters and scenarios were, as I mentioned, pretty darn interesting, and the representation of the Irish gods as petty, cruel, manipulative, and very very human was positively awesome. The magical world that Hearne has set up is very powerful and very well-thought-out, and I'd love to know more about it, and see the workings of gods and witches and Druids and vampires and werewolves and more...if only I could stomach the phrasings. Which I really sort of can't.It's a shame. Show Less
LibraryThing member shelleyraec
In a genre that is saturated with feisty females and brooding vampires, 'Hounded' is a fresh and original urban fantasy series debut. Atticus O’Sullivan is a 2000 year old Druid, who looks barely 21, living a quiet life running an occult bookshop in a small town Arizona, with the companionship of
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his loyal Irish Wolfhound, Oberon. His peaceful existence is interrupted by the Irish God Of Love, Aenghus Og, who is determined to take an ancient, legendary sword from Atticus's possession. As Og manipulates Tempe's local coven of witches, corrupts the police force and sets all manner of violent fae upon him, Atticus joins with a pack of werewolves, an elderly neighbour, and the odd goddess or three, to defeat the power hungry God. Hearne has breathed new life into Celtic mythology and developed unique and appealing characters in 'Hounded'. Attitcus's intelligence, wry sense of humor and easygoing nature belies his ability to battle it out with the best of them, 'magic sword' or no. Here is a hero that a male readership will admire and a female audience swoon over. His telepathic communication with Oberon provides moments of hilarity, while his relationship with the Goddess of Death, Morrigan, is just a little creepy. There is plenty of action as Atticus battles nasty fairies and rampaging giants but it doesn't overwhelm the plot. The pace keeps the pages turning, I couldn't put the book down I was so eager to be part of Atticus's adventure. I would expect fans of fantasy and it's various sub genres would enjoy this terrific novel and find themselves as eager for the next installments, Hexed and Hammered as I am Show Less
LibraryThing member MatNastos
Hounded is the first volume in the "Iron Druid Chronicles" by Kevin Hearne and fits nicely into the same contemporary fantasy genre as the Dresden Files, Mercedes Thompson, Anita Blake, Sookie Stackhouse and others. In my opinion, Hounded is head and shoulders above everything else currently going
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on in contemporary/urban fantasy. Great story, fantastic characters and a ton of fun. Hearne did a fantastic job with the book and entire series! Show Less
LibraryThing member ufreview
Hounded is the first book in the Iron Druid series and for a first book in a series in was very well written and refreshingly original. Atticus is a 2100 yr old Druid, while looking like a 21 yr old college kid, he hides out in the modern world in Arizona running a new age book shop with his dog
I read this book in a day and quickly grabbed the second one after I finished this one. I am loving this series! Hounded is told from Atticus' point of view and he has a really dry sense of humor. Atticus has taught his Irish wolfhound to communicate with him telepathically and the interaction between them was hilarious, conversations filled with Star Wars references and sausages and French Poodles. The supporting cast of the widow, the Celtic Goddesses of death and the Hunt, vampire and werewolf lawyers, a possessed bartender and a coven of witches sounds like it should be a disaster but Kevin Hearne manages to turn it into a fast paced well written delight.
The only thing I found lacking was I never felt Atticus was in real trouble, I mean he's taking on a God and yet he never seemed helpless or even really that threatened. I found the Morrigan scarier than the God trying to kill him and she was on his side. I think that I am comparing it to the Dresden series where poor Harry is constantly getting his ass kicked. I still found it a great read and I'd definately recommend it, I am already grabbing the second and third books in the series.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 4/5 I really enjoyed it.
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Oberon. He is in possession of a magical sword that the very pissed off Celtic God of Love is coming to take back.I read this book in a day and quickly grabbed the second one after I finished this one. I am loving this series! Hounded is told from Atticus' point of view and he has a really dry sense of humor. Atticus has taught his Irish wolfhound to communicate with him telepathically and the interaction between them was hilarious, conversations filled with Star Wars references and sausages and French Poodles. The supporting cast of the widow, the Celtic Goddesses of death and the Hunt, vampire and werewolf lawyers, a possessed bartender and a coven of witches sounds like it should be a disaster but Kevin Hearne manages to turn it into a fast paced well written delight.
The only thing I found lacking was I never felt Atticus was in real trouble, I mean he's taking on a God and yet he never seemed helpless or even really that threatened. I found the Morrigan scarier than the God trying to kill him and she was on his side. I think that I am comparing it to the Dresden series where poor Harry is constantly getting his ass kicked. I still found it a great read and I'd definately recommend it, I am already grabbing the second and third books in the series.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 4/5 I really enjoyed it.
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LibraryThing member bell7
Atticus O'Sullivan is the last living Druid, and he's been around for a few centuries because he knows how to keep out of trouble. Lately, he's been hiding out in Tempe, Arizona, but the Irish god of love is out to get him and the magical sword that Atticus took many years ago in battle and the
Alright, so the plot summary sounds over the top no matter how you slice it. However, if you enjoy fantasy, mythology, Ireland, or just really funny banter, it's absolutely worth giving this story a try. I promise it won't take long to read, and you'll figure out pretty quickly if the story works for you or not. I enjoyed Atticus's humor, and his anachronistic way of speaking - from Shakespeare quotes to the way today's college kid would speak. The Irish mythology is incorporated in such a way that more knowledge than I have would probably have added to my enjoyment, but didn't really hinder me from following or having fun reading.
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local coven of witches are up to something. It's going to take all his ingenuity to get out of this one alive.Alright, so the plot summary sounds over the top no matter how you slice it. However, if you enjoy fantasy, mythology, Ireland, or just really funny banter, it's absolutely worth giving this story a try. I promise it won't take long to read, and you'll figure out pretty quickly if the story works for you or not. I enjoyed Atticus's humor, and his anachronistic way of speaking - from Shakespeare quotes to the way today's college kid would speak. The Irish mythology is incorporated in such a way that more knowledge than I have would probably have added to my enjoyment, but didn't really hinder me from following or having fun reading.
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LibraryThing member vampiregirl76
Atticus is many things, but the most important is that he is a Druid. The last of his kind. He is many, many centuries old - even though he only looks to be in his 20's. Atticus is powerful and wields a sword. A magical sword, that a Celtic god wants bad and said god will do anything to get
Excellent read! Hounded is a real page turner. Every time I was gonna take a break I had to read the next chapter to see what was going to happen. A fast and entertaining tale. Atticus is a great character to spend time with. Witty, sharp as a tack. Really a bit of a bad ass, I think he could give Mr. Harry Dresden a run for his money. I loved his sense of humor (even his dog is funny) and that the book is steeped in Celtic mythology. Looking forward to reading the next installments. Fans of this genre will eat this one up.
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it.Excellent read! Hounded is a real page turner. Every time I was gonna take a break I had to read the next chapter to see what was going to happen. A fast and entertaining tale. Atticus is a great character to spend time with. Witty, sharp as a tack. Really a bit of a bad ass, I think he could give Mr. Harry Dresden a run for his money. I loved his sense of humor (even his dog is funny) and that the book is steeped in Celtic mythology. Looking forward to reading the next installments. Fans of this genre will eat this one up.
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LibraryThing member LJF
What a fun book! Kevin Hearne is sure to become one of my favorite fantasy authors.
This is the story of Atticus O'Sullivan, a 21(thousand) year old Iron Druid, living in Tempe. He owns a "new age" store, takes care of the lawn for an elderly, Irish whiskey drinking woman, Mrs. McDonagh, and runs in
Of course, being 21(thousand) years old, he has a few enemies, most notably Aengus Og...a not so lovely god of love. Atticus is protected by the Morrigan (always one of my favorites!) and occasionally by Flidais, a somewhat randy goddess of the hunt.
The story that unfolds basically tells of his dealings with his arch enemy. The book introduces us to the characters, gives the reader background about Atticus, how he came to live in Arizona, and a good introduction to Celtic & Druidic lore. There is just enough background information to give the reader some understanding these legends, but not so much as to be boring to those who just want to get on with the action. (And you can always Google all the names, if you need more.)
Hearne writes with a good dose of humor and also knows how to write a magical fight scene! There will be 2 more books in the series, and I need to read them.. NOW! LOL!! If you're a fantasy lover, (urban or otherwise), a Celtic lore enthusiast, or just like to read...get this book when it comes out. You'll be happy!
This is the story of Atticus O'Sullivan, a 21(thousand) year old Iron Druid, living in Tempe. He owns a "new age" store, takes care of the lawn for an elderly, Irish whiskey drinking woman, Mrs. McDonagh, and runs in
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the woods & mountains hunting with his Irish Wolfhound, Oberon (after shape-shifting into a hound himself). He has a weir wolf for a daytime attorney, and a vampire for his evening work. And occasionally he entertains various Celtic goddesses & gods. Oh, and he has a healthy dislike (mistrust) for witches.Of course, being 21(thousand) years old, he has a few enemies, most notably Aengus Og...a not so lovely god of love. Atticus is protected by the Morrigan (always one of my favorites!) and occasionally by Flidais, a somewhat randy goddess of the hunt.
The story that unfolds basically tells of his dealings with his arch enemy. The book introduces us to the characters, gives the reader background about Atticus, how he came to live in Arizona, and a good introduction to Celtic & Druidic lore. There is just enough background information to give the reader some understanding these legends, but not so much as to be boring to those who just want to get on with the action. (And you can always Google all the names, if you need more.)
Hearne writes with a good dose of humor and also knows how to write a magical fight scene! There will be 2 more books in the series, and I need to read them.. NOW! LOL!! If you're a fantasy lover, (urban or otherwise), a Celtic lore enthusiast, or just like to read...get this book when it comes out. You'll be happy!
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LibraryThing member tapestry100
Holy crap, but did I love this book! Druids! Witches! Gods! Werewolves! Vampires! Irish hounds! Widows! All of these things make for a fantastic reading experience.
Atticus O'Sullivan may look 21, but in reality he's 21 centuries old and the last Druid. And when you're that old, you're bound to make
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from the moment I picked it up. Hearne's writing is so natural that it picks you right up in the story and sweeps you along. The world building in Hounded isn't too challenging - the entire story takes place in Tempe, AZ - but it's the way that Hearne utilizes gods from several pantheons to create a varied way that religion works in his world. I think this is a really unique approach to gods and Hearne uses it well. Don't let this intimidate you, though. Hearne explains who everybody is and doesn't leave you hanging on trying to figure out who is who.
The writing is fast-paced but doesn't seem to want to try to get ahead of itself. I've noticed this in books I've read before like this, that the story tries to move itself along almost too quickly, not giving you a chance to keep up with it. That's not the case here; Hearne keeps his story moving but without rushing you through it. His characters are funny and witty, but not too much so. I found myself laughing out loud through several portions of the book, and especially at Oberon, Atticus' Irish wolfhound. I think that Oberon may be my favorite character in the book. His take on the world and what is happening around him from a smarter-than-average dog point of view is often hysterical.
Fans of Jim Butcher's The Dresden Files will definitely want to pick this series up, but anybody who enjoys a funny, clever urban fantasy will really enjoy this book. Highly recommended!
Hounded is available May 3, 2011, from Del Rey, and Hexed: The Iron Druid Chronicles, Book 2 will be available on June 7, 2011, and Hammered: The Iron Druid Chronicles, Book 3 will be available on July 5, 2011, so you won't have to wait long for the rest of the series!
Atticus O'Sullivan may look 21, but in reality he's 21 centuries old and the last Druid. And when you're that old, you're bound to make
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some enemies along the way. You see, Atticus is in possession of a sword that he "stole" from the Tuatha Dé Danann almost 2000 years ago, and some of those gods want the sword back. Unfortunately for Atticus, one of these ancient gods has made it his personal vendetta against Atticus and has chased him for centuries. And Atticus has run for centuries. But maybe it's time for Atticus to stop running and face his pursuer. However, even Atticus knows it's not a good idea to take on a god by yourself, so he calls in help from some other gods, his vampire/werewolf tag team of attorneys, a bartender who is possessed by a centuries old witch and his faithful Irish wolfhound, Oberon. But even this mixed bag of heroes may not be enough to take down a Celtic love god who has allied himself with Hell and a coven of witches.I thoroughly enjoyed this book from the moment I picked it up. Hearne's writing is so natural that it picks you right up in the story and sweeps you along. The world building in Hounded isn't too challenging - the entire story takes place in Tempe, AZ - but it's the way that Hearne utilizes gods from several pantheons to create a varied way that religion works in his world. I think this is a really unique approach to gods and Hearne uses it well. Don't let this intimidate you, though. Hearne explains who everybody is and doesn't leave you hanging on trying to figure out who is who.
The writing is fast-paced but doesn't seem to want to try to get ahead of itself. I've noticed this in books I've read before like this, that the story tries to move itself along almost too quickly, not giving you a chance to keep up with it. That's not the case here; Hearne keeps his story moving but without rushing you through it. His characters are funny and witty, but not too much so. I found myself laughing out loud through several portions of the book, and especially at Oberon, Atticus' Irish wolfhound. I think that Oberon may be my favorite character in the book. His take on the world and what is happening around him from a smarter-than-average dog point of view is often hysterical.
Fans of Jim Butcher's The Dresden Files will definitely want to pick this series up, but anybody who enjoys a funny, clever urban fantasy will really enjoy this book. Highly recommended!
Hounded is available May 3, 2011, from Del Rey, and Hexed: The Iron Druid Chronicles, Book 2 will be available on June 7, 2011, and Hammered: The Iron Druid Chronicles, Book 3 will be available on July 5, 2011, so you won't have to wait long for the rest of the series!
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Language
Original publication date
2011-05-03
ISBN
0345522532 / 9780345522535