Hall of Blood and Mercy: The Complete Trilogy

Three books, but I read them without stopping. I do like Magiford - the author has a real way with description, and solid characters. A weak wizard who has had to fight her entire life is suddenly thrust into the biggest fight ever, for her home and family - and she's losing, has to run and beg shelter elsewhere. Other wizards won't help (it's never really clear why - were his plans that widespread?), werewolves don't want to get involved, nor do vampires... Except the strongest one, who takes her for amusement. And plots, because he's always plotting. She starts as a servant, and is elevated when she risks her life to save others - which is very much in character, for her and for the vampire. First book is mostly that, and training her show more up to be useful. Second book (I think - I may have these out of order) she begins to move against the usurper who is trying to take her House (it's mostly legal barriers holding him back, at this point), and, through the vampire, meets various high-level people in the supernatural communities. Also learns her power has been sealed and she's a lot more powerful than she's known. And their (complex) relationship starts modifying. Third book he throws her out, for her own good; she turns it to her advantage, and eventually (skipping lots of spoilers) they become allies again, and move their relationship to a higher level. This is partly in order to deal with an enemy, and partly because they want to (finally admit to each other. Sort of. Trust is an issue throughout). This trilogy ends there, with the immediate threat dealt with; I've read one later book so I know some of what's still going on. Next, please! show less