Death's Servant by C.J. Ellisson [Review]

Death's Servant (The VV Inn #0.1) by C.J. Ellisson
Format: ebook
Source: provided for review
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 26, 2014

The VV Inn
0.1. Death's Servant - Kindle
1. Vampire Vacation
2. The Hunt
3. Big Game
3.5. Death Times Two

C.J. Ellisson
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Synopsis (Goodreads):

Jonathan Winchester has clashed with his alpha one too many times. After another argument he leaves the Manitoba pack, his only home since the werewolf attack that changed his life. He returns to his home state of Virginia to start a new life free of pack politics. Jon finds work and meets a young waitress, Raine, who appears to be a lone werewolf, too.

As their relationship progresses, Jon’s embroiled in more intrigue than he bargained for and a danger bigger than he can handle. He's running scared until his own alpha tendencies surface, making him unable to leave the pretty werewolf’s problems behind. The young man is desperate to save Raine—even if his efforts may lead him straight to death.

Journey along in this first prequel novel involving the favorite characters from the bestselling V V Inn series. Written at reader demand, this stand-alone story explains how the beloved Jonathan came to serve the deadly redheaded vampire, Dria.

Thoughts on Death's Servant: Oh, this was a nice little peek at Jonathan and Dria's first encounter. More than that, though, it gives a lot of insight into Jonathan's character and shows him standing up for what he believes in. Even if it means putting himself in a bad position for werewolves he doesn't really know.

Might I just say that Jonathan is so young here. He acts in accordance with his desire to protect as an alpha but he's so raw and untried and unsure about what he wants now that he's left Romeo's pack. The situation he runs into gives him focus and allows him to practice what he's been preaching.

I loved that we got to see another side to Rafe and Jon interacting. In later books, they have a tendency to poke and prod at one another in an attempt to irritate. Here, Rafe willingly helps Jon and seems to be happy doing it. Plus, Rafe is a bit of a master strategist, manipulating pieces on the board to help Dria in any way necessary. I can appreciate that.

Solid story that gives a dark, intriguing look into the earlier life of Jon. There was a lot I really enjoyed here and I'm completely looking forward to more novellas (featuring Jon or otherwise) in this series.