In this episode of the PACK Podcast, hosts Greg, Hasna, and Linda discuss the excitement surrounding Patricia Briggs' new book, 'Blind Date with a Werewolf.' They share their experiences at book signings, delve into the spooky and eerie elements of the Mercyverse, and explore the complexities of characters like Tilly and Bonarata. The conversation also touches on urban legends, ghost stories, and the engagement with their audience through Patreon and Discord.

Takeaways

• Patricia Briggs' new book is a great starting point for new readers.
• Fans appreciate the personal touch of book signings.
• The characters in the Mercyverse are beloved for their depth and complexity.
• Tilly is a particularly creepy character that resonates with readers.
• The podcast hosts enjoy discussing the spookiest elements of the series.
• Vampires and witches in the Mercyverse have unique and disturbing traits.
• Urban legends play a significant role in the storytelling.
• The balance of power among supernatural beings is a recurring theme.
• Ghost stories are prevalent in both the podcast and Patricia Briggs' works.
• Engagement with fans through Patreon and Discord enhances the community experience.

Summary

In this episode, the hosts delve into the intricacies of the Mercyverse, focusing on the book 'Moon Called.' They discuss character dynamics, particularly the relationship between Mercy and Adam, and explore the themes of vulnerability and the nature of monsters. The conversation also touches on upcoming releases, community engagement through Patreon and Discord, and personal reading experiences with audiobooks. The hosts emphasize the interconnectedness of characters and storylines throughout the series, highlighting the depth and relatability of the characters created by Patricia Briggs.

Takeaways

Moon Called introduces the world and characters of the Mercyverse.
The book sets the foundation for the entire series.
Community engagement through Patreon and Discord enhances the experience.
Mercy is a relatable outsider in the supernatural world.
Character flaws make them more relatable and interesting.
The nature of monsters is explored through character vulnerabilities.
Flirtation between Mercy and Adam develops throughout the series.
Characters are interconnected, creating a rich narrative tapestry.
Audiobooks provide a compelling way to experience the series.
The hosts encourage readers to explore the Mercyverse starting with Moon Called.

In this episode of The Pack Podcast, Greg, Linda, and Hasna dive deep into what makes Patricia Briggs' Mercyverse so unforgettable. From the iconic Moon Called cover that reshaped urban fantasy aesthetics, to Mercy's scrappy, coyote-powered resilience, the hosts share their personal connections to the characters, themes, and world-building that hooked them from the very first page.

Discussion includes:

• Why Mercy Thompson stands out among urban fantasy heroines

• How humor, snark, and subtlety shape the storytelling

• The role of covers, art, and first impressions in starting a fandom

• The contrasts between the Mercy Thompson and Alpha & Omega series

• How Briggs' attention to body language and subtle clues rewards rereads

• The balance between romance, power struggles, and personal stakes

The hosts also reflect on fandom history, the old Hurog forums, and how Briggs' work continues to bring readers together across the world. Plus, hear updates on upcoming releases, details about Asil: Blind Date with a Werewolf, and info on The Pack Podcast's new Patreon tiers.

Pour yourself a cup of tea (Tetley's or otherwise) and join the pack as we celebrate nearly 20 years of Moon Called and the supernatural world that changed the game for urban fantasy.