Reviewers consistently praise "Hounded" for its humor. From Oberon's one-liners to Atticus's sarcastic observations about modern life, the book never takes itself too seriously. One reviewer described it as "tastefully witty and lighthearted" and noted that they "actually chuckled aloud at points". Another reader said the book "made me laugh out loud in sheer delight more than once".
Download the file, pour a pint of Irish whiskey, scratch your dog behind the ears, and prepare for the most epic chase in urban fantasy history.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its eclectic cast of supernatural allies and enemies. Review: Hounded - by Kevin Hearne on Hooked By That Book Reviewers consistently praise "Hounded" for its humor
Before diving into the story, it is worth understanding the creative force behind it. Kevin Hearne is an American author known for his deep passion for world religions and mythology. Before his writing career took off, he worked as a high school teacher. His debut novel, "Hounded," came from an unlikely source: an episode of what he calls "Defiant Drunk Nerd Syndrome," where he decided to prove a point to fellow fantasy enthusiasts by writing something far outside the conventional norms of the genre.
Hounded by Kevin Hearne is the 2011 debut urban fantasy novel introducing Atticus O’Sullivan, a 2,100-year-old Druid living in modern Arizona who must evade an ancient Celtic god seeking a stolen sword. The novel kicks off The Iron Druid Chronicles with a mix of fast-paced action, pop culture humor, and Celtic mythology, centering on Atticus and his telepathic Irish Wolfhound, Oberon. For more details on the series and its themes, you can explore the official guide. Share public link Another reader said the book "made me laugh
"Hounded" operates firmly within the urban fantasy genre. Magic, gods, vampires, werewolves, and witches exist, but they remain hidden from ordinary humans. This "secret history" approach allows Hearne to blend the mundane (running a bookshop, dealing with customers) with the extraordinary (battling a Celtic god at a retirement community).
by Kevin Hearne is a refreshing, fast-paced urban fantasy that skillfully blends ancient Celtic mythology with modern wit, featuring a 2,100-year-old Druid hiding in Arizona. The story shines through its creative, nature-based magic system and the humor provided by Atticus’s telepathic Irish Wolfhound, Oberon, making it a compelling, action-packed series opener. For readers interested in witty, mythological urban fantasy in the vein of The Dresden Files , this book is highly recommended. Review: Hounded - by Kevin Hearne on Hooked
Atticus soon found himself entangled in a web of mythological intrigue, teaming up with an eccentric assortment of allies, including a shapeshifting hound named Oberon's ghost, and a witch named Sarah. Together, they navigated a treacherous landscape of gods, monsters, and legendary creatures.
Hounded hits the ground running. There is no "training montage" or discovery of powers. Atticus is a master from page one, which is a refreshing take for veterans of the genre.