Step into the moonlit world of Kitty Norville, where a werewolf DJ spins tales of supernatural struggles and personal triumphs! Carrie Vaughn’s Kitty Norville series is a gem of urban fantasy, blending humor, heart, and howling adventure. Centered on Kitty, a young woman turned werewolf who hosts a late-night radio show, this series captures the thrill of navigating a hidden world of vampires, lycanthropes, and ancient conspiracies.
With its Denver setting and Kitty’s witty charm, the series hooks readers from the first page, offering a fresh take on werewolf lore. It’s a journey of self-discovery, packed with action and a touch of romance, perfect for fans craving a supernatural saga with soul.
How Kitty Norville Began
Carrie Vaughn, a sci-fi and fantasy enthusiast, launched the Kitty Norville series in 2005 with Kitty and the Midnight Hour. Inspired by her love for genre fiction and a desire to flip urban fantasy tropes, Vaughn crafted Kitty as a relatable heroine—a werewolf who’s more human than monster. Growing up in a military family and later earning a Master’s in English Literature, Vaughn infused her storytelling with a keen sense of character and world-building, drawing from her experiences at the Odyssey Writing Workshop. Her goal? To create a series where supernatural beings tackle real-world issues, all while keeping readers entertained.
The Heart of Kitty Norville
The series spans 14 novels and several short stories, following Kitty’s evolution from a submissive pack member to a confident alpha. In Kitty and the Midnight Hour, Kitty accidentally starts a radio show, ‘The Midnight Hour,’ for supernatural beings, exposing her secret as a werewolf and sparking chaos. Kitty Goes to Washington (2006) sees her testifying before a Senate hearing, diving into supernatural politics. Kitty Takes a Holiday (2007) blends suspense and survival as Kitty faces a primal threat in the wilderness, while Kitty Saves the World (2015) wraps the series with an epic battle against an ancient vampire’s apocalyptic plot.
Vaughn weaves themes of identity, autonomy, and community throughout, exploring Kitty’s struggle to balance her human and wolf sides. The series tackles heavier topics like abuse and prejudice through Kitty’s escape from her toxic pack and her advocacy for supernatural rights. Yet, it never loses its light touch—Kitty’s humor and the series’ fast-paced action keep it accessible. Set against Denver’s urban backdrop, the stories feel grounded, with a cast of vampires, hunters, and wizards adding depth to the supernatural world.
Why Kitty Norville Resonates
The Kitty Norville series stands out for its character-driven storytelling and relatable heroine. Fans on platforms like Goodreads praise Kitty’s growth from victim to leader, resonating with readers who see her as a symbol of empowerment. The series’ blend of urban fantasy, mystery, and subtle romance earned it a Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award in 2005 and a loyal following. Its influence lingers in the genre, inspiring authors to craft heroines who are flawed yet fierce. Vaughn’s hint at future spin-offs, especially around fan-favorite Cormac, keeps hope alive for more adventures.
- Publication Years: 2005–2020
- Number of Books: 14 novels, plus short story collections
- Awards: Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award (2005) for Best First Mystery
- Setting: Denver, Colorado
Ready to howl with Kitty? Grab Kitty and the Midnight Hour and dive into a world where werewolves rule the airwaves!