My opinion of this book might be clouded, since I was a huge fan of the TV adaptation. But I think Sookie is a fun, feisty, insightful narrator, and the idea of mainstreaming supernaturals is a juicy jumping off point for a series.

I have to say, though, that the TV show did more with the lense of Racism. I think there is a lot of meaty story to be had about The Other, and what monsters humans can be to each other, which wasn't played up as much in the book. I was sorry to lose that facet, because it makes the story much richer.

And lastly, don't let my high rating fool you, this book IS problematic! The main characters who are men are disgusting! Every single one of them doesn't understand the meaning of "consent". Sexual dominance and violence are glorified as "tamable", and a woman offering sex to get out of the threat of violence is framed as her being a soothing influence. This book is not woke. It's a fun, scary fantasy. But it is not woke.