THE COMPLETE SOOKIE STACKHOUSE STORIES features previously published novellas, albeit compiled for the first time in one book. Before each story, the author says in a few words what the story is about, and gives indications as to where it falls in the series and adds other tidbits of interest. A few stories could stand alone or could introduce new readers to the world of Sookie Stackhouse, while others are quite informative even for long-time fans. It had been a while since I had read anything from this brilliant series, and while I fondly remembered Ms. Harris's wicked sense of humor and biting wit, I had almost forgotten what a gifted writer she is. I will not review every story, but rather mention which ones appealed to me the most and why.

DRACULA NIGHT This is my absolute favorite of the lot, and while it is short, it packs a punch. Sookie has received an invitation to the annual celebration of Dracula's birthday from vampire Eric Northman, which will be held at Fangtasia, Eric's nightclub. This is Eric as you've never seen him before, as you never even thought you would see him, and it is hysterical. Absolutely terrific!

ONE WORD ANSWER This novella features glimpses of one of my favorite minor characters, Bubba, who never fails to make me laugh. For the neophyte, when Bubba was made a vampire, something went wrong; he was the biggest 1950s rock and roll star, in fact, he was royalty; you know, the singer with the snarl. This is a riveting story, but the most fascinating bit here is that it is a self-admitted "oops" moment from Charlaine Harris; what could be better! And where's Waldo?

LUCKY Sookie and witch Amelia Broadway investigate some oddities going on with insurance agents, and it has seriously great magic stuff.

GIFT WRAP It's Christmas Eve and Sookie is alone and lonely; this is a lovely and short Christmas story. And I did say this in twenty words or less (wink, read it, and you'll laugh as well!).

TWO BLONDES This is Ms. Harris' personal favorite. Sookie and Pam, Eric's second in command, go on a trip to visit casinos and run a little errand for Eric. A simple little errand, yeah, right.

SMALL-TOWN WEDDING Sookie goes to the wedding of her friend Sam's brother, posing as Sam's girlfriend. Sam Merlotte is Sookie's boss and a real friend; I have always loved this character. We get to know much more about Sam and his family, as well as Sookie's abilities. This novella is by far the longest, and it is excellent, it really adds to the mythology of the series. It is a story about tolerance; I have always loved the fact that Sookie is not a hypocrite, and this is a fine demonstration of her integrity.

IF I HAD A HAMMER It's home improvement Sookie-style, as she and Sam fix the nursery for Tara's twins. I am not generally fond of ghost stories, but this is a great one, and possibly the best ghost story I have ever read.

Whether you have read one, none, or some of those stories, it is a real treat to have them all in one place. It is uncanny how smooth this compilation feels; the novellas complement the series, and THE COMPLETE SOOKIE STACKHOUSE STORIES does not feel like a money-grabbing opportunity, but a gift to the fans, who will never get enough of Sookie, and I hope it will tempt new readers as well. I'm delighted that Charlaine Harris decided to publish this compilation.