Review: Otherworld Nights by Kelley Armstrong

Book Blurb: Rare and never-before published short stories featuring fan favorites from the New York Times bestselling series It’s been more than ten years since Kelley Armstrong began the Otherworld series and drew legions of fans to a realm roamed by witches, werewolves, necromancers, vampires, and half-demons. Many of the novels have become bestselling favorites, but not all of the Otherworld adventures have been easy to find. At last, Otherworld Nights shares short stories that have previously been available only online or in obscure collections. Fans have long been clamoring for this anthology and they won’t be disappointed—they’ll find plenty of surprises are in store. My Review: 5 out of 5 stars Genre: Supernatural, Werewolves, Witches, Urban Fantasy, Vampires Anyone who knows me knows that I avoid short stories like the plague. I find them to either be lacking in character development or plot, they never have both. So it is a true testament to my love for Kelly Armstrong that I have read all of her short stories from the Women of the Otherworld series. The characters have already been established in books 1-13 so I don’t need any more character development, I already know these people. When each book ended I always found myself hoping for just a little bit more. Well these stories are the “little bit more” that I am always looking for. And I completely love them. I would not recommend this collection for anyone who has not read the actual series because they may be disappointed or confused. Start at book 1, go through to 13 and then come back. I am a huge fan of Elena and Clay, always will be. Their books in the series were full of heartbreak and angst, so I really enjoy these snippets where they are happy and together. I am glad there were a few stories about them included here. I read a review that criticized their laidback parenting style that I found ridiculous. Their kids are freaking anomalies that shouldn’t exist, so if they want to be indulgent, then so be it (oh and by the way, the twins are only 4, so come on). I enjoy the happy times when they are a family and I would love to know what will happen with the twins in the future. Werewolves? I will admit to not really remembering Reece during the series, so his story was like meeting someone new. His tale was full of tragedy and it is a wonder how he is still so well adjusted and upbeat. I would like to see more from him in the future. I really liked the Hope and Karl story, which was flirty and full of humor just like their relationship. I loved the sweet surprise Karl gave to Hope at the end. I have never been a fan of Cassandra, so I was not enthused to read her story. I found it to be dark and blah, kind of how I always picture Cassandra. It was a good take on how she sees the world now that her time is up, more of memories than actual things she is taking part in the present. I always rooted for Savannah and Adam, despite the age difference and his protests, so the end of book 13 made me happy. I enjoyed seeing how everything is playing out for them and that they are happy. I love everything by Armstrong and I really hope she revisits some of my favorite characters (including Paige and Lucas), at least in more short stories if it can’t be full length novels. I received this title from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.