Book Review: Smoke Rising: The Supernatural Bounty Hunter Files (Book 1 of 10)

I have a fondness for urban fantasy series that combine humor, suspense, and the supernatural in a thrilling package. When I stumbled upon Smoke Rising: The Supernatural Bounty Hunter Files by Craig Halloran, I felt an instant pull. The premise—an ex-con turned bounty hunter teaming up with a no-nonsense FBI agent to tackle supernatural threats—seemed not only intriguing but rich with potential for character development and witty banter. Spoiler alert: I was not disappointed.

At the heart of this novel are two dynamic characters: John Smoke, a street-smart bounty hunter with a violent past, and Sidney Shaw, a meticulous FBI sharpshooter. Right from their first encounter, there’s palpable tension that veers between antagonistic and undeniably electric. Their contrasting personalities create a fascinating dynamic, with Smoke’s brash recklessness colliding beautifully with Shaw’s precise, rule-abiding nature.

The plot kicks off with a spine-chilling mystery—a corpse found under a full moon, leading them into a dark labyrinth of supernatural creatures and ancient terror. The moment that transformation occurs, I felt the adrenaline rush, as Halloran artfully weaves suspense and the macabre into the narrative. The pacing kept me on my toes; each twist became more enthralling, punctuated by moments of humor that provided welcome relief amidst the tension.

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One of the aspects that I particularly appreciated was Halloran’s writing style. It flows smoothly, making the world he’s created feel both gritty and enchanting. I found myself engrossed, laughing aloud at Smoke’s irreverent quips and admiring Shaw’s fierce determination. One reviewer amusingly remarked, "Think Mulder and Scully, but with more personality and better action," and I must agree. The interplay between them is filled with potential for future development, and I can only imagine the layers that will unfold in upcoming installments.

Of course, there are hints at larger plots and darker forces lurking in the shadows of Washington, D.C., that left my curiosity piqued. How deep does this supernatural underbelly go? What secrets are Shaw and Smoke yet to uncover? Halloran masterfully sets the stage for an expansive series—ten books eagerly awaiting exploration.

As I reached the last page, I felt a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. The foundation has been laid, and I’m excited to follow these characters on their journey. This book is an excellent pick for fans of Jim Butcher’s The Dresden Files or anyone who revels in urban fantasy filled with humor, action, and a dash of romance.

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In closing, Smoke Rising captivated me with its engaging characters and riveting plot. If you enjoy supernatural thrillers that don’t shy away from humor and a touch of romance, grab this book—it’s free to start, and who wouldn’t want to dive into such a thrilling trip with John Smoke and Sidney Shaw? I can’t wait to see where Halloran takes us next!

You can find Smoke Rising: The Supernatural Bounty Hunter Files (Book 1 of 10): An Urban Fantasy Shifter Series (The Supernatural Bounty Hunter Series) here >>

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