"Skinners" is a series of books with a unique take on the vampire/werewolf mythos, and the humans who fight them.
The Skinner is a human who is part of a larger group that tracks, observes, and kills vampires and werewolves. Using ancient techniques and semi-mystical weapons passed down from skinner to skinner for hundreds of years they are truly a force to be reckoned with. Loosely organized and limited in numbers Skinners are committed to their purpose, of keeping the normal people safe from what lurks in the darkness.
The Vampires or Nymar as they are called, are pretty true to classical stereotype, except that the "vampire" part of a nymar is actually a parasitic host that attached itself to it's host's heart. This results in a a dramatic physical changes externally and internally. Marked and identified by what looks like black tattoos these marking are actually tendrils from the parasite that get darker and more pronounced as the Nymar get older (and stronger). Often grouped together but internally fractured the Nymar try to take over institutions such as brothels and other underground type "establishments". Always at odds with the Skinners, the Nymar want nothing more than to kill them all. However, disorganization keeps them in check, and maintaining a healthy dose of respect and fear for the Skinners.
Werewolves and shape shifters are also prevalent in this series. Werewolves or "Full Bloods" are the absolute top of the food chain. Unimaginably fast, super strong, near invulnerable, and mean as hell, these guys are generally loners, and for good reason. When a Full blood attacks a human that human either dies or is turned into a "Half Breed". The later is done on purpose to create a pack. Half Breeds are gnarled looking beasts that posses both speed and strength, but limited intelligence. Where as Full Bloods can be highly intelligent. Full Bloods hate everything and everyone..Nymar, humans, shape shifters, half breeds, even other full bloods....EVERYONE!
Shape Shifters on the other had a small cousins of a Full Blood. They can be a feline, snake, ground dwelling creatures that can burrow. Unlike a full blood, which can change size and shape significantly, shape shifters are the approximate same size as the human form.
As a series Skinners is a very good read, part horror part action adventure. The characters are created very well, and you feel like you can connect with them. Nymar, Full Blood, and Human alike. What I really liked about these books is Marcus' constant push forward. He doesn't dwell on the minuscule details, that often bog down a good story. The time and action flows very nicely and you can't stop reading. There are a total of 6 books (5 published so far) in this series. Each book ends in such a way that it's hard to wait for the next one.
Another thing I like about Marcus' style is how he ends his chapters with a witty remark. It's this sarcasm that is very appealing in books like this.
These books are all about change and uncovering new information a mysteries. As time goes on and new adventure are had, all of the characters evolve for better or worse. One of my favorite scenes is in the first book where Cole is running from an unknown creature in the Alaskan wilderness. The imagery written is very "Stephen King" and scary intense.
To learn more about these books and Marcus Pelegrimas visit his website:
http://www.marcuspelegrimas.com/
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