Plot Summary
Blood and Wings Unfurled
A thousand years ago, a group of men chase a mysterious woman into the woods, only to discover she is one of the Gathering—Skuld's resurrected warriors, the Crows. Their leader, Haakon, is seduced by the promise of power, but the Crows, with their black wings and brutal strength, exact swift and bloody retribution. The legend is born: never come between a Crow and her prey. This prologue sets the tone for a world where Norse gods meddle in mortal affairs, and women wronged by fate are given a second, vengeful life. The Gathering's origins are steeped in violence, justice, and the promise that those who steal from the gods will pay dearly.
The Gathering's Second Life
In present-day New Jersey, the Gathering continues. Neecy Lawrence, second-in-command of the Jersey Crows, is a fierce, no-nonsense leader haunted by her past. She died young, betrayed by a lover, and was reborn as a Crow. The Crows, chosen by Skuld from the dying and wronged, are a diverse, loyal, and rowdy sisterhood. Their existence is a blend of mundane and mythic: they party, bicker, and hunt down those who steal from the gods. Neecy's life is a constant struggle to prove herself worthy of her second chance, even as she keeps her heart guarded and her loyalty to her sisters absolute.
Ravens and Crows Collide
The Crows' world is complicated by the presence of the Ravens, Odin's chosen male warriors. Will Yager, the Ravens' leader, is drawn to Neecy, their mutual attraction simmering beneath the surface of their rivalry. The two groups, while technically allies, are often at odds—competing for artifacts, bickering over territory, and clashing in both battle and banter. Yager's relentless pursuit of Neecy is met with her stubborn resistance, but their chemistry is undeniable. Their relationship is a microcosm of the larger struggle between fate, free will, and the demands of the gods.
Neecy's Reluctant Awakening
Neecy's life is shaped by trauma and survival. Orphaned, abandoned, and betrayed, she has learned to trust no one but herself and her sisters. Her leadership is both a burden and a calling, as she tries to guide the Crows through the dangers of their supernatural world. The Gathering is her family, but it is also a crucible—every member has died violently, and every member is expected to fight. Neecy's reluctance to open her heart is matched only by her determination to protect her sisters, even at the cost of her own happiness.
Twenty-Four Hours Unleashed
After a heated confrontation, Neecy and Yager strike a deal: twenty-four hours together, no strings attached. What begins as a physical release quickly becomes something deeper, as both are forced to confront their vulnerabilities. Their passion is raw and consuming, but it also exposes the cracks in Neecy's armor. For the first time, she allows herself to be cared for, to be seen as more than just a warrior. Yager, for his part, is determined to prove that love and strength are not mutually exclusive. Their connection is both a sanctuary and a battlefield.
Lust, Power, and Pain
The twenty-four hours are a whirlwind of sex, laughter, and unexpected tenderness. Neecy is forced to confront her own desires and the possibility that she might deserve happiness. Yager's patience and persistence begin to wear down her defenses, but old wounds run deep. The physical pleasure they share is matched by emotional pain, as Neecy struggles with guilt, fear, and the belief that she is unworthy of love. Their time together is both healing and harrowing, a crucible in which both are tested.
Hunters in the Shadows
As Neecy and Yager navigate their complicated relationship, a new danger emerges. Hunters—mortals empowered by dark gods—begin targeting the Crows. These zealots are relentless, using magic and violence to try to wipe out Skuld's warriors. The attacks are brutal and personal, forcing the Crows and Ravens to unite against a common enemy. The threat is not just physical; it is existential, challenging the very foundation of the Gathering and the fragile alliances that hold their world together.
Trials of Leadership
Neecy is thrust into the role of leader as Didi, the current head of the Jersey Crows, prepares to retire. The transition is fraught with tension—Neecy doubts her own worth, and the Gathering is divided over her suitability. Skuld, ever the enigmatic goddess, orchestrates a trial by fire: Neecy must prove herself in battle, in loyalty, and in love. The burden of leadership is heavy, and Neecy is forced to confront the reality that her choices will determine not just her own fate, but the fate of all her sisters.
The Heart's Reluctant War
Neecy and Yager's relationship becomes a battleground for their deepest fears and desires. Neecy's reluctance to accept love is matched by Yager's refusal to give up on her. Their dynamic is a dance of push and pull, of vulnerability and pride. The Gathering, meanwhile, watches with a mixture of amusement and concern, knowing that Neecy's happiness is tied to the well-being of them all. The war for Neecy's heart is as fierce as any battle with the Hunters, and the stakes are just as high.
Arri's Hidden Gift
Arri Chang, the Gathering's most timid member, reveals her secret: she can see auras and sense truth, sickness, and intent. Her gift, long a source of alienation, becomes crucial as the Hunters' attacks escalate. Neecy's mentorship helps Arri find her place within the Gathering, and her powers prove vital in closing magical portals and protecting her sisters. Arri's journey from outsider to essential member mirrors Neecy's own struggle for acceptance and belonging.
The Portal and the Price
A confrontation with the Hunters leads to a magical portal being opened—a gateway to hell itself. The Crows and Ravens must work together to close it, relying on Arri's newfound abilities and the strength of their bonds. The battle is fierce and costly, with injuries and losses on both sides. Neecy is gravely wounded, her wing nearly severed, and the Gathering is forced to confront the reality that even their supernatural gifts have limits. The price of survival is high, and the scars—physical and emotional—are lasting.
The Crow's Trial Begins
As Neecy recovers, Skuld reveals the true nature of her trial: she must lead the Gathering through a time of war, facing not just mortal enemies but the machinations of the gods themselves. The Hunters are revealed to be pawns of Hella, goddess of the underworld, and the Gathering's survival depends on Neecy's ability to unite her sisters, trust her allies, and embrace her own power. The trial is not just a test of strength, but of wisdom, compassion, and the willingness to accept love.
Broken Wings, Unbroken Will
Neecy's physical recovery is slow and painful, but her spirit remains unbroken. With the support of Yager, her sisters, and the Ravens, she learns to trust again—not just in others, but in herself. Her wings, once a symbol of her power and identity, become a metaphor for her journey: broken, healed, and ultimately stronger than before. The Gathering rallies around her, and Neecy emerges as a leader not just by title, but by example.
The Goddess's Demands
Skuld's presence looms large, her demands both cryptic and absolute. Neecy is forced to navigate the treacherous waters of divine politics, balancing the needs of her sisters with the whims of the gods. The trial culminates in a final confrontation with the Hunters, orchestrated by Skuld as a test of Neecy's worthiness. The stakes are nothing less than the survival of the Gathering and the future of Skuld's warriors.
The Final Hunt
The Gathering and the Ravens launch a coordinated assault on the Hunters' stronghold. The battle is brutal, with magic and steel clashing in a storm of violence. Neecy faces Waldgrave, the Hunters' leader, in single combat, wielding the ax given to her by Skuld. The fight is a test of everything she has learned—strength, strategy, and the willingness to do whatever it takes to protect her family. In the end, Neecy prevails, but not without cost. The victory is hard-won, and the scars—both visible and invisible—remain.
Victory and Vulnerability
With the Hunters defeated, the Gathering returns home to heal and rebuild. Neecy is celebrated as a hero, but she is acutely aware of the sacrifices made along the way. Her relationship with Yager deepens, as both acknowledge the pain and joy of loving someone who can be lost at any moment. The Gathering, once fractured by doubt and fear, is united by shared struggle and hard-won trust. The future is uncertain, but for the first time, Neecy allows herself to hope.
Love, Loss, and Leadership
Neecy and Yager finally confront the reality of their love. After so much loss and pain, they choose each other—fully, without reservation. Neecy accepts her role as leader of the Gathering, embracing both the responsibility and the joy that come with it. The Crows, for all their chaos and bickering, are her family, and she is determined to lead them with strength and compassion. The story ends not with a promise of happily ever after, but with the hard-won knowledge that love, like leadership, is a choice made every day.
Home Is Where He Is
Neecy's journey comes full circle as she moves in with Yager, blending her life with his. Their home becomes a sanctuary for both the Gathering and the Ravens, a place where warriors can rest, heal, and be themselves. The challenges are far from over, but Neecy and Yager face them together, their partnership a testament to the power of love, trust, and mutual respect. The Gathering, stronger than ever, looks to the future with hope and determination.
The Next Gathering
As Neecy settles into her new role, the Gathering prepares for the next generation of warriors. The cycle of death and rebirth, of loss and renewal, is unending. The story closes with the promise that as long as there are wrongs to be righted and sisters to protect, the Gathering will endure. Neecy's leadership is both an end and a beginning—a reminder that every victory is built on the sacrifices of those who came before.
Epilogue: New Trials Begin
In the aftermath, Arri wakes to find herself sharing a bed with Mike, the Raven she loves to hate. Their awkward, hilarious encounter hints at new stories to come, as Arri discovers a mysterious rune branded on her hand—a sign that the gods' games are far from over. The Gathering's story continues, as new trials, new loves, and new battles await. The cycle of death, rebirth, and vengeance is unbroken, and the Crows will always rise.
Analysis
Modern myth, feminist power, and the cost of second chancesHunting Season is a bold reimagining of Norse myth, urban fantasy, and the found-family trope. At its core, the novel is a meditation on trauma, resilience, and the possibility of redemption. The Gathering—women chosen from the dying and wronged—are both victims and avengers, their power rooted in pain but transformed by sisterhood and purpose. The story interrogates the nature of leadership, the burden of responsibility, and the challenge of accepting love after betrayal. Neecy's journey is emblematic of the struggle to reconcile strength with vulnerability, and the narrative refuses to offer easy answers or tidy resolutions. Instead, it celebrates the messy, complicated reality of healing, the necessity of community, and the courage required to choose happiness in a world that offers no guarantees. The novel's humor, diversity, and unapologetic embrace of female power make it a standout in the urban fantasy genre, offering both escapism and insight for modern readers.
Review Summary
Hunting Season receives mixed reviews, averaging 4.18 out of 5. Readers praise Shelly Laurenston's signature humor, strong female characters, and creative Norse mythology worldbuilding featuring Crows and Ravens. Many love the chemistry between hero Will Yager and heroine Neecy Lawrence, though some find Neecy's prolonged resistance frustrating. Common criticisms include a slow first half, excessive sex scenes, and a rushed ending. Readers frequently express hope for sequel books focusing on side characters Tye/Janelle and Mike/Arri, though the series remains incomplete.
Characters
Denise "Neecy" Lawrence
Neecy is the heart and soul of the Jersey Crows—a woman forged by trauma, betrayal, and the violence of her first life. Her second life as a Crow is both a blessing and a burden, offering her power, purpose, and a family she never had. Neecy's leadership is marked by a relentless drive to protect her sisters, even as she struggles with self-doubt and the fear of vulnerability. Her relationship with Yager is a crucible, forcing her to confront her deepest fears and desires. Over the course of the story, Neecy evolves from a guarded, solitary warrior to a leader capable of love, trust, and sacrifice. Her journey is one of healing, acceptance, and the realization that strength and tenderness are not mutually exclusive.
Wilhelm "Will" Yager
Yager is the leader of the Ravens, Odin's chosen warriors, and the embodiment of Viking strength and loyalty. His pursuit of Neecy is relentless but never coercive—he is patient, kind, and unwavering in his belief that love is worth fighting for. Yager's own wounds—emotional and physical—mirror Neecy's, and his willingness to be vulnerable is both his greatest strength and his greatest risk. His leadership style is collaborative, and his loyalty to his friends and brothers is absolute. Yager's journey is one of persistence, learning to balance his own needs with those of the woman he loves, and ultimately finding fulfillment in partnership rather than conquest.
Didi Gowan
Didi is the outgoing leader of the Jersey Crows, a woman whose sharp wit and political savvy have kept the Gathering together through peace and war. She is both a mother figure and a drill sergeant, demanding loyalty and excellence from her sisters while offering unconditional support. Didi's relationship with Neecy is complex—part mentorship, part tough love, part friendship. Her decision to retire sets the stage for Neecy's trial, and her faith in Neecy's potential is unwavering. Didi's pragmatism and humor are a counterbalance to the story's darker themes, and her legacy is one of resilience, adaptability, and fierce love.
Arri Chang
Arri is the Gathering's most unlikely warrior—a shy, anxious woman with a gift for seeing auras and sensing truth. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to embrace her powers and her place within the sisterhood. Arri's relationship with Neecy is one of mentorship and mutual support, and her abilities prove crucial in the battle against the Hunters. Her vulnerability is both a weakness and a strength, allowing her to connect with others in ways that more hardened warriors cannot. Arri's arc is a testament to the power of acceptance, both of oneself and of others.
Mike Molinski
Mike is the Ravens' resident troublemaker—a charming, impulsive, and often infuriating presence. His antics provide much-needed levity, but beneath the bravado is a deep loyalty to his brothers and a surprising capacity for empathy. Mike's relationship with Arri is a slow-burn of mutual annoyance and reluctant affection, hinting at future stories. His role in the narrative is both as a foil to the more serious characters and as a reminder that even the most chaotic among us can be heroes.
Tye Ulrich
Tye is Yager's right hand—a man of few words but deep loyalty. His calm, analytical approach to problems is a counterbalance to Mike's chaos and Yager's passion. Tye's budding relationship with Janelle adds depth to his character, revealing a softer side beneath the stoic exterior. His presence is a stabilizing force within the Ravens and the Gathering alike.
Janelle MacKenna
Janelle is one of Neecy's closest allies—a street-smart, physically imposing woman with a sharp tongue and a softer heart than she lets on. Her journey mirrors Neecy's in many ways, as she learns to balance strength with vulnerability and loyalty with self-care. Janelle's relationship with Tye is a source of both humor and tenderness, and her role as Arri's protector highlights her capacity for empathy.
Connie Vega
Connie is the Gathering's resident DJ and a symbol of the Crows' diversity and inclusivity. Her relationship with Fran, her long-term girlfriend, is a model of stability and mutual support. Connie's creativity and resourcefulness are assets to the team, and her ability to bring people together—on the dance floor and in battle—is invaluable.
Katie Clark
Katie is a force of nature—dominant, assertive, and unafraid to speak her mind. Her relationships are unconventional but deeply loyal, and her willingness to fight for her sisters is matched only by her capacity for joy. Katie's presence is both grounding and energizing, and her role as enforcer within the Gathering is essential.
Karl Waldgrave
Waldgrave is the story's primary antagonist—a mortal empowered by dark gods and driven by a twisted sense of purpose. His zealotry and brutality make him a formidable foe, but his true role is as a catalyst for Neecy's trial and the Gathering's unity. Waldgrave's defeat is both a personal and symbolic victory, marking the end of one cycle and the beginning of another.
Plot Devices
Dual Narrative Structure
The story employs a dual narrative structure, alternating between Neecy's and Yager's points of view. This allows for a rich exploration of both characters' inner lives, as well as the dynamics of the Gathering and the Ravens. The structure also facilitates world-building, as the reader is introduced to the rules, rituals, and politics of the Norse-inspired supernatural world through the eyes of both insiders and outsiders.
Foreshadowing and Prophecy
Foreshadowing is woven throughout the narrative, with Skuld's cryptic warnings, the recurring motif of trials, and the ever-present threat of the gods' interference. Prophecy and fate are central themes, as characters struggle to assert their own agency in a world where the gods' plans are often inscrutable and inescapable. The cyclical nature of death, rebirth, and vengeance is reinforced by the story's structure and symbolism.
Magical Realism and Urban Fantasy
The story's urban fantasy setting allows for a seamless blending of the mundane and the mythic. The Crows and Ravens navigate both the everyday challenges of modern life—jobs, relationships, parties—and the extraordinary demands of their supernatural roles. Magic is both a source of power and a source of danger, and the story's realism is grounded in the emotional authenticity of its characters.
Symbolism of Wings and Flight
Wings are a central symbol, representing both the power and the vulnerability of the Gathering. The loss and recovery of Neecy's wings mirror her emotional journey, and the act of flight is both a literal and metaphorical expression of freedom, strength, and the willingness to rise above one's circumstances.
Humor and Banter
Humor is a vital plot device, providing relief from the story's darker themes and deepening the bonds between characters. The banter between Crows and Ravens, the irreverent dialogue, and the absurdity of supernatural beings navigating everyday life all serve to humanize the characters and make their struggles relatable.
