Dive into the spellbinding world of The Others, where humans and supernatural beings clash in a thrilling urban fantasy saga! Created by Anne Bishop, this series whisks readers to Thaisia, a reimagined Earth ruled by the terra indigene—shapeshifters, vampires, and elemental forces who view humans as mere prey. At its heart is Meg Corbyn, a blood prophet whose visions spark a delicate dance of trust and danger.
With its gritty yet heartfelt storytelling, The Others blends dark themes with moments of warmth, making it a standout in urban fantasy. Whether you’re drawn to complex characters or intricate world-building, this series promises a wild ride!
How The Others Began
Anne Bishop, celebrated for her award-winning Black Jewels trilogy, ventured into urban fantasy with The Others, launching the series in 2013 with Written in Red. Inspired by her love for dark, romantic tales and a desire to explore human-nonhuman dynamics, Bishop crafted a world where supernatural beings dominate. Her knack for blending psychological depth with fantastical elements gave rise to a fresh take on coexistence and prejudice, earning instant fan acclaim.
The Heart of The Others
The series kicks off with Written in Red, where Meg, a cassandra sangue, escapes captivity and seeks refuge in the Lakeside Courtyard, a terra indigene-run district. Simon Wolfgard, a wolf shifter, reluctantly hires her, sparking a chain of events that unravels secrets and tensions. Murder of Crows introduces the Humans First and Last movement, fueling conflict, while Vision in Silver deepens the war’s stakes. Marked in Flesh and Etched in Bone bring devastating consequences as ancient forces awaken.
The Others shines through its themes of prejudice, power, and found family. Bishop’s Thaisia is a vivid backdrop—cities like Lakeside pulse with danger, while the wilds belong to untamed elementals. Meg’s struggle with her prophetic gift, addictive and deadly, mirrors real-world battles with trauma, adding emotional depth. The slow-burn romance between Meg and Simon, paired with quirky characters like the pony-riding elementals, keeps the tone lively yet poignant.
Why The Others Resonates
The Others has carved a niche in urban fantasy, praised for its bold world-building and diverse cast. Fans adore its unflinching look at societal divides, reflecting real-world tensions through a fantastical lens. The series’ blend of horror, humor, and heart has sparked devoted rereads, with readers hailing its unique take on shapeshifters and vampires. Its impact endures, inspiring spin-offs like Lake Silence and Crowbones, cementing Bishop’s legacy as a genre innovator.
- Publication Years: 2013–2022 (main series and spin-offs)
- Number of Books: 5 main books, 3 in The World of the Others
- Awards: RT Reviewers Choice Awards for Urban Fantasy Novel and Worldbuilding
Ready to explore a world where humans are not the top predators? Grab Written in Red and lose yourself in The Others’ gripping urban fantasy adventure!