I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a nerd and proud of it. That being said, I’m into the paranormal and sci-fi genres. Imagine how giddy I was when I stumbled upon “Hounded” by Kevin Hearne, which is the first in the “Iron Druid Chronicles.” I’m not going to lie, the thing that caught my attention was the hot guy on the cover, but I’m glad I picked it up.

The first book in its series, “Hounded,” introduces the main character Atticus O’Sullivan. He is the last of the druids, and he has lived over 2,000 years, but only looks 21 years old. He owns a bookstore and occult shop in Tempe, Ariz., where he’s hiding out from Aenghus Og — a god who has beef with him over a sword.

In all such stories, he’s found and all hell literally breaks loose — there’s a nasty bit with demons. The book involves urban fantasy and mythology of all religions into one spectacular book. Werewolves, vampires, witches and gods all play a role in the plot. There’s also a lot of crap talk about Thor. Apparently everyone actually hates him for some reason.

The best part of this book was the conversation between O’Sullivan and his dog, Oberon. I know how that sounds, but when you’re a druid, you can do whatever the hell you want to do. That includes throwing magic toward your dog so you can speak into each other’s heads.

“‘This guy is an epic douche. Kick his shiny ass, Atticus,’ Oberon said. I compartmentalized his comment and resolved to enjoy it later. I glared at this would be usurper and said in my most authoritative voice, ‘Aenghus Og, you have broken Druidic law by killing the land around us and opening a gate to hell, unleashing demons on this plane. I judge you guilty and sentence you to death.’ ‘Amen, Atticus! Testify!’”

Oberon is so sassy and wonderful, I wish I could talk to my dog to see if he’s on Oberon’s level.

I laughed my way through this book, and have already started the other books in the series. It left me with the feeling that I wouldn’t mind being a kick-ass druid yielding a sword. Screw guns when you have a sword. Am I right? Or a crossbow.

I give this book four and a half stars, and I strongly urge people to read it. Even if sci-fi isn’t your thing, if you’re into sultry goddesses, sexy bartenders, snark, bad-asses and all around awesomeness, then give this book a try.