Although there are a few people who appear in all of Heather Graham’s Krewe of Hunters novels, some of the books are almost standalones, while others are in sets featuring some of the same characters. Dark Rites follows up on Dying Breath, and, in order to keep the characters straight, readers should really read the previous book, the story of Vickie Preston and the Undertakers. The next one in the series, Wicked Deeds, takes Graham’s characters to Baltimore.
Vickie Preston is a historian dating Special Agent Griffin Pryce of the FBI’s elite Krewe of Hunters. They specialize in crimes dealing with the paranormal, and they travel all over the country. The latest action, though, happens in Boston, where Vickie lives. Random victims have been attacked on the street, and left with notes reminiscent of a historic figure in Massachusetts history. People recognize the note left behind as a quote about Satan and witches. And, they’re scared. As Griffin knows, “There was no way for an average citizen to prepare for a spontaneous attack when jut walking down the street.”
One of the people attacked is Alex Maple, a historian and friend of Vickie’s. He had been attacked three weeks earlier. Now, when he fails to show up for dinner with Vickie and a friend, she suspects trouble. Alex would have at least called if he was able. With her connections, she’s able to push an immediate investigation into the man’s disappearance. He may have been just the latest person taken by a Satanic cult now terrorizing Boston.
Graham’s latest Krewe of Hunters novels is a little gruesome at times. In this story, Vickie is the one who sees ghosts, and dreams about the case. Sometimes, in the books, it’s an FBI agent. But, there’s always a paranormal element, and an element of history. Graham’s books combine suspense, romance, and the paranormal. The fast-paced stories, including Dark Rites, are riveting.
I’ve read most of the Krewe of Hunters books, and recommend all of them to readers who enjoy all of the aforementioned elements. But, I still think you should start with Dying Breath if you want to meet up with Vickie Preston and Griffin Pryce.
Heather Graham’s website is theoriginalheathergraham.com
Dark Rites by Heather Graham. MIRA, 2017. ISBN 9780778331032 (hardcover), 320p.
*****
FTC Full Disclosure – Library book
I have another couple of friends who really like this overall series. I keep meaning to try it, but you know how that goes. I do like the elements that you listed. Perhaps one day before long I'll get started on it. At just the right time. 🙂
Kay, I do understand. I've never read Peter Robinson or Elly Griffiths' Ruth Galloway series, although I know people who love both. It's just hard to get to everything. Someday, as you said.
Her newest – Fade to Black – is on my library hold list. I think there are a total of three coming out this summer. I'm also a Ruth Galloway fan.
Fade to Black just came in for me, Gram, at the library! I had email, so I'll pick it up tomorrow. I have one in the series to read first, though.