Kim Harrison

Kim Harrison is an American fantasy author who writes under both her pen name and her birth name, Dawn Cook. She gained prominence with The Hollows urban fantasy series, which became a #1 New York Times bestseller, and has published over two dozen books across various genres including young adult, science thriller, and traditional fantasy. The Hollows series takes place in an alternate reality where a genetically modified tomato plague decimated much of humanity, leading to supernatural beings openly living alongside humans. Under her birth name Dawn Cook, Harrison authored the Decoy Princess and Truth series in the early 2000s, demonstrating her versatility in both urban and traditional fantasy genres. Born in 1966 in the Midwest, Harrison developed her writing career despite taking an unconventional path that deliberately avoided formal English education beyond basic requirements. Her work extends beyond novels to include anthology contributions, a full-color world book, and two original graphic novels set in The Hollows universe. Critical acclaim has followed Harrison's work, with particular recognition coming from fellow authors in the fantasy genre. Her success spans multiple formats and audiences, establishing her as a significant voice in contemporary fantasy literature.

Readers praise Harrison's character development in The Hollows series, particularly Rachel Morgan's growth and complex relationships. Many connect with the detailed world-building and supernatural politics. Fans appreciate the balance of action, humor, and romance throughout the series. Common likes: - Strong female characters who evolve over time - Unique vampire and witch mythology - Consistent plot threads across multiple books - Witty dialogue and character banter Common criticisms: - Early books have pacing issues - Some find Rachel Morgan's decision-making frustrating - Later books in The Hollows series become repetitive - Romance elements overshadow plot in certain installments Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: The Hollows series averages 4.2/5 stars from 500,000+ ratings Amazon: Individual books average 4.3-4.7/5 stars Barnes & Noble: Series averages 4.4/5 stars Reader quote: "Harrison creates characters you want to hang out with in a world you can believe exists just around the corner." - Amazon reviewer Under her Dawn Cook pen name, books receive lower ratings (3.8/5 average) but maintain a dedicated following.

Prom Nights from Hell (2007) - A collaborative anthology featuring Harrison's short story "Madison Avery and the Dim Reaper" about a teenager who dies on prom night but continues existing through supernatural means.

The Truth Series (as Dawn Cook): First Truth (2002) - A young woman discovers she possesses forbidden magical abilities in a world where magic is controlled by an elite few. Hidden Truth (2002) - Alissa continues her magical training while uncovering dangerous secrets about her world's past. Forgotten Truth (2003) - The story follows Alissa as she faces mounting challenges in mastering her growing magical powers. Lost Truth (2004) - The series conclusion deals with Alissa's final confrontation with those who would suppress magic.

The Princess Series (as Dawn Cook): The Decoy Princess (2005) - A princess learns she is actually a decoy trained to protect the real heir and must use her skills to survive. Princess at Sea (2006) - The story continues as the former decoy princess faces new threats while navigating political intrigue.

The Hollows Series: Dead Witch Walking (2004) - Introduces witch Rachel Morgan as she leaves her job at a security firm to start her own runner service. The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (2005) - Rachel investigates a series of witch murders while dealing with vampire politics. Every Which Way But Dead (2005) - Rachel faces the consequences of a demon mark while trying to protect Cincinnati's supernatural community. A Fistful of Charms (2006) - Rachel must rescue her ex-boyfriend and werewolf friend while avoiding vampire politics. For a Few Demons More (2007) - Rachel becomes entangled in a struggle over an ancient artifact that threatens both humans and supernaturals. The Outlaw Demon Wails (2008) - Rachel confronts demons from her past while trying to save her mother's soul. White Witch, Black Curse (2009) - Rachel investigates her boyfriend's murder while dealing with emotional trauma and supernatural threats. Black Magic Sanction (2010) - Rachel faces persecution from the witch community while trying to clear her name. Pale Demon (2011) - Rachel undertakes a cross-country road trip to clear her name at a witch convention. A Perfect Blood (2012) - Rachel investigates ritual murders targeting witches while adjusting to changes in her own magical nature. Ever After (2013) - Rachel must prevent the destruction of the ever-after while dealing with demon politics. The Undead Pool (2014) - Rachel investigates why magic is behaving strangely in Cincinnati while protecting the vampire community. The Witch with No Name (2014) - Rachel faces her final battle to save the supernatural communities while securing her own future. American Demon (2020) - Rachel returns to an alternate timeline where she must prevent supernatural war while protecting those she loves. Million Dollar Demon (2021) - Rachel confronts a powerful demon while trying to maintain peace in Cincinnati's supernatural community. Trouble with the Cursed (2022) - Rachel deals with increasing threats to Cincinnati's supernatural balance while managing personal relationships.

Patricia Briggs writes urban fantasy featuring werewolves and fae living in modern society, with her Mercy Thompson series focusing on a shape-shifting mechanic navigating supernatural politics. Her work shares Harrison's blend of complex supernatural world-building and character-driven narratives.

Ilona Andrews creates urban fantasy worlds where magic and technology alternate in waves, centered on a female mercenary in post-apocalyptic Atlanta. The Kate Daniels series mirrors Harrison's mix of action, romance, and detailed magical systems.

Kelley Armstrong developed the Women of the Otherworld series about supernatural beings living secretly among humans, focusing on witches, werewolves, and necromancers. Her work features strong female protagonists and intricate supernatural politics similar to Harrison's approach.

Jim Butcher writes The Dresden Files series about a wizard private investigator in Chicago, combining supernatural elements with detective noir. His world-building includes multiple supernatural races coexisting with humans, parallel to Harrison's alternate reality structure.

Seanan McGuire created the October Daye series about a half-fae detective navigating both human and fairy worlds in San Francisco. Her urban fantasy incorporates complex mythology and supernatural politics while maintaining focus on character relationships, similar to Harrison's style.