Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Suspenseful, Humorous, Romantic, Mysterious
- Read it if
- You enjoy cozy mysteries with a strong supernatural twist, a sassy telepathic protagonist, and a dash of romance.
- Skip it if
- You dislike explicit violence, love triangles, or stories with complex supernatural lore that can sometimes feel convoluted.
Dead as a Doornail Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
Jason's Transformation and the First Attack
Sookie Stackhouse, a telepathic cocktail waitress in Bon Temps, Louisiana, watches her brother Jason turn into a were-panther during his first full moon. He was bitten by a wer-animal and is now part of the Hotshot community of shapeshifters. Soon after, a series of sniper attacks begins, targeting shapeshifters in the area. The first victim is a male panther from Hotshot. This immediately makes Jason a suspect to the Hotshot residents, especially their leader, Felton Norris, because Jason is an outsider and his transformation is new. Sookie worries about her brother's safety and reputation, vowing to help clear his name.
Sookie's Investigation and Eric's Intervention
Wanting to protect Jason, Sookie begins her own investigation into the shootings. Local law enforcement is largely ineffective. She uses her telepathy to gather clues from townspeople, but the killer's thoughts are shielded. Meanwhile, Eric Northman, the Sheriff of Area 5 vampires, arrives in Bon Temps, claiming to be there to protect Sookie from the growing supernatural violence. He assigns Bill Compton, Sookie's former boyfriend, to be her bodyguard, which creates tension. Eric's true reasons are complex, involving his feelings for Sookie and his interest in the stability of the local supernatural community, which the attacks threaten.
The Hotshot Community and Suspicions
Sookie visits Hotshot, the isolated, inbred community of were-panthers and other shapeshifters deep in the Louisiana woods. Jason is now expected to spend his full moons there. She meets the community's matriarch, Hadley, and her son, Felton Norris, who is very protective and suspicious. The Hotshot residents view outsiders with hostility, and Jason's new status makes him an easy target for blame for the sniper attacks. Sookie senses deep fear and resentment within the community, making her investigation difficult. She realizes the shooter must know the shapeshifters' routines and transformations to target them effectively.
More Attacks and a Near Miss
The sniper attacks continue, killing more shapeshifters. One victim is Calvin Norris, Sookie's cousin and a beloved member of the shapeshifter community. This loss deeply affects Sookie and increases her determination. During one of her investigations, Sookie herself is targeted. Her car is shot at, and she barely escapes serious injury or death. This incident makes it clear that the killer knows about her involvement and will eliminate anyone who gets too close. The danger increases, making Sookie's search even more perilous.
Sam Merlotte's Revelation and the Werewolf Pack
Sookie's boss and friend, Sam Merlotte, reveals he is a shapeshifter who can turn into any animal. This confession strengthens their bond and gives Sookie another ally in her investigation. She also meets Alcide Herveaux, a werewolf from the Shreveport pack, who is in Bon Temps for pack business. Alcide, a charming and honorable werewolf, offers Sookie help and provides insights into the wider supernatural world and its politics. The presence of the werewolf pack adds another layer of complexity to the local supernatural dynamics, as they also worry about the increasing violence against shifters.
The Were-Panther Politics and Jason's Plight
Jason continues to struggle with his new identity as a were-panther and the rigid, often hostile, social structure of Hotshot. He feels caught between his loyalty to Sookie and his new duties to the community. The Hotshot residents, especially Felton, continue to view him with suspicion, and he feels alone. Sookie observes the internal power struggles within Hotshot, realizing the killer might be someone from within, using the community's isolation. Jason's emotional state worsens under the constant pressure, making him more vulnerable and further motivating Sookie to find the real culprit.
Clues and a Suspect Emerges
Through her telepathy and careful observation, Sookie starts to put together pieces of information. She overhears conversations, notices inconsistencies, and uses her abilities to sense the killer's presence, though their thoughts remain shielded. She begins to suspect the killer is not a shapeshifter, but a human with a grudge against the supernatural community, or perhaps a personal vendetta against specific individuals. Her focus narrows to individuals who know the shapeshifters' schedules and weaknesses, and who might harbor deep resentment against them.
The Trap and the Confrontation
Sookie, with Sam's help, sets a trap to expose the killer. She uses her knowledge of the shapeshifters' routines to create a situation where the killer would likely strike again. The plan is risky, but Sookie is desperate to clear Jason's name and stop the killings. The trap works, and the sniper reveals himself to be Barry Horowitz, a seemingly ordinary human who worked for the local newspaper. He had a personal vendetta against the shapeshifters due to a past incident involving his family. A tense confrontation follows, where Sookie and her allies face the armed and dangerous killer.
The Killer's Motive and Resolution
During the confrontation, Barry Horowitz's twisted reasons are revealed. He says his family suffered because of shapeshifters in the past, leading to a deep hatred and a desire for revenge against the entire supernatural community. He had been carefully planning these attacks, using his knowledge of the town and its residents to target the shapeshifters during their vulnerable transformation periods. With the killer identified and caught, the sniper attacks on the shapeshifters stop, bringing relief, though with lingering trauma, to Bon Temps.
Aftermath and Lingering Issues
With Barry Horowitz defeated, the immediate threat to the shapeshifters is over. Jason is cleared of suspicion, but his integration into Hotshot and his new identity as a were-panther remain complex. Sookie's relationships are also changing. Her bond with Sam deepens, and her complicated feelings for Eric continue to grow, while her relationship with Bill remains strained. The sniper attacks leave a lasting impact on Sookie, making her more aware of the dangers of the supernatural world and the fragile peace between species. The book ends with Sookie thinking about the ongoing challenges and mysteries of her life.
Dead as a Doornail Characters
Sookie Stackhouse
Protagonist
A telepathic cocktail waitress navigating the dangerous supernatural world.
Sookie is a kind-hearted, fiercely loyal, and often naive young woman with the supernatural ability of telepathy. She works at Merlotte's Bar and Grill in Bon Temps, Louisiana. Her ability, while a burden, also makes her uniquely suited to solving mysteries involving the supernatural. She is often caught between different supernatural factions and her desire for a normal life. Her primary motivation is to protect her loved ones, particularly her brother Jason, and to find justice.
Relationships: Jason Stackhouse (Brother, fiercely protective of him); Sam Merlotte (Boss and close friend, mutual romantic interest); Eric Northman (Vampire Sheriff, powerful ally and complex romantic interest); Bill Compton (Ex-boyfriend, complicated and strained relationship); Alcide Herveaux (Werewolf ally and friend)
Jason Stackhouse
Supporting
Sookie's brother, recently turned were-panther and primary suspect in the attacks.
Jason is Sookie's older brother, known for his good looks, charm, and somewhat reckless nature. He initially struggles with commitment and responsibility. His transformation into a were-panther forces him to confront a new identity and integrate into the insular Hotshot community. He is initially a primary suspect in the sniper attacks, making him vulnerable and dependent on Sookie's help. He is loyal to his sister but sometimes makes questionable decisions.
Relationships: Sookie Stackhouse (Sister, relies on her protection and support); Felton Norris (Hotshot leader, initially suspicious and antagonistic); Crystal Norris (Love interest within Hotshot)
Eric Northman
Supporting
Powerful vampire sheriff with a complex interest in Sookie.
Eric is the charismatic and ancient vampire Sheriff of Area 5. He is incredibly powerful, strategic, and often manipulative, but also possesses a hidden depth of loyalty and affection for Sookie. He comes to Bon Temps ostensibly to protect Sookie and monitor the supernatural situation, but his true motives are layered with his growing romantic feelings for her and his political concerns about the stability of the supernatural world. He acts as a powerful, albeit sometimes unsettling, ally.
Relationships: Sookie Stackhouse (Romantic interest, powerful protector); Bill Compton (Subordinate, sometimes rival for Sookie's affections)
Sam Merlotte
Supporting
Sookie's boss and friend, a shapeshifter with a quiet strength.
Sam is the owner of Merlotte's Bar and Grill, Sookie's boss, and a close friend. He is a shapeshifter, capable of turning into various animals, a secret he keeps from most people. He is kind, reliable, and deeply cares for Sookie, often acting as her confidant and protector. He is a grounded and moral character, providing a sense of normalcy amidst the supernatural chaos. His quiet strength and loyalty are invaluable to Sookie.
Relationships: Sookie Stackhouse (Boss and close friend, mutual romantic interest); Terry Bellefleur (Employee and friend)
Bill Compton
Supporting
Sookie's ex-boyfriend and vampire 'bodyguard'.
Bill is a vampire and Sookie's former boyfriend. After their breakup, he is assigned by Eric to act as Sookie's bodyguard, creating an awkward and strained dynamic. He is often brooding and possessive, still harboring feelings for Sookie despite their separation. His presence serves as a constant reminder of Sookie's past and adds tension to her interactions with Eric. He is loyal to Eric as his Sheriff, but his personal feelings often conflict with his duties.
Relationships: Sookie Stackhouse (Ex-boyfriend, strained romantic tension); Eric Northman (Superior, often in competition for Sookie's attention)
Alcide Herveaux
Supporting
Honorable werewolf from Shreveport who aids Sookie.
Alcide is a tall, handsome, and honorable werewolf from the Shreveport pack. He is introduced as a new acquaintance who quickly becomes an ally to Sookie. He is respectful, protective, and provides Sookie with a different perspective on the supernatural world, particularly the complexities of pack dynamics. His presence offers a potential new romantic interest for Sookie, though their relationship remains platonic in this installment. He helps Sookie navigate the dangers of the shapeshifter community.
Relationships: Sookie Stackhouse (Friend and ally, potential romantic interest)
Felton Norris
Supporting
Leader of the Hotshot were-panther community, suspicious of outsiders.
Felton Norris is a prominent member and de facto leader of the insular Hotshot community of were-panthers. He is fiercely protective of his community and deeply suspicious of outsiders, especially Jason Stackhouse. He is a proud and traditional individual, often resorting to intimidation and aggression to maintain order and protect his family. His distrust of Jason is a major obstacle in Sookie's investigation, and he represents the clannish nature of some supernatural groups.
Relationships: Jason Stackhouse (Antagonistic due to suspicion); Hadley Norris (Mother, matriarch of the community)
Barry Horowitz
Antagonist
The human sniper targeting shapeshifters.
Barry Horowitz is the seemingly unassuming human who is revealed to be the serial sniper targeting the shapeshifter community. He works at the local newspaper, giving him access to information and a guise of normalcy. His true nature is that of a vengeful and methodical killer, driven by a deep-seated hatred for shapeshifters stemming from a past family tragedy. He is intelligent and cunning, able to evade detection for a significant period. He represents the human prejudice against the supernatural.
Relationships: Sookie Stackhouse (Victim/Investigator, primary opponent)
Dead as a Doornail Themes
Prejudice and Discrimination
The novel explores prejudice between humans and supernaturals, and within supernatural communities. The sniper attacks come from Barry Horowitz's human hatred for shapeshifters, stemming from a past wrong. This shows the fear of those who are different. Also, the isolated Hotshot community shows its own prejudice and suspicion towards outsiders like Jason, showing that discrimination isn't only human. This theme is central to the mystery, as Sookie navigates a world where being supernatural makes one a target.
“'People are afraid of what they don't understand, and they usually try to kill it.'”
Identity and Belonging
Jason's transformation into a were-panther forces him to face a new identity and find his place within the Hotshot community, a place he resists but must join. This struggle for belonging is made worse by the suspicion he faces. Sookie, already an outsider because of her telepathy, constantly deals with her own identity in a world that often fears or uses her. The novel explores how individuals find (or fail to find) their place within different social structures, whether human or supernatural, and the challenges of accepting who one really is.
“'He was a panther now, whether he liked it or not. It was part of him, an identity he couldn't shed.'”
Family and Loyalty
Sookie's strong loyalty to her brother Jason drives her investigation. Despite Jason's flaws and the danger involved, Sookie is determined to clear his name and protect him from both the sniper and the suspicious Hotshot community. This theme extends to the complex family dynamics within Hotshot, where strong loyalty to family can also create isolation and distrust of outsiders. The novel shows the strength of family bonds, even when tested by unusual circumstances and supernatural changes.
“'He was my brother, and no matter what kind of trouble he got into, I would always try to help him.'”
The Nature of Good and Evil
The book explores the unclear lines between good and evil, showing that neither humans nor supernaturals are all one way. While the main enemy is a human driven by hatred, there are also morally complex supernatural characters. Even within the Hotshot community, there are different levels of kindness and cruelty. Sookie often questions whom to trust and realizes that appearances can be deceiving, forcing her to rely on her own moral compass and telepathy to understand true intentions. It challenges the reader to look beyond species to judge character.
“'You can't judge a book by its cover, or a person by their species.'”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
Telepathy
Sookie's ability to read minds, serving as a key investigative tool and source of conflict.
Sookie's telepathy is her primary supernatural ability. It functions as a vital plot device, allowing her to gather clues, understand hidden motives, and uncover secrets that would otherwise be inaccessible. However, it also creates conflict, as it can be overwhelming, painful, and makes her an outsider. The killer's ability to shield their thoughts from her telepathy creates a significant challenge, forcing Sookie to rely on traditional detective work and the help of others, adding to the mystery's complexity.
Full Moon Transformation
The cyclical, involuntary change of shapeshifters, central to the sniper's targeting strategy.
The full moon transformation is a crucial plot device that dictates the timing and vulnerability of the shapeshifters. It is during these periods of involuntary change that the sniper targets his victims, as they are less able to defend themselves. This natural cycle creates a ticking clock for Sookie's investigation and highlights the unique challenges faced by shapeshifters. Jason's first transformation introduces him to this reality, making him a prime target and forcing him to confront his new nature within the Hotshot community.
The Isolated Community of Hotshot
A secluded, inbred shapeshifter community that creates suspicion and internal conflict.
Hotshot is an isolated, inbred community of were-panthers and other shifters that serves as a significant plot device. Its insularity and distrust of outsiders, combined with its internal power struggles, create a perfect environment for suspicion and misdirection regarding the sniper attacks. The community's resistance to outside interference both hinders Sookie's investigation and provides a ready-made scapegoat in Jason, complicating the search for the true killer and highlighting themes of prejudice and belonging.
Dead as a Doornail Quotes
“I was a waitress, which meant I was a professional observer of human nature.”
“Living with vampires, you learn to appreciate daylight in a whole new way.”
“Sometimes the things you think are protecting you are actually the things that are putting you in the most danger.”
“Being telepathic isn't always a blessing. Sometimes it's a curse.”
“Eric was like a force of nature, beautiful and terrifying all at once.”
“In Bon Temps, normal was just a setting on the dryer.”
“Love, I was beginning to realize, was a lot more complicated than I ever thought it would be, especially when you threw in fangs and fur.”
“You can't trust anyone completely, not even yourself sometimes.”
“The more secrets you keep, the heavier they get.”
“There are some things you just don't come back from, no matter how strong you are.”
“Sometimes, being human was the hardest part of all.”
“I was learning that the world was a much stranger, and more dangerous, place than I had ever imagined.”
“It's hard to be a good neighbor when your neighbors are trying to kill you.”
“There's a fine line between bravery and stupidity, and I seemed to walk it pretty often.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What supernatural creature does Sookie's brother, Jason, turn into for the first time in 'Dead as a Doornail'?
- Werewolf
- Vampire
- Were-panther
- Faerie
Show answer
C. Were-panther The book explicitly states that Jason's eyes start to change, indicating he's about to turn into a were-panther for the first time.
Question 2
What is the primary threat facing the local changeling population in 'Dead as a Doornail'?
- A mysterious illness
- A sniper targeting them
- Internal power struggles
- A shortage of blood donors
Show answer
B. A sniper targeting them The plot description clearly states that 'a sniper sets his deadly sights on the local changeling population'.
Question 3
Who do Jason's new panther brethren initially suspect is the sniper targeting the changelings?
- Sookie Stackhouse
- Sam Merlotte
- Jason Stackhouse
- Eric Northman
Show answer
C. Jason Stackhouse The book description states that 'Jason's new panther brethren suspect he may be the shooter' due to his recent transformation.
Question 4
What is Sookie's deadline to find the killer before a specific celestial event occurs?
- The next new moon
- The next solar eclipse
- The next full moon
- The next equinox
Show answer
C. The next full moon The summary states, 'Sookie has until the next full moon to find out who’s behind the attacks'.
Question 5
What is Sookie Stackhouse's profession in the small town of Bon Temps?
- Librarian
- Sheriff
- Cocktail waitress
- Teacher
Show answer
C. Cocktail waitress The book description identifies Sookie as a 'small-town cocktail waitress'.
Question 6
How does Jason Stackhouse react to his first transformation into a were-panther?
- With fear and denial
- He embraces it more readily than most shapeshifters
- He tries to hide it from everyone
- He immediately seeks a cure
Show answer
B. He embraces it more readily than most shapeshifters The summary mentions Jason's transformation is 'a transformation he embraces more readily than most shapeshifters she knows'.
Question 7
What type of supernatural being is Sookie Stackhouse herself, which gives her unique abilities helpful in mysteries?
- Vampire
- Werewolf
- Telepath
- Witch
Show answer
C. Telepath While not explicitly stated in this specific summary, Sookie's core supernatural ability throughout the series, and vital to her solving mysteries, is her telepathy.
Question 8
The central conflict in 'Dead as a Doornail' revolves around a series of attacks on which specific group of supernatural beings?
- Vampires
- Faeries
- Changelings
- Witches
Show answer
C. Changelings The summary clearly states, 'a sniper sets his deadly sights on the local changeling population'. Changelings are shapeshifters like were-panthers.
Question 9
What emotional shift does Sookie experience regarding the attacks after her initial concern for Jason?
- From concern to indifference
- From concern to relief
- From concern to cold fear
- From concern to anger
Show answer
C. From concern to cold fear The text states, 'But her concern becomes cold fear when a sniper sets his deadly sights on the local changeling population'.
Question 10
What is the implied consequence if Sookie fails to find the killer by the deadline?
- Jason will be exiled from his pack.
- The attacks will cease naturally.
- The killer might target her next.
- She will be forced to leave town.
Show answer
C. The killer might target her next. The summary concludes with 'unless the killer decides to find her first…', implying she becomes a target if she doesn't solve the mystery.
Dead as a Doornail FAQ
What is the central mystery Sookie Stackhouse must solve in 'Dead as a Doornail'?
Sookie must uncover the identity of a sniper targeting shapeshifters, specifically the changelings in her local community. Her urgency is heightened because her brother, Jason, has recently turned into a were-panther and is among the suspected shooters, putting him in danger from both the true killer and the changeling community.
How does Jason Stackhouse's new identity as a were-panther impact the plot?
Jason's transformation into a were-panther places him directly into the line of fire, both literally from the sniper and figuratively from suspicion. His newfound connection to the shapeshifter community, particularly the Hotshot panthers, makes him a prime suspect for the attacks and forces Sookie to delve deeper into their world to clear his name.
Who are the primary shapeshifter groups involved in the sniper attacks?
The main shapeshifter groups are the Hotshot were-panthers, led by Calvin Norris, and the various changelings who are the sniper's targets. The were-panthers are particularly significant because Jason has just joined their ranks, and their internal dynamics play a crucial role in the unfolding mystery and Sookie's investigation.
What is the significance of the 'full moon' deadline mentioned in the synopsis?
The full moon serves as a critical deadline because it is when shapeshifters, like Jason, are most vulnerable and their powers are at their peak. It also marks a potential turning point for the investigation or for the killer to make another move, adding intense pressure on Sookie to solve the case before more lives are lost or Jason is further implicated.
What role does Quinn, the weretiger, play in this installment?
Quinn acts as a potential love interest and an ally for Sookie, providing support and protection as she navigates the dangerous shapeshifter world. His unique abilities and connections within the supernatural community prove valuable, though his intentions and past remain somewhat mysterious, adding a layer of romantic intrigue to the mystery.
How does Eric Northman's involvement evolve in this book?
Eric's relationship with Sookie deepens, but it also becomes more complicated due to his connection to the shapeshifter community and his protective instincts. He provides crucial information and assistance, but his own political maneuvering within the vampire hierarchy and his developing feelings for Sookie add tension and complexity to their dynamic.
What previously established character is revealed to be the sniper?
The sniper is revealed to be Debbie Pelt, Alcide Herveaux's ex-fiancée, who has been consumed by jealousy and a desire for revenge against Sookie. This revelation ties into earlier conflicts and highlights the dangerous consequences of unchecked emotional instability within the supernatural community.
What is the significance of the Hotshot community in this book beyond Jason's transformation?
Hotshot is crucial as the primary setting for the were-panther community, revealing their unique culture, internal conflicts, and power struggles. It exposes Sookie to a new facet of the supernatural world and highlights the prejudices and dangers faced by smaller, more isolated shapeshifter groups, making it a central hub for the mystery.
Are there any subtle clues about the sniper's identity before the big reveal?
Yes, subtle clues include Debbie Pelt's past erratic behavior, her persistent animosity towards Sookie, and her access to weapons and knowledge of the shapeshifter community. Her motive, primarily jealousy and a desire to hurt Sookie by harming those around her, is also foreshadowed by her previous actions and threats.
How does Sookie's telepathy affect her investigation in this book?
Sookie's telepathy is both a blessing and a curse; it allows her to glean crucial information from suspects' thoughts but also makes her vulnerable to emotional distress and manipulation. It particularly helps her discern lies and hidden motives, though she must be careful not to reveal her ability too openly to avoid suspicion or danger.
Discuss Jason Stackhouse's psychological journey in embracing his were-panther nature.
Jason initially embraces his were-panther nature with a sense of excitement and newfound belonging, which contrasts with the fear and reluctance often shown by other shapeshifters. This eagerness stems from his desire for purpose and connection, but it also makes him somewhat naive to the dangers and responsibilities that come with his new identity, leading to his implication in the sniper attacks.
How does the repeated experience of danger and violence impact Sookie's emotional state?
Sookie's repeated exposure to violence and betrayal hardens her, making her more resilient but also more wary and isolated. While she maintains her core empathy, she develops a tougher exterior and a more pragmatic approach to protecting herself and her loved ones, often at significant personal cost, which is evident in her willingness to take extreme measures.
Analyze the psychological motivations behind Debbie Pelt's actions as the sniper.
Debbie Pelt's actions are driven by intense jealousy, a profound sense of abandonment by Alcide, and an obsessive hatred for Sookie, whom she blames for her misfortunes. Her psychological state is one of unchecked rage and a desire for retribution, leading her to commit heinous acts to inflict pain on Sookie and those she cares about, demonstrating a severe personality disorder.
How does the book explore themes of prejudice and acceptance within the supernatural community?
The book vividly explores prejudice through the targeting of changelings and the suspicion cast upon the Hotshot panthers, highlighting how difference can breed fear and violence. It also examines acceptance through Sookie's unwavering support for her brother and her attempts to bridge gaps between different supernatural factions, emphasizing the struggle for coexistence.
What is the moral ambiguity surrounding Sookie's actions at the climax of the book?
Sookie's actions, particularly her direct involvement in stopping Debbie Pelt, raise questions of moral ambiguity. While she acts to protect herself and others, her methods are often extralegal and violent, pushing the boundaries of what is considered justifiable. This reflects the 'kill or be killed' reality of her world and the difficult choices she faces.
Does 'Dead as a Doornail' suggest a clear 'good vs. evil' dynamic, or is it more nuanced?
'Dead as a Doornail' presents a nuanced view rather than a clear 'good vs. evil' dynamic. While Debbie Pelt is undeniably malicious, other characters operate in shades of grey, driven by self-preservation, fear, or flawed moral compasses. The book explores how circumstances and personal histories can lead characters to make morally questionable choices, even those Sookie considers allies.
How does the book comment on the nature of family and loyalty in a supernatural context?
The book strongly emphasizes the unbreakable bond of family, particularly between Sookie and Jason, as Sookie goes to extreme lengths to protect him. It also explores loyalty within supernatural groups, like the Hotshot panthers, showing how these ties can be both a source of strength and a potential blind spot, influencing characters' decisions and alliances.
What is the ultimate resolution of the romantic tension between Sookie, Eric, and Quinn in this installment?
The romantic tension remains unresolved, with Sookie navigating her growing feelings for both Eric and Quinn. While she shares moments of intimacy and connection with both, no definitive romantic choice is made by the end of the book, leaving her relationships in a complex, evolving state and setting the stage for future developments.
About the author
Charlaine Harris is a New York Times bestselling author known for her Southern Vampire Mysteries series, which inspired the HBO television drama True Blood. Her novels, including "Deadlocked," "Dead to the World," and "Club Dead," blend elements of mystery, supernatural fantasy, and romance. Harris has also penned the Aurora Teagarden mysteries and the Midnight, Texas series.
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