River Marked

Car mechanic Mercy Thompson has always known there was something different about her, and not just the way she can make a VW engine sit up and beg. Mercy is a shapeshifter, a talent she inherited from her long gone father. And she's never known any others of her kind. Until now.

As Mercy comes to terms with this new information, an evil is stirring in the depths of the Columbia River. Something deadly is coming, facts are thin on the ground and Mercy feels ill at ease. However, her father's people may know more. To have any hope of surviving, Mercy and her mate, the Alpha werewolf Adam, will need all the resources the shifters can offer. Or death will be the least of their worries.

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Fantasy Romance Paranormal Romance Urban Fantasy Shapeshifters Vampires Werewolves

Release date: February 24, 2011

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Patricia Briggs

Patricia Briggs is a name synonymous with captivating urban fantasy, known for her deeply immersive worlds where magic, myth, and the supernatural collide with the grit of everyday life. Her writing weaves together elements of folklore, paranormal intrigue, and fierce, relatable characters who navigate worlds that are both familiar and fantastical. Whether it’s the fiercely independent Mercy Thompson, a mechanic who’s also a shapeshifter, or the enigmatic, dangerous Alpha werewolf, Adam Hauptman, her characters live and breathe with a depth that keeps readers coming back for more.

Born and raised in the American Midwest, Briggs’ early life was shaped by her love for storytelling, inspired by her childhood fascination with folklore, mythology, and the natural world. These influences are seamlessly integrated into her works, where readers can feel the weight of centuries-old legends against the backdrop of modern-day struggles. Her writing reflects an acute understanding of character dynamics, creating complex relationships that feel both real and fantastical.

Briggs’ breakthrough came with Moon Called, the first book in her beloved Mercy Thompson series, which introduced readers to a unique world where vampires, werewolves, fae, and other supernatural beings live in a fragile, uneasy coexistence. The series quickly became a cornerstone of modern urban fantasy, praised for its fresh perspective on familiar tropes, its rich world-building, and its unapologetically strong female protagonist. Beyond Mercy Thompson, her Alpha & Omega series has also garnered a loyal following, expanding her universe and deepening the intricacies of the supernatural world she’s created.

Her writing is known for its compelling balance of heart-pounding action, intricate plots, and relatable emotional stakes. The tension between character and world-building is what gives her stories their power, drawing readers into a universe that feels both dangerous and safe. Patricia Briggs excels at exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and survival, all while threading subtle emotional undertones that resonate with fans.

Over the years, Patricia Briggs has earned a reputation as one of the top voices in urban fantasy, winning numerous awards and building a devoted following of readers who appreciate her nuanced take on supernatural creatures and relationships. She continues to push the boundaries of the genre, ensuring that her characters, worlds, and stories evolve with every new book.

For Briggs, storytelling is a way to explore the unknown—whether it’s navigating the boundaries of a magical world or simply discovering the intricacies of human relationships. Her work challenges readers to question the balance between power and responsibility, all while delivering stories filled with adventure, danger, and hope.

Her journey as an author is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion, with every novel leaving readers eagerly anticipating what she’ll craft next. Patricia Briggs has not only carved out a unique niche in the urban fantasy genre but has also earned a place in the hearts of readers who look for depth, adventure, and a touch of magic in every page.

Photo: Allen Johnson

Mercy Thompson

In the Mercy Thompson series, the world is not as it seems. Beneath the surface of modern-day society, supernatural creatures—werewolves, vampires, fae, and more—live hidden among humans, each with their own rules, secrets, and power struggles. Mercy Thompson, a mechanic and shapeshifter, is at the heart of this dangerous world. Unlike most shapeshifters, Mercy is a "walker," a rare kind that turns into a coyote. With this unique ability comes an equally rare perspective—one that allows her to navigate the complexities of the supernatural community with a blend of wit, compassion, and a healthy dose of skepticism.

Set in the Tri-Cities of Washington State, Mercy Thompson takes readers into a world where magic is real, and the stakes are always high. In the series, Mercy's life is never quiet. Whether she's helping to solve supernatural crimes, navigating the politics of local werewolf packs, or managing the complicated relationships with those she loves—including the powerful Alpha werewolf, Adam Hauptman—the challenges never stop. But Mercy's true strength lies not in her supernatural abilities but in her resilience, loyalty, and her ability to do what's right, no matter the cost.

Briggs’ world-building is rich with layers, making the series not only thrilling but immersive. With each book, the reader is drawn deeper into the rules of the supernatural world—its ancient customs, hidden dangers, and the way in which Mercy constantly finds herself in the middle of it all. What truly makes Mercy Thompson stand out, however, is the intricate character dynamics. The bonds between Mercy and those around her—whether they’re allies or enemies—are always complex, never predictable, and always evolving. At the heart of it all is Mercy’s growth as a person—and as a leader within the supernatural world.

The series strikes a delicate balance between action and character development, as well as between romance and suspense. Mercy's relationships—especially with Adam, the Alpha wolf—are as intense and multifaceted as the threats they face together. But even in the face of unimaginable danger, there’s a sense of hope and camaraderie that keeps Mercy grounded, making her an enduring heroine for fans who crave stories that mix heart and action.

For fans of urban fantasy, Mercy Thompson delivers not only thrilling, high-stakes drama but a world where every monster has a history and every action has consequences. In a world of shifting allegiances, dark secrets, and fierce battles, Mercy is one of the few who never gives up on finding the truth, no matter how much it costs her.

With its intricate plots, unforgettable characters, and a world as real as it is dangerous, the Mercy Thompson series is a captivating journey into the unknown—where mercy is as powerful as any weapon and loyalty can make all the difference.

Mercy Thompson consists of fourteen primary books, and includes one additional book that complement the series but is not considered mandatory reads and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

★ 8.60 / 30