Dive into the electrifying world of the Fangborn series, where ancient mysteries and supernatural secrets collide in a whirlwind of urban fantasy! Crafted by archaeologist-turned-author Dana Cameron, this gripping saga follows Zoe Miller, an archaeologist who discovers she’s not entirely human—she’s a werewolf and part of the Fangborn, a hidden race of werewolves, vampires, and oracles. With a knack for blending real-world archaeology with pulse-pounding fantasy, Cameron’s series is a treasure hunt for fans of adventure and intrigue.
From shadowy secret societies to artifacts of world-ending power, Fangborn weaves a tale of identity, destiny, and the fight against evil. Ready to unearth the secrets of this unique series? Let’s dig in!
How Fangborn Began
Dana Cameron, an award-winning archaeologist with a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania, turned her passion for uncovering the past into a storytelling powerhouse. Inspired by her fieldwork and a love for crime and speculative fiction, Cameron first introduced the Fangborn in her 2008 short story ‘The Night Things Changed.’ The concept of a secret race protecting humanity sparked a full-fledged series, starting with Seven Kinds of Hell in 2013, published by 47North. Her archaeological expertise infuses the series with authenticity, making every ancient artifact and historical reference feel like a discovery.
The Heart of Fangborn
The Fangborn series kicks off with Seven Kinds of Hell (2013), where Zoe Miller’s life unravels when her cousin is kidnapped by a ruthless Russian. To save him, Zoe must embrace her werewolf heritage and hunt for Pandora’s Box, an artifact that could doom humanity. In Pack of Strays (2014), Zoe’s journey takes her from Copenhagen to Istanbul, chasing artifacts that call to her through visions, all while grappling with unsettling changes in her powers. Hellbender (2015) raises the stakes as ‘I-Day’ looms, when the Fangborn will reveal themselves to the world, forcing Zoe to confront the mysterious Makers who claim to have created her kind.
At its core, Fangborn explores identity and destiny through Zoe’s struggle to reconcile her human life with her supernatural heritage. Cameron’s vampires, who transform into vibrant snake-creatures, and werewolves, who shift between forms, offer a fresh twist on classic tropes. The series’ archaeological backdrop adds layers of intrigue, with secret societies like the Order of Nicomedia plotting to eradicate the Fangborn. Fast-paced and action-packed, the narrative dances between gritty noir and vibrant fantasy, set against a global stage of ancient ruins and modern cities.
Why Fangborn Resonates
Fangborn stands out in urban fantasy for its clever fusion of archaeology and supernatural lore, earning praise from authors like Charlaine Harris and Tess Gerritsen. Fans on Goodreads laud its world-building and innovative take on werewolves and vampires, though some note Zoe’s complex journey can feel chaotic. Cameron’s series has carved a niche for readers craving cerebral yet thrilling tales, with its blend of historical depth and high-stakes adventure. Its lasting appeal lies in its invitation to explore the past while battling for the future, making it a hidden gem in the genre.
- Publication Years: 2013–2015
- Number of Books: 3 novels, plus short stories
- Awards: Cameron’s Fangborn stories won Agatha and Macavity Awards
Grab Seven Kinds of Hell and unearth the Fangborn’s thrilling world of urban fantasy and archaeological adventure today!