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Super Natural Romance

Author: Tate Hallaway
Title - Romancing the Dead
(Dead series, Book 3)

Wisconsin used to be such a normal place. At least that is what Garnet Lacey used to think. Now she is engaged to a vampire, Sebastian Von Traum. Harboring within Garnet is Lilith, a Goddess known as the Mother of Demons. The Vatican witch hunters now believe Garnet is dead and the FBI has closed her file. She is on the verge of purchasing the occult bookstore she currently manages and co-founding a brand new coven. Things are finally beginning to look up for Garnet.

Reality comes crashing down when Sebastian suddenly disappears and Mátyás, his son, suddenly shows back up. Mátyás swears he is not trying to kill her or his dad this time, but Garnet wants nothing to do with him. Problem is, she has no choice. Someone has painted a magical target on Garnet's back and someone is trying to steal Lilith away. With Sebastian gone Mátyás may be her only hope of surviving.

**** You do not have to read the previous two titles in the series to fully understand all that is happening. The author did a good job of making sure that new-comers are not lost. Fans of the Southern Vampire series will thoroughly enjoy this story. Lots of danger and comedy set within an extremely well written plot. ****

Author: Erin McCarthy
Title - Fallen

In New Orleans, 1849, Anne Donovan worked as a streetwalker to survive. Anne physically knew all sorts of unnamed men until John Thirous. John paid the Madam well to keep Anne available for him. Each night John (a.k.a. Gabriel St. John, a fallen angel) arrived for an escape with opium, absinthe, and Anne's touch. Only with the three things did Gabriel feel as close to heaven as he could any long, until he awoke to find Anne murdered nearby. Anne had been stabbed seventeen times with a bowie knife, her face and breasts mutilated. Gabriel had no idea whether he killed Anne or not. His penance is to be forever denied love. Should he seek pleasure with a woman, she will suffer deep despair.

In New Orleans, today, Gabriel writes true-crime novels. In doing so, often the murder is solved. This is what Gabriel hopes will happen with his latest endeavor. Jessie Michaels, Anne's descendent, has been murdered in Naples in the exact same manner as Anne had been. Gabriel asks Sarah Michaels to help him write the story of her mother's. Sarah is a forensic scientist. Between the two of them, Gabriel hopes to solve, not only Jessie murder, but Anne's as well.

The two find themselves attracted, something neither of them wants. Can they work together without becoming lovers? And what if they cannot?

**** Though I found this to be a fast paced and well written story, I never came to care for Gabriel. Something in the fallen angel simply never seemed real. Sarah, however, I found to be the total opposite. Sarah is a strong female character that I admired throughout the tale. This story is well worth your time and money to pick up. ****

Author: Judy McCoy
Title - Making Over Mr. Right

After the muses fail their performance review; Zeus is 'modernizing' Mount Olympus' business practices, you see, Zoe finds herself sentenced to Earth to be productive in a modern sense and to learn technology. As her time among the mortals draws to a close, she has one final job, a photo shoot for business tycoon Theo Maragos, a handsome, rich geek. In the process, she finds herself following in dear old dad's footsteps and falling for a mortal, but she'll have to leave soon, and Theo is not thrilled with her secretive nature. Plus, Zeus will surely not be delighted to lose another child to a mere mortal, successful or not.

*** Reading Ms. McCoy is like indulging in candy, without the calories. Light, fun humor keeps the pages flying. I love the idea of ancient beings being forced to deal with high tech gear and seeing how they do it. Hopefully, a few more Olympians will bomb out when they go before the judge, so we readers will win. ***

Author: Christina Dodd
Title - Touch of Darkness

To free his family from the ancient curse that condemns them to Hades, Rurik abandons his career as a pilot to go on a quest for the pieces of an icon that has the power to end his ancestor's deal with the devil. Just as he nears the second object of his search, Tasya Hunnicutt, quintessential girl reporter, barges into the cave where his hunt has led. From then on, the once upon a time lovers find their fates joined. The intrepid pair, all the while fighting their attraction to each other, race against time and try to stay ahead of those who want to stop them. Tasya is determined to avenge her family against a clan of assassins, not suspecting until it is too late and her heart is given, that Rurik is related to them. Yet, his part in breaking the curse can only happen with her help, according to prophecy.

*** Energy and adventure crackle off the pages of this high speed romance. Ms. Dodd always writes with wit and humor. The cliffhanger on which she ends this novel is guaranteed to win readers for book three. ***

Author: P.C. Cast
Title - Warrior Rising

When the goddesses get utterly fed up with the Trojan War, not to mention with all the inaccurate information that myth, legend, and history have recorded about it, they decide its time to intervene. Since Achilles is the key to stopping it, they decide what he needs is a good woman, and thanks to Venus' time in the modern world among mortals, Kat, a twenty first century woman in the prime of her life, is chosen to go back to the time of the Iliad and tame a berserker warrior. Before she can though, she and her best friend, Jacky, are killed in a car wreck. While that's disconcerting, it's no problem, really. The goddesses simply transplant their souls into the bodies of a Trojan princess and her maid. As the princess, Kat combines a younger, more beautiful body with her intellect and skills to easily win over her "master." Yet, though Achilles loves her and longs for peace, he lives under a curse and fate seems determined to carry out his doom. Only a great sacrifice might have a slim chance of stopping that, if Kat is willing.

**** Most Trojan epics can be summed up in the phrase long and boring. No wonder Venus, Athena, and company got their fill of it. This is the exception to the rule. With snazzy, snappy wit and loads of humor, Ms. Cast has made the epic interesting again. Her spin on things is far different than most, but that is what makes it wonderful. ****

Author: Susan Krinard
Title - Dark of the Moon

After fleeing the consequences of killing his master, vampire enforcer Dorian Black finds himself up to his fangs in trouble when he rescues the foolish, brave, and possibly insane Gwen from drowning in the East River. A troublesome mortal is the last thing he needs as a mafia-like power struggle for control in the vacuum left by his master's death erupts. Rival gangs war to control New York, and this could be the biggest story of Gwen's short life, which will be even shorter if the Dorian can't keep her safe. The inherent irony of his situation is readily apparent; her key to achieving her professional dreams would expose him, yet he loves her and wants her to live.

**** Ms. Krinard perfectly conveys the bleak setting of the early twentieth century as the nation struggled to get on its feet between the great wars. Her themes of redemption and the subtle tribute to Gift of the Magi evidenced by the particular dilemma the hero and heroine face are classics that are used effectively. ****

Author: Kendra Leigh Castle
Title - Call of the Highland Moon

Normally, the worst thing you have to worry about when taking in a stray is fleas, various messes, or possibly that the animal is diseased. The critter turning into a hot naked guy running both away from and towards destiny just is not something that would cross your mind, but it's what Carly gets when she takes in a rather large dog that turns out not only to be a wolf, but Gideon, a werewolf crown prince. Bound together by evil circumstances that include the weather and rival wolves and by a growing attraction for each other that goes against all the rules and logic, Carly and Gideon become involved in a power struggle and the search for an ancient artifact dating back to the time of the Patriarchs.

**** Weaving together romance, adventure, and lore, Ms. Castle has the start of a fantastic series here. All sorts of passionate feelings crackle to life on the pages, shifting dynamically as lycanthrope mythology is reinvented for this new world. This belongs on the keeper shelf beside Susan Krinard or Ronda Thompson's shapeshifter romances for sure. ****

Author: Amanda Quick (a.k.a. Jayne Ann Krentz)
Title - Second Sight (Arcane Society, Book 1)

Set in the Regency era. Miss Venetia Milton’s parents died over a year ago in a train wreck. Since then Venetia has had the responsibility of providing for her maiden aunt, Beatrice Sawyer, her sixteen-year-old sister, Amelia, and her nine-year-old brother, Edward. Having an excellent talent for photography, Venetia had made due. But when the Arcane Society employed her to photograph its collection of relics and artifacts things began looking up. The Arcane Society paid extremely well and in advance. Venetia left Bath, traveled to meet her new employer, Gabriel Jones, and earn her pay.

Venetia and Gabriel knew each other less than a week. During the last time together they were intimate. Before they could speak about any possible future together, they were interrupted by two men attempting to steal a two-hundred-year-old strongbox. Gabriel had his coachman take Venetia to safety before going to hunt his prey.

Gabriel Jones was a Hunter. The Arcane Society members consisted of secretive, reclusive eccentrics who were obsessed with the arcane and uncanny. Gabriel’s psychical abilities made him a predator, a hunter. Once the two would-be thieves were taken care of, Gabriel decided to let people believe he was dead. However, three months later, when he learned Venetia had opened a gallery in London and has been portraying herself as his widow, he knew that she had unwittingly placed herself in grave danger. Gabriel had no choice but to pretend to be Venetia’s returned-from-the-dead husband and move in with her family to keep her safe.

**** Let me say first off that you should NOT read the first four books of this series in order of release. Instead, read them in the order events happened. Read in the following order:

SECOND SIGHT, Book One
THE THIRD CIRCLE, Book Four
WHITE LIES, Book two
SIZZLE & BURN, Book Three

I found this story to be very exciting. This author writes in such a way that the impossible suddenly sounds very possible and totally logical. Not many authors can pull this off. However, Krentz seems to have cut her teeth on the challenge and succeeded. BRAVA! ****

Author: Amanda Quick (a.k.a. Jayne Ann Krentz)
Title - The Third Circle (Arcane Society, Book 4)

Leona Hewitt’s power is crystal working. Crystal workers are held in a very low opinion in the Arcane Society due to the legend of Sybil, the rival of the Arcane Society’s founder, Sylvester. In her time, Sybil used the green Aurora Stone often. The crystal is useless unless it is activated by someone with the very rare talent. The Aurora Stone was stolen from Leona’s mother eleven years ago. So when Leona received word that Lord Delbridge currently had possession of the stone, she crashed his party to retrieve it. The last thing Leona expected was to meet Thaddeus Ware, especially while he was standing over the body of a streetwalker with her throat slashed.

The papers call the serial killer the Midnight Monster. Gabriel Jones, the new Master of the Arcane Society, has given Thaddeus the job of finding out the name of the killer and stopping him. The killer is not only an intelligent madman, but is also a Hunter. Using a Hunter’s psychical abilities means that the normal police would never capture him. When Leona crashes into Thaddeus, he immediately sets out to get her to safety. However, it turns out that the lady is after the same artifact he is. Circumstances soon compel the two to join forces. For Leona’s protection, she and her extraordinary dog, Fog, move into a townhouse with Thaddeus and his formidable great-aunt.

Another secret society, The Third Circle of the Order of the Emerald Tablet, has been promised the Aurora Stone as a gift from Lord Delbridge and they are en route to pick it up. The Third Circle will also need someone able to work the crystal. It just so happens that Lord Delbridge knows about Leona’s crystal talents.

**** Let me say first off that you should NOT read the first four books of this series in order of release. Instead, read them in the order events happened. Read in the following order:

SECOND SIGHT, Book One
THE THIRD CIRCLE, Book Four
WHITE LIES, Book two
SIZZLE & BURN, Book Three

In this story readers will see the J&J agency’s birth. After this book, the story jumps to the modern day with the title, WHITE LIES (book two). Readers get the last of the solid foundation needed to set up the rest of this series. Krentz made sure to keep all of the era’s rules of etiquettes in mind as the situation evolved around the story’s characters. I found that the secondary characters are almost as interesting as the main. The great-aunt is included in a sub-plot, which makes the entire story even more entertaining. Highly recommended! ****

Author: Jayne Ann Krentz
Title - White Lies (Arcane Society, Book 2)

Set in the present. Clare Lancaster had been raised by her mom and great-aunt in the San Francisco Bay area. She had been a teen when her powers hit her. Clare is a human lie detector, an exotic, level ten. She is also the illegitimate daughter of the multimillionaire, Archer Glazebrook, owner of Glazebrook Industries. Archer knew nothing about Clare’s existence until now. Of course, Clare knows a lot about them already. When her half-sister, Elizabeth, emails Clare for help, Clare jumps to the rescue. Brad, Elizabeth’s husband, has convinced everyone that his wife is unstable. Fearing for Elizabeth’s life, Clare uses her abilities to save her half-sister. In doing so, Clare loses her job, her boyfriend, and her reputation. Rumors are that Clare had an affair with Brad before killing him.

Jake Salter is a Hunter, an exotic, level ten. The Jones & Jones agency sends him to Stone Canyon, Arizona, in search of cabal agents. All of the Glazebrooks are members of the Arcane Society, just as he is. Archer helps Jake get into the high circles while he hunts. However, Archer never told Jake that Clare was coming back to the area. Archer has only known about Clare for a few months, when she came down to help Elizabeth. Since then Clare has not been able to find a new job. Archer hopes Clare will accept a position he has in mind. But Clare’s presence makes some serious waves. Brad’s mother, Valerie, has become an alcoholic and is determined to have revenge on Clare. Myra, Archer’s wife, does not want Clare around to remind her of Archer’s one night stand. Elizabeth is thrilled and Jake is irritated. Clare’s presence complicates his mission. Not to mention the fact that he finds himself unusually attracted to her.

Jake’s closeness affects Clare the same way. In addition, someone is trying to kill Clare. Soon Jake and Clare realize that the best thing to do is team up. With his hunter abilities and her lie detector abilities, they make a hot team!

***** Let me say first off that you should NOT read the first four books of this series in order of release. Instead, read them in the order events happened. Read in the following order:

SECOND SIGHT, Book One
THE THIRD CIRCLE, Book Four
WHITE LIES, Book two
SIZZLE & BURN, Book Three

I found this episode of the series to be totally enthralling. I could not pull myself away. I ended up missing a lot of sleep. Be sure not to begin this story until you have several hours to dedicate to your reading. In my opinion, Jayne Ann Krentz is one of today’s hottest paranormal romance writes on the market! *****

Author: Jayne Ann Krentz
Title - Sizzle & Burn (Arcane Society, Book 3)

Zack Jones works for the J&J (psychic) Detective Agency that is on retainer to an organization (the Arcane Society) devoted to paranormal research. They have an ongoing battle with another secret organization, dubbed Nightshade, that stole a secret alchemical formula that can enhance a person’s psychic power.

Long ago, Judson Tallentyre absconded with the formula. J&J sent Wilder Jones to locate Judson’s lab and destroy it. That is the night that little Raine Tallentyre will always remember as the Night of Fire and Tears. Aunt Vella Tallentyre raised Raine mostly on her own before eventually winding up at St. Damian’s Psychiatric Hospital, where she died. During that time, Raine grew up and learned how to use her inherited level-ten clairaudent senses. When Raine touches something formerly touched by an individual during a strong emotion (such as rage, fear, or desperation), Raine can hear what the individual was thinking or feeling.

After Vella’s death, Raine is getting her aunt’s house ready for sale when she comes across a young woman trapped in the basement. The lady was to have been the latest victim of a serial killer that had been kidnapping streetwalkers in the Seattle and Portland area, the Bonfire Killer. However, by rescuing her, Raine has placed herself in the killer’s sights.

Since Raine, the daughter of the infamous Judson Tallentyre, was involved, Zack is sent. Zack’s talent is a level-ten mirror talent. He senses things by touch. He is able to anticipate and second-guess his opponents. Not only is the Bonfire Killer in the area, but so are agents from Nightshade. Nightshade believes that Raine knows where her father left hidden notes about his formula experiments. Zack and Raine must team up to fight their common enemy while trying to understand the bonfire of passion that blazes between them.

***** Let me say first off that you should NOT read the first four books of this series in order of release. Instead, read them in the order events happened. Read in the following order:

SECOND SIGHT, Book One
THE THIRD CIRCLE, Book Four
WHITE LIES, Book two
SIZZLE & BURN, Book Three

This is the best of the first four stories in this amazing series by Jayne Ann Krentz. If nothing else, this author has proven herself to be multi-talented with her writing skills. Somehow this author is able to blend together a modern contemporary and a paranormal romance, yet keep everything believable. Outstanding! *****

Author: Nina Harper
Title - Succubus in the City

Lilith "Lily" Ad-Hzar is much more than she seems. Over three thousand years ago she was a minor Princess of Babylon and a Priestess of Ishtar. Now she is a succubus, a servant of Satan. Even more, she is one of Satan's inner circle. (Satan is normally seen as a female mortal.) Lily seduces only the creeps around her, takes them some place quiet for a little bed action, and once the men have had their moment of heaven with Lily, they automatically turn to ashes and are delivered to Satan's realm for the reward they so richly deserve. Of course, this makes Earth a little safer for the mortal females.

Lily has three great girlfriends. Desi is a Desire demon. Eros is the Eroticism demon. Sybil is a Greed demon with the gift/curse of prophecy. (She makes a killing on Wall Street in more ways than one.) So Lily has it all. Three great friends, a sympathetic uberboss with impeccable style and no worries about her figure. (She can eat anything and never gain an ounce.) With all those advantages, any woman should be totally happy. But after three thousand years being beautiful, thin, immortal, and serving up bad boys, Lily is beginning to feel lonely.

Nathan Coleman is devilishly handsome. He is a P.I. in the area looking for Craig Branford, a pharmacist from Long Island who has disappeared. Nathan's search has brought him to Lily's apartment in New York. He claims that he only wants to ask a few questions about the missing man; however, ever since Nathan has shown up, Lily and her demon girlfriends have been attacked by a hunting organization called Knight Defenders.

***** A terrific first novel for a new series where demons are not always the "bad guys" (or girls). Be warned that this is NOT a stand-alone book. Nothing is really resolved at all and will be continued in future books. Speaking of this, the next book will be titled Succubus Takes Manhattan and the release date will be around November 25, 2008. But in my opinion, this series is destined to be a winner! Fun, imaginative, wild, and sexy, this is one author that I cannot wait to read more from. Brava! *****

Author: Lynne Viehl
Title - Twilight Fall (July 1, 2008)

Her gift allows Liling Harper to heal in ways that defy medical explain, but can she heal the broken heart of an immortal Darkyn Lord? Against all odds, the woman Valentin Jaus loved survived being infected with his blood, though it should have killed her. When he meets Liling, he finds someone desperately in need of help only he can give. There are those who want to use the young woman for all the wrong reasons, who see her as nothing more than an experiment. Keeping her safe makes V alerting;'s heart long to open and love her, but does he dare?

*** Twilight Fall is a moving story, but I strongly suspect that you need to have read the prior five books in the series to truly appreciate it. Some of the terminology and mythos was difficult to follow as a result of. Ms. Viehl makes a good use of language and showcases the diversity of her characters effectively, and one cannot help but appreciate the beauty of her writing. There is one scene that sensitive readers may wish to skip as it edges towards vulgarity, but as it does not contribute to the plot, this should not be a problem. ***

Author: J.D. Warren
Title - Bedlam, Bath, and Beyond

Suddenly, Samantha can't remember how she arrived at this point in her life, her perfect life, to be specific. Yes, she has two absolutely delightful children, an adoring husband, and lives the ideal, suburban, Stepford Wife existence. However, she does not know what her past is beyond the last three years. Once her mind has awoken to this, the illusion begins to crack and she soon discovers that no, she does not love her husband, he does not love her, the two monsters that are the twins are not her children, and her mother in law is not her mother in law. None of it is real or her life. In actuality, it's all a demonic construct in which she's been trapped, like a figure in a snow globe, until Cor, a Fey being who acts like a supernatural cop, enlightens her and rescues her. Now, back in Vegas, her hometown, Samantha must reconnect with her mother while trying to stay out of the hands of her former captors and thwart their vile plans for the human race. Fortunately, Cor is still there for her, still helping her, along with his "kid sister."

**** From the cover, you'll expect a snappy comedy, but there's more to this story than that. Yes, there is humor, but the emphasis is more on action, danger, and a touch of romance than on tossing out random witticisms. This is a good thing. It's Tam Lin meets a caper movie, but only the good parts of one. ****

Author: Dawn Thompson
Title - The Bride of Time (Time Travel / July 29, 2008)

The story begins in London, the year 1903. Tessa LaPrelle is a scullery maid. When framed for stealing, Tessa flees with pursuit hot on her heels. Somehow, via Lay Lines, she travels almost one hundred years into the past. Tessa finds her morning has suddenly become dusk. Instead of London, she is in Cornwall. It is now 1811.

Tessa is mistaken for someone applying for a governess position at Longhollow Abbey on Bodmin Moor. With nowhere to go and only the clothes on her back, Tessa accepts the governess job. Her charge is named Montclair "Monty" Albert Montague the third. He is the nine-years-old ward of Giles Longworth. (Monty had been the stepson of Giles's sister until she died the year prior, leaving Monty in the care of Giles.) The tension between the child and the surrogate uncle is palpable and Tessa finds herself in the middle of it all. She realizes from the start that Monty is not quite normal, though she is unsure as to why. Monty often seems dangerous and sends chills down her spine. As for Giles, he is an artist with a fondness for brandy. He just happens to be the artist of a painting Tessa had enjoyed viewing in a London gallery during her own time period. In fact, Giles is currently working on the painting Tessa enjoyed the most, The Bride of Time.

Giles is not sure where Tessa came from since he never bothers to ask for references. She is a lady of mystery, an enigma. She came to him out of the night like an answer to a prayer. Though Tessa takes the job of governess, Giles hopes to persuade her to pose for him. Giles needs her to care for Monty, and for him to use her likeness in his current painting, but at the same time Giles must protect her. Monty is one of the lycanthrope, werewolf, and last month the child bit his hand. Giles knows that there is a very good chance that, come the full moon, he will change. The bite of a werewolf is contagious.

Tessa has never been superstitious, but after traveling through time (more than once) she must admit that some supernatural things cannot be explained away; they just ARE. Tessa and Giles find love in the arms of each other; however, Tessa is pursued for a crime she did not commit in her time and Giles is accused of multiple deaths during his. Only together can they hope to find eventual happiness, but how and where seem to have impossible answers.

***** Author Dawn Thompson left our own time period February 8, 2008, but she has left behind a few wonderful stories for her fans. This book, The Bride of Time, is the first published story since the author's death. In my opinion, this is also Dawn Thompson's best work to date!

The idea of beginning a story in the past, then having one of the main characters travel through time deeper into the past, is not new; however, few are as well written as this. There are similarities between the two chosen time periods and the author uses these to actually enhance the tale, making it all believable. As for the secondary characters, I found myself caring for a faithful butler and admiring an elder Gypsy woman. The story pulled in, not only my interest from the first, but my emotions as well. I almost felt as though I stood beside Tessa during her ordeals, peering through the foggy mists for the unknown dangers therein. Fans of reading time travels, historicals, supernaturals, and gothics will adore this book. A thrilling run through some of England's dangerous times, with love as their only escape! I cannot recommend this story highly enough. *****

Author: Lisa Rene Smith
Title - Colin's Conquest

Not just any human can be transformed into a vampire, or Blood Seeker as they prefer to be called. Because she is one of the rare few who can be, Joanna attracts the attention of Colin and of his youngling, Ben, which leads to her becoming their initially unwilling guest. Though she finds the whole bizarre scenario difficult to comprehend, this unusual "father and son" manage to endear themselves to her, but not all Blood Seekers are as kindly inclined. Joanna is a prize others would gladly destroy Colin to gain, and though she knows it not, her love for him could spell chaos for this entire new world to which she has been initiated.

**** With humor and warmth that reminds you of Lynsay Sands' Argeneau clan or Kerrelyn Sparks' vampires, yet with a hint of the poignancy that Lori Herter brought to her blood drinkers, Ms. Smith has created an intriguing series. It is hard to know which of the two vampire males is the most enjoyable, Ben or Colin, for Colin is as suave as you could want, yet Ben has a joie de vive that is utterly captivating. Furthermore, she ends on a cliffhanger that guarantees you will not want to miss Book II. ****

Author: J.R. Ward
Title - Lover Enshrined (Black Dagger #6 / June 3, 2008)

The role of Primale means that Phury must provide many sons and daughters to further his race. Though the role assigned to him is an honor, how can a man who has never known joy know love? And, is the honor worth the sacrifice it calls upon him to make, to never be able to give himself to only one mate, to Cormia,the one who loves him, no matter what? They will need those children, hers and other women's, because the war with the Lessening Society is growing in intensity, costing more blood on both sides.

**** This is a true ensemble piece as readers see what is going on with the entire universe of characters on both sides of the conflict. The hard driving passions of the characters make it a breath taking read, one that fans will definitely love. Ms. Ward has built a very complex world, and her skill is well displayed in these pages. ****

Author: Sharon Sala
Title - The Healer

Saying that Jonah had an unusual childhood would be an understatement. Initially, he was literally raised by wolves until he was brought to humans at the age of two. Early on, he discovered that he had the gift of healing in his touch, but when he heals the wrong person, his life turns to a living hell, forcing him to run, to hide, or face being a lab rat. When he stumbles into a certain diner and meets Lucia, or Luce, he gets his first bit of luck in years. Lucia also has a gift she dares not expose to public scrutiny, the ability to talk to the animals, though not quite as humorously as Rex Harrison did in Doctor Doolittle. Two orphaned, lonely souls find their mates when they meet and love comes as rapidly and magically as can be imagined. However, danger has followed Jonah, as it did the prophet of old. When the final confrontation comes, will good or evil be triumphant?

**** If Sharon Sala writes it, it is worth reading. Though it might not be my favorite of all her works, under any name, her words are both gentle and forceful at the same time, having an ethereal quality that draws you into another time and place that is just half a step from reality. ****

Author: Nina Bangs
Title - Eternal Pleasure (July 2008)

For sixty five million years, the Eleven have waited for this time, the time when the world would be poised on the edge of a violent change, one that would wipe out mankind, unless they, the protectors of humanity, could triumph against their foes. Now, with the long prophesied event upon them, it is up to Ty Endeka and his ten "brothers," for want of a better description, along with Ty's driver, Kelly, to prevent what would amount to Armageddon. For her part, Kelly had no idea what she was getting into when she accepted the job to chauffeur the sinfully handsome man, or any idea what he truly was. She did know Houston could get strange, but as she enters Ty's world, she finds out exactly how weird. Her planet is on the line here, and now, so is her heart. Ty is not an ordinary guy; in fact, he's so different that even if he saves the world, Kelly's looking at a broken heart, but she still has to risk it all.

***** This is a complex book, one that is tough to sum up without letting the cat, complete with sharp fangs, out of the bag, and that would absolutely ruin your enjoyment of this marvelous novel. Ms. Bangs can be relied upon to deliver a story worth her readers' time and money, but she truly reveals her range of ability in this one. We are used to light comedy from her, and it's there, but coupled with high drama, action, and concepts that are brand new, at least to me. Her hero is like nothing you've met before on the printed page, and I seriously doubt elsewhere either. As a native Houstonian, I can add in that she captures the city itself well, too, and a couple of places where she mentioned supernatural goings on taking place, I had to think, "You know, that could explain a bit." *****

Author: Nora Roberts
Title - The Hollow
(Sign of Seven, Book 2 / May 6, 2008)

Once upon a time, three young boys performed a dark ritual to bind their friendship, but in doing so, awakened an ancient evil that has gone on a killing spree at seven year intervals in their small hometown. As the time for its return approaches, the trio unites to stop it. Now adults, the men need their other halves, the women who are their soul mates, to help them use the powers that the ceremony bequeathed them, in order to put the chaos to an end and atone for their foolish act. Fox's resultant "gift" from that night was the ability to read minds, and in Layla, he finds a soul with a similar blessed curse. For her the emphasis is on the curse side, and she is unable to deal with having such a power, or the sudden connection she finds with this man. Despite her struggle, it is something she must learn to accept, for herself, for Fox, and for everyone she cares for's sakes.

**** The drama and tension continue to cast their spells over Ms. Roberts' legions of fans. Her ability to weave relationships is fantastic, and she makes the utterly unrealistic seem totally believable. You will never go wrong with one of her books, and this is not the exception to the rule. ****

Author: Eve Kenin
Title - Hidden (July 1, 2008)

Set near the end of the twenty-first century. All countries and governments crumbled over fifty years ago, replaced by harsh wastelands.

Tatiana and her siblings, Wizard and Yuriko, had been engineered before birth in an isolated laboratory buried by the Old Dominion. Tatiana spent half her life underground, in a cage. Gavin Ward, a man with unlimited resources and no conscience, often sliced bits of her away to study and experiment upon. Gavin and Tolliver, the mad man's partner, believed her to be a key, to both genocide and salvation. Together, the men used her genetic tissue to create a plague that could decimate the world.

Tatiana has escaped the underground lab. Now she is out to kill Ward, Tolliver, and anyone else who gets their thrills by creating plagues. It soon becomes apparent that one of Gavin Ward's plagues has gotten free. Those exposed are contained for the moment. The bodies of the poor victims slowly rot away, leaving mutated zombie-like creatures. The only hope of a cure rests with Tristan, a man Tatiana came across recently in the Northern Waste. No matter how attracted Tatiana is to Tristan, she keeps him at arm length. The scientist may be the world's only hope, but should he learn what an enigma she is, not to mention all her unusual abilities, Tatiana could very well find herself an imprisoned lab rat all over again.

**** This tale begins with the same taste as "Mad Max: Beyond Thunder Dome" and transforms into the same flavor as "Resident Evil". I cannot think of a better way to describe it. The story jumps around a bit, letting in parts of his and her pasts seemingly at random. Yet, somehow, the author makes the whole thing work. The ending feels rushed to me, but all-in-all I found Tatiana's story to be extremely well done. ****

Author: Patti O'Shea
Title - In Twilight's Shadow
(Light Warriors #2 /June 3, 2008)

Maia Frasier was raised among the Gineal and trained to be a troubleshooter. Several years ago, when Maia finally realized that she had fallen to the dark forces and that her younger sister, Ryne, would be sent to kill her, Maia willingly ceded her magical powers. Now she lives in Minneapolis, human but not human, struggling to survive as normal humans do. Maia believes her days of dealing with demons. So she is aghast when a wounded enforcer turns up in her home insisting on sanctuary and claiming that Ryne's life is in danger.

Creed Blackwood is after a high level demon in the area. He desperately needs Maia's help to hunt the demon down, especially since Creed believes his powers are becoming erratic. Lately Creed has been blacking out, acting strangely, and doing things he does not later recall. Creed's Gineal reputation has always been for being cold and lethal. He was the strongest and baddest troubleshooter until Ryne's power level became known. By rights, Creed should have gone to Ryne for sanctuary and help since she is the troubleshooter in charge of the Minneapolis area; however, Creed had withheld vital information in the not-too-distant past which almost caused Ryne's death. (Story in the book titled "In the Midnight Hour".) Needless-to-say, Ryne would refuse. Worse, Ryne would call for healers to help Creed's condition, something he does NOT want.

Maia wants to deny Creed sanctuary too. But when she learns that the demon he is hunting is Seth, Maia knows she really has no choice. Seth is the main reason Maia fell to dark forces. When Maia ceded her magical powers, she also managed to betray Seth in the most devious of ways. The very thought of Seth coming back for revenge terrifies Maia, but even worse is finding out that the powerful demon is after her sister, Ryne.

***** This is the second installment of the Light Warriors and it is just as potent as the first. The main characters of the first book, Ryne and Deke ("In the Midnight Hour"), are secondary characters in this one. Author Patti O'Shea manages to convey how hard it had been for Maia to give up her powers, how difficult it still is for her to fit in the human world, as well as how frustrating it is for Maia not to be allowed to know anything that is going on since she is now consider to be an Outsider. The story is so well written that Maia's anguish and despair seemed to dance on my nerves, making this a compulsive page-turner. *****

Author: Lynsay Sands
Title - Vampire, Interrupted
(Argeneau Vampires, Book 9)

Though Marguerite is beloved by her entire family, it appears that not everyone holds her in equal affection; someone is determined to remove her pretty, seven hundred year old head from her shoulders. Just as her life has taken this dangerous and deadly turn, she meets Julius, another Immortal who gets into her heart like no man ever has, including her late husband. Could he be her lifemate, after all this time? Has he found her just in time to lose her to another's desire for revenge, and what secrets will be revealed as he enters Marguerite's life?

***** Humor, romance, mystery, and delightful plot twists make this one of the strongest Argeneau books yet. Marguerite is a mature heroine, yet still innocent in a way, and not at all worn out or angsty. The complexity of her situation might boggle the mind, but after being a supporting character for so many novels, it's time she got her own, very meaty story. I just hope there is more to come. *****

Author: Katie Macalister
Title - Playing With Fire (May 6, 2008)

May is a Shadow Walker and a notorious thief. Created to be the clone of a na-aid, Cyrene, she often seems more vibrant than her "twin." Perhaps this is why fate has dealt her this hand, to be the mate of the wyvern of the Silver sept of Dragon, Gabriel. She never planned to fall in love with anyone, she doesn't like romance and all that stuff. Besides that, she has to avoid a demon lord, a blackmailer, and the law of the Otherworld. But, she can handle dragon fire and Gabriel is certainly agreeable, even though May tried to steal from him. The fate of the world and the hearts of two lovers are once again bound in this latest adventure in Ms. Macalister's exciting realm.

***** Elevated to primary player status, Gabriel is truly the star he was always meant to be. Fans of the Aisling Grey books will be thrilled to finally see him get his due, and have no fears, Aisling, Drake, and Jim are significant co-stars in this. I did miss our favorite cabbie, but am sure we have not seen the last of him. If you love your daring deeds liberally sprinkled with good humor, then this is a perfect read. *****

Author: Terry Spear
Title - Heart of the Wolf (April 1, 2008)

Long ago, Bella fled her wolfpack in order to escape a forced mating with another werewolf, one she not only did not love, but who was worthy of fear. Besides those two facts, her heart had always belonged to Devlyn, although she was a red and he a gray. When she is captured while in wolf form, Devlyn is the one who rescues her, and it is he who stands beside her as the past catches up to her. Because she rejected the red wolves' alpha, a band of rogues is killing human women and searching for Bella. Now, she must face the results of her choices and the man who forced her to make them. Yet, because she knows now that Devlyn loves her and will fight for her, Bella has something she did not have before; hope.

**** Ms. Spear has built a fascinatingly complex world that fans of Kelley Armstrong or Susan Krinnard will feel right at home visiting. It is nice to see a beta hero get a starring role as well, since not all guys can be Superman, but still be strong. Though she is a new author to me, Terry Spear is definitely a name I will now be aware of. ****

Author: Shanna Swendson
Title - Don't Hex with Texas
(Enchanted Inc. #4 / April 1, 2008)

Katie Chandler left her job at Magic, Spells & Illusion, Inc. in New York to return to her hometown of Cobb, Texas (population 2,500). Not that she wanted to leave, but felt like it would be best for everyone, especially for Owen Palmer, the man she loved. Cobb is not on any major magical power lines, so the chances of any magical enemies showing up are between slim and none. Katie had lived her entire life in Cobb without seeing anything remotely strange. Of course, Katie slips back into her old life seamlessly. She lives on the family farm, works at the family store (Chandler Agricultural Supply), fends off her mother's attempts at matchmaking, and is totally bored! That changes when her mom comes home talking about the strange things happening in town; things no one else even seemed to notice but her.

Katie's first thought is a rogue wizard, but that is ridiculous. No major magical power lines mean weak spell casting, if any. The rest of the family wants to commit her mom, but Katie cannot help but wonder if her mom is an immune, like herself. So Katie goes into investigation mode. Sure enough, some hooded figure is casting minor spells and committing petty crimes. Katie reports the activity to her old boss Merlin (Yes, THAT Merlin!) and soon Sam, a friendly gargoyle from her past, shows up to scout around. Then Katie spies a magical advertisement in a local magazine. Phelan Idris has an online correspondence course set up and is teaching (to those with at least a small amount of magic and can actually see the ads he placed) how to work magic. This is not something Sam and Katie can deal with alone.

When Owen Palmer shows up to help out, Katie realizes that time and distance have not lessened her feelings for the powerful wizard. Her matchmaking mom insists Owen stay at the farm too, in a room near Katie. Things heat up even more when Idris brings in a large group of amateur wizards and has them target Owen. But Idris forgot one thing; Cobb is still part of Texas and you simply do NOT hex with Texas!

***** Word has it (in the Advanced Reviewer Copy of this book) that this is the conclusion to the Enchanted Inc. series; however, author Shanna Swendson left one large thread dangling. Fans will be disappointed should this be the last adventure of Katie and Owen. I have high hope that the author will take that thread and run with it!

As always, Shanna Swendson has blended romance, magic, suspense, and humor to make one of the best stories of the year. If you have not read the previous titles you will not be lost, but you will not get the full impact of the subplots either. My advice is to start with book one, Enchanted Inc, and read them in order. Surprises, twists, and loads of fun await any reader smart enough to pick up this gem! *****

Author: Shanna Swendson
Title - Don't Hex With Texas

Kate Chandler thought she was leaving the magic behind when she left New York and Enchanted Inc to go home to a mundane existence in Texas. However, her mystical problems seem to have followed her, including Idris, the evil ex-Enchanted Inc employee who has made life difficult for her former bosses, and for Kate herself. After only a short time, Kate has not only her whacky family to deal with, but Merlin and Owen, the lover she left behind for his own good. She also has a dark magic situation to cope with and her own mixed up feelings.
*** If you enjoyed the first three books in the series, then you will not be disappointed in this latest one. With the home town feel that makes the Sookie Stackhouse series so easy to read, and the zany humor of Mary Janice Davidson, Ms. Swendon has fused at least two, perhaps three genres effectively to take her readers on a fun ride with just enough suspense and romance to balance the laughs. ***

Author: Gena Showalter
Title - Darkest Pleasure (July 1, 2008)

Reyes is the last man Dannika should trust. For one thing, he's bound to the demon of pain and forbidden to know pleasure. For another, he and his cohorts kidnapped her and have tried to exterminate her family. Yet, now, she is the one woman he wants and he is the only man who can keep her safe. Mortals determined to end Reyes and his fellow Lords of Darkness' existence have tried to use Dannika, demons want her dead, and now, she learns she and the other women in her family are they key to some sort of treasure. Her choices now might be the difference between love and death, and could prove critical for the world itself.

**** Of all the books in this series, this is the most moving and compelling. The concluding chapters will simply stun you with the drama of them. I'm reminded somewhat of the Key to Time series from the classic Doctor Who era and also of Terry Brooks' earliest works. However, there is much more romance and passion in this. You will not be sorry if you add this to your collection. ****

Author: Lynsay Sands
Title - Vampires are Forever

Being woken from a sound sleep to go fetch the surfer dude of her boss' family from the airport does not make Inez a happy camper, but she obeys and heads to Heathrow to pick up Thomas Argeneau, only to have him appropriate her cab and take off. Despite this rocky start, when they meet, Inez soon realizes Thomas is more than a slacker and he sees that she is his soul mate. However tempting romance is, it will have to wait until they accomplish the mission that brought Thomas overseas; finding his beloved aunt, Marguerite, the clan's matriarch, who has recently decided to end her decades of being a SAHV, stay at home vampire, and become a private detective. She has gone missing, and all of her children and the nieces and nephews for whom she has been a de facto mother, are more than a little worried. It's no simple quest, but one that gives the two new lovers ample time to get to know one another as they race around the globe pursuing leads and staying barely a step ahead of danger.
**** Whether vampires are forever or not, I hope the Argeneaus are. Fans of the series can always expect good fun as well as romance, and this time, they get adventure as well. Though there are few surprises, it's a comfortable read that moves well before ending with a mystery yet to be resolved, making you very eager to plunge into Book III in the trilogy. ****

Author: Jamie Leigh Hansen
Title - Betrayed

Two lovers in catlike fashion, have nine lives, moving through the centuries as they strive to break the curse that keeps them apart. Hampered by amnesia with each new birth, yet still under the gaes, Kalyss enters into her tenth life, the one that is her, and her beloved Dreux's, final opportunity to be together. If she fails this time, he will be doomed for all time and she will pass into the afterlife alone and without love. This time though, her memory of all her pasts comes back with violence as her magic is awakened and with it the realization of her mission. Haunted by nine lives worth of mistakes and not knowing who can help her now, Kalyss will need all that she has ever been to achieve her goal. Unfortunately, in the end, the ultimate choice is not hers alone to make.

*** Though this is a very different, unusual read, be advised that like all reincarnation themed novels, there is much jumping around in time as past and present shift abruptly. Nonetheless, this is an ambitious, imaginative debut and hopefully, readers can look forward to more from this author. She certainly redefines character growth. ***

Author: Jeaniene Frost
Title - Halfway to the Grave

One half vampire and the other half human, Cat started life as being out of the ordinary. Ever since, she's tried to live up to that label and made it her mission in life to destroy the monsters. However, when her amateur Buffy act goes awry, she finds herself saddled with a mentor/partner who is supposed to be her enemy. Bones has been a vampire for over two centuries, and finding Cat is a trial and a treasure for him. With her help, the undead bounty hunter will be better able to off the monsters himself, but first, she needs training and they both need to learn to work together and trust. The latest job is one more deadly than either anticipated and will prove to be the ultimate test of the bond they reluctantly, then passionately forged.

***** Do not walk, run to your car or keyboard and get this book immediately if you love a good urban fantasy. Cat and Bones' explosive chemistry sizzles off the page, but is never graphic and does not go too far, as so many of the books lately are wont to do. There is also a thread of genuine Christian faith running through it that is not preachy, but adds depth to the story. Julie Kenner is the only other urban fantasist I've encountered who weaves that in so well. Aside from the well drawn characters, this book as nonstop action and a fantastic plot. I can hardly wait for more! *****

Author: Jeanine Frost
Title - One Foot in the Grave (April 29, 2008)

To save the man she loves from the government, Cat Crawford left Bones years ago. In the meantime, she has adapted to her new life, exacting justice on rogue vampires as an agent of the United States. Thanks to Bones, who is himself a vampire, she is among the most adept at what she does, which makes her a target for assassination. Once again, she needs him in her life, although everyone else says it's a doomed relationship and he should be avoided. Bones is possibly the only person better at what Cat does than she is, and he does bring out her best. Though Cat planned on keeping things professional, Bones had other ideas.

***** If you want to read a book that follows a formula and is virtually indistinguishable from the last urban fantasy romance you read, or reads like a standard romance, except for the fact that the hero or heroine has fangs, fur, or both, then look elsewhere. The Night Huntress series is fresh, though it does have some of the hallmarks of the genre. Cat and Bones are a fantastic pair, perfectly simpatico, even when they are at odds. What's more, he's one of the most compelling heroes since J.D. Robb's Roarke. Don't just take my word for it though, read the books. *****

Author: Cait London
Title - A Stranger's Touch

At the tender age of ten, the Bartel triplets were taken from their home (without the mother's knowledge or consent) for testing at the Blair Institute for Parapsychology. What followed was three days of horrible experiments and testing before their mother, Greer, could swoop down and rescue them. Greer had been away, helping the police with a case at the time her three daughters had been taken. Those three days were so traumatic to the little girls that they would never be able to forget a moment of their time within the institute.

Tempest is the middle girl. Greer believes that Tempest holds more of their ancestors' Viking blood than the others. She is a fighter. With a light touch, Tempest simply KNOWS about the object's owner. At all times, Tempest wears gloves. In fact, she is well known for the hot pink elbow-length gloves she often wears. For so long she has been hunting a certain old brooch. This brooch has a sort of curse on or against her family. Finally, Tempest has the brooch almost within her grasp. Problem is the current owner, Marcus.

Marcus Greystone is used to women throwing themselves at him. He is handsome, rich, and goes through women like tissue. Tempest is the only one who had ever spent the night with him and left before he even woke up the next day. Marcus has a meticulously structured life now, the aftereffect of a chaotic childhood. He uses the brooch as bait, to lure Tempest back to him, and offers her a bargain: Tempest uses her abilities to help solve the twenty-one-year old cold-case murder of his parents near Lake Michigan and she may have the brooch.

Tempest, like her sisters, could be very vulnerable near water. Water could act like some sort of portal for danger. To help Marcus, Tempest must constantly be near Lake Michigan. Tempest is in danger from whatever evil entity is connected to the brooch. There is also danger from the mortal world. As Tempest digs into Greystone's past, someone begins getting nervous.

***** I simply cannot say enough wonderful things about this story. It grabbed me within the very first paragraph and never let me go. I repeat, it NEVER let me go. The characters are realistic. It is so well written that I could easily see and understand everything Marcus, Tempest, and the other Bartels felt. Make sure you have a quiet day ahead, order pizza, and turn off all connections to the outside world before you even open the cover of this gem. Absolutely fantastic! *****

Author: Sherrilyn Kenyon
Title - Dream Chaser

Xypher has one chance and one month to save himself from an eternity in Hades and to claim revenge on the woman who sent him there. However, the woman in question is no lady and she manages to use dark powers to bind the Dream Hunter to a mere mortal, or so she thinks. It turns out that Simone is no mere mortal, but one used to dealing with ghosts, Dark Hunters, and all things strange. Her gift is to be able to help those who have been wrongly killed find peace, and while she might be a somewhat limiting factor for Xypher, as the love between them develops, she becomes his great strength as well. By loving him though, the good doctor becomes embroiled in the war between the Destroyer and Acheron's allies. Not only souls, but the fate of the world comprise the stakes now.

**** Though the Dark Hunters are my favorite beings in this world, aside from Acheron himself, the Dream Hunters are also fascinating and this story is no less so. I would have liked to have a few Ash/Aphrodite scenes, but the lack did not keep there from being the humor that has marked this series from singing between the darker counterpoints. Don't let this pass you by, especially if you love to see redemption. ****

Author: Charlaine Harris
Title - From Dead to Worse (May 6, 2008)

In the aftermath of Katrina, many towns in Louisiana struggle to cope with the havoc and fall out. There is a storm coming, though, that makes nature's fury seem pale in comparison. The head of Las Vegas' vampire kingdom wants to take over Louisiana and Arkansas, and is prepared to do it in a bloody fashion, no pun intended. Since her love life has entangled her with the local vamps, Sookie Stackhouse finds herself smack in the middle of things; as if she didn't have enough to juggle between her were-tiger boyfriend vanishing, tensions between the aforementioned former vampire romantic ties, and her perpetual family woes that have just taken an interesting twist or two. When the smoke clears, will Sookie be among those still standing?

**** Both fun and tense at once, this series remains a consistent winner. Sookie's plain talking view of life is easy to read and relate to; she somehow makes it seem almost normal to be in love triangles with vampires and were critters or to have kin that are of the fey sort. Rather than being angsty, she rolls with the punches and makes even the worst moments worth a smile. Fans of the series should enjoy, at least I did, the way her romantic life alters in this book. ****

Author: Margaret Lucke
Title - House of Whispers
(Bk 1 Supernatural Properties series)

Claire Scanlan is starting her life over again. It is her first day on-the-job at Golden Gate Properties in the Bay Area and she is late for the team meeting. She arrives just as her boss, Tess McMillan, is handing Avery Collier the property that should have belonged to Claire (had she been on time). Since Claire arrives at the same time Tess gives it to Avery, the boss decides both ladies could meet Ben Grant, the seller, and let him decide which woman would get the listing.

Ben Grant's brother, the world-known architect Stefan LeGrande, not only built the house going up for sale, but it is also the one Stefan chose to live in with his family. People refer to the masterpiece as the LeGrande House. Problem is that Stefan and his family died in the house, a quadruple homicide. It is said that the son killed them before turning the gun upon himself. Only Eden, the stepdaughter, survived. Eden had spent the night next door with a friend. Eden is very young and refuses to go onto the street, much less enter the house again. As it is, no one wants to actually purchase and live in a home, no matter how grand and famous, with such a violent background. Two other real estate agencies had already failed to sell the house. Yet when Ben meets Claire and Avery, he knows immediately, by sheer instinct, that he is going to choose Claire. There is just something special about her.

The moment the door to LeGrande House opens, Claire smells blood. However, no one else does. No one else feels the sudden chills or hear the ghostly whispers either. But Claire refuses to decline the offer of listing the estate. The commission on the sale would be huge and selling something that so many others could not would boost her career. Of course, Avery is not happy with this at all and is determined to sell the house even though it is not her own listing. It is up to Claire to somehow explore her new senses and try to figure out exactly what the restless spirits are trying to tell her.

*** The story starts out slow, but gradually picks up speed. The character of Avery is the best. Everyone knows of an employee like her. She is the perfect back-stabber in business that looks so perfect and charming while stomping all over coworkers with her high heels. The author carefully dishes out parts of her past in such a way that I cannot help but feel sorry for her. I understand where Avery is coming from, why she is the way she is. Even so, I found myself hating her for her scruples and work ethic. However, all the characters are not as well developed. As for the romance blooming between Ben and Claire, they seemed to jump into bed way too fast to be believable. It seemed almost out-of-the-blue. Otherwise, their romance is great. I hope that Claire's untapped powers have some surprises in store for me in the next installment. ***

Author: Gena Showalter
Title - The Darkest Kiss

For centuries, Anya has lived to seduce and cause chaos, but now she has managed to cause Cronus, the ruler of the Underworld, to want her dead. Yet, Lucien, the incarnation of death, does not inspire anything like fear or hate in her, just desire. Though Lucien finds it unbelievable that a beauty like her could want a scarred warrior such as he, he finds himself torn between duty and the passionate yearning Anya inspires. When it appears duty will win out, Anya reveals information that sets Lucien and his brother warriors on a quest to stop something that could cause worse than the world ending to befall creation, thus gaining a slight reprieve and a chance to become even closer to this powerful being she is coming to love as much as she lusts for him.

*** Ms. Showalter presents intriguing concepts in this imaginative tale. Though I would have enjoyed a bit more of a balance between the main story and the heat, there is plenty of solid plot to satisfy the intellect, while those who crave the more sensual will be sated. ***

Author: Kerrelyn Sparks
Title - Undead Next Door

At first, Jean-Luc thinks she's a spy, but Heather just wants to redo his designs into fashions for real women. Thus begins a romance that is more unusual than any she might have imagined falling into. From that moment on, he can't get her out of his mind, especially when his oldest enemy makes her into a target on which to avenge the grudge he's born Jean-Luc for a few centuries. You see, the two adversaries are both vampires, and this pretty mortal and her daughter have landed in the middle of a war between them. No matter how much Heather might love the new man in her life, can she deal with the truth of what he is?

**** As with all other works by this talented author, you are sure to find yourself drawn into an exciting, yet fun world. The Love At Stake series is filled with fascinating vampires and the mortals who love them. As the world continues to grow in complexity, it becomes as addictive as Choco-Blood is to the vamps. ****

Author: Kat Martin
Title - A Season of Strangers (May 2008)

A day at the beach turns into a pivotal moment for two sister, Julie and Laura, especially Julie. For a moment, time freezes and they are taken from the world, but when the moment is over, they do not quite know what happened. In a seemingly separate event, Julie's boss, Patrick Donovan, the man she has loved from afar has a heart attack that should have killed him, despite his youth. Yet, somehow, he not only survives, but seems reborn. No longer is he a drunken, addicted playboy, but now lives cleanly and is exactly the right sort of man to love Julie and for her to safely give her heart to. Changed or not, Patrick has to face the consequences of his past, consequences that might prove deadly for both he and the woman he loves. However, since he is not truly Patrick, but an alien who has borrowed his body for a short time, he has little to risk, except to his heart.

**** Ms. Martin has written perhaps her most fascinating and complex novel to date. Adventure is mingled with heart touching and rending moments. I loved the movie Starman and even the novelization of it, and this not only compares to but surpasses it. Definitely put it on your TBR list, even if you don't normally read alien books. ****

Author: Nancy Atherton
Title - Aunt Dimity, Vampire Hunter

Lori Shepherd's life in England is happy, albeit unusual; she lives with a ghost who regularly advises her on how to solve mysteries, the titular Aunt Dimity. Lately though, Lori's been somewhat off, largely due to her five year old sons entering school for the first time and her separation anxieties. This all takes on a new sense of urgency when the boys report seeing a vampiric figure lurking nearby. Since she does live in a benevolently haunted house, Lori, despite being skeptical, can be open minded enough to entertain the idea that such beings exist, and begins to investigate. As she does, rumors of Dracula's cousins, forty year old murders, family secrets, and madness fuel her sleuthing spirit. Yet, the truth is something she never could have imagined.

**** The gentleness of this book makes it a great read for mystery lovers of any age. Though innocent enough to be safe for those still reading Nancy Drew, there is enough sophistication to interest their parents as well. Aunt Dimity is a fun spook, but the living are just as eccentric and add equal amounts of color to the landscape. ****

Author: Lori Handeland
Title - Thunder Moon

Grace McDaniel may have been forced to accept that werewolves exist, but she's still the epitome of pragmatism. She had believed that the monsters were all gone, taken care of by the Jager Sachers, but now, something is killing people, leaving them heartless. Is it the new doctor in town? There is something odd about Ian Walker, to be sure, but she does not want to believe him, the man she is falling in love with, evil. Trying to prove him innocent, to stop the murders, stay alive, and keep Edward's blasted band of merry men and women out of her town, Grace will have to believe in more than she wants to and make sacrifices that would break any heart, even one as braced against sentiment as hers.

***** Ms. Handleland has created a stunning story that has just enough action, romance, and magic to make it one for lovers of all sorts of urban fantasy and adventure. The only bad thing about it is there are implications that the tales of the Night Creatures might be at an end, and I would severely miss Edward and company. *****

Author: Nancy Haddock
Title - La Vida Vampire (April 1, 2008)

What if Gidget had been turned into a vampire, albeit two centuries plus ago? She might have become Francesca Marinelli's best vampire girlfriend. Cesca has been around for a long time, but she's new to the world, since she was buried "alive" for over two hundred years and has only recently rejoined the world. She's discovering both that and her powers, and finding many surprises. She's definitely different from most vamps you'll read about; she's a virgin, prefers drinking Starblood to straight from the vein, likes to shop at Wal-Mart, and loves to surf. She also has a job, working as a guide for a ghost tour. Life, or afterlife, whatever you want to call it, is good, until a smarmy client turns up dead, and Cesca is a suspect, and there's a version of the KKK for vampires after her. She also has a stalker and a potential new boyfriend. Whoever thought being undead, or underdead rather, was all eternal life and being cool had better think again! At least the new guy seems to be a good protector and it does seem like Cesca's gaining some extremely handy new talents.

**** Cesca is a vampire that I'd like to get to know; she'd be a fun friend to have. Adding in a murder plot and a touch of romance only sweetens the deal. If you enjoy watching humorous mysteries on television or at the movies, you will adore this. The comedy is not banal, but natural, adding to the action and helping it along, not simply injected for a gag's sake. ****

Author: Natalie Stenzel
Title - Pandora's Box

Have you ever been given a box as a gift? I don't mean a box with a gift in it, but a box? If you have, then you know how Pandemina (Mina) Avery feels when she learns her grand inheritance is an ancient cornerstone, which may or may not have something valuable inside it. Well, from the description of the possible contents, valuable is in the eyes of the beholder. However, she soon learns that what the stone contains is something either of far greater worth than a mortal can calculate, or an incredible pain in something, or a bit of both. She unleashes a Puca from the stone, and lets chaos, magic, humor, and unexpected romance into her own life. The Fey being is NOT a giant rabbit with a fondness for taking a drink, but he, Riordan, can shapeshift, and let's just say one of his forms is temptation embodied. However, he's got a quicksilver disposition, a wont for trouble, and he is otherworldly, so Mina might be better off with Teague, the handsome man who has come into her life recently. Torn between two loves, she can never anticipate the resolution to her problem, which is only the beginning of a whole new set of two thousand year old troubles.

**** By now, you should be wondering what this is all about, but to tell you more would be to ruin a lovely story. At first blush, it's just a paranormal, romantic bit of fluff, but as you get into it, a depth is revealed. This is only fitting, given how wrong Mina was about her inheritance. If Ms. Stenzel ever takes it into her head to plot a murder mystery, she will rival Agatha Christie on talent for red herrings. ****

Author: Colleen Gleason
Title - Bleeding Dusk
(Bk 2, The Gardella Vampire Chronicles)

In the wake of the devastating events of the last book, Victoria finds herself striving to adjust to her new role as the head of the Vampire hunters just as the vampires are maneuvering towards yet another play for dark power. Victoria and her fellow Venators must prevent them from gaining the secrets a puissant alchemist holds, secrets more valuable than turning lead to gold, and more deadly for the human race if the monsters learn them. Once again, she finds that she must place trust in the two men she dares not trust, though her heart begs her to love them both, Max, the man who she first met as a fellow hunter, but who has since seemed to be on the side of the vampires, and Sebastian, the grandson of a vampire, and a man with more secrets than anyone has any business having. As blood is spent all around her, Victoria follows a path that will lead her to the most ghastly of fates and require even more sacrifices.

**** Gripping action will chill your blood, and the detail of the prose is so vivid that you will believe it is all happening right here and now around you. The "triangle" continues to intensify, but to my view, Sebastian might be the stronger contender. He and Max are two of the most intriguing anti-heroes to come on the scene. Even if you normally shun historicals, if you love a good story, particularly a good vampire one, get this whole series. ****

Author: Karen Neches
Title - Earthly Pleasures

Skye's life is Heavenly, literally so, as she has never lived anywhere other than Heaven itself. She's a greeter, in charge of helping newly deceased souls adjust to being dead. When Ryan Blaine, one of the hottest stars on Earth, has a near death experience and is in Skye's office for only a moment, it's long enough for her to fall in love. Heaven is a bit less perfect for her after this meeting, but this is truly a star crossed romance. Besides, he has a lover back on Earth, even if he's finding her to be less than the angel she once was.

*** Granted, if you exam theology in this book closely, you'll not be happy, but if you take Earthly Pleasures as a simple, sweet story, you will find it a light, enjoyable read. Skye's interactions with the newly dead girl, Chelsea, are particularly fun. Though not a profound book, it is fun. ***

Author: P.C. Cast
Title - Chosen (House of Night, #3)

Zoey Redbird has far more problems than your average teen faces. First off, she's been Marked as a fledgling vampire; second, she is the most powerful fledgling in ages and has been set apart for service to Nyx; third, rather than cutting ties to her human boyfriend, she imprinted him; fourth, the hottest guy and the hottest teacher in her school both seem to want her; fifth, her best friend was turned into an undead monster; sixth, she has discovered her mentor is not Glinda the Good, but an evil, two or more faced expletive deleted, and seventh, the person she can trust most turns out to be the one she thought was the evil witch with a b. Finally, her birthday is on Christmas Eve. The last may seem inconsequential, but her dislike of that fact begins a chain of events that will culminate in several of those problems being lifted, but not in a way Zoey finds at all comforting or positive. Being Chosen is not only an honor and a gift, but a burden, not to mention, a pain in the backside. Soon, Zoey will find herself being cut off from those she loves and left with only her knowledge that she has a great evil to stop.

***** Be prepared to be as completely blown away as you probably were a few months ago when you closed the Deathly Hallows. You might even be more floored. This is a stunning, intense, story that will, no pun intended, grab you by the throat and refuse to be put down when you hit the halfway point, if not sooner. I wanted to slowly savor Chosen, but once the action kicked up the pace, it was impossible to not finish all at once. The character development is incredible and drives this series. I want the next book RIGHT NOW. *****

Author: Karen Kelley
Title - Double Dating with the Dead

What do you get when you put two ghosts from the Old West, a devout skeptic, and a psychic together in a hotel? This book is the short answer. Selena sees ghosts and tries to help them move on; in fact, she has a successful business doing so. Trent does not believe in all the mumbo jumbo and is dedicated to unmasking her as a fraud and exposing her in print. Thanks to her mother's manipulations, the couple winds up staying together for two weeks in a haunted hotel where Selena will do her best to convince Trent that spirits are real. They even strike a wager on it, though Selena wouldn't mind losing and spending a night in his bed. Meanwhile, the two ghosts are not happy to not be believed in and do their best to take full advantage of the situation. They are also lonely and don't' want the pair to leave. So, they prolong things as much as possible.

*** Even though things get a bit too focused on the steam rather than spooks, this is a fun read, especially with the final twist in the tale. I loved the ghosts, their love story was as much or more fun than the human pair's. ***

Author: Catherine Anderson
Title - Morning Light

Loni McEwan's life was shattered by the consequences of her psychic gift two years ago, but when a new vision points her in the right direction to find a lost, missing boy, she follows her instincts and reaches out the the one man her talent says can pull off the rescue, Clint Harrigan, a devout non-believer in psychic mumbo-jumbo - until faced with proof that she's for real. Soon, the somewhat antagonistic pair find themselves working as a team in the wilderness, fighting the elements, the odds, and an attraction that neither was prepared to discover as they race time to save a life.

***** It may be impossible for Ms. Anderson to write a bad book. Though technically, this would not be shelved on the Christian fiction aisle, Loni and Clint's strong moral convictions formed by their faith make it an excellent book for all put the most Puritanical Christian readers. Even those put off by the, as some people call it, "weird" stuff, i.e., ESP, that element, though vital, is not a prepossessing issue for the most part. What makes this book are the characters and their building relationship set against the background of a life or death quest. *****

Author: Lynn Kurland
Title - The Mage's Daughter
(Nine Kingdoms trilogy, Book 2)

She was simply Morgan of Melksham before. She was a shieldmaiden, a mercenary famous for a disgust of magic and mages. Her life changed forever when she had laid her hand on a magical knife fashioned by Mehar of Angesand and her dreams began. Morgan found out too late that Miach was not who she had been led to believe. He is, in fact, all the things Morgan has hated her entire life. He not only has magic, he is a prince and an archmage! In the end, she had drank a poisoned brew from Lothar and nearly died. But Morgan wins her fight with death and recuperates with Nicholas, the man who practically raised her. Once able to stand, though not well, Morgan travels to the one place she knows Miach will not follow her, to Gobhann. It was in Gobhann where Morgan trained in sword battle under the infamous Scymgeour Weger. Once novices enter the gates they leave by either earned Weger's mark to leave or (according to rumor) are tossed off the highest tower. In Gobhann Morgan would regain her strength and since no magic works within the gates, Miach will be just a painful memory.

Prince Mochriadhemiach "Miach", archmage of Neroche, may have taken Morgan to Nicholas for care, but he kept tabs on how she fairs with his magic. When Miach can no longer sense Morgan, he rushes to find her. Miach risks his life, his honor, and the safety of not only the realm of Neroche but all the Nine Kingdoms together to fetch her out of Gobhann. To do so, Miach must enter the gates and earn Weger's mark without magic while trying to locate Morgan and convince her to leave with him. The thought of a future without Morgan is too painful for him to even consider. But Morgan refuses to acknowledge her magic or destiny. It is up to Miach to help Morgan overcome her fears.

Morgan is in for many more surprises than she could possibly imagine. She quickly learns who her powerful parents really were. This is followed by being presented to her royal elven grandparents, who believed her dead until Miach brings her forward. During it all, Morgan and Miach are being hunted by dark and evil creatures who are able to side step much of Miach's magic.

Neroche is under a slow, but calculating, assault by some unknown species of magic. It is the same magic their dark pursuers are made of. Unless Miach and Morgan can figure out the source and a way to defeat it, the entire Nine Kingdoms will fall. Yet before that is possible, Morgan must find the strength and courage to face who and what she really is, as well as allow herself to love an archmage.

***** In book two, vital secrets are revealed in all their splendid and revolting glories. The publisher, Berkley, is lucky to have found this author before Baen, BL, TOR, or another did. There is romance, but no bedroom scenes. This is romance in a mercenary's way. (Try to figure that one out!) You do not have to read the first book to understand everything. This story updates the new readers and refreshes the memory of previous readers. (I missed book one, but will locate it.) With this single title author Lynn Kurland has become one of my favorite fantasy authors; though this trilogy is not classified as Fantasy. My husband is currently reading this title and seems as enthralled as I found myself to be.

All-in-all, this is one wild ride with a huge magical touch added. The story flows smooth as silk. The ending does not tie up all loose ends, yet I did not feel cheated in the least. I can hardly wait to see what happens next! *****

Author: Carrie Vaughn
Title - Kitty and the Silver Bullet

The saying goes you can't go home again, and if you are a banished werewolf, this is doubly so. However, when her Mom is diagnosed with cancer, Kitty will defy the laws and everyone who would stand in her way to be there for her family. Of course, she finds herself in trouble. Between landing in a war between two vampires battling for local supremacy and becoming the incentive for other werewolves to defy the abusive Alphas of her former pack, Kitty and her new lover have their hands more than full, and this time, Cormac can't bail her out, since he's in jail. It's time for her to learn what she's made of, no matter what.

**** True to life, human drama and supernatural pathos are intricately woven into perhaps the most intense, compelling, and fascinating of all the Kitty books. Though there is less humor, given the situations, Kitty is one of the best characters to hit the scene, and the two men in her life, especially Cormac, continue to provide added depth to the mix without getting up to one's chin in angst. ****

Author: Kimberly Raye
Title - Your Coffin or Mine?

Countess Lil's plate is full trying to keep her credit cards paid down enough to continue with her steady shopping therapy trips without humiliation, keep her parents off her back about providing pure blood grandchildren, trying to help her brother's wedding to the mortal Mandy come off while appeasing her mother who wants Lil to match said brother with another born vampire, and now, she needs to find Ty, the made vampire bounty hunter she has fallen for, albeit unwisely, and who is captive and mentally asking her for help. Vicariously feeling his pain is only added incentive to accomplish the goal, but she genuinely cares for him, even if the relationship should not be pursued. As Ty's time runs out, Lil keeps on searching, not counting the cost, much, and running into trouble.

**** Making a date with Dead End Dating means you have room in your schedule for mental fun. Lil and her cohorts keep you chuckling, even in high tension moments. Just relax and have another bite of brain candy. ****

Author: Christina Dodd
Title - Scent of Darkness (Darkness Chosen Book I)

After a thousand years, the Wilder family is offered its first glimmer of hope. Thanks to a deal with the devil a millennia ago, all the men in their family are cursed and gifted. Their gifts grant them extraordinary abilities, but the price is their souls. Yet, when Jasha Wilder, the eldest son of this generation, realizes he loves Ann Smith, his plain Jane assistant, and she is chosen by a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, breaking the curse becomes something they can believe might be achieved. However, from her birth, Ann has been under the scrutiny of Hell, and with dark forces out for her blood, Jasha will have to fight to keep his woman safe.

**** Beauty and the beast takes on an unusual direction as it is the beauty of the soul versus the beastly soul that is the focus here. Though the subject matter is quite dark, it is in the darkest night that poets say millions of stars provide you with light. Moreover, there is an unexpected warmth seen among the Wilder family members that also stands in contrast to their doomed status. Scent of Darkness is an intriguing start to what promises to be a compelling series. ****

Author: Deborah Wright
Title - The History of Lucy's Love Life in Ten and a Half Chapters

Though Lucy and Anthony are both phobic about committing, they find themselves on the brink of doing just that with each other, and Lucy runs from that. She wants to be free to pursue other men, footloose and fancy free. Or does she? When she gets hold of a time machine, she has an opportunity to find out how well she knows herself and soon encounters Ovid, who turns out to be a coward, Lord Byron and his crowd, and Al Capone. Things go truly badly with Capone though, and she finds she has to undo time to fix things, but the price of doing so is as stiff as that of not doing so, it would seem. How many times can one woman lose her true love? How will Lord Byron cope on reality TV? These and more questions are answered in ten and a half fun chapters.

**** I've endured many chick lit novels and enjoyed quite a few time travels, and this is nothing like any of them. Comedic thrill abound, making it read something like one of the humor oriented Doctor Who episodes, if Bridget Jones was a companion, that is. The strongest aspect is the constant sense of not knowing where this story will take you, as Ms. Wright throws curve ball after curve ball at her readers. ****

Author: Laurie Brown
Title - Hundreds of Years to Reform a Rake

Josie Drummond finds herself not only hired by a ghost, but as part of her work, taking a trip back in time to prevent her employer, Deverell Thornton, the Ninth Earl of Waite, from meeting with a ruinous event. A modern woman in the Regency era is somewhat of a fish out of water, but with the help of Deverell the ghost and her own wits, she manages. She also begins to fall in love with the living man, Dev, who is in his own way as charming as the ghost he will become. Romance might be the angle she would like best to pursue, but there are mysteries to solve, a fraud to unmask, and she does need to decide which version of the Earl of Waite she belongs with, all before Deverell's power is exhausted and she has no hope of ever returning home.

***** Combining multiple unusual plot devices into a compelling romance that sweeps across the centuries, Ms. Brown gives her readers a fascinating story filled with twists and surprises, particularly the startling ending. Josie's love triangle is perhaps the one that of all literary triangles can be considered truly unique. How many people fall in love with the same man, but have to choose which version of him to be with? Though this is clearly a satisfyingly complete tale that leaves little to no room for it to become a series, readers will want to keep their eye out for more from this talented author, at least this one shall. *****

Author: Michele Lang
Title - Netherwood (2008)

In the cyber world, plain Sheriff Talia Fortune can be Amazonia, a warrior woman capable of besting the Avenger in the arena. Between the two foes, there is respect and a definite heat that she never expects to encounter in the flesh and blood world. However, when assigned to check on affairs on the planet her uncle oversees for the family company, she will meet the Avenger face to face and find that his real world is far more dangerous and exciting than any fictional world created by circuits and bytes. In truth, Kovner, aka, the Avenger, is a futuristic sort of Robin Hood, bent on toppling those who want to enslave humanity into virtual existence. Though at first dedicated to her duty, as Talia learns more about what the world is, what her beloved grandmother has become, and perhaps most importantly, how much she loves the real Kovner, the Sherriff finds herself wanting to join the outlaws. Though she has never believed in souls or religion, as both are illegal, Talia just may have discovered hers and will have to fight to retain them.

**** It's difficult to sum up this book without spoiling it. Ms. Lang's writing has always been superb, yet the complexity of this plot and the relationships she has made integral to its furtherance shows that she is light years ahead of the game. Though there are elements of Robin Hood, the Matrix, Braveheart, and the Prisoner, just to name a few things implied in the text, they are freshly blended into something new that will challenge your mind and keep you hooked. Unrealized elements in all the implied archetypical stories are brought into a fuller, better focus than they have been before in other media. Particularly enjoyable is the realization and exploration of what it means to be human and possess a soul. ****

Author: Sara Reinke
Title - Dark Thirst

The Brethren are an ancient clan of ruthless vampires. They live on about 1,750 acres split among four families in Kentucky. Nobody bothers them. It is very secluded and isolated. No one comes or go, except illegal immigrants who are paid under the table - until they are slaughtered like the meat they are considered to be. They live very long lives. Their metabolisms and healing capacities were so far accelerated beyond those of humans that nothing short of a bullet to the head or a stake through the heart could kill them. The men take care of business and finances, the women tended to homes and families. Teen Brethren females are wed to Brethren men far older than them in arrangements preordained by the Elders. Women have no say in the rules or governing of the clans, no voice among the Council. They feed and sate their bloodlust after the males have finished. No one ever leaves the clans. No one ever leaves those secluded acres.

Brandon Noble is the grandson of Augustus Noble. Augustus is referred to as The Grandfather. (He is what most humans consider The Godfather, of the movies, to be.) While young, Brandon walked in during a robbery. To silence Brandon, the thieves beat his head and slit his throat. Help for Brandon arrived just a moment too late. His attackers were slaughtered, but from then on Brandon has been deaf and mute. Unlike his other kin, Brandon is horrified by his birthright. When time came for Brandon's bloodletting ritual, he shunned it, earning the Brethren's lasting wrath.

The last time Brandon considered leaving home for a special college for the deaf, The Grandfather broke all the bones in one of his hands. His brother, Caine, took pleasure in breaking all the bones in Brandon's other hand. It took a year for his hands to heal. Once Brandon is ready to attempt leaving again, he made sure no one knew in advance before disappearing. Brandon went to the only person he knew outside the clans, his former tutor, Jackson Jones. Jackson had known that something was strange about the Noble family and made sure Brandon knew he could come to him if he ever needed anything. Problem is that when Brandon arrives, Jackson is not home.

Angelina "Lina" Jones takes care of her brother's plants whenever he is out of town. She is stunned to find Brandon in Jackson's domicile. Being a cop, Lina first thought him to be a burglar until she had a clear view of him. Lina wants to help Brandon, however, the man refuses to tell her who he is running from or why. At the same time, Lina has her own problems. But she cannot deny her attraction to Brandon. They may be of different races, but love is color-blind, and Brandon is keeping secrets - secrets she plans to discover.

***** I was a bit confused at first, while trying to picture the characters in my mind's eye. Brandon, according to the cover, is white. Lina is black. I am SO happy to know that this author is color blind! I was beginning to believe that I would never live to see the day that writers would dare to cross-race the main hero and heroine. I believe that if it happens in today's world, then it should show in today's stories. This one does! Brava! Author Sara Reinke writes in a smooth flowing style that I found extremely easy to read. Nothing is so detailed as to become confusing. The focus is on the plot with the romance being a close second. There are a few secondary characters (one of Brandon's sisters and Lina's former partner) that may very well get their own story told soon. At least I hope so! Be warned that this book is a stand alone tale, but strings are left dangling for future problems with the Brethren. I eagerly look forward to the next segment of this mafia-style, vampire saga. *****

Author: Lynsay Sands
Title - The Accidental Vampire

Victor Argeneau finds himself with the less than pleasant task ahead of dealing with a possible rogue vampire, i.e., one that is biting people, not using bagged blood. When he arrives in the small town where she is, he seems to be expected, and the "rogue" is anything but what he expected. Elvi (short for her nickname - Elvira) is a very pleasant young appearing woman who is treated as something between a local treasure and pet. Her fellow townspeople treat her well and willingly donate blood. In fact, it's a local custom for boys to visit her for a birthday bite when they come of age. Living up to their expectations can sometimes be a trial, but Elvi takes it all with good humor. What's more, she has no idea how she became an immortal, what their laws are, or what she really can do. Victor finds himself teaching her and realizes that he can't kill her because she is innocent at heart and his life mate. He also has competition for her hand as several other vampires have responded to an ad the town placed to get her a husband, and someone else wants her dead. Finding out who and handling the personal situation that is prepossessing, will provide him with an interesting and, for us, fun time.

***** Without being silly, the humor in this book is kept up in a steady stream. Ms. Sands has given us the best Argenau book since the first one. I loved Elvi's naiveté and the entirety of her town citizenry. There is a real warmth that infuses the story. What's more, new readers can jump in and "get it" without any past books being read, but please, if this is your first, go buy the first six. They are marvelous. *****

Author: Vivi Anna
Title - Dark Secrets (Nocturne)

Lycanthrope Jace Jericho harbors a deep seated prejudice against humans, something he will have to wrestle with as the he is paired with the most recent addition to the police department's special paranormal crimes division to help solve a serial murder case. The most obvious suspect is someone they believe dead, but in a world where vampires, were beings, and other such creatures exist as citizens in society, does that mean anything? Why is a woman Jace should hate drawing his attention and igniting his senses? Tala has secrets, but who is endangered by them, and how can they help break the case? Or will it just be a heart that is in jeopardy?

*** Ms. Anna's intriguing world grows in definition and depth with each turn of the page. Angst and mystery compete for the readers' attention, but both plot lines, both personal and professional, work and meld beautifully. ***

Author: Catherine Anderson
Title - Morning Light
(Christian Super NaturalRomance)

One person in each generation of the MacEwan family receives a "gift". The chosen is known immediately upon birth by a strawberry mark. Thirty-one-year-old Loni MacEwan has more powers than ether her mother or grandmother. Loni considers her gift to be more along the lines of a curse. Psychometric divination is the most powerful of her gifts. Sometimes she touches something and gets a "nasty jolt". Loni sees visions of the owner. Sometimes Loni even feels all that the object's owner did! This is why Deirdre, Loni's older sister, is worried about Loni leasing a house that is not newly built.

All Loni's life she has dreamed about a certain cowboy. Loni knows she will meet him someday in her life. That time has finally come. Loni accidentally bumps into the man. Problem is that upon contact, Loni immediately knows his son is in a raft that has overturned. The small boy is alone, except for his dog.

Clint Harrigan is a no-nonsense rancher. When Clint bumps into the woman his first thought is how lovely she is. When she begins telling him about his son being in danger, Clint decides the woman is just nuts - especially since he does not even have a son. But when Clint sees the drama unfold on the local news, exactly as Loni described, he begins to listen.

An orphaned boy is lost in the dense Oregon wilderness and, according to Loni, only Clint can save him. Loni and Clint trek into the woods to find the boy. As time passes, the pair begins to open up to each other. Their journey just may bring them together in more ways than one.

**** A sweet romance with a bit of magic and a lot of faith. This story shows that just because someone looks or sounds odd, it does not mean they are crazy. ****

Author: Annette Blair
Title - Gone With the Witch
(Triplet Witch Trilogy #2 / May 6, 2008)

The Cartwright sisters are identical triplets. Each have their own unique psychic gift, in addition to the bonds they share together. Storm is the Goth sister, blue hair color and all. No one understands Storm's power. Storm hears and sees the present, of all things. For most of her life, Storm has been hearing children crying. Her sisters, Harmony and Destiny, thought it was buried guilt making her hallucinate and they kept mute about it. In truth, Storm needs to go on a journey and learn what her spiritual psychic mandate is. Since Storm keeps hearing a baby cry whenever she is around Aiden McCloud, the hunky best man at Harmony's wedding, she decides to follow the sound of the cries.

Aiden McCloud is a wanderer. He has never wanted to set down roots. Aiden owns a motor home and goes where ever he desires. Lately, however, he has been desiring a certain sorceress with blue hair and sassy attitude. "How can a guy ignore a walking orgasm in the shape of a Goddess with magick laughter and satin skin?" But Storm's talk about going on a psychic journey to find a crying baby somehow connected to him just scares Aiden. Therefore, Aiden did what any brave man would do in that situation; he ran! Too bad for him that Storm's powers include telekinesis, if she is passionately mad enough, and she is beyond furious when Aiden tries to run. Time for a little abduction.

Once Aiden convinces himself that he would go alone with Storm's quest of finding a crying baby somehow connected to him (just to prove her wrong, of course), his eyes begin to really open. On their journey, Storm stops the motor home whenever she hears a crying baby's psychic plea. Seeing Storm rescue a few kids begins to shake him up. After all, if Storm was right about those kids in need, then perhaps she really does hear... No! Not something he wants to think about. This is not all fun for Storm either. Her gift for locating kids in need of rescuing leads her to a casino. Within, Storm meets an older version of herself, except with a wicked way of looking at life. Yes, "throw a little water on that woman and watch her melt. Her name is NOT Glinda!" Storm also finds an unexpected surprise. (But you must read to find out what it is.)

As the two travel, their attraction to each other intensifies to frightening proportions. Their little love trip is even hitting the national news. But most importantly, Storm must learn to trust her instincts, accept her powers, and be true to herself if she were ever to have any hope of ever loving a wanderer.

***** A spellbinding story that totally knocked my socks off! No ghosts this time around. Instead, a much more serious topic is covered. Once again I find myself in awe over the author's ability to make the characters so memorable. This is a perfect for your next vacation or day alone and will leave you with a big smile on your face. Author Annette Blair writes priceless romance adventures. *****

Author: Katie MacAlister
Title - Ain't Myth-Behaving

In Stag Party, Cernunnos needs a goddess, but he is not interested in a virgin, despite that being the requirement for his mate. However, he finds a loophole that allows him to choose the woman he feels is his soul mate. Now, if he can convince her that she's right for the role and avoid getting killed by a wannabe-god and deal with the ex from Hell, life will be perfect. Norse Truly takes us to the Norse pantheon, obviously, as well as touching on the Flying Dutchman legend obliquely. Brynna discovers she is a Valkyrie and can see the "life challenged," aka, ghosts, when she is rescued by a cursed ghost ship and its sexy crew. If she can break the curse on them, she'll have found her soul mate, but some things are easier said than done.

**** Fun is a sure bet when Katie MacAlister's name is on the cover of a book. Each diverse tale is a laugh a page and well worth investing your time and money in. ****

Author: Amanda Ashley
Title - Dead Sexy

All vampires are supposed to be contained inside the Park, but suddenly, Regan finds one has escaped. Yet, she knows Santiago is not the one committing the murders that have suddenly cropped up. In fact, he also is after the killer; an old enemy of his, a werewolf with a long grudge and evil heart. Regan and Santiago's mutual attraction has now turned her into a target for the vile creature to use as a weapon to hurt his nemesis. However, Regan is not one to take things lying down. Even if she has to lose her humanity, she will be no one's tool or victim.

**** Readers who have enjoyed Ms. Ashley's unique spin on vampires, one that is both warm and fuzzy, while retaining a high level of tension, will certainly enjoy this. New elements are added to the one's we've come to rely on being in her books, and an intriguing new world of night beings comes alive before our eyes. ****

Author: J.D. Robb
Title - Creation in Death

The past has come back to bite Eve Dallas, but this time, it is her professional, not personal history that is haunting her. Her failures have been few, but one killer eluded her in her younger days, and now, he's back. This time, she is determined to get him, but he is equally committed to taking her down and is drawing a bloody canvas designed to lure her to him. Could this be the case that ends it for Eve?

***** Incredibly enough, this series just continues to get better. The intensity of the action doesn't detract at all from the characterization. You might as well be comfortable on the edge of your seat with this; it's a nail biting read, but immensely satisfying. I cannot praise it highly enough. *****

Author: Candace Havens
Title - Like a Charm

Being seen as the cause of a colleagues death, no matter how unintentional it might have been, is not a good way to advance ones career. In fact, it will probably have the opposite effect, as Kira Smythe discovers. After losing her position in a high powered law firm, she returns home to Sweet, Texas, only intending for it to be a visit. However, when a kindly old lady leaves her the library and she has a life altering illness, Kira discovers a new life, one in which she can see dead people. She also begins to discover love, fortunately, with a living man. Now, she has choices to make, pushy ghosts, and the chance to make dreams she did not know she had come true, if she doesnt join the ghosts, that is.

*** No pun intended, but this is a charming story. I love the quotes that begin each chapter and the lists Kira compiles to separate virtually every chapter. This is a homey, heart-warming, yet sharply funny book. ***

Author: Sherrilyn Kenyon
Title - Upon the Midnight Clear

Up until now, we have not seen many female hunters of any variety; Dream, Night, or Were. For the first time, a lady Hunter is featured. Leta was once a goddess, but is now a Dream Hunter. Though she is not supposed to have emotions, she is beginning to feel again. So, perhaps it is love, not duty, that impels her to protect her charge, the solitary actor, Aidan, who has hidden himself away from the world and who is targeted for death. Moreover, his deep rooted anger can provide Leta the necessary power to defeat her enemy. At first, it is hard to convince him of the truth of Leta's fantastic story, but danger and truth make him believe. Yet, this new foe is dangerous and ruining a new love would only fit in with his mad plans.

**** Love, betrayal, passion, and dreams combine in an out of the ordinary Christmas treat for Sherrilyn Kenyon's multitude of fans. Aidan is dark and brooding enough to be a gothic hero or a hunter himself, but is not so gloomy as to be a turn off. How he and Leta transform each other is a miracle to see, and getting further insights into this complex and fascinating society is always a thing to be enjoyed. ****

Author: Patricia Waddell
Title - True Deception (True series #2)

Aedon Rawn is from the planet Korcia. He was part of the Fleet. Four years ago his wife and daughter were killed by Rendhal's pirates while being passengers on a transport. Aedon's combat experience, nerves of steel, a remarkable instinct for guerilla warfare tactics, and self-sufficiency made him a perfect for the special role the Directorate gave him. By playing the role, Aedon would have a chance at revenge against Governor Avis Rendhal of the planet named Hachyn. Hachyn was originally colonized as an industrial planet. If its factories are being converted to produce weapons, they need to be destroyed. Once Aedon reached Hachyn, he was to contact Eiven Jein, the leader of the Hachynite Citizens for Freedom.

Aedon meets Kala Char'ari, a woman who has dedicated her life to freeing her people. Kala is the only one who meets Jein face-to-face. To reach Jein and his freedom fighters, Aedon needs Kala. Kala only agrees to let Aedon meet Jein because it is the Korcian's price for the grenades the rebellion needs desperately. That does not means she trusts the man though. Her pistol never wavers. However, Aedon earns their trust and he joins their quest to dethrone Governor Rendhal. Hachyn is part of the outer regions. The outer regions take up half the galaxy. That means, if Intel is correct, a big army and a lot of weaponry. The Conglomerate may be planning on taking on the Korcian Empire and the League of Planets. Aedon's Directorate duty is to give the Directorate a complete report on what Rendhal has up his sleeve. The truth turns out to be much worse than anyone has predicted!

Governor Rendhal knows that if the rebellion succeeds in breaking away from the Conglomerate, other worlds will follow. This cannot be allowed to happen. With only six weeks to crush the rebellion, the governor puts Commander Denikin Esarell in charge. Commander Esarell is a brilliant, charismatic monster with a gift for cruelty. But Esarell believes the governor to be too weak. Esarell has his own dark agenda and should he succeed, more is lost than simply the galaxy!

**** The main characters from the first book, Cullon and Danna, are mentioned only briefly in this book. I wish there had been more. Alas, perhaps at a later date. Aedon and Kala are a phenomenal pair too. The author clearly showed that they both had pasts that pounded them hard and yet they have ended up quite planished, smooth and tough. The duo, in my opinion, do not mesh as well as Cullon and Danna, but I was not fooled for a minute. Aedon and Kala are still a perfect match for each other.

As for the plot, it is very well done and easy to follow. Readers do not have to read the first book (True