Dead Witch Walking

by Kim Harrison

   It takes a bit of work to suspend disbelief while reading Dead Witch Walking, but ultimately, it's worth the effort. Ms. Harrison has created a semi-plausible world with absolutely delightful characters.

   A virus has wiped out half of humanity (and all of the elves), leaving behind all of those whom are not quite human; vampires, werewolves, pixies -- and witches. Rachel, our heroine, falls into the last category. She works for the supernatural equivalent of the FBI as a "runner". A runner is part bounty-hunter, part detective, and all meanness. But Rachel isn't all that mean, so she quits...and gets a price put on her head. Let the fun begin....

   Dead Witch Walking is one of those books (and inevitably, a confounded series) that aren't ever going to be great literature, but will probably get made into a great action movie (and yet another series). Its a fun read, leaves lots of room for sequels, has interesting and identifiable characters, and - dang - its humorous and fun to read. Need a break from social commentary and political philosophy? Here ya go...