Description (from the publisher): Druid Atticus O'Sullivan hasn't stayed alive for more than two millennia without a fair bit of Celtic cunning. So when vengeful thunder gods come Norse by Southwest looking for payback, Atticus, with a little help from the Navajo trickster god Coyote, lets them think that they've chopped up his body in the Arizona desert. But the mischievous Coyote is not above a little sleight of paw, and Atticus soon finds that he's been duped into battling bloodthirsty desert shapeshifters called skinwalkers. Just when the Druid thinks he's got a handle on all the duplicity, betrayal comes from an unlikely source. If Atticus survives this time, he vows he won't be fooled again. Famous last words. Review: Now that Atticus and company have complete one plot arc, we are now poised for the next one. We switch our focus from Norse mythology to Native Amerian mythology in Tricked, where Coyote as you might have guessed plays a very large plot of the book. I know some readers complain that Hearne veers off from his plot and does a crash course in mythology, but as someone who loves mythology I don't mind it a bit.
Tricked is filled with a series of consequences after the major turning events that transpired in Hammered. The book is not as heavy on the gods or action, but strengthens the relationship between teacher, lovable dog/sidekick, and Druid apprentice. The humor as always is top notch and one of the best things that I love about this series.
As the series progresses, we gain insight as to what it must feel like to live several millenias like Atticus. His vulnerability shows which is not to say makes him weak, but reminds us that his life isn't all fun and games. He too has suffered loss and is hesitant to move forward especially with building relationships to anyone in fear that he would lose them. I thought it was interesting that Atticus didn't always save the day, but his trainee and Oberon, his adorable dog, also pitch in and even help save Atticus's life.
In an interview, which took place at the "Kiss Me, I'm Irish" read-along, Hearne mentioned that there is a start of a love interest for Atticus. There is a glimpse of this new budding relationship, but it is very subdued. I'm guessing as these characters grow, there may be more development in this aspect of the story. So readers looking for a full blown romance will be disappointed. As a fan of Atticus, I'm happy to know that the potential of romance is there. Overall, Tricked is a solid continuation of Iron Druid Chronicles and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Trapped, very soon.
Rating: 4 stars
Words of Caution: Strong violence, some disturbing scenes, and language. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.
If you like this book try: Trapped (Iron Druid Chronicles #5) by Kevin Hearne, The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher, Cal Leandros series by Rob Thurman, Child of Fire by Harry Connollly
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