Step into the thrilling world of Monster Hunter, where monsters lurk in every shadow and a ragtag team of hunters stands ready to take them down! Created by Larry Correia, the Monster Hunter series is a pulse-pounding urban fantasy saga packed with high-octane action, dark humor, and a gritty take on supernatural threats. From werewolves to ancient gods, this series delivers B-movie thrills with a modern twist, making it a must-read for fans of adrenaline-fueled adventures.
Since its debut, Monster Hunter has grown from a self-published gem to a New York Times bestselling franchise, captivating readers with its vivid world-building and larger-than-life characters. Whether you’re a fan of guns-blazing battles or intricate monster lore, this series has something to hook you. Let’s dive into its origins, stories, and why it’s a standout in urban fantasy.
How Monster Hunter Began
Larry Correia, a former accountant and firearms enthusiast, kicked off the Monster Hunter series with Monster Hunter International in 2007. Initially self-published, the novel was born from Correia’s love for low-budget monster movies and his active participation in online firearms forums. He crafted the story for fellow forum members, blending detailed gunplay with supernatural chaos. The book’s raw energy caught the eye of Baen Books, which offered Correia a publishing deal after it hit Entertainment Weekly’s bestseller list in 2008. This marked the start of a franchise that would redefine action-packed urban fantasy.
Correia’s background as a gun store owner and competitive shooter infused the series with authenticity, particularly in its meticulous depiction of weapons. His knack for storytelling, honed through diverse jobs and a passion for genre fiction, gave Monster Hunter a unique voice that resonated with readers craving something fresh and unapologetically fun.
The Heart of Monster Hunter
The series follows Monster Hunter International (MHI), a private company that hunts supernatural threats for cash bounties, overseen by the secretive Monster Control Bureau. Set in an alternate Earth where monsters like vampires, zombies, and elder gods are real, the stories blend horror, humor, and heart. Key books include:
- Monster Hunter International (2007): Owen Zastava Pitt, an accountant, joins MHI after surviving a werewolf attack, uncovering a world of monsters and his own destiny as a champion against ancient evils.
- Monster Hunter Vendetta (2010): Owen faces a death cult and supernatural assassins, with Agent Franks, a mysterious government operative, as his reluctant bodyguard.
- Monster Hunter Alpha (2011): Veteran hunter Earl Harbinger takes center stage, battling a werewolf plague and his own dark past.
- Monster Hunter Nemesis (2014): Agent Franks becomes the protagonist, fighting to clear his name while facing demonic forces.
Themes of camaraderie, resilience, and defiance against overwhelming odds define the series. Correia’s fast-paced style, laced with snarky dialogue and vivid action scenes, mirrors the chaotic energy of a monster hunt. The setting feels grounded yet fantastical, with monsters drawn from myth and pop culture, reimagined with chilling depth. Fans love the balance of gritty realism and tongue-in-cheek humor, making each book a wild ride.
Why Monster Hunter Resonates
Monster Hunter’s impact lies in its ability to carve a niche in urban fantasy, offering a testosterone-fueled counterpoint to paranormal romance trends. Its focus on action, detailed weaponry, and morally complex characters has built a loyal fanbase, with books consistently hitting bestseller lists. The series’ influence extends to spin-offs like Monster Hunter Memoirs, co-written with authors like John Ringo, and its role in sparking debates about genre fiction through Correia’s Sad Puppies campaign.
Readers praise the series for its addictive pacing and relatable heroes, from Owen’s everyman charm to Franks’ enigmatic badassery. Its blend of horror and humor keeps it accessible, while its unapologetic embrace of pulp sensibilities makes it stand out. Monster Hunter proves that urban fantasy can be both thrilling and fun, inspiring fans to root for the underdog hunters.
About Monster Hunter
- First published: 2007
- Number of books: 8 main series, plus spin-offs
- Awards: Monster Hunter Nemesis was a 2015 Hugo Award finalist (nomination declined)
- Genre: Urban fantasy, horror, action
Ready for a monster-slaying adventure? Grab Monster Hunter International and dive into Larry Correia’s wild world of urban fantasy!