This isn't my favorite Sookie book, but its also not as horrible as some of the reviews I've read. The whole series is pretty dark these days. I think it stopped being a "fun" read at about book 4, to be honest. 
 Sookie is dealing with being tortured and the deaths of loved ones and friends, and so she is in a very dark place. This is understandable, and it wouldn't have felt right for Sookie to just bounce back. At the same time, its also not a fun ride. It's still very readable, however, and the book flew by, although I can't really say how much was accomplished. 
 IMO - I do think that in the end, if Sookie ever gets her HEA, it should be with Sam. They already have an old married couple vibe. They've been friends forever and look out for each other. And out of all the people that she and he have dated, I think they're a good match.