Patricia Briggs’ Mercedes Thompson series has captivated readers with its thrilling blend of urban fantasy, werewolves, vampires, and fae. While the main novels are the core of the series, the expanded universe is richly explored through a collection of captivating short stories and anthology appearances. For fans eager to delve deeper into the Mercyverse, these “Mercedes Thompson Series Books” in short fiction format are essential reads.
This guide will walk you through the various short stories penned by Patricia Briggs, offering glimpses into beloved characters and expanding the intricate world of Mercy Thompson. These stories, often found in anthologies, provide unique perspectives and backstories that enrich the overall series experience.
Short Story Collections and Anthology Appearances in the Mercy Thompson Universe
Patricia Briggs has generously shared pieces of the Mercyverse through short stories published in various anthologies. These stories are not just side notes; they are integral parts of the Mercedes Thompson world, offering insights into characters’ pasts, motivations, and the broader supernatural landscape.
Adventures of Sword and Sorcery, #6: “Wishing Well”
Patricia Briggs’ journey into short fiction began with “Wishing Well,” her very first short story sale. This early work, while not directly tied to the Mercedes Thompson series as we know it today, showcases her burgeoning talent for fantasy storytelling. It’s a fascinating piece for fans interested in tracing the evolution of her writing.
Silver Birch, Blood Moon (1999): “The Price”
In the anthology Silver Birch, Blood Moon, edited by Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling, Briggs presents “The Price.” This story is a clever urban fantasy retelling of the classic fairy tale Rumplestiltskin. While not explicitly set in the Mercyverse, it reflects Briggs’ skill in weaving familiar folklore into fresh, modern narratives, a style that resonates throughout her Mercedes Thompson series books.
Wolfsbane and Mistletoe (2008): “Star of David”
Wolfsbane and Mistletoe, a Christmas-themed urban fantasy anthology edited by Charlaine Harris, features “Star of David.” This heartwarming story centers on David Christiansen, a character briefly mentioned in Moon Called, the first novel in the Mercedes Thompson series. “Star of David” beautifully illustrates how even amidst the supernatural world of murder and deception, family bonds can strengthen during the holiday season. This story was later reprinted in the Shifting Shadows anthology.
Strange Brew (2009): “Seeing Eye”
The anthology Strange Brew, edited by P. N. Elrod, is a collection of witch-themed stories featuring contributions from some of fantasy’s most acclaimed authors. Briggs’ contribution, “Seeing Eye,” cleverly blends werewolves, witches, romance, and revenge into a compelling narrative. This story, also reprinted in Shifting Shadows, showcases Briggs’ signature ability to mix genres and create engaging, character-driven plots.
Homecoming Graphic Novel (2009): Homecoming
Homecoming represents a unique entry in the Mercedes Thompson series books. Dabel Brothers Comics adapted the early novels into a graphic novel format, bringing Mercy’s world to life visually. This graphic novel covers the first four episodes of the adaptation and offers a different way to experience the beginning of Mercy’s journey. While Patricia Briggs humorously admits the graphic novel world is “a bit of a mystery” to her, she appreciates the “pretty pictures” that visually interpret her beloved characters.
Naked City (2011): “Fairy Gifts”
Edited by Ellen Datlow, the Naked City anthology includes “Fairy Gifts,” a story that delves into the redemption arc of a vampire in the unusual setting of mines beneath Butte, Montana. This story, later found in Shifting Shadows, explores themes of atonement and finding humanity even in the darkest of creatures, a common thread in Briggs’ work.
Home Improvement: Undead Edition (2011): “Gray”
In Home Improvement: Undead Edition, edited by Charlaine Harris & Toni L.P. Kelner, readers encounter “Gray.” This poignant story follows a vampire returning to her former home and discovering more than just memories. “Gray,” reprinted in Shifting Shadows, touches upon themes of loss, change, and the enduring power of the past, adding emotional depth to the vampire lore within the Mercyverse.
Down These Strange Streets (2014): “In Red, with Pearls”
The urban fantasy anthology Down These Strange Streets, edited by George R.R. Martin and Gardner Dozois, features “In Red, with Pearls.” This story throws Warren into a chaotic situation with troublesome neighbors, humorously highlighting the perils of antagonizing a werewolf. Reprinted in Shifting Shadows, this short story injects humor and action into the Mercedes Thompson series books’ extended universe.
Shifting Shadows (2014): A Mercedes Thompson Collection
Shifting Shadows is a crucial addition to any Mercedes Thompson series books collection. This anthology is a dedicated compilation of short stories set within the Mercyverse. It includes reprints of previously published stories like “Star of David,” “Seeing Eye,” “Fairy Gifts,” “Gray,” and “In Red, with Pearls,” as well as several new and exclusive stories, making it a treasure trove for fans.
Shifting Shadows (2014): “Silver”
Also within Shifting Shadows, “Silver” stands out as a notably poignant story. Patricia Briggs describes it as “probably the only depressing story I’ve ever written,” emphasizing the emotional weight it carries. “Silver” delves into the tragic origins of Bran and Samuel’s werewolf transformations and the heartbreaking beginning of Samuel’s love for Ariana. This story provides crucial backstory and emotional depth to key relationships within the Mercedes Thompson novels.
Shifting Shadows (2014): “Roses in Winter”
Another gem in Shifting Shadows is “Roses in Winter.” This story follows a young girl who survives a werewolf attack but is transformed into one herself. It explores themes of control, acceptance, and the strict laws governing werewolves in Bran’s pack. Asil’s intervention in the girl’s fate adds a layer of compassion and hope to this compelling narrative.
Shifting Shadows (2014): “Redemption”
“Redemption,” found in Shifting Shadows, offers a lighter, character-focused story. It centers on Ben and his struggle to curb his temper and swearing for a week due to a bet. This seemingly simple premise allows for humorous character exploration and demonstrates how small changes can have significant personal impacts within the supernatural world.
Shifting Shadows (2014): “Hollow”
Rounding out the Shifting Shadows collection is “Hollow.” In this story, Mercy is called upon to help a wealthy recluse haunted by a ghost. “Hollow” blends mystery and the supernatural, showcasing Mercy’s problem-solving skills and her ability to navigate the often-dangerous world she inhabits.
A Fantastic Holiday Season (2014): “Unappreciated Gifts”
The Christmas anthology A Fantastic Holiday Season features “Unappreciated Gifts.” This lighthearted story involves the pack members challenging Asil to engage in blind dates, believing he needs to socialize more. This comedic premise offers a fun glimpse into pack dynamics and Asil’s character, providing a festive and humorous addition to the Mercedes Thompson series books.
Fantastic Hope (2020): “Asil and the Not-Date”
In the sci-fi and fantasy anthology Fantastic Hope, Patricia Briggs contributes “Asil and the Not-Date.” This story continues Asil’s romantic misadventures, hinting at potential connections but with the usual supernatural twists and turns that define the Mercyverse.
Heroic Hearts (2022): “Dating Terrors”
Heroic Hearts, an urban fantasy anthology celebrating heroes, includes “Dating Terrors.” This story further explores Asil’s dating life, this time with an online date who is entangled in dark magic. “Dating Terrors” blends romance with supernatural danger, a hallmark of the Mercedes Thompson series books, and showcases Asil’s unexpected heroism.
Instinct (2023): “A Memory of Witches”
Most recently, Patricia Briggs contributed “A Memory of Witches” to the animal rescuers anthology Instinct. This story shifts focus to Sherwood Post and his kitten Pirate, adding a heartwarming tale of animal companionship and witchcraft to the Mercyverse.
Exploring the Mercedes Thompson Series Books Beyond the Novels
These short stories and anthology appearances are more than just supplementary material; they are essential for fully appreciating the depth and breadth of the Mercedes Thompson series books. They offer unique perspectives, character insights, and expand the world in meaningful ways. For dedicated fans and newcomers alike, exploring these “Mercedes Thompson series books” in short fiction format is a rewarding journey into the heart of the Mercyverse.
