Step into the thrilling world of Bite Back, where a kickass private investigator battles vampires, werewolves, and her own supernatural destiny in modern-day Denver! Mark Henwick’s urban fantasy series blends gritty detective noir with a fresh take on paranormal intrigue, following Amber Farrell, a former Special Forces operative grappling with a vampire’s bite that’s slowly transforming her. With its sharp wit, intricate world-building, and heart-pounding action, Bite Back is a must-read for fans of urban fantasy and hard-boiled mysteries.
Amber’s journey is anything but ordinary—she’s a PI with a knack for trouble, navigating a secret paranormal underworld while dodging government scrutiny. Henwick’s series stands out for its realistic portrayal of Denver, layered characters, and a unique spin on vampire lore, introducing the Athanate, a race far more complex than Hollywood’s bloodsuckers.
How Bite Back Began
Mark Henwick, a former engineer turned author, crafted Bite Back from his love for urban fantasy, thrillers, and complex heroines. Born in Africa and now residing in England, Henwick drew inspiration from his diverse career and passion for storytelling to create Amber Farrell’s world. His debut novel, Sleight of Hand, launched in 2012, introducing a series that merges police procedural precision with supernatural stakes. Henwick’s goal was to reimagine vampire mythology, replacing clichés with the Athanate, a secretive race embroiled in a centuries-old conflict.
The series grew from Henwick’s desire to write a strong female protagonist who’s both tough and flawed. Amber’s military background and detective skills reflect his interest in blending realism with fantasy, while his meticulous research into Denver’s geography and culture grounds the series in a vivid, believable setting.
The Heart of Bite Back
The Bite Back series kicks off with Sleight of Hand (2012), where Amber, still human but infected by a vampire’s bite, takes on a case for businesswoman Jennifer Kingslund, uncovering a plot tied to the Athanate and a drug lord’s schemes. Hidden Trump (2012) deepens the stakes as Amber navigates rival Athanate factions and her own transformation, facing betrayal in a city on the brink of paranormal war. Wild Card (2013) sees Amber hunting a rogue werewolf while juggling her Athanate, adept, and werewolf identities, with Cool Hand (2014) escalating the action as she confronts a fanatic cult.
Themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and identity weave through the series, as Amber wrestles with her changing nature and the cost of protecting those she loves. Henwick’s Denver is a character in itself—gritty, modern, and teeming with hidden paranormal societies. His style combines fast-paced action with emotional depth, earning comparisons to Ilona Andrews and Faith Hunter for its believable heroine and nuanced world-building.
The series also explores power dynamics and moral ambiguity, particularly through the Athanate’s political struggles and Amber’s fight to retain her humanity. Henwick’s attention to military and police procedures adds authenticity, while romantic subplots—handled with subtlety—enhance the narrative without overwhelming it.
Why Bite Back Resonates
Bite Back has carved a niche in urban fantasy for its innovative take on vampire lore and its compelling protagonist. Fans praise Amber’s strength and vulnerability, with Goodreads reviewers calling her a “kickass heroine” akin to Kate Daniels or Jane Yellowrock. The series’ blend of mystery, action, and paranormal intrigue appeals to readers who crave depth in their fantasy worlds. Henwick’s engagement with fans through blogs and newsletters fosters a loyal community, amplifying the series’ impact.
Though not a household name, Bite Back’s influence lies in its ability to refresh tired tropes, offering a grounded yet thrilling escape. Its focus on a female-led narrative and complex supernatural politics continues to resonate, inspiring readers to explore Denver’s shadowy underbelly alongside Amber.
- First Book: Sleight of Hand (2012)
- Setting: Modern-day Denver
- Books Published: At least 7, with novellas
- Author: Mark Henwick
Ready to dive into a world of paranormal thrills and detective grit? Grab Sleight of Hand and join Amber Farrell in the electrifying Bite Back series!