Book Review: SOS Hotel: On the Road (SOS Hotel #8) by Alyssa H. Smith
As a long-time fan of Alyssa H. Smith’s SOS Hotel series, I jumped at the chance to delve into On the Road. The allure of a new setting, a fresh threat, and the chaotic antics of our beloved trio had me practically salivating. Having been provided an e-copy by the author in exchange for an honest review, I settled into my reading nook, eager to see how Adam, Zee, and Reynard navigated yet another supernatural escapade amidst their signature sass and humor.
From the very beginning, the story grips you with a blend of action and urgency. The stakes are high as Adam confronts a menacing ghost from his past, compelling him to whisk Zee and Reynard away from their hotel haven to a shadowy motel run by a wary werewolf pack. I found this setup incredibly refreshing; it offers a new atmosphere to explore as Adam imbues the seemingly mundane with layers of tension. The author’s unique spin on werewolves—or loup-garou, as cleverly referenced—adds an intriguing depth. The creatures, depicted as creepers with tangible power, serve as an excellent backdrop for the unfolding mystery.
The pacing is impeccably swift, full of twists and turns that keep you flipping pages long into the night. One moment you’re caught in a fierce showdown, and the next, you’re chuckling at Zee’s unforgettable quips. “Let’s go and Scooby-Doo the fuck out of this furry whodunnit,” Zee declares, and it’s hard not to smile. The humorous camaraderie balances the heavy themes of murder attempts and bloodshed, which serve as trigger warnings but are handled with a deft touch that prevented me from feeling overwhelmed.
Character dynamics continue to evolve, which I always appreciate. While Zee and Reynard’s relationship progresses with delightful complexity, I found that they sometimes reverted to viewing Adam as a "fragile human." Although it’s understandable given their protective instincts, this regression felt reminiscent of earlier books. However, the balance between humor, tension, and heartfelt moments made the trio’s journey compelling nonetheless.
And let’s not forget Zander—he’s a boldly vivid character who injects fresh energy into the story and left me wondering if he’ll become a more permanent fixture in the hotel crew. I’m already envisioning the delightful discussions he might have with Zee about vintage vibrators!
Overall, SOS Hotel: On the Road is an engaging, laugh-out-loud read that fits perfectly within the charming chaos of the series. I rate it 4.5 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoys supernatural mysteries mixed with humor, action, and a healthy dose of romance—especially those who thrive on relationships that defy convention. If you’ve loved the previous installations, this one will not disappoint, and if you’re new to the series, you’re in for a wild ride that might just leave you hooked.
As I closed the book after a satisfying whirlwind of action, I couldn’t help but feel excited at the thought of where the trio’s next adventure will lead. The SOS Hotel series has firmly carved out a cozy niche in my heart, and I can’t wait for the next installment. If you’re looking for a series that combines humor, heart, and supernatural flair, look no further than Smith’s delightful cosmos. Grab a copy and join the fun—you won’t regret it!
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