This is a good continuation of the Jackie Faber novels but, like at least one other reviewer, I felt something was missing. For one thing, the gaggle of girls seemed too in-control of the situation on the slaver, making the trip to the slave market, by mid-novel, seem more a tedious pleasure cruise than a hell voyage. My repeated thought was "Why doesn't the captain just kill one of them--that'll shut 'em up?". Also, as an adult, male reader, I have to admit that Ms. Faber's budding sexuality throughout the series has always made me a little uneasy, as if I'd stumbled upon a good looking couple having sex on a park bench and couldn't tear myself away. I don't mind this for myself (although a little voice in my head sometimes whispered "This stuff must appeal to pedophiles" while reading earlier books), but I'm not sure I'd want my adolescents reading this novel. In particular, if my 13-year-old daughter (did I have one) regarded Jackie as her heroine, I'd be a little worried for her. Finally, I felt it was gratuitous of the author to present the men in this novel (and throughout the series?) in an almost universally negative way. They are all either old letches, young letches, stupid as posts, rakes, and/or easily manipulated tools. The only male character presented in a positive way is Higgins, but given his presumed sexual orientation, one wonders if he's not the exception that proves the rule? Despite these criticisms, I've thoroughly enjoyed the entire series, and this one kept me reading far into the night (but feeling guilty for it in unexpected ways).

Ok... i have read all the bloody jack books in the seires and what can i say? they are the best books in the world because i am a very fussy reader. i can tell if i dont like a book if i dont read it fast enough but the bloody jack books well i could read the lot in under a month!! (if i wernt for postige) i really cant weight for the next book!!

This book only received four stars because on its own it's not spectacular, but as an extension of the Bloody Jack series it does hold its own. This book is a good follow-up to the other Bloody Jack books. It's not the most rollicking tale of the bunch, but gives readers a more subtle adventure. Although I found the the main body of the book a tad tedious, I still enjoyed it as a whole. Jacky's colorful cahracter carries the story along when it starts to drag, as do the personalities of the other girls. One of my favorite parts of the book is when Jacky tells stories of her life on the streets in London. It gives you a better glimpse at her past and how far she has come from the little beggar of her childhood. I will warn you though, the ending is a killer cliff-hanger.

I am a huge fan of the Jacky Faber series -- just like everyone else who has discovered these awesome books by L.A. Meyer. I've read every one of Meyer's previous books, and loved all of them. Each time, I figured there was absolutely no way he could top the previous one. And each time, I'm stunned to find that he has. 'In the Belly of the Bloodhound' is no different. Once again, Meyer has written a heck of a story that's even better than his last. Like all the others, 'In the Belly of the Bloodhound' was an incredibly fast read -- a book that I could not put down. It's entertaining and definitely won't put you to sleep like some other 'teen' books assigned in school. I have no doubt that this book is headed for a blockbuster movie, once Hollywood discovers Jacky Faber. I'm sure actresses will be lining up to play her. In the meantime, I'm hoping L.A. Meyer is back home writing his next pirate tale. Aye, Cap'n, he's good as gold.

Being that there are so many enthusiastic reviews already submitted with which I wholeheartedly agree, all I will add is that Meyer better hurry up with number 5 or I'm gonna die in suspense! Bravo on another wild and imaginative misadvetnure of Jacky Faber, Mr. Meyer!