I've read the first 2 or 3 Mercy Thompson books, they are enjoyable enough but I agree - not OMGMUSTREADNOW. There are a few tired themes between the characters I can see being set up. *sigh*
I'm apparently grumpy about all female characters lately -- none seem to live up to what I'm looking for. Sad.

Have you read anything by C. E. Murphy? I like her Walker Papers Series