True Blood: Fresh Blood. An episode as ho-hum as its title- Why do we still watch? And should non-watchers go for the books or the show?

*Some spoilers follow* Why do True Blood watchers follow the show? Is it to be titillated, either on a romantic or sexual level? Is it the twists? The slick HBO production? The funny gore? The fact that both guys and girls seem to like it? I’m still watching, but I’m not sure why. I’m not into the Sookie/Bill romance that many find so sweet. I’m not ready to give up the show because of one dull season. Overall, I really like True Blood.

My current reasons to watch? Eric and Tara. Tara represents the show’s assertion that even weak characters who continually reach the bottom can rise up and defend themselves and their loved ones. Eric is just super hot. My only beef with him is that he delivers all of his lines in a whisper. When was the last time you had an entire conversation in a room alone with another person where you whispered the whole thing? I’m also a Sam fan. Except for this new, drunk Sam. I don't like that.

This season started out slow for me. The characters were separated, the show went for shock factor (which is fine, because it’s True Blood, as long as there is a suspenseful plot going with it), and it took forever for something to happen. This show is based on a book series and each season covers one book. I wonder if the show would be better if it covered two books per season, amping up the pace. Last season, the Maryann storyline dragged. First season sucked me in and didn’t let go. Second season was so crazy (and funny)that I couldn’t look away. But third season? Seemed like a lot of intro to an actual event that hasn’t yet happened, and apparently it’s all happening now, but if you yawn, you’ll miss it.

I’m getting tired of waiting for revelations. And for Eric and Sookie to hook up. Some of the events might also be best left to the imagination. I think many of the vampires would be creepier or hotter if I could think them up myself. For every incredible visual interpretation of an event on the show, there is one that is lacking. This is why I bought the first Sookie Stackhouse book. I am going to read them and see if I should skip the TV series in the future and just read the books. I’ll let you know how it goes.

As far as Eric vs. Bill? The bloggers are split. Ern thinks Eric is much hotter and better for Sookie, but Leeard thinks Bill should be with Sookie in the long run.

Comments on this episode:
-Jason’s new squeeze, Crystal, finally won me over. I like Jason’s plotline this season.
-Like the new Wiccan, and I was surprised Arlene’s abortion didn’t work. Poor Terry is such a nice guy
-Can we make the cheerleader who was annoyed at her football-playing boyfriend a regular?
-Jessica and Hoyt may have the most honest, mature relationship. That his mom is trying to ruin with that hilarious nitwit she sent.
-I welcome the return of crazy voo doo to the show in the form of Jesus. Or his grandpa. Or drugs. What IS going on with that?
-Sam and Tara. Been there, seen that.

The finale is in two weeks, and it had better rock. The buildup does not have me on the edge of my seat.