Step into the spellbinding streets of an alternate New York City with the H & W Investigations series, where private investigator Shiarra Waynest tackles mysteries tangled with vampires, werewolves, and mages. This urban fantasy gem by Jess Haines blends gritty detective work with supernatural flair, delivering a thrilling ride for fans of paranormal adventures and heart-pounding romance.
Unlike your typical urban fantasy heroine, Shiarra is refreshingly human—no superpowers, just grit, sarcasm, and a magical belt that gives her an edge against the 'Others.' With its sharp writing and immersive world, H & W Investigations invites readers to unravel secrets in a city where magic and danger lurk around every corner.
How H & W Investigations Began
Jess Haines, a displaced New Yorker now residing in Florida, launched H & W Investigations in 2010 with her debut novel, Hunted by the Others. Inspired by her love for urban fantasy and paranormal romance, Haines crafted a world where supernaturals coexist uneasily with humans after a post-9/11 'coming out.' Her goal? To create a relatable heroine in Shiarra, whose human vulnerabilities make her stand out in a genre filled with superpowered protagonists.
Published by Zebra Books, the series quickly gained traction for its fresh take on urban fantasy, blending detective noir with supernatural intrigue. Haines’ knack for vivid world-building and complex characters set the stage for a saga that’s both accessible and endlessly engaging, drawing readers into Shiarra’s chaotic life.
The Heart of H & W Investigations
The series kicks off with Hunted by the Others (2010), where Shiarra, struggling to keep her PI agency afloat, takes a risky job to recover an artifact from a powerful vampire, Alec Royce. The stakes escalate in Taken by the Others (2011), as Shiarra navigates a deadly feud between two seductive vampires while her werewolf ex, Chaz, complicates matters. Deceived by the Others (2011) sees Shiarra facing betrayal during a werewolf pack retreat, while Enslaved by the Others (2014) plunges her into the clutches of a ruthless vampire slave trader.
H & W Investigations shines through its themes of loyalty, identity, and moral ambiguity. Shiarra’s human perspective grounds the fantastical, as she grapples with prejudice against the Others and her own fears. The alternate New York setting, vivid and gritty, feels like a character itself, with its laws governing supernatural behavior and a post-9/11 cultural shift. Haines’ style—fast-paced, witty, and laced with romance—keeps readers hooked, while her world-building avoids heavy info-dumps, making each book a seamless dive into Shiarra’s world.
The series’ blend of mystery, action, and romance appeals to fans of urban fantasy staples like Kim Harrison or Patricia Briggs, but its human-centric lens and legalistic supernatural society carve a unique niche. Shiarra’s growth from a fearful PI to a bold vampire hunter is both inspiring and relatable, making her journey a standout.
Why H & W Investigations Resonates
H & W Investigations has carved a loyal following in the urban fantasy community, praised for its strong heroine and innovative world. Readers love Shiarra’s sarcasm and resilience, with reviewers calling the series 'a fun, high-octane ride' that balances action with emotional depth. Its influence lies in proving that human protagonists can hold their own in a supernatural world, inspiring similar character-driven stories.
Despite mixed reviews on originality, the series’ fresh take on supernatural politics and Shiarra’s flawed yet fierce nature keep it relevant. Its cult status among urban fantasy fans speaks to its lasting appeal, offering a perfect escape for those craving mystery and magic.
- First Published: 2010 (Hunted by the Others)
- Number of Books: Six
- Author: Jess Haines
- Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Ready to dive into a world of vampires, werewolves, and one tough-as-nails PI? Grab Hunted by the Others and join Shiarra Waynest’s thrilling adventures in the H & W Investigations series!