The Hob's Bargain is a standalone fantasy novel by Patricia Briggs that tells the story of Aren, a magical person living in a land where magic has been suppressed by blood mages. After a tragic event leaves Aren alone and facing danger, she makes a bargain with a creature named the Hob to protect her village using magic. As the land is plagued by raiders, outlaws, and the return of magical creatures, Aren must navigate a world where magic is both feared and necessary for survival. The book explores themes of magic, sacrifice, survival, and the balance between good and evil in a world filled with mythical beings.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Aren showcased as strong and relatable, while the Hob adds a whimsical and endearing element.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and clean, blending humor with emotional depth to create a light and enjoyable reading experience.

Plot/Storyline:

The story follows Aren, a woman with magical abilities, as she confronts danger after her village is attacked. To protect her home, she makes a bargain with the Hob, a magical creature, as wild magic returns to the land.

Setting:

The setting is a vividly described rural fantasy world that combines elements of magic and danger.

Pacing:

The pacing is fast and engaging, but there are moments where it feels rushed, particularly concerning character development.

Changes are frightening, I thought, even when they're changes for the better. From the doorway my cottage I looked across the yard and garden to the barn where my husband was harnessing our chestnut w...

Notes:

The main character, Aren, has a gift that allows her to see future events and find lost things.

Magic is heavily suppressed in this world, controlled by evil necromancers who kill those with magical gifts.

Aren's brother chose to die rather than serve the necromancers, which adds to her struggles with her own magic.

The story takes place in a rural setting, focusing on the struggles of a farming village.

When magic is released back into the world, it brings both opportunities and chaos, including the return of dangerous wildlings.

Aren strikes a bargain with a benevolent creature called the Hob, who helps her protect her village in exchange for a personal cost.

The book has elements of both fantasy and light romance, with a sweet relationship developing between Aren and the Hob.

The characters are well-developed, with their own histories and personalities, including Aren's horse, Duck, who is also given character depth.

The book is described as a standalone, not part of a series, but readers expressed a desire for sequels to further explore the world and characters.

The narrative includes themes of courage, love, sacrifice, and the struggle against oppression.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include violence, loss of family, and themes of grief which may affect sensitive readers.

Has Romance?

While the romance is not the central focus, it plays a significant role, developing gradually throughout the narrative.

From The Publisher:

Beauty and The Beast

Ratings (8)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (4)
Liked It (2)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (11):

Read It (8)
Want To Read (2)
Not Interested (1)

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About the Author:

Patricia Briggs is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Mercy Thompson urban fantasy series and the Alpha and Omega novels.

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The Hob's Bargain

Patricia Briggs